theroot--2020-07-29--Colorado Department of Public Health to Investigate the Use of Ketamine by Paramedics to Sedate Elij

Colorado Department of Public Health to Investigate the Use of Ketamine by Paramedics to Sedate Elijah McClain

When it comes to the August 24 , 2019 death of 23-year-old Elijah McClain , plenty has been said in condemnation of the Aurora , Colo. , police officers who approached him while he was walking home and placed him in a chokehold , but not nearly as much is mentioned about the paramedics who administered the drug ketamine to sedate him .
Well now , the state ’ s health department is launching an investigation into the use of the drug and its possible contribution to McClain ’ s death .
CBS Denver reports the Colorado Department of Public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agencies waivers to use the sedative ketamine and can look into complaints about its use , is now launching an investigation .
“ The Colorado Department of Health and Environment received numerous complaints , beginning June 24th , that provided additional information regarding a ketamine administration in August 2019 , ” a spokesperson said in a statement .
According to the Colorado Sun , “ more than 100 agencies across Colorado have approval from the state to allow medics to use ketamine , an anesthetic , on people who show signs of what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ’ ” despite the fact that in 17 percent of those cases , the drug caused serious complications for the people it was administered to .
Many medical professionals have criticized the practice .
Fire and emergency medical services officials in the Denver suburb of Aurora have said a preliminary review found that medics ’ actions on the night police detained McClain , 23 , were “ consistent and aligned with our established protocols.
” But some medical and legal experts worry that ketamine — or any form of an anesthetic — @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should not be used to subdue someone in a police action .
“ Why anyone would be giving ketamine in that circumstance is beyond me , ” said neuroscientist Carl Hart , chair of Columbia University ’ s psychology department .
“ The major problem here is we should never be ordering any medication , and no one should be taking or given it against their will.
” According to CBS , Mari Newman , the attorney representing Elijah McClain ’ s family , has echoed similar sentiments to that of Hart .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ medication used involuntarily against a person just trying to go home is very , very troubling and it absolutely needs to be addressed , ” Newman said .
She also said the investigation into the drug ’ s use on McClain is long overdue and that it shouldn ’ t have taken his death for health officials to look into the practice of administering it to people without their consent .
“ They certainly should have looked into it long ago but I am glad they are doing it now , ” Newman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take millions of people across not just the country , but the world , speaking out and questioning the treatment of Elijah McClain before the government does what it should have done all along .
”

When it comes to the August 24, 2019 death of 23-year-old Elijah McClain, plenty has been said in condemnation of the Aurora, Colo., police officers who approached him while he was walking home and placed him in a chokehold, but not nearly as much is mentioned about the paramedics who administered the drug ketamine to sedate him. Well now, the state’s health department is launching an investigation into the use of the drug and its possible contribution to McClain’s death.
From CBS News:
CBS Denver reports the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, which grants individual agencies waivers to use the sedative ketamine and can look into complaints about its use, is now launching an investigation. “The Colorado Department of Health and Environment received numerous complaints, beginning June 24th, that provided additional information regarding a ketamine administration in August 2019,” a spokesperson said in a statement.
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According to the Colorado Sun, “more than 100 agencies across Colorado have approval from the state to allow medics to use ketamine, an anesthetic, on people who show signs of what’s often dubbed ‘excited delirium,’” despite the fact that in 17 percent of those cases, the drug caused serious complications for the people it was administered to. Many medical professionals have criticized the practice.
From NBC News:
Fire and emergency medical services officials in the Denver suburb of Aurora have said a preliminary review found that medics’ actions on the night police detained McClain, 23, were “consistent and aligned with our established protocols.” But some medical and legal experts worry that ketamine — or any form of an anesthetic — raises too many unknowns and that it should not be used to subdue someone in a police action. “Why anyone would be giving ketamine in that circumstance is beyond me,” said neuroscientist Carl Hart, chair of Columbia University’s psychology department. “The major problem here is we should never be ordering any medication, and no one should be taking or given it against their will.”
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According to CBS, Mari Newman, the attorney representing Elijah McClain’s family, has echoed similar sentiments to that of Hart.
“The weaponization of any kind of medication used involuntarily against a person just trying to go home is very, very troubling and it absolutely needs to be addressed,” Newman said.
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She also said the investigation into the drug’s use on McClain is long overdue and that it shouldn’t have taken his death for health officials to look into the practice of administering it to people without their consent.
“They certainly should have looked into it long ago but I am glad they are doing it now,” Newman said. “It shouldn’t take millions of people across not just the country, but the world, speaking out and questioning the treatment of Elijah McClain before the government does what it should have done all along.”


