theroot--2020-08-13--Surviving R. Kelly's Majority-Black Editing Team Resigned After White Producers Ignored Their Notes

In June , the harrowing documentary series Surviving R. Kelly took home a prestigious Peabody Award for exposing the decades of abuse perpetrated by the singer against underage girls and young women , all with the complicity of the music industry and his fans .
But according to a new report from THR , the road the the Peabody was not a smooth one , with the entire original editing team—the majority of whom are Black , with one Latinx editor—quitting the project on the basis that their notes were being ignored .
And yet while much of their work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the team was not listed in the credits .
A team comprised entirely of BIPOC editors is a rarity in the film world , and such a lineup indicated that the production leaders recognized the importance of Black input in the production process .
The editors began to assemble the series ’ first two episodes , wading through hours of interviews with survivors as they worked to introduce Kelly ’ s background , like his marriage to 15-year-old Aaliyah and the allegations that were revealed in a Chicago Sun-Times exposé , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the editors shared their first internal cut with colleagues at Bunim/Murray , Surviving R. Kelly EP and Kreativ Inc. CEO Joel Karsberg ( Celebrity Wife Swap , Dropped ) returned to them with notes asking for significant changes .
Karsberg , who is white and Swedish , alongside EP Jesse Daniels , an American who also is white , had partnered with creator Simmons to bring the show to Lifetime .
The notes asked to spend more time telling the story of Kelly ’ s rise to music stardom and materially increase the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emphasizing his talent and celebrity .
The notes also asked to change up sequences that cut between survivors by adding in more narrative with Kelly because , the notes suggested , the audience might stop paying attention to the series without interruptions .
The notes further argued that the show should be crafted more like a true-crime series and include reminders of Aaliyah ’ s greatest hits , several sources say .
The editors pushed back , arguing that “ the proposed edits would center the alleged perpetrator and his talents instead of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said that the changes would sensationalize the show , disregard its Black audience , and be insensitive to survivors and the Black community .
But these concerns were seemingly ignored , and the editors were never given the chance to discuss the changes .
Ultimately , all five editors , plus an assistant story editor , resigned en masse .
Assuming the final product would not include their work , they also asked to be removed from the credits .
“ The thing that has been missed across the board is nuance , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ told THR .
“ When dealing with race-specific topics , there is so much nuance and sensitivity that is needed on shows like this .
Why is the response to what happened to the original team to gaslight those involved and just pretend their experiences weren ’ t valid ?
” When they saw a significant amount of their work onscreen , some of the original group asked to have their credits restored , which producers partially did .
They remain credited on only some streaming platforms .
Executive producer dream hampton stood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ THR that “ the worst part about thinking about these larger issues , like sidelining Black editors on a project this sensitive , is that it ’ s doubtful the people who need to will take an honest look at this .
“ Instead , they focus on personality ‘ problems ’ and hierarchical protocols rather than the real issues .
People will rush to defend themselves and change the optics rather than the way they work and do business .
”

Lauren Evans on Jezebel, shared by Genetta M. Adams to The Root

In June, the harrowing documentary series Surviving R. Kelly took home a prestigious Peabody Award for exposing the decades of abuse perpetrated by the singer against underage girls and young women, all with the complicity of the music industry and his fans.
But according to a new report from THR, the road the the Peabody was not a smooth one, with the entire original editing team—the majority of whom are Black, with one Latinx editor—quitting the project on the basis that their notes were being ignored. And yet while much of their work was ultimately included in the final cut, the team was not listed in the credits.
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A team comprised entirely of BIPOC editors is a rarity in the film world, and such a lineup indicated that the production leaders recognized the importance of Black input in the production process. The editors began to assemble the series’ first two episodes, wading through hours of interviews with survivors as they worked to introduce Kelly’s background, like his marriage to 15-year-old Aaliyah and the allegations that were revealed in a Chicago Sun-Times exposé, and other topics: But then:
After the editors shared their first internal cut with colleagues at Bunim/Murray, Surviving R. Kelly EP and Kreativ Inc. CEO Joel Karsberg (Celebrity Wife Swap, Dropped) returned to them with notes asking for significant changes. Karsberg, who is white and Swedish, alongside EP Jesse Daniels, an American who also is white, had partnered with creator Simmons to bring the show to Lifetime. The notes asked to spend more time telling the story of Kelly’s rise to music stardom and materially increase the use of his voice and image while emphasizing his talent and celebrity. The notes also asked to change up sequences that cut between survivors by adding in more narrative with Kelly because, the notes suggested, the audience might stop paying attention to the series without interruptions. The notes further argued that the show should be crafted more like a true-crime series and include reminders of Aaliyah’s greatest hits, several sources say.
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The editors pushed back, arguing that “the proposed edits would center the alleged perpetrator and his talents instead of the survivors’ stories.” They also said that the changes would sensationalize the show, disregard its Black audience, and be insensitive to survivors and the Black community.
But these concerns were seemingly ignored, and the editors were never given the chance to discuss the changes. Ultimately, all five editors, plus an assistant story editor, resigned en masse. Assuming the final product would not include their work, they also asked to be removed from the credits.
Advertisement
“The thing that has been missed across the board is nuance,” on editor, Stephanie Filo, told THR. “When dealing with race-specific topics, there is so much nuance and sensitivity that is needed on shows like this. Why is the response to what happened to the original team to gaslight those involved and just pretend their experiences weren’t valid?”
When they saw a significant amount of their work onscreen, some of the original group asked to have their credits restored, which producers partially did. They remain credited on only some streaming platforms.
Advertisement
Executive producer dream hampton stood steadfastly by the team throughout, telling THR that “the worst part about thinking about these larger issues, like sidelining Black editors on a project this sensitive, is that it’s doubtful the people who need to will take an honest look at this.
“Instead, they focus on personality ‘problems’ and hierarchical protocols rather than the real issues. People will rush to defend themselves and change the optics rather than the way they work and do business.”


theroot--2020-08-13--My Head Is a Part of My Body and My Middle Name Is Makeba

As a child , the word “ crazy ” bounced around every black space I called home .
“ Crazy ” was a destination and an origin .
“ Crazy ” was at once a pejorative and wholly emblematic of our abundance .
I loved the word “ crazy.
” I used it a lot in my oral communication with folks I loved .
I used it to describe folks I despised .
When we said “ crazy ” in my Mississippi village , it either had 1.5 syllables or 3.0 syllables .
There was no way to actually spell @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t at all “ cray.
” It was more “ like craz-e ” if the hyphen was extremely faint , truncated , and the long “ e ” was sliced in half to where it almost looked like a sick “ c ” barely sticking out its tongue.
” The 3.0 version , reserved for extremely crazy shit , was “ cuh-raze-ae.
” I want to use the word “ crazy ” in more of my writing .
Instead , I use the language of “ health ” “ healing ” “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but rarely do I admit that I am indeed horrified of hospitals and terrified of crazy racist doctors .
Some of this has to do with the fact that I ’ ve always been treated like a poor big Black man , even when I was a poor young Black boy .
I ’ ve never had a tender medical experience in my life .
Instead of going to doctors , who I assume will treat me like a nigger , I ’ ve avoided doctors until the blood in my body @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ve spent every day of my middle-aged life avoiding light , working and eating in bed , never eating in front of people , not answering the phone when family calls , not answering the door when friends come by , abstaining from that which brings me joy , expecting to die tomorrow , and hiding from people I know when I went out in public .
When I was around people , at the strangest times , I ’ d often get this fuzzy feeling in my head and heart like I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a friend found me balled up on a wooden bench at work , they took me directly to the emergency room .
The emergency room was packed and I convinced my friend that I would call a doctor and make an appointment as soon as possible if they would let me go home and just lie down .
Three weeks later , when I had another experience of nearly passing out in my classroom , I went to the doctor .
The doctor , a happy go-lucky white man in his late thirties @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my blood .
He checked my heart .
Initially , he said that they need to send me to the emergency room because something on the tests “ didn ’ t look right.
” He ran the test again and said , “ Oh , it ’ s fine .
We just need to schedule an appointment with a cardiologist to see why you keep feeling like you ’ re going to faint.
” The doctor did not say one word about mental health .
And my crazy ass thought that was a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the next day .
He strapped a monitor to my chest to monitor my heart rate for the next week .
At the end of the week , the doctor said there was a slight murmur but everything with my heart was fine .
The following day , I kept feeling like I was going to die .
I kept avoiding people , kept swimming in the shame of professional , romantic , economic , and health failure .
It wasn ’ t until I talked with Dr. Imani Walker about a project @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I understood some of what was happening to my body , my head , and my relationship with “ crazy.
” Dr. Imani did more than give me the language of “ depression ” and “ anxiety ” and “ chronic fatigue ” and “ disordered eating.
” She told me that everything I thought was wrong with me was everything the nation engineered to ail Black folk in this country .
My first question to Imani was , “ What ’ s crazy ?
” After my conversation with Imani , like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ go to therapy , I started talking that therapy talk .
I used words like “ sourcing ” and “ sublimate ” in conversations that had little to do with misdirected sourcing or sublimation .
That lasted about a week .
I ’ ve still never been to therapy , but I love talking to Black folks who just got out of therapy .
Many of those friends tell me that I can ’ t use the word “ crazy ” because I ’ ve never been diagnosed as crazy .
They say @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ass needs therapy and partially because they really understand the brutality of ableism in this nation .
I love my friends and/but my response to this is often , “ Shid .
Nigga , I ’ m supposed to wait on a fatphobic , anti-black doctor to tell me I ’ m crazy before I can use the word crazy ?
Shid.
” I then usually go off about how folks who literally don ’ t have the means to go into a doctor and get diagnosed as crazy shouldn ’ t be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me feel safe .
My friends say , “ True .
Now stop hiding behind poverty .
You ain ’ t been poor in a minute.
” My problem , I guess , is that I don ’ t think being crazy should stop us from being compassionate and actively regretful about structural or interpersonal harm we ’ ve caused .
My friends who have been diagnosed as doctor-crazy say it ’ s Black-crazy to think like this .
I say that I don ’ t think we ’ ve really considered whose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Black-crazy is fuel for uber disciplining and layers of humiliation .
Part of my crazy compels me to imagine , and really obsess , over the radical possibilities of art .
The last few weeks of summer , though , that radical imagining necessitated commemorating radical realities I ’ ve yet to accept .
I am a writer .
I am a Black man .
I am crazy .
Actually , I am the child of two equally crazy kids from rural Mississippi .
My crazy mama lives alone on the east coast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the west coast .
My crazy ass lives alone in Mississippi .
I have never seen my parents share loving touch with each other or any partner , yet I know as young folks from rural Mississippi , they lovingly collaborated on my name .
“ Kiese ” was my father ’ s best friend in the Congo , which is where he was when I was born .
My father says his friend , Kiese , was crazy as hell .
Mama was unconscious for thirty hours after they cut her belly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
When Mama regained consciousness , she found that my father sent the names “ Kiese ” and “ Citoyen ” over to Grandmama , who was with Mama every minute of labor .
Mama really wanted my middle name to be “ Makeba ” after the South African singer , Miriam Makeba .
Now , a radical name does not a radical friendship make , but my name is Kiese Makeba Laymon because , at some point , no matter how short-lived , my crazy ass mama and my crazy ass father @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friendship to collaborate on a name their child would spend a life time revising his crazy self into .
Over this pandemic , I ’ ve been doing something called “ Ode and Apology.
” Get it ?
Like “ Owed an apology.
” Anyway , I started writing odes and apologies to folks I ’ ve disrespected and harmed .
That was tough , brutal .
But it was nowhere near as hard as writing odes and apologies to body parts I ’ ve mangled through neglect .
So far , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my eye lashes , the folds in my neck , my wrists , the right side of my groin , my molars , the mole on my left ass cheek , and the backs of both thighs .
The hardest ode and an apology was written to my head , my brain , because I seldom think of my head or my brain as part of my body .
My head , too big to naturally come out of my Mama , has helped me fly underneath the dirt of Mississippi .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heart has been waterlogged .
When my head has begged for help , I thought I was giving it help in the form of rigorous routines of writing and reading .
Our relationship is asymmetrical .
My head bails me out .
I punish it for bailing me out .
It punishes me for punishing it and I tell it to shut the fuck up because we ’ re trying to work .
I actually don ’ t know if I am doctor-crazy .
But I know my head needs help .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have for any human in this world is not nearly as radical or tender as it can be as long as I fail to give my head help .
It ’ s crazy what this nation does to our heads .
It ’ s crazier that many of us , who have the means , still think our heads are undeserving of help .
I do not trust doctors in this nation , but my head is worth risking humiliation so we can breathe .
This is not the ending this piece calls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an ending that is fair to my head .
I am sorry .
I want to be better at love .
My head is a part of my body and my middle name is Makeba .
[ UPDATE : This story has been updated from a previous draft that was missing some story elements . ]

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

As a child, the word “crazy” bounced around every black space I called home. “Crazy” was a destination and an origin. “Crazy” was at once a pejorative and wholly emblematic of our abundance. I loved the word “crazy.” I used it a lot in my oral communication with folks I loved. I used it to describe folks I despised. When we said “crazy” in my Mississippi village, it either had 1.5 syllables or 3.0 syllables. There was no way to actually spell the 1.5 syllable version. It wasn’t at all “cray.” It was more “like craz-e” if the hyphen was extremely faint, truncated, and the long “e” was sliced in half to where it almost looked like a sick “c” barely sticking out its tongue.”
The 3.0 version, reserved for extremely crazy shit, was “cuh-raze-ae.”
I want to use the word “crazy” in more of my writing. Instead, I use the language of “health” “healing” “mental illness” and “reckoning”, but rarely do I admit that I am indeed horrified of hospitals and terrified of crazy racist doctors. Some of this has to do with the fact that I’ve always been treated like a poor big Black man, even when I was a poor young Black boy. I’ve never had a tender medical experience in my life. Instead of going to doctors, who I assume will treat me like a nigger, I’ve avoided doctors until the blood in my body hisses like boiling poison.
Advertisement
I’ve spent every day of my middle-aged life avoiding light, working and eating in bed, never eating in front of people, not answering the phone when family calls, not answering the door when friends come by, abstaining from that which brings me joy, expecting to die tomorrow, and hiding from people I know when I went out in public. When I was around people, at the strangest times, I’d often get this fuzzy feeling in my head and heart like I was about to stop breathing. When a friend found me balled up on a wooden bench at work, they took me directly to the emergency room. The emergency room was packed and I convinced my friend that I would call a doctor and make an appointment as soon as possible if they would let me go home and just lie down.
Three weeks later, when I had another experience of nearly passing out in my classroom, I went to the doctor. The doctor, a happy go-lucky white man in his late thirties, checked my vitals. He checked my blood. He checked my heart. Initially, he said that they need to send me to the emergency room because something on the tests “didn’t look right.” He ran the test again and said, “Oh, it’s fine. We just need to schedule an appointment with a cardiologist to see why you keep feeling like you’re going to faint.”
Advertisement Advertisement
The doctor did not say one word about mental health. And my crazy ass thought that was a win.
I went to the cardiologist the next day. He strapped a monitor to my chest to monitor my heart rate for the next week. At the end of the week, the doctor said there was a slight murmur but everything with my heart was fine. The following day, I kept feeling like I was going to die. I kept avoiding people, kept swimming in the shame of professional, romantic, economic, and health failure.
Advertisement
It wasn’t until I talked with Dr. Imani Walker about a project on which we we were collaborating that I understood some of what was happening to my body, my head, and my relationship with “crazy.” Dr. Imani did more than give me the language of “depression” and “anxiety” and “chronic fatigue” and “disordered eating.” She told me that everything I thought was wrong with me was everything the nation engineered to ail Black folk in this country.
My first question to Imani was, “What’s crazy?”
After my conversation with Imani, like a lot of my friends who regularly go to therapy, I started talking that therapy talk. I used words like “sourcing” and “sublimate” in conversations that had little to do with misdirected sourcing or sublimation. That lasted about a week. I’ve still never been to therapy, but I love talking to Black folks who just got out of therapy. Many of those friends tell me that I can’t use the word “crazy” because I’ve never been diagnosed as crazy. They say this partially because they think my crazy ass needs therapy and partially because they really understand the brutality of ableism in this nation. I love my friends and/but my response to this is often, “Shid. Nigga, I’m supposed to wait on a fatphobic, anti-black doctor to tell me I’m crazy before I can use the word crazy? Shid.”
Advertisement
I then usually go off about how folks who literally don’t have the means to go into a doctor and get diagnosed as crazy shouldn’t be forbidden from using a word that makes me feel safe. My friends say, “True. Now stop hiding behind poverty. You ain’t been poor in a minute.”
My problem, I guess, is that I don’t think being crazy should stop us from being compassionate and actively regretful about structural or interpersonal harm we’ve caused. My friends who have been diagnosed as doctor-crazy say it’s Black-crazy to think like this. I say that I don’t think we’ve really considered whose doctor-crazy shields them from consequence and whose Black-crazy is fuel for uber disciplining and layers of humiliation.
Advertisement
Part of my crazy compels me to imagine, and really obsess, over the radical possibilities of art. The last few weeks of summer, though, that radical imagining necessitated commemorating radical realities I’ve yet to accept. I am a writer. I am a Black man. I am crazy. Actually, I am the child of two equally crazy kids from rural Mississippi. My crazy mama lives alone on the east coast. My crazy father lives alone on the west coast.
My crazy ass lives alone in Mississippi.
I have never seen my parents share loving touch with each other or any partner, yet I know as young folks from rural Mississippi, they lovingly collaborated on my name. “Kiese” was my father’s best friend in the Congo, which is where he was when I was born. My father says his friend, Kiese, was crazy as hell. Mama was unconscious for thirty hours after they cut her belly open and pulled me out feet first. When Mama regained consciousness, she found that my father sent the names “Kiese” and “Citoyen” over to Grandmama, who was with Mama every minute of labor.
Advertisement
Mama really wanted my middle name to be “Makeba” after the South African singer, Miriam Makeba. Now, a radical name does not a radical friendship make, but my name is Kiese Makeba Laymon because, at some point, no matter how short-lived, my crazy ass mama and my crazy ass father were invested enough in a crazy-ass radical friendship to collaborate on a name their child would spend a life time revising his crazy self into.
Over this pandemic, I’ve been doing something called “Ode and Apology.” Get it? Like “Owed an apology.” Anyway, I started writing odes and apologies to folks I’ve disrespected and harmed. That was tough, brutal. But it was nowhere near as hard as writing odes and apologies to body parts I’ve mangled through neglect. So far, I’ve written to both hips, my eye lashes, the folds in my neck, my wrists, the right side of my groin, my molars, the mole on my left ass cheek, and the backs of both thighs.
Advertisement
The hardest ode and an apology was written to my head, my brain, because I seldom think of my head or my brain as part of my body. My head, too big to naturally come out of my Mama, has helped me fly underneath the dirt of Mississippi. It’s helped me float when my heart has been waterlogged. When my head has begged for help, I thought I was giving it help in the form of rigorous routines of writing and reading. Our relationship is asymmetrical. My head bails me out. I punish it for bailing me out. It punishes me for punishing it and I tell it to shut the fuck up because we’re trying to work.
I actually don’t know if I am doctor-crazy. But I know my head needs help. I know that any love I purport to have for any human in this world is not nearly as radical or tender as it can be as long as I fail to give my head help. It’s crazy what this nation does to our heads. It’s crazier that many of us, who have the means, still think our heads are undeserving of help. I do not trust doctors in this nation, but my head is worth risking humiliation so we can breathe.
Advertisement
This is not the ending this piece calls for. It is, however, an ending that is fair to my head. I am sorry. I want to be better at love. My head is a part of my body and my middle name is Makeba.
[UPDATE: This story has been updated from a previous draft that was missing some story elements.]