theroot--2020-07-29--If Black Twitter Was a Person

If Black Twitter Was a Person

When we began curating this column on social media , we discovered that many people assume the cultural phenomenon called “ Black Twitter ” is an official network to which they can subscribe and check out all the culturally relevant information on the internet .
It ’ s time that we clear up this misinformation and correct the erasure of an important figure in Black History .
According to the Wikipedia page that I ’ m going to create as soon as I finish writing this , Black Twitter lives and breathes .
So , to educate you on this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the basics of Black Twitter ’ s life .
Black Twitter , ( born Blackasfuhk Run ’ Telldat Twitteronomy ; August 21 , 1619 ) is a gender non-conforming African American journalist , comedian , entertainer and activist who became the most visible spokesperson and leader in the negro social media movement .
Preferring to use the pronouns “ they/nem , ” Black Twitter is best known for memes , social justice , connecting disparate communities , memes and providing an outlet for laughter in the harshest of times .
Before Black Twitter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ player , not a cultural symbol for sadness and humiliation .
There was a time in American history where people had to endure uncomfortable confrontations to ask someone why they were lying until black Twitter solved that problem .
Scientists even adopted the rules of Black Twitter .
Beginning in 2020 , instead of scores , the Scholastic Aptitude Test will send test-takers one of two responses .
People who score above a certain threshold will be notified with this meme : While less-than-stellar scorers will simply get this as a reply : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and raised with two other siblings by a single mother who instilled discipline and responsibility at an early age .
They showed an early flair for drama , rhythm and unapologetic blackness .
After graduating from an HBCU , they found a job translating AAVE to white people talk .
Between day parties , in their spare time , BT began studying how to fight and make people laugh at any subject : As Black Twitter grew older , they became very involved in politics , presenting an unvarnished version of truth that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the power of social media to create the Black Lives Matter movement and change the political discourse in America As Black Twitter grew older , it became a cultural influencer , setting the trends across the world of music , fashion and film .
It also became active in politics and history .
For the sake of equality , I think we should also present some content from white Twitter .
Here is how white Twitter was born : It ’ s filled with ratchedness like this : And here is an exclusive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Black Twitter : 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 !