theroot--2020-08-13--Snag 25% off Select Scents From Yankee Candle and Set a Serene Scene

Today only grab 25 % off select Yankee Candles from Amazon .
There are twelve to choose from and prices vary a little depending on line and size but you ’ re looking at $ 18 - $ 22 .
Given that they are all about the same size you ’ ll get between 110 and 150 hours of burn time .
Plus they are all made right in the USA .
Yankee Candle indeed .
If you ’ re looking to fill your home with a classic aromoa you can ’ t go wron g with Cinnamon Stick ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tumblr , which most will all be .
Patchouli is definitely a throwback scent ( $ 18 ) and I ’ m sure you knew a hippie girl in high school who rocked it .
It defintiely sets a mellow mood if that ’ s your groove man .
This Vineyard candle ( $ 19 ) seems like a real mom one complete with aromas of cabernet , merlot , and zinfandel grapes .
I t ’ ll transport you to Nappa Valley since you proab ly shouldn ’ t fly there right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ choos e from no matter your essance preference but ac t now before they are gone .

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

25% off Select Yankee Candles | $19 | Amazon Gold Box
Today only grab 25% off select Yankee Candles from Amazon. There are twelve to choose from and prices vary a little depending on line and size but you’re looking at $18 - $22. Given that they are all about the same size you’ll get between 110 and 150 hours of burn time. Plus they are all made right in the USA. Yankee Candle indeed.
If you’re looking to fill your home with a classic aromoa you can’t go wron g with Cinnamon Stick ($18) in this large two-wick tumblr, which most will all be . Patchouli is definitely a throwback scent ($18) and I’m sure you knew a hippie girl in high school who rocked it. It defintiely sets a mellow mood if that’s your groove man. This Vineyard candle ($19) seems like a real mom one complete with aromas of cabernet, merlot, and zinfandel grapes. I t’ll transport you to Nappa Valley since you proab ly shouldn’t fly there right now. There’s plenty to choos e from no matter your essance preference but ac t now before they are gone.
Free one-day shipping for Prime members.


theroot--2020-08-13--Michelle Obama Encourages Voter Registration and Mail-In Voting in New PSA

Michelle Obama released a new PSA this week about the importance of voting in the election on Nov. 3 .
Whether you ’ re opting to vote in person or by mail-in ballot , the stakes are incredibly high this time around , and now more than ever , we need to make sure our voices are heard .
“ From the ongoing pandemic , to the passion and protest we ’ ve seen for racial and social justice , it ’ s clear that we ’ re in the middle of a big moment in this country , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reflects who we are and what we stand for , ” Obama says in the video .
“ Our job between now and November is to make sure everyone we know understands that the power to make change rests on our ability to cast a vote.
” Elsewhere in the video , Obama says that citizens need to hold their “ friends , families and communities ” accountable by making sure that they ’ re registered to vote in the presidential election .
She then urges listeners to go to the website for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ order to find out more about how to register if they ’ ve not registered already .
When We All Vote is an organization that encourages voter registration and participation , and focuses on closing the age and race gap .
It was reported that voter registration experienced an uptick during the Black Lives Matter protests in June , so it appears that people are taking things seriously .
We ’ re glad that Obama released this PSA when she did .
Donald Trump made headlines for announcing that he plans on opposing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Postal Service , in order to discourage mail-in voting ( but we knew that anyway ) .
The comments were made during a conversation with Fox Business Network on Thursday , per t he Washington Post .
“ Now they need that money in order to make the post office work , so it can take all of these millions and millions of ballots , ” he told the network ’ s Maria Bartiromo .
“ But if they don ’ t get those two items , that means you can ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ re not equipped to have it.
” “ They don ’ t have the money to do the universal mail-in voting .
So therefore , they can ’ t do it , I guess , ” he continued .
“ Are they going to do it even if they don ’ t have the money ?
” Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Subscribe for updates today !

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

Michelle Obama released a new PSA this week about the importance of voting in the election on Nov. 3. Whether you’re opting to vote in person or by mail-in ballot, the stakes are incredibly high this time around, and now more than ever, we need to make sure our voices are heard.
“From the ongoing pandemic, to the passion and protest we’ve seen for racial and social justice, it’s clear that we’re in the middle of a big moment in this country, and that means we need leadership that honestly reflects who we are and what we stand for,” Obama says in the video. “Our job between now and November is to make sure everyone we know understands that the power to make change rests on our ability to cast a vote.”
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Elsewhere in the video, Obama says that citizens need to hold their “friends, families and communities” accountable by making sure that they’re registered to vote in the presidential election. She then urges listeners to go to the website for the nonprofit When We All Vote in order to find out more about how to register if they’ve not registered already.
When We All Vote is an organization that encourages voter registration and participation, and focuses on closing the age and race gap. It was reported that voter registration experienced an uptick during the Black Lives Matter protests in June, so it appears that people are taking things seriously.
We’re glad that Obama released this PSA when she did. Donald Trump made headlines for announcing that he plans on opposing additional funding for the struggling U.S. Postal Service, in order to discourage mail-in voting (but we knew that anyway). The comments were made during a conversation with Fox Business Network on Thursday, per t he Washington Post.
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“Now they need that money in order to make the post office work, so it can take all of these millions and millions of ballots,” he told the network’s Maria Bartiromo. “But if they don’t get those two items, that means you can’t have universal mail-in voting, because they’re not equipped to have it.”
“They don’t have the money to do the universal mail-in voting. So therefore, they can’t do it, I guess,” he continued. “Are they going to do it even if they don’t have the money?”
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Please vote. Please.
Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-13--Why In the Hell Is Pacman Jones Burning Jerseys In His Driveway?

After retiring from the NFL , former players have myriad options at their disposal .
They can become noteworthy commentators , like Tony Romo and Deion Sanders ; pursue coaching , like the Herm Edwards and Sean Paytons of the world ; or they can burn jerseys in their front yard , like Adam “ Pacman ” Jones .
Pacman isn ’ t exactly a stranger to questionable behavior , as he spent a significant portion of his career serving as tabloid fodder , but I had no idea moonlighting as the Human Torch was his ministry .
However , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reveals that on Wednesday , somebody thought it would be a good idea to mail a box full of signed Joe Haden jerseys to a dude who used to hit people for a living .
“ Opened up my mailbox today and I had these jerseys in my mailbox , ” he says in the video , as he digs through the box .
“ I don ’ t know what the fuck y ’ all got going on , but I ’ m not with it .
So what I ’ ma @ @ @ @ @ @ @ y ’ all how gangsta I am .
Whoever sent these fuck-ass , Haden Pittsburgh jerseys , all these bitches bout to get fired up.
” He then proceeds to channel his inner arsonist and do exactly that .
“ This shit needs to go viral , ” he sneers , as he douses one of the jerseys with lighter fluid .
“ Cause I don ’ t even play with niggas.
” He then pulls out a lighter and transforms a series of jerseys into the back of Flavor Flav ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sight to behold .
“ Why y ’ all playing ?
” he taunts .
“ Y ’ all bitch ass niggas better go find something to play with .
Fuck you too , Joe Haden , and whatever you stand for , bitch ass nigga.
” Well , OK then .
In response to the clip , Joe Haden posted a series of screenshots in his Instagram Stories of friendly text message exchanges between the two in the past , as well as a video declaring he had no idea where those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think I really would go out of my way to send signed Haden jerseys ?
” Haden said .
“ No .
I know you , Pacman .
We ’ ve run into each other lots of times .
I ’ ve got respect for you .
That ’ s just wild .
I would never do something like that .
I just did an autograph signing .
I don ’ t know how it went to your crib .
That ’ s not something I would do ever , bro .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also included the following screenshot of them seemingly squashing the issue .
This is a much better resolution than Pacman catching another case .
Whoever sent those jerseys might want to go into witness protection though .
Because once Pacman finds you , there ’ s a 98.4 percent chance that it won ’ t end well .

After retiring from the NFL, former players have myriad options at their disposal. They can become noteworthy commentators, like Tony Romo and Deion Sanders; pursue coaching, like the Herm Edwards and Sean Paytons of the world; or they can burn jerseys in their front yard, like Adam “Pacman” Jones.
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Pacman isn’t exactly a stranger to questionable behavior, as he spent a significant portion of his career serving as tabloid fodder, but I had no idea moonlighting as the Human Torch was his ministry.
However, a cursory glance at his Instagram page reveals that on Wednesday, somebody thought it would be a good idea to mail a box full of signed Joe Haden jerseys to a dude who used to hit people for a living.
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“Opened up my mailbox today and I had these jerseys in my mailbox,” he says in the video, as he digs through the box. “I don’t know what the fuck y’all got going on, but I’m not with it. So what I’ma do is, I’ma show y’all how gangsta I am. Whoever sent these fuck-ass, Haden Pittsburgh jerseys, all these bitches bout to get fired up.”
He then proceeds to channel his inner arsonist and do exactly that.
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“This shit needs to go viral,” he sneers, as he douses one of the jerseys with lighter fluid. “Cause I don’t even play with niggas.”
He then pulls out a lighter and transforms a series of jerseys into the back of Flavor Flav’s neck. It’s quite the sight to behold.
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“Why y’all playing?” he taunts. “Y’all bitch ass niggas better go find something to play with. Fuck you too, Joe Haden, and whatever you stand for, bitch ass nigga.”
Well, OK then.
In response to the clip, Joe Haden posted a series of screenshots in his Instagram Stories of friendly text message exchanges between the two in the past, as well as a video declaring he had no idea where those jerseys even came from.
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“You think I really would go out of my way to send signed Haden jerseys?” Haden said. “No. I know you, Pacman. We’ve run into each other lots of times. I’ve got respect for you. That’s just wild. I would never do something like that. I just did an autograph signing. I don’t know how it went to your crib. That’s not something I would do ever, bro. It just is what it is.”
Haden also included the following screenshot of them seemingly squashing the issue.
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This is a much better resolution than Pacman catching another case.
Whoever sent those jerseys might want to go into witness protection though. Because once Pacman finds you, there’s a 98.4 percent chance that it won’t end well.


theroot--2020-08-13--Chloe and Maud Arnold, Phil Augusta Jackson and Michael Harriot Talk Black Joy at The Root Institute

What is Black joy ?
Is it a superhero ?
Is it a way of life ?
Is it under attack ?
The answer to all of those questions is both yes and ... hmmm ?
Thankfully , to address and discuss the idea of Black joy , what it means on an individual basis as well as for the community—especially during times of crisis—The Root Institute convened choreographers , content creators and tap-dancer extraordinaires , Chloe and Maud Arnold ; television writer , director and musician , Phil Augusta Jackson ; and award-winning writer , humorist and Black life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fun , entertaining and dare I say , joyful , discussion titled , “ Black Joy in Times of Crisis.
” Hosted by Panama Jackson—it me—we will discuss what Black joy means for everybody present , but also how they use their platforms to engage with that joy .
We ’ re in a time in America where the country is going through a reckoning of sorts , where Black content is being devoured more than ever .
With that increased visibility ( which is good ) can come increased scrutiny ( that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have to think about what it means to be joyful in times of crisis , in general .
Similarly , they will all share how the idea of Black joy impacts the approach they bring to their work .
For instance , Phil Augusta Jackson is a television writer who has written for shows like Insecure and Survivor ’ s Remorse , shows that center Blackness and he plans to talk about what perspectives he brings to the writer ’ s room to tell those stories authentically and accurately , knowing that when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stories , the product is better .
Chloe and Maud are content creators and artists who teach and spread the joy of tap-dancing through various means—through dance , they literally peddle joy to the community and help uplift and inspire .
Plus , after seeing them put in work , you can ’ t help but want to become a tap-dancer yourself—which according to them , it ’ s never too late to get started .
Michael Harriot , engages with Black joy through his writing via The Root , even if Black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , because of our innate Blackness and his upbringing , joy is present and accounted for in all facets of his work .
Also , we will address what happens when Black joy is under attack from both inside and outside of the community and how usually , “ it be your own folks , ” as we say in African America .
And most importantly , we plan on expanding on the idea of protecting Black joy and what we all must do to hopefully spread love ( I hear it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and as wide as possible .
So please check out “ Black Joy in Times of Crisis ” here at The Root Institute , today after 5 p.m. for a fun and joyful ( pun intended ) conversation with some fun and joyful people .
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

Panama Jackson on Institute, shared by Panama Jackson to The Root

What is Black joy? Is it a superhero? Is it a way of life? Is it under attack? The answer to all of those questions is both yes and...hmmm? Thankfully, to address and discuss the idea of Black joy, what it means on an individual basis as well as for the community—especially during times of crisis—The Root Institute convened choreographers, content creators and tap-dancer extraordinaires, Chloe and Maud Arnold; television writer, director and musician, Phil Augusta Jackson; and award-winning writer, humorist and Black life expert, Michael Harriot, for a fun, entertaining and dare I say, joyful, discussion titled, “Black Joy in Times of Crisis.”
Hosted by Panama Jackson—it me—we will discuss what Black joy means for everybody present, but also how they use their platforms to engage with that joy. We’re in a time in America where the country is going through a reckoning of sorts, where Black content is being devoured more than ever. With that increased visibility (which is good) can come increased scrutiny (that’s bad). We all have to think about what it means to be joyful in times of crisis, in general.
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Similarly, they will all share how the idea of Black joy impacts the approach they bring to their work. For instance, Phil Augusta Jackson is a television writer who has written for shows like Insecure and Survivor’s Remorse, shows that center Blackness and he plans to talk about what perspectives he brings to the writer’s room to tell those stories authentically and accurately, knowing that when we get a chance to tell our stories, the product is better.
Chloe and Maud are content creators and artists who teach and spread the joy of tap-dancing through various means—through dance, they literally peddle joy to the community and help uplift and inspire. Plus, after seeing them put in work, you can’t help but want to become a tap-dancer yourself—which according to them, it’s never too late to get started.
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Michael Harriot, engages with Black joy through his writing via The Root, even if Black joy isn’t the immediate goal, because of our innate Blackness and his upbringing, joy is present and accounted for in all facets of his work.
Also, we will address what happens when Black joy is under attack from both inside and outside of the community and how usually, “it be your own folks,” as we say in African America. And most importantly, we plan on expanding on the idea of protecting Black joy and what we all must do to hopefully spread love (I hear it’s the Brooklyn way) as far and as wide as possible.
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So please check out “Black Joy in Times of Crisis” here at The Root Institute, today after 5 p.m. for a fun and joyful (pun intended) conversation with some fun and joyful people.
Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-13--Grab a 3-Pack of Reusable Masks for $20

Grab a 3-Pack of Reusable Masks for $20

We all know the deal .
There ’ s a pandemic .
We have to wear a mask .
Why @ @ @ @ @ route ?
These masks come with a cute filters to give you a bit more @ @ @ @ @ throw these cloth masks in the wash when they get dirty .
But the best @ @ @ @ @ three of these bad boys for $ 20 .
Grab em ’ before they ’ @ @ @

Ignacia on Kinja Deals, shared by Ignacia to The Root

Case-Mate Masks | $25 | Amazon
We all know the deal. There’s a pandemic. We have to wear a mask. Why not go for the reusable route? These masks come with cute filters to give you a bit more protection, and you can throw these cloth masks in the wash when they get dirty. But the best part? You can get three of these bad boys for $25. Grab em’ before they’re gone!


theroot--2020-08-13--Wu-Tang Is for the Children: RZA Partners With Good Humor to Replace Minstrel-Ass Ice Cream Jingle '

Wu-Tang Is for the Children: RZA Partners With Good Humor to Replace Minstrel-Ass Ice Cream Jingle 'Turkey in the Straw'

We ’ re about to get a true blue “ Ice Cream Paint Job ” thanks to RZA and Good Humor .
The Wu-Tang superstar partnered with the ice cream company to work on a new jingle to replace the current well-known ditty for frozen delicacies , “ Turkey In The Straw.
” Not only is the 19th century tune an extension of the racist , blackface minstrel shows popularized during the time period ... it doesn ’ t even slap .
According to a press release obtained by Rolling Stone , RZA ’ s new jingle “ drew inspiration @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ice cream trucks on Staten Island—blending traditional ice cream truck sounds with jazz and hip-hop elements.
” Instead of singing about “ A monkey sittin ’ on a pile of straw , A winkin ’ at his mother-in-law , ” RZA ’ s tune hopes to make everyone—regardless of the color of their skin—feel excited and energized .
“ We can change the dynamics , ” RZA says in a behind-the-scenes video about the making of the jingle .
“ We can make a new ice cream jingle for a new era.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the video , and it boasts pleasing chimes , tender drums and light cymbal work .
It ’ s sweet , it ’ s different and it ’ s definitely not racist .
“ We wanted to make a melody that includes all [ communities ] , that ’ s good for every driver , that ’ s good for every kid , ” RZA continues .
“ And I ’ m proud to say , for the first time in a long time , a new ice cream jingle will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country , in perpetuity .
That means forever—like Wu-Tang ’ s forever .
And I can assure you , this one is made with love.
” “ RZA ’ s jingle will be available to ice cream trucks in the U.S. via music boxes produced by Nichols Electronics starting this month , ” reports Rolling Stone .
Nichols Electronics , a manufacturer of electronic music boxes for ice cream trucks since 1957 , announced on their website that they would no longer sell music boxes with the song “ Turkey in the Straw.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for racial justice and equality after the killing of George Floyd and a string of ongoing Black Lives Matter protests over the past few months .
Nichols Electronics is based in Minneapolis , the city where Floyd died at the hands of police this past May .
Amazing job to RZA and Good Humor .
Let me get a Creamsicle bar , please .
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