When we began curating this column on social media, we discovered that many people assume the cultural phenomenon called “Black Twitter” is an official network to which they can subscribe and check out all the culturally relevant information on the internet.
It’s time that we clear up this misinformation and correct the erasure of an important figure in Black History.
Advertisement
Black Twitter is an actual person.
According to the Wikipedia page that I’m going to create as soon as I finish writing this, Black Twitter lives and breathes. So, to educate you on this oft-forgotten hero, we wanted to share the basics of Black Twitter’s life.
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Black Twitter, (born Blackasfuhk Run’Telldat Twitteronomy; August 21, 1619) is a gender non-conforming African American journalist, comedian, entertainer and activist who became the most visible spokesperson and leader in the negro social media movement. Preferring to use the pronouns “they/nem,” Black Twitter is best known for memes, social justice, connecting disparate communities, memes and providing an outlet for laughter in the harshest of times.
Before Black Twitter, Michael Jordan was just a basketball player, not a cultural symbol for sadness and humiliation. There was a time in American history where people had to endure uncomfortable confrontations to ask someone why they were lying until black Twitter solved that problem.
Scientists even adopted the rules of Black Twitter. Beginning in 2020, instead of scores, the Scholastic Aptitude Test will send test-takers one of two responses. People who score above a certain threshold will be notified with this meme:
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While less-than-stellar scorers will simply get this as a reply:
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Early Life and Education
Black Twitter was born in the projects and raised with two other siblings by a single mother who instilled discipline and responsibility at an early age. They showed an early flair for drama, rhythm and unapologetic blackness.
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After graduating from an HBCU, they found a job translating AAVE to white people talk. Between day parties, in their spare time, BT began studying how to fight and make people laugh at any subject:
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Political Activism
As Black Twitter grew older, they became very involved in politics, presenting an unvarnished version of truth that some people found refreshing. It harnessed the power of social media to create the Black Lives Matter movement and change the political discourse in America
Advertisement
Advertisement
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Later years
As Black Twitter grew older, it became a cultural influencer, setting the trends across the world of music, fashion and film. It also became active in politics and history.
Advertisement
Advertisement
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Death
Black Twitter will never die.
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For the sake of equality, I think we should also present some content from white Twitter.
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Here is how white Twitter was born:
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It’s filled with ratchedness like this:
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And here is an exclusive clip of White Twitter keeping up with Black Twitter:
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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--2020-07-29--Did Joe Biden Accidentally Show His VP Pick to the World Before She Was Camera-Ready?

Presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden—God , I wish he would just call the number on his credit card and activate his presidency so we can stop calling him presumptive—was seen with what appears to be his vice presidential cheat sheet and it ’ s looking a lot like Kamala Harris .
Well , Biden was caught holding Joseph R. Biden , Jr. stationary Tuesday during his midday press conference in Wilmington , Del .
Of course , Joe Biden has stationary with his name on it .
He probably writes his wife notes on it and still signs his name @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who ’ s asking her to bring him the Apple remote .
Listed at the very top of Biden ’ s personal stationery was the California senator ’ s name and then right below that were five talking points that appeared to swing the Democrat ’ s favor .
From the New York Post : Under Harris ’ name , five talking points were listed on the stationery , including , “ Do not hold grudges , ” “ Campaigned with me & Jill [ Biden ] , ” “ Talented , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Great respect for her.
” Lower down on the list , under the heading “ VP , ” Biden ’ s list reads “ highly qualified , ” and “ diverse group.
” The Post notes that despite it looking very much like Harris is going to get the nomination ( at least , she ’ s a heavy favorite ) the talking points may have been a reminder to Biden of all the good work Harris has and can do for his candidacy , despite longtime Biden ally on the VP @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s recent hateration in this dancerie .
Dodd reportedly “ had become concerned about Harris as the frontrunner because she felt no remorse over their debate sparring , ” the Post reports .
Apparently , Harri s was supposed to apologize for wanting to be president and taking Biden to task for his complicated ( read : racist-y ) issues around busing and his buddy-buddy relationship with segregationists .
“ She laughed and said , ‘ that ’ s politics.
’ She had no remorse , ” Dodd told a longtime Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stunned by the response .
WTF was she supposed to do ?
Fall out on a fainting couch while clutching a fist full of pearls and a mint julep ?
In that debate , Harris called Biden out on both of those issues , saying , “ I do not believe you are racist , but I also believe , and it is personal — it was hurtful to hear you talk about the reputations of two United States senators who built their reputations and careers on the segregation of race in this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is not only that , but you also worked with them to oppose busing , ” she added , claiming that she was part of the second class to integrate her public school in California growing up and was bused to school .
Umm , but the shit is true !
The Post believes that the bullet-point about not holding grudges likely had to do with Biden being able to forgive Harris for smacking his ass around on the debate stage with the truth .
And get this : Politico fucked up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as his VP .
In their “ running-mate rundown , ” the outlet wrote that , “ Joe Biden chose Kamala Harris to become his running mate for the 2020 election on Aug. 1 , two weeks before the Democratic National Convention , after keeping his choice close to the chest for months.
” The Politico report even included a quote attributed to Biden , saying , “ In his announcement , Biden called Harris ‘ a worthy opponent and a worthy running mate , ’ alluding to the pair ’ s rivalry @ @ @ @ @ @ @ primary .
She will bring her experience as a prosecutor , household name recognition , and skill as a debater to the ticket.
” Clearly the outlet has taken it all down and claimed that the text was merely a placeholder for when Biden formally announces that he ’ s chosen Harris to be his running mate makes a formal decision .
Biden is expected to make his official vice president announcement Aug. 1

Presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden—God, I wish he would just call the number on his credit card and activate his presidency so we can stop calling him presumptive—was seen with what appears to be his vice presidential cheat sheet and it’s looking a lot like Kamala Harris.
Well, Biden was caught holding Joseph R. Biden, Jr. stationary Tuesday during his midday press conference in Wilmington, Del. Of course, Joe Biden has stationary with his name on it. He probably writes his wife notes on it and still signs his name as if she doesn’t know who’s asking her to bring him the Apple remote.
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Listed at the very top of Biden’s personal stationery was the California senator’s name and then right below that were five talking points that appeared to swing the Democrat’s favor.
From the New York Post:
Under Harris’ name, five talking points were listed on the stationery, including, “Do not hold grudges,” “Campaigned with me & Jill [Biden],” “Talented,” “Great help to campaign” and “Great respect for her.” Lower down on the list, under the heading “VP,” Biden’s list reads “highly qualified,” and “diverse group.”
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The Post notes that despite it looking very much like Harris is going to get the nomination (at least, she’s a heavy favorite) the talking points may have been a reminder to Biden of all the good work Harris has and can do for his candidacy, despite longtime Biden ally on the VP selection committee, former Sen. Chris Dodd’s recent hateration in this dancerie.
Dodd reportedly “had become concerned about Harris as the frontrunner because she felt no remorse over their debate sparring,” the Post reports.
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Apparently, Harri s was supposed to apologize for wanting to be president and taking Biden to task for his complicated (read: racist-y) issues around busing and his buddy-buddy relationship with segregationists.
“She laughed and said, ‘that’s politics.’ She had no remorse,” Dodd told a longtime Biden donor, who alleged that Dodd was stunned by the response.
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WTF was she supposed to do? Fall out on a fainting couch while clutching a fist full of pearls and a mint julep?
In that debate, Harris called Biden out on both of those issues, saying, “I do not believe you are racist, but I also believe, and it is personal — it was hurtful to hear you talk about the reputations of two United States senators who built their reputations and careers on the segregation of race in this country.” Harris continued that, “It is not only that, but you also worked with them to oppose busing,” she added, claiming that she was part of the second class to integrate her public school in California growing up and was bused to school.
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Umm, but the shit is true!
The Post believes that the bullet-point about not holding grudges likely had to do with Biden being able to forgive Harris for smacking his ass around on the debate stage with the truth.
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And get this: Politico fucked up and leaked that Biden already picked Harris as his VP.
In their “running-mate rundown,” the outlet wrote that, “Joe Biden chose Kamala Harris to become his running mate for the 2020 election on Aug. 1, two weeks before the Democratic National Convention, after keeping his choice close to the chest for months.” The Politico report even included a quote attributed to Biden, saying, “In his announcement, Biden called Harris ‘a worthy opponent and a worthy running mate,’ alluding to the pair’s rivalry during the earlier stages of the Democratic primary. She will bring her experience as a prosecutor, household name recognition, and skill as a debater to the ticket.”
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Clearly the outlet has taken it all down and claimed that the text was merely a placeholder for when Biden formally announces that he’s chosen Harris to be his running mate makes a formal decision.
Biden is expected to make his official vice president announcement Aug. 1
*cough* It’s Kamala Harris *cough*


theroot--2020-07-29--Strong Black Sitcoms: Yes, You Can Watch Some of Your Fave '90s and '00s Black TV Shows on Netflix S