We’re about to get a true blue “Ice Cream Paint Job” thanks to RZA and Good Humor. The Wu-Tang superstar partnered with the ice cream company to work on a new jingle to replace the current well-known ditty for frozen delicacies, “Turkey In The Straw.” Not only is the 19th century tune an extension of the racist, blackface minstrel shows popularized during the time period...it doesn’t even slap.
According to a press release obtained by Rolling Stone, RZA’s new jingle “drew inspiration from his childhood memories of chasing after ice cream trucks on Staten Island—blending traditional ice cream truck sounds with jazz and hip-hop elements.” Instead of singing about “A monkey sittin’ on a pile of straw, A winkin’ at his mother-in-law,” RZA’s tune hopes to make everyone—regardless of the color of their skin—feel excited and energized.
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“We can change the dynamics,” RZA says in a behind-the-scenes video about the making of the jingle. “We can make a new ice cream jingle for a new era.” A snippet of the song is featured in the video, and it boasts pleasing chimes, tender drums and light cymbal work. It’s sweet, it’s different and it’s definitely not racist.
“We wanted to make a melody that includes all [communities], that’s good for every driver, that’s good for every kid,” RZA continues. “And I’m proud to say, for the first time in a long time, a new ice cream jingle will be made available to trucks all across the country, in perpetuity. That means forever—like Wu-Tang’s forever. And I can assure you, this one is made with love.”
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“RZA’s jingle will be available to ice cream trucks in the U.S. via music boxes produced by Nichols Electronics starting this month,” reports Rolling Stone. Nichols Electronics, a manufacturer of electronic music boxes for ice cream trucks since 1957, announced on their website that they would no longer sell music boxes with the song “Turkey in the Straw.”
These changes come months after calls for racial justice and equality after the killing of George Floyd and a string of ongoing Black Lives Matter protests over the past few months . Nichols Electronics is based in Minneapolis, the city where Floyd died at the hands of police this past May.
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Amazing job to RZA and Good Humor. Let me get a Creamsicle bar, please.
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Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-13--Jerry Jones Says Cowboys Games Will Be Played in Front of Fans in His Super-Safe Stadium With Its ‘N

Jerry Jones Says Cowboys Games Will Be Played in Front of Fans in His Super-Safe Stadium With Its ‘Naturally Built Airflow’

A man who everyone keeps telling me is Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones—like I can ’ t see with my own two eyes that he ’ s clearly Bilbo Baggins after his ring was taken away by that hater Gandalf—told reporters on Wednesday that his team will play all of its home games in front of fans at AT & T Stadium when the regular NFL season begins next month , despite the fact that there is still a global pandemic going on and the state of Texas has seen a recent surge in COVID-19 cases .
“ The Dallas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ games , and we plan on playing ’ em in front of our fans , ” Jones said during a press conference .
“ We ’ ve got some adjustments to make .
We ’ re going to make ’ em with enthusiasm and we ’ re going to make ’ em with ‘ can-do.
’ ” For the record , on Tuesday , Texas Gov .
Greg Abbott suggested to reporters that family and neighborhood gatherings are likely responsible for why the state has surpassed 500,000 COVID-19 cases and has recorded more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week .
But none of that matters because AT & T Stadium—one of the largest sports arenas in the world with three million square feet and the capacity to hold more than 100,000 fans—is an enchanted place .
I usually don ’ t speak to white people like this , but… Is Jones really trying to convince us that because AT & T Stadium has a convertible drop-top it will only let in corona-karate-chopping magic air ?
I need to know who these “ experts ” are .
Let me find out Jones @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here posing as medical professionals .
( Gandalf is lying to you , Bilbo .
He ’ s a hater , I swear . )
“ The number one asset that the Dallas Cowboys have is the grand following and fans that we have in this country , ” Jones said without explaining why he ’ s willing to risk those fans ’ lives by inviting them into a three million-square-foot petri dish with probably-not-magical air current .
Ultimately , Jones appears to have taken the position that nobody is pointing a gun @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them come out .
“ The people that will be there will be there of their own volition , ” he said .
“ Our fans will be in the stadium because they ’ ve chosen to be there .
As we ourselves have .
I ’ m confident we have a very educated situation , and that our fans can come and have a great experience.
” A “ very educated situation ” ?
Have you met America ?
The country where mask-wearing is a partisan political issue ?
Where there is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ believe the pandemic is a hoax or that it ’ s the product of 5G cell towers ?
Where our president has repeatedly suggested that the country only has a lot of infection cases because we keep testing people for said infection ?
Listen : I know we all want things back to normal .
I know sports fans miss going to games and athletes miss the roaring crowds .
But it ain ’ t worth risking people ’ s health .
Of course , Frodo ’ s cousin disagrees .
“ I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jones said .
“ I think it ’ s important individually .
I think it ’ s important for the country.
” Jones of the Shire believes the NFL ’ s return “ can be an inspirational part of how we address COVID , not only this year but how we go into 2021.
” “ We will adhere to all protocols , ” he said .
“ We will adapt them to the uniqueness of our stadium.
” Shit , maybe I ’ m wrong and that arena really is something magical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fact , here ’ s actual footage of him expressing his love for AT & T Stadium : Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

A man who everyone keeps telling me is Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones—like I can’t see with my own two eyes that he’s clearly Bilbo Baggins after his ring was taken away by that hater Gandalf—told reporters on Wednesday that his team will play all of its home games in front of fans at AT&T Stadium when the regular NFL season begins next month, despite the fact that there is still a global pandemic going on and the state of Texas has seen a recent surge in COVID-19 cases.
“The Dallas Cowboys plan on playing all our football games, and we plan on playing ’em in front of our fans,” Jones said during a press conference. “We’ve got some adjustments to make. We’re going to make ’em with enthusiasm and we’re going to make ’em with ‘can-do.’”
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For the record, on Tuesday, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott suggested to reporters that family and neighborhood gatherings are likely responsible for why the state has surpassed 500,000 COVID-19 cases and has recorded more than 1,400 new deaths over the past week.
But none of that matters because AT&T Stadium—one of the largest sports arenas in the world with three million square feet and the capacity to hold more than 100,000 fans—is an enchanted place.
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From Deadline:
Jones cited AT&T Stadium’s retractable-roof design, which he said makes it capable of allowing a “serious, serious air current” and a “naturally built air flow” that he said will help keep fans, players and coaches safe. A team of experts has done an “extensive” safety evaluation of the stadium, Jones added, and fans deciding to attend will have to acknowledge they are doing so “of their own volition.”
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I usually don’t speak to white people like this, but…
Nigga, what?
Is Jones really trying to convince us that because AT&T Stadium has a convertible drop-top it will only let in corona-karate-chopping magic air? I need to know who these “experts” are. Let me find out Jones got the Fellowship of the Ring out here posing as medical professionals. (Gandalf is lying to you, Bilbo. He’s a hater, I swear.)
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“The number one asset that the Dallas Cowboys have is the grand following and fans that we have in this country,” Jones said without explaining why he’s willing to risk those fans’ lives by inviting them into a three million-square-foot petri dish with probably-not-magical air current.
Ultimately, Jones appears to have taken the position that nobody is pointing a gun at Cowboys fans’ heads and making them come out.
Advertisement
“The people that will be there will be there of their own volition,” he said. “Our fans will be in the stadium because they’ve chosen to be there. As we ourselves have. I’m confident we have a very educated situation, and that our fans can come and have a great experience.”
Oh, Bilbo…
A “very educated situation”? Have you met America? The country where mask-wearing is a partisan political issue? Where there is still an impressive number of people who believe the pandemic is a hoax or that it’s the product of 5G cell towers? Where our president has repeatedly suggested that the country only has a lot of infection cases because we keep testing people for said infection?
Advertisement
Listen: I know we all want things back to normal. I know sports fans miss going to games and athletes miss the roaring crowds. But it ain’t worth risking people’s health . Of course, Frodo’s cousin disagrees.
“I think it’s important,” Jones said. “I think it’s important individually. I think it’s important for the country.”
Advertisement
Jones of the Shire believes the NFL’s return “can be an inspirational part of how we address COVID, not only this year but how we go into 2021.”
“We will adhere to all protocols,” he said. “We will adapt them to the uniqueness of our stadium.”
Advertisement
Shit, maybe I’m wrong and that arena really is something magical. Clearly Jones thinks so. In fact, here’s actual footage of him expressing his love for AT&T Stadium:
Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-13--There's Another Mahalia Jackson Biopic—This Time Starring Jill Scott, Produced by Queen Latifah and

There's Another Mahalia Jackson Biopic—This Time Starring Jill Scott, Produced by Queen Latifah and Jamie Foxx

Take my hand , precious Lord , we ’ ve got some more Mahalia Jackson biopic news to tell ( on the mountain ) !
Jill Scott ( Why Did I Get Married , The First Wives Club ) will star in an upcoming biopic about the iconic gospel singer called Mahalia !
, which will be executive produced by Jamie Foxx and Queen Latifah , Variety reports .
Shakim Compere and Holly Carter will also serve as executive producers and the team will have access to Jackson ’ s entire music catalog .
More details on the film , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Darlene Donloe ’ s biography Mahalia Jackson , will tell the true story of the artist and her entertainment career — with career highlights like becoming the first gospel artist to sing at Carnegie Hall — as well as her behind-the-scenes political and social work alongside Martin Luther King Jr. and John F. Kennedy .
The screenplay was written by Richard Hocutt , Mark Gould and Tricia Woodgett .
Hocutt and Woodgett will also produce the film , after bringing project to Carter .
“ This is such an incredibly important story @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work with Jamie on the project , ” Latifah said .
“ Shakim and I are also looking forward to reteaming with our ‘ Clark Sisters ’ producing partner , Holly Carter , to share Mahalia ’ s inspiring journey to becoming the queen of Gospel music.
” This news comes shortly after another project following the life and career of Jackson starring Danielle Brooks was announced .
This actually reminds me of the fact that there are two concurrent Aretha biopics that are set to debut in the near future .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ our powerhouse vocalists , the merrier !
Still , I will try my best to make sure the reporting makes potential audiences as non-confused as possible .
Prayers up .
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

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

Take my hand, precious Lord, we’ve got some more Mahalia Jackson biopic news to tell (on the mountain)!
Jill Scott (Why Did I Get Married, The First Wives Club) will star in an upcoming biopic about the iconic gospel singer called Mahalia!, which will be executive produced by Jamie Foxx and Queen Latifah, Variety reports.
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Shakim Compere and Holly Carter will also serve as executive producers and the team will have access to Jackson’s entire music catalog.
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More details on the film, via Variety:
The film, based on Darlene Donloe’s biography Mahalia Jackson, will tell the true story of the artist and her entertainment career — with career highlights like becoming the first gospel artist to sing at Carnegie Hall — as well as her behind-the-scenes political and social work alongside Martin Luther King Jr. and John F. Kennedy. The screenplay was written by Richard Hocutt, Mark Gould and Tricia Woodgett. Hocutt and Woodgett will also produce the film, after bringing project to Carter.
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“This is such an incredibly important story to tell and we’re thrilled to work with Jamie on the project,” Latifah said. “Shakim and I are also looking forward to reteaming with our ‘Clark Sisters’ producing partner, Holly Carter, to share Mahalia’s inspiring journey to becoming the queen of Gospel music.”
This news comes shortly after another project following the life and career of Jackson starring Danielle Brooks was announced. This actually reminds me of the fact that there are two concurrent Aretha biopics that are set to debut in the near future.
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The more ways to celebrate and honor our powerhouse vocalists, the merrier! Still, I will try my best to make sure the reporting makes potential audiences as non-confused as possible. Prayers up.
Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-14--Oprah, Angela Bassett, Courtney B. Vance and Phylicia Rashad Among Cast in Ta-Nehisi Coates' Between

Oprah, Angela Bassett, Courtney B. Vance and Phylicia Rashad Among Cast in Ta-Nehisi Coates' Between the World and Me HBO Adaptation

We have a paramount cast lineup for a paramount author ’ s paramount work !
On Thursday afternoon , HBO announced the initial cast for its adaptation of Ta-Nehisi Coates ’ Between the World and Me .
And wow , what a lineup .
The cast includes Oprah Winfrey , Angela Bassett , Alicia Garza , Joe Morton , Phylicia Rashad , Tariq “ Black Thought ” Trotter , Courtney B. Vance , Pauletta Washington and Susan Kelechi Watson .
Of course , if you ’ re familiar with the star-studded live stage reading of the award-winning author ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ names .
More info about the adaptation , via a press release sent to The Root : Kamilah Forbes will direct and will also serve as executive producer of this project .
Other listed executive producers are Coates , Watson and Roger Ross Williams .
Coates ’ material is always relevant and this adaptation will be especially welcome as we navigate the racial reckonings and American uprisings in 2020 .
“ Yes , we know racism exists ; yes , we know white supremacy exists , but let ’ s really uncover it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a 2018 interview .
“ Let ’ s sit with that .
We have to make peace with the chaos .
Because the chaos runs so much deeper than any one of us can articulate .
What does it mean to be enslaved longer than we ’ ve been free in this country ?
Even though we know this at our core , we don ’ t talk about that all the time.
” The cast that has been announced so far is already full of heavyweights , but additional cast will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , get ready !
Between the World and Me is currently under production under COVID-19 guidelines and will this fall on HBO .
It will also be available to stream on HBO Max .
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

We have a paramount cast lineup for a paramount author’s paramount work!
On Thursday afternoon, HBO announced the initial cast for its adaptation of Ta-Nehisi Coates’ Between the World and Me. And wow, what a lineup. The cast includes Oprah Winfrey, Angela Bassett, Alicia Garza, Joe Morton, Phylicia Rashad, Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter, Courtney B. Vance, Pauletta Washington and Susan Kelechi Watson.
Of course, if you’re familiar with the star-studded live stage reading of the award-winning author’s acclaimed book, you probably recognize these names.
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More info about the adaptation, via a press release sent to The Root:
Originally adapted and staged by the Apollo Theater in 2018, the special will combine elements of that production, including powerful readings from Coates’ book, and will once again be directed by award-winning director and Apollo Theater Executive Producer Kamilah Forbes. It will also incorporate documentary footage from the actors’ home life, archival footage, and animation.
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Kamilah Forbes will direct and will also serve as executive producer of this project. Other listed executive producers are Coates, Watson and Roger Ross Williams. Coates’ material is always relevant and this adaptation will be especially welcome as we navigate the racial reckonings and American uprisings in 2020.
“Yes, we know racism exists; yes, we know white supremacy exists, but let’s really uncover it,” Forbes told The Root in a 2018 interview. “Let’s sit with that. We have to make peace with the chaos. Because the chaos runs so much deeper than any one of us can articulate. What does it mean to be enslaved longer than we’ve been free in this country? Even though we know this at our core, we don’t talk about that all the time.”
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The cast that has been announced so far is already full of heavyweights, but additional cast will be announced at a later date...so, get ready! Between the World and Me is currently under production under COVID-19 guidelines and will this fall on HBO. It will also be available to stream on HBO Max.
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Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-15--Minneapolis Cop Who Was Fired for Racist Christmas Tree Decorations in 2018 Is Reinstated

You know , when one of your officers is alleged to have been responsible for the unnecessary death of a Black man , it ’ s probably not a good look to rehire an officer who was let go for racism .
Yet , that ’ s exactly what the Minneapolis Police Department did .
CBS News reports that the decision to fire officer Mark Bohnsack was overturned by an arbitrator and Bohnsack will serve a 320-hour suspension instead .
In November 2018 , Bohnsack decorated a Christmas tree in the 4th Precinct with racially insensitive ornaments such as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of malt liquor and a cup from a fried chicken restaurant .
Bohnsack , along with former officer Brandy Steberg , was placed on leave and eventually fired last August .
A department spokesman said that Steberg was not reinstated .
When images of the tree hit social media , there were immediate demands from the community that the officers responsible be fired .
“ When this happened , communities were really upset .
People were ready to make some action happen and they did , right , we put the pressure on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a community leader for Black Lives Matter Twin Cities , told CBS Minnesota .
Advocates such as Allen said that the tree was symbolic of the racist attitudes displayed by the officers responsible for patrolling the city ’ s predominantly Black neighborhood .
Police Chief Medaria Arradondo issued an apology and demoted the precinct commander .
“ Two years later when they think no one ’ s watching , they just welcome these racists back into the institution to come patrol our streets again , and that ’ s just not okay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s reinstatement .
Following the killing of George Floyd , calls for police reform in Minneapolis only intensified along with scrutiny over the city ’ s arbitration process .
In June , analysis of the city ’ s arbitration process by the Star-Tribune revealed that of the 80 officers who have been fired over the last 20 years , half have been reinstated .
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Chief Arradondo have requested the state legislature pass reforms that would reduce the power of arbitrators and prevent them from overturning firing decisions made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this case are clear .
Chief Arradondo ’ s decision to terminate or discipline should not be overturned .
We need arbitration reforms that tackles an arbitrator ’ s authority to reinstate in cases of established , egregious misconduct , ” Frey said in a statement sent to CBS Minnesota .
Nekima Levy Armstrong , a police-reform activist in Minneapolis , has said that there needs to be more diversity within the predominantly white pool of arbitrators .
“ They don ’ t have a connection to the African American community or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are not looking through a racial justice lens when deciding these cases , ” Armstrong said .
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
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You know, when one of your officers is alleged to have been responsible for the unnecessary death of a Black man, it’s probably not a good look to rehire an officer who was let go for racism. Yet, that’s exactly what the Minneapolis Police Department did.
CBS News reports that the decision to fire officer Mark Bohnsack was overturned by an arbitrator and Bohnsack will serve a 320-hour suspension instead. In November 2018, Bohnsack decorated a Christmas tree in the 4th Precinct with racially insensitive ornaments such as a pack of menthol cigarettes, a can of malt liquor and a cup from a fried chicken restaurant. Bohnsack, along with former officer Brandy Steberg, was placed on leave and eventually fired last August. A department spokesman said that Steberg was not reinstated.
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When images of the tree hit social media, there were immediate demands from the community that the officers responsible be fired. “When this happened, communities were really upset. People were ready to make some action happen and they did, right, we put the pressure on and they did,” Chauntyll Allen, a community leader for Black Lives Matter Twin Cities, told CBS Minnesota. Advocates such as Allen said that the tree was symbolic of the racist attitudes displayed by the officers responsible for patrolling the city’s predominantly Black neighborhood. Police Chief Medaria Arradondo issued an apology and demoted the precinct commander.
“Two years later when they think no one’s watching, they just welcome these racists back into the institution to come patrol our streets again, and that’s just not okay,” Allen said of Bohnsack’s reinstatement. Following the killing of George Floyd, calls for police reform in Minneapolis only intensified along with scrutiny over the city’s arbitration process. In June, analysis of the city’s arbitration process by the Star-Tribune revealed that of the 80 officers who have been fired over the last 20 years, half have been reinstated.
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Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Chief Arradondo have requested the state legislature pass reforms that would reduce the power of arbitrators and prevent them from overturning firing decisions made by the chief. “The facts of this case are clear. Chief Arradondo’s decision to terminate or discipline should not be overturned. We need arbitration reforms that tackles an arbitrator’s authority to reinstate in cases of established, egregious misconduct,” Frey said in a statement sent to CBS Minnesota.
Nekima Levy Armstrong, a police-reform activist in Minneapolis, has said that there needs to be more diversity within the predominantly white pool of arbitrators. “They don’t have a connection to the African American community or other communities of color, and they are not looking through a racial justice lens when deciding these cases,” Armstrong said.
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Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-14--Wear a Mask! Specifically, One of These