Strong Black Sitcoms: Yes, You Can Watch Some of Your Fave '90s and '00s Black TV Shows on Netflix Soon

Remember when UPN was considered a Black mecca for TV shows back in the day ?
Well , nowadays , the ‘ N ’ stands for Netflix because it looks like the popular streaming platform is trying to recreate a little bit of that magic !
Netflix has acquired the rights to stream Moesha , The Game ( Seasons 1-3 ) , Sister , Sister , Girlfriends , The Parkers , Half & Half and One on One !
The stars from each of the nostalgic TV shows shared a message to celebrate the huge news ( and cherish the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Black community ) , including Tracee Ellis Ross , Essence Atkins , Flex Alexander , Pooch Hall , Tamera Mowry-Housley and more !
This is not only a huge deal for the culture but also a huge deal for the streaming platform to be able to acquire all of these shows .
I know fans typically bombard the mentions of the Netflix/Strong Black Lead teams to secure our beloved Black-ass content but licensing it is no easy feat .
As Netflix Editorial Manager ( and historic Beyoncé retweeter ) Jasmyn Lawson noted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and much money , I ’ m sure ) in the making .
Here ’ s how it works : Per Netflix ’ s own website , “ Netflix partners with content providers to license streaming rights for a variety of TV shows and movies.
” Licensing in the realm of online streaming content is defined as the process of obtaining permission from the owner of a TV show or movie to stream its content through a service such as Netflix .
A licensing agreement is established under the terms of a legally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Netflix , and each agreement varies based on the needs of the content owner and Netflix .
For instance , the owner of a TV show could agree to allow Netflix to stream all seasons of that show in full through its online platform for one , three or five years .
The licensing agreement can be renegotiated after the set time period ends , or Netflix could drop the show from its library if viewer interest is not high enough to warrant the cost .
A content owner may offer a similar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a competing streaming service , such as Hulu or Amazon Prime Video , making the licensing agreement between each company and the owner non-exclusive .
Licensing agreements that are not exclusive to a single streaming platform are less expensive to obtain .
So , yeah that ’ s a lot of jargon , contracts , cash , negotiating and more to be had .
It ’ s not as simple as Netflix bosses knocking on the desk a la House of Cards ’ Francis Underwood and making magic happen—it ’ s a whole @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we typically chill when watching Netflix , but this is no time to chill !
This is not a drill !
The drop dates are below .
Mark your calendars , accordingly : One on One - Oct. 15 While y ’ all do that , I ’ ll be over here singing ( or humming , in the case of the shows with instrumentals ) the theme song from each and every one of these listed TV shows .