Wear a Mask! Specifically, One of These

Face masks aren ’ t only recommended accessories for many of us while out and about running errands , exercising , or commuting to work—they ’ re also mandatory in many places .
Plus , legal restrictions aside , everyone should do their part when it comes to protecting others from getting sick .
But what masks should you choose ?
Though once difficult to find in stock , there ’ s now a multitude of selection , from non-surgical disposable masks to breathable cotton options that ’ ll keep your face cool and your glasses from fogging up .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of great , affordable face masks that will get the job done in style , all without breaking the bank .
Whether you need to buy in bulk or prefer a more fashionable look , these masks offer protection and peace of mind while serving up comfort and style .
These Fruit of the Loom face masks are as basic as basic gets , but that ’ s hardly a bad thing .
You get 50 of them per pack , which makes them a great , affordable option for anyone needing regular @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for a larger family or business .
Construction-wise , they ’ re 100 % cotton with three-ply construction .
Their unisex design fits most wearers , and they ’ re airy enough to keep your face cool while maintaining a tight fit .
Plus , they ’ re plain white , which means they ’ re great for decorating with your own custom artwork or even your kids ’ finger paints to create a new look every day .
Simple yet versatile , these mask are a functional solution for those seeking a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and in a large quantity at that .
Great for faces of all shapes and sizes Some masks are a bit shorter than others and end up leaving parts of the face exposed .
Gildan ’ s breathable cotton masks are large enough to fit and conform to just about any face size or shape , with ample fabric extending below the nose and mouth past the chin .
The masks are pleated , with a cooling cotton inner layer as well as a polyester outer coating that feels super soft to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reviewers liken them to wearing a t-shirt over your face , albeit one that ’ s hard to stain due to the material used to make them .
The Gildan reusable three-layer face masks come in either elastic earlobe or adjustable tie-on variants .
Sometimes , basic colors just won ’ t cut it .
The Ililily floral cotton double-layer patterned face cover offers durable , 100 % -cotton fabric with a double-layer design that ’ s also super fashionable .
The mask comes in four different floral designs , which are professional @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enough to still look cute when you ’ re out on the town .
It also includes adjustable earloops with toggles for a custom fit to make sure your ears aren ’ t suffering during long work shifts or wear situations .
They aren ’ t elastic , but they can be shortened or lengthened to your liking .
The double-layer mask also includes a filter within the interior that isn ’ t replaceable but offers an additional layer of protection .
The masks are affordable enough you can simply purchase a second @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Express yourself while maintaining social distance today .
Green Atmos recycled cotton face masks prove you can still buy and use face masks while doing your part to take care of the environment .
They come in a variety of different colors made from materials you can feel good about using .
These masks are single-layer with light and comfortable fabric that conforms to the curves of your face .
Interestingly enough , it also includes both earloops and ties to keep your mask secured to your face without having to worry about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to keep its shape all day , so it ’ ll last through the workday without falling down or sagging .
It may take some getting used to when it comes to tying the earloops as well as fitting them over your head , but you may find that they become your daily driver .
If you ’ re looking for something a bit outside the box , the Safe+Mate x Case-Mate cloth face mask might fit the bill .
They ’ re crafted from a blend of 60 % cotton and 40 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stretch to fit any face .
Unlike most masks that simply rely on earloops or ties to tighten up , there ’ s a special contoured panel here that wraps around the bridge of your nose to better adjust the fit .
They ’ ve also got a singular band behind the head that connects both earloops to relieve tension .
The strong elastic is meant to wear around your neck when not in use .
The mask comes in a wide variety of colors and multi-packs as well , with a cool @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where you got it .
They ’ ll definitely be asking , too , thanks to its unique construction .

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

Face masks aren’t only recommended accessories for many of us while out and about running errands, exercising, or commuting to work—they’re also mandatory in many places. Plus, legal restrictions aside, everyone should do their part when it comes to protecting others from getting sick. But what masks should you choose? Though once difficult to find in stock, there’s now a multitude of selection, from non-surgical disposable masks to breathable cotton options that’ll keep your face cool and your glasses from fogging up.
We’ve rounded up a series of great, affordable face masks that will get the job done in style, all without breaking the bank. Whether you need to buy in bulk or prefer a more fashionable look, these masks offer protection and peace of mind while serving up comfort and style.
Basic and Customizable
Advertisement
These Fruit of the Loom face masks are as basic as basic gets, but that’s hardly a bad thing. You get 50 of them per pack, which makes them a great, affordable option for anyone needing regular mask changes or enough to go around for a larger family or business. Construction-wise, they’re 100% cotton with three-ply construction. Their unisex design fits most wearers, and they’re airy enough to keep your face cool while maintaining a tight fit. Plus, they’re plain white, which means they’re great for decorating with your own custom artwork or even your kids’ finger paints to create a new look every day.
Simple yet versatile, these mask are a functional solution for those seeking a basic face covering to keep bacteria out, and in a large quantity at that.
Advertisement Advertisement
Versatile Comfort and Protection
Advertisement
Some masks are a bit shorter than others and end up leaving parts of the face exposed. Gildan’s breathable cotton masks are large enough to fit and conform to just about any face size or shape, with ample fabric extending below the nose and mouth past the chin. The masks are pleated, with a cooling cotton inner layer as well as a polyester outer coating that feels super soft to the touch while offering fantastic coverage. Reviewers liken them to wearing a t-shirt over your face, albeit one that’s hard to stain due to the material used to make them.
The Gildan reusable three-layer face masks come in either elastic earlobe or adjustable tie-on variants.
Advertisement
Fashionable and Functional
Advertisement
Sometimes, basic colors just won’t cut it. The Ililily floral cotton double-layer patterned face cover offers durable, 100%-cotton fabric with a double-layer design that’s also super fashionable. The mask comes in four different floral designs, which are professional enough to wear to work and funky enough to still look cute when you’re out on the town. It also includes adjustable earloops with toggles for a custom fit to make sure your ears aren’t suffering during long work shifts or wear situations. They aren’t elastic, but they can be shortened or lengthened to your liking.
The double-layer mask also includes a filter within the interior that isn’t replaceable but offers an additional layer of protection. The masks are affordable enough you can simply purchase a second one to freshen up the filter. Express yourself while maintaining social distance today.
Advertisement
Colorful and Conscientious
Advertisement
Green Atmos recycled cotton face masks prove you can still buy and use face masks while doing your part to take care of the environment. They come in a variety of different colors made from materials you can feel good about using. These masks are single-layer with light and comfortable fabric that conforms to the curves of your face. Interestingly enough, it also includes both earloops and ties to keep your mask secured to your face without having to worry about slippage. Each mask is sturdy enough to keep its shape all day, so it’ll last through the workday without falling down or sagging. It may take some getting used to when it comes to tying the earloops as well as fitting them over your head, but you may find that they become your daily driver.
Svelte and Safe
Advertisement
If you’re looking for something a bit outside the box, the Safe+Mate x Case-Mate cloth face mask might fit the bill. They’re crafted from a blend of 60% cotton and 40% polyester to give a bit of stretch to fit any face. Unlike most masks that simply rely on earloops or ties to tighten up, there’s a special contoured panel here that wraps around the bridge of your nose to better adjust the fit. They’ve also got a singular band behind the head that connects both earloops to relieve tension. The strong elastic is meant to wear around your neck when not in use.
Advertisement
The mask comes in a wide variety of colors and multi-packs as well, with a cool, clean Safe+Mate logo so everyone knows where you got it. They’ll definitely be asking, too, thanks to its unique construction.


theroot--2020-08-14--Alabama Public Housing Put Whites in High-Rise Towers. Says Blacks ‘Prefer’ Substandard Garden Units

Alabama Public Housing Put Whites in High-Rise Towers. Says Blacks ‘Prefer’ Substandard Garden Units, HUD Report Finds

Can America do literally anything without being racist about it ?
We already know that this great nation of ours can ’ t seem to police its citizens , distribute resources to communities , facilitate voting , or fund education in a way that focuses on racial equality , but one would think that something like providing subsidized housing for lower-income elderly people would be… Nah , never mind .
That ’ s easily another thing that can ’ t be done without authorities making sure Black people get the short end of the stick .
According to a federal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Alabama provided white people with riverfront towers with scenic views and other amenities while Black people were given less luxurious housing .
Their excuse ?
Black people don ’ t like high-rises .
Maybe they ’ ve never seen The Jeffersons .
The Associated Press reports that the housing authority in Alabama settled discrimination lawsuits for $ 200,000 which will be distributed to all of those who were given lower standard housing allegedly because of the color of their skin .
This comes after a Housing and Urban Development study determined that 94 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s units in two towers with nice views and other perks were occupied by white tenants .
The developments provide subsidized homes for low-income elderly people .
Minorities on the waiting list to get into the towers were passed over as units there were filled with white people , the report said .
Authority workers repeatedly explained the lack of Black residents in the waterfront buildings by saying elderly Black tenants don ’ t like high-rise buildings and prefer living in “ garden-style units so they can sit on their porch and come @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” according to a letter from HUD .
Aside from the fact that , in dog- whistle language , those “ authority workers ” basically called older Black people porch monkeys who are afraid of heights , the history of white people justifying racism through false claims that Black people naturally adapt to substandard conditions is too deep for anyone to be running with this kind of narrative in the year 2020 .
Besides , according to the HUD investigation—which began when the Justice Department found “ patterns of housing discrimination in Alabama @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in housing conditions hardly stops at how long a tenant has to ride an elevator before reaching their apartment .
Residents of the two multistory buildings have access to a city park where events are held ; walking trails ; riverfront views ; a library ; meeting spaces ; a mobile food pantry ; a community kitchen and a patio , according to a letter from HUD .
Westgate Gardens lacks similar amenities , it said .
Westgate tenant Carrie Garth , 76 , said she welcomes promised improvements but will believe it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are coming loose from the floors .
We have a problem with bugs .
The buildings are old and they ’ re not kept up .
I ’ ve been here nine years , and we don ’ t get a paint job or anything .
My cabinet isn ’ t level so things roll off , and I ’ ve got a leak under the sink , ” Garth said .
Along with the $ 200,000 settlement , housing authorities promised to upgrade the Westgate Gardens , which is largely occupied by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of $ 1 million .
Seems like a lot of money could have been saved by not being racist in the first place , but whatever .
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

Can America do literally anything without being racist about it? We already know that this great nation of ours can’t seem to police its citizens, distribute resources to communities, facilitate voting, or fund education in a way that focuses on racial equality, but one would think that something like providing subsidized housing for lower-income elderly people would be… Nah, never mind. That’s easily another thing that can’t be done without authorities making sure Black people get the short end of the stick.
According to a federal review, the public housing authority in Alabama provided white people with riverfront towers with scenic views and other amenities while Black people were given less luxurious housing. Their excuse? Black people don’t like high-rises.
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Maybe they’ve never seen The Jeffersons.
The Associated Press reports that the housing authority in Alabama settled discrimination lawsuits for $200,000 which will be distributed to all of those who were given lower standard housing allegedly because of the color of their skin. This comes after a Housing and Urban Development study determined that 94 percent of the Decatur Housing Authority’s units in two towers with nice views and other perks were occupied by white tenants.
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From AP:
The developments provide subsidized homes for low-income elderly people. Minorities on the waiting list to get into the towers were passed over as units there were filled with white people, the report said. Authority workers repeatedly explained the lack of Black residents in the waterfront buildings by saying elderly Black tenants don’t like high-rise buildings and prefer living in “garden-style units so they can sit on their porch and come and go as they please,‘” according to a letter from HUD.
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Aside from the fact that, in dog- whistle language, those “authority workers” basically called older Black people porch monkeys who are afraid of heights, the history of white people justifying racism through false claims that Black people naturally adapt to substandard conditions is too deep for anyone to be running with this kind of narrative in the year 2020.
Besides, according to the HUD investigation—which began when the Justice Department found “patterns of housing discrimination in Alabama and Mississippi,” AP reports—the discrepancy in housing conditions hardly stops at how long a tenant has to ride an elevator before reaching their apartment.
Residents of the two multistory buildings have access to a city park where events are held; walking trails; riverfront views; a library; meeting spaces; a mobile food pantry; a community kitchen and a patio, according to a letter from HUD. Westgate Gardens lacks similar amenities, it said. Westgate tenant Carrie Garth, 76, said she welcomes promised improvements but will believe it when she sees it. “Baseboards are coming loose from the floors. We have a problem with bugs. The buildings are old and they’re not kept up. I’ve been here nine years, and we don’t get a paint job or anything. My cabinet isn’t level so things roll off, and I’ve got a leak under the sink,” Garth said.
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Along with the $200,000 settlement, housing authorities promised to upgrade the Westgate Gardens, which is largely occupied by Black residents, at an estimated cost of $1 million.
Seems like a lot of money could have been saved by not being racist in the first place, but whatever.
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Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-14--Despite Leaving Town, Bond Not Revoked for Former Officer Who Killed Rayshard Brooks

Despite going on vacation to Florida earlier this month , bond will not be revoked for the former Atlanta police officer charged with killing Rayshard Brooks .
According to AJC , a judge has ruled that Garrett Rolfe ’ s bond order will be modified but not revoked .
Rolfe was initially granted a $ 500,000 bond during a June 30 hearing as Judge June Barwick didn ’ t feel he posed a significant flight risk .
While the previous version of his bond order never said Rolfe couldn ’ t leave the state , the new wording explicitly states @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Barwick also used her ruling to issue a warning to Rolfe .
“ Defendant faces charges related to the killing of another human being , and whether he believes these charges are warranted , he was given the privilege of limited freedom while these charges pend , ” Barwick said in her ruling .
“ Should he and his attorneys have any question as to the meaning of the conditions of his bond , they should seek clarification from the court before acting rather than hoping for continued release after acting .
These @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to strictly.
” On Aug. 3 , Rolfe ’ s lawyers informed the office of Fulton District Attorney Paul Howard that Rolfe was traveling to Florida to visit family .
As a result , Howard requested the judge revoke Rolfe ’ s bond .
Noah Pines and William Thomas , Rolfe ’ s lawyers , argued that the order didn ’ t explicitly place Rolfe on house arrest despite , you know , the ankle monitor and curfew .
Rolfe is currently facing 11 charges , including felony murder , for the alleged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rolfe and Officer Devin Brosnan were responding to a call about a man found asleep in a Wendy ’ s drive-thru .
After calmly talking to Brooks for over 40 minutes , an altercation ensued when Rolfe tried to arrest Brooks .
Brooks ran away and Rolfe fired three shots , with two striking Brooks in the back and killing him .
Rolfe , who was fired shortly after the shooting , has since filed a lawsuit that demands his job back and argues the shooting was a justified use of force .

Despite going on vacation to Florida earlier this month, bond will not be revoked for the former Atlanta police officer charged with killing Rayshard Brooks.
According to AJC, a judge has ruled that Garrett Rolfe’s bond order will be modified but not revoked. Rolfe was initially granted a $500,000 bond during a June 30 hearing as Judge June Barwick didn’t feel he posed a significant flight risk. While the previous version of his bond order never said Rolfe couldn’t leave the state, the new wording explicitly states that Rolfe must stay at home. Barwick also used her ruling to issue a warning to Rolfe.
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“Defendant faces charges related to the killing of another human being, and whether he believes these charges are warranted, he was given the privilege of limited freedom while these charges pend,” Barwick said in her ruling. “Should he and his attorneys have any question as to the meaning of the conditions of his bond, they should seek clarification from the court before acting rather than hoping for continued release after acting. These are strict conditions that shall be adhered to strictly.”
On Aug. 3, Rolfe’s lawyers informed the office of Fulton District Attorney Paul Howard that Rolfe was traveling to Florida to visit family. As a result, Howard requested the judge revoke Rolfe’s bond. Noah Pines and William Thomas, Rolfe’s lawyers, argued that the order didn’t explicitly place Rolfe on house arrest despite, you know, the ankle monitor and curfew.
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Rolfe is currently facing 11 charges, including felony murder, for the alleged killing of Rayshard Brooks in June. Rolfe and Officer Devin Brosnan were responding to a call about a man found asleep in a Wendy’s drive-thru. After calmly talking to Brooks for over 40 minutes, an altercation ensued when Rolfe tried to arrest Brooks. Brooks ran away and Rolfe fired three shots, with two striking Brooks in the back and killing him.
Rolfe, who was fired shortly after the shooting, has since filed a lawsuit that demands his job back and argues the shooting was a justified use of force.


theroot--2020-08-14--LeBron James, Los Angeles Dodgers to Turn Dodgers Stadium Into a Polling Center for Presidential Ele

LeBron James, Los Angeles Dodgers to Turn Dodgers Stadium Into a Polling Center for Presidential Election

In June , LeBron James unveiled his plan to protect the voting rights of Black Americans with the launch of his non-profit organization , More Than a Vote .
And nearly two months later , ESPN reports that King James and the Los Angeles Dodgers will partner to turn Dodgers Stadium into a polling station for the upcoming presidential election in November .
“ Dodger Stadium is part of the fabric of Los Angeles , and we ’ re proud to continue to partner with the County to make the property available for the benefit of the community at large @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kasten said in a statement .
“ Voting is all of our civic duty , and we ’ re excited to work with More Than a Vote to do anything we can to help get out the vote by making this process as easy , accessible and safe for all Angelenos.
” In recent months , Dodgers stadium has been used to distribute food and provide COVID-19 testing , but this is the first time that a Major League Baseball team has offered its stadium as a voting center .
In the five @ @ @ @ @ @ @ election , voters registered in Los Angeles County will be able to vote at the stadium and enjoy free parking .
“ I may still be new to L.A. but didn ’ t take long for me to learn how special the relationship is between the Dodgers and Lakers .
We are all in this together , ” LeBron said in a statement .
“ I ’ m really proud we were able to help the Dodgers become the first MLB stadium to open for voting .
This is exactly why we created @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of us now working together and here for every team who wants to follow the Dodgers lead and turn their stadium into a safer place for voting .
”

In June, LeBron James unveiled his plan to protect the voting rights of Black Americans with the launch of his non-profit organization, More Than a Vote.
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And nearly two months later, ESPN reports that King James and the Los Angeles Dodgers will partner to turn Dodgers Stadium into a polling station for the upcoming presidential election in November.
“Dodger Stadium is part of the fabric of Los Angeles, and we’re proud to continue to partner with the County to make the property available for the benefit of the community at large,” Dodgers president and CEO Stan Kasten said in a statement. “Voting is all of our civic duty, and we’re excited to work with More Than a Vote to do anything we can to help get out the vote by making this process as easy, accessible and safe for all Angelenos.”
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In recent months, Dodgers stadium has been used to distribute food and provide COVID-19 testing, but this is the first time that a Major League Baseball team has offered its stadium as a voting center. In the five days leading up to the November 3 election, voters registered in Los Angeles County will be able to vote at the stadium and enjoy free parking.
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“I may still be new to L.A. but didn’t take long for me to learn how special the relationship is between the Dodgers and Lakers. We are all in this together,” LeBron said in a statement. “I’m really proud we were able to help the Dodgers become the first MLB stadium to open for voting. This is exactly why we created More Than a Vote. A lot of us now working together and here for every team who wants to follow the Dodgers lead and turn their stadium into a safer place for voting.”