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

Remember when UPN was considered a Black mecca for TV shows back in the day? Well, nowadays, the ‘N’ stands for Netflix because it looks like the popular streaming platform is trying to recreate a little bit of that magic!
Netflix has acquired the rights to stream Moesha, The Game (Seasons 1-3), Sister, Sister, Girlfriends, The Parkers, Half & Half and One on One! The stars from each of the nostalgic TV shows shared a message to celebrate the huge news (and cherish the impact their respective shows have made on the Black community), including Tracee Ellis Ross, Essence Atkins, Flex Alexander, Pooch Hall, Tamera Mowry-Housley and more!
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This is not only a huge deal for the culture but also a huge deal for the streaming platform to be able to acquire all of these shows. I know fans typically bombard the mentions of the Netflix/Strong Black Lead teams to secure our beloved Black-ass content but licensing it is no easy feat. As Netflix Editorial Manager (and historic Beyoncé retweeter) Jasmyn Lawson noted, this announcement was many months (and much money, I’m sure) in the making.
Advertisement Advertisement
Here’s how it works: Per Netflix’s own website, “Netflix partners with content providers to license streaming rights for a variety of TV shows and movies.”
Investopedia breaks down the process:
Licensing in the realm of online streaming content is defined as the process of obtaining permission from the owner of a TV show or movie to stream its content through a service such as Netflix. A licensing agreement is established under the terms of a legally binding contract between the content owners and Netflix, and each agreement varies based on the needs of the content owner and Netflix. For instance, the owner of a TV show could agree to allow Netflix to stream all seasons of that show in full through its online platform for one, three or five years. The licensing agreement can be renegotiated after the set time period ends, or Netflix could drop the show from its library if viewer interest is not high enough to warrant the cost. A content owner may offer a similar deal on the same TV show to a competing streaming service, such as Hulu or Amazon Prime Video, making the licensing agreement between each company and the owner non-exclusive. Licensing agreements that are not exclusive to a single streaming platform are less expensive to obtain.
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So, yeah that’s a lot of jargon, contracts, cash, negotiating and more to be had. It’s not as simple as Netflix bosses knocking on the desk a la House of Cards’ Francis Underwood and making magic happen—it’s a whole arduous process! So...I know we typically chill when watching Netflix, but this is no time to chill! This is not a drill!
The drop dates are below. Mark your calendars, accordingly:
Moesha - Aug. 1
The Game S1-3 - Aug. 15
Sister Sister - Sept. 1
Girlfriends - Sept. 11
The Parkers - Oct. 1
Half & Half - Oct. 15
One on One - Oct. 15
While y’all do that, I’ll be over here singing (or humming, in the case of the shows with instrumentals) the theme song from each and every one of these listed TV shows.


theroot--2020-07-29--One Day We'll Travel Again, and on That Day You Can Tell Everyone You Saved up to 39% on Luggage

It should go without saying , but if you can help it , don ’ t travel right now .
@ @ @ @ @ being said , nothing is stopping you from taking advantage of an unbeatable deal on @ @ @ @ @ year out from a time when it ’ s safe to do so .
Endorsed @ @ @ @ @ luggage is made from 100 % polycarbonate and costs just $ 65 with our exclusive @ @ @ @ @ the on-page coupon you have to clip .
For a higher quality product in the @ @ @ @ @ luggage also from Nintetygo comes with a “ TSA-compatible ” lock and a front pocket @ @ @ @ @ back $ 160 .
But with the same NINETYGOLGKJ code applied and the coupon clipped @ @ @ @ @ for $ 97 .
Jump on either one of these steals while supplies last .

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

Ninetygo Carry-On Luggage (20" Black) | $57 | Amazon | Clip Coupon
Ninetygo Carry-On Luggage (20" Gray w/ Front Pocket Lock Cover) | $76 | Amazon | Clip Coupon
It should go without saying, but if you can help it, don’t travel right now. Especially by plane. With that in mind, nothing is stopping you from taking advantage of an unbeatable deal on carry-on luggage at least a year out from a time when it’s safe to do so. Endorsed by Anker, this Ninetygo luggage is made from 100% polycarbonate and costs just $57 with the on-page coupon.
For a higher quality product in the same vein, this 20-inch luggage also from Nintetygo comes with a “TSA-compatible” lock and a front pocket that would ordinarily set you back $160. But with the coupon clipped, you can get it for $76. Jump on either one of these steals while supplies last.
This deal was originally published by Gabe Carey on 7/29/2020 and updated with new information on 8/7/2020.


theroot--2020-07-29--How To Prepare Steak Exactly How I Like It, Since I Don't Give a Shit If You Like It, Too

There are places on TV , in magazines , and on the internet where you can find peer-and-eater-reviewed methods for preparing , cooking , and staging great steaks .
Where the people who make the steaks promise that , if you follow their directions , step-by-step , you will have a delicious steak too .
I am not one of those people .
This is not one of those places .
I began cooking more during the pandemic , and I ’ ve gotten my methods down to a science .
The science of Damon .
I only care about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you .
Because why should I ?
What sense does that make , for me , to prepare a thing for my mouth based on what you might think about it ?
None , that ’ s how much .
But if you wish to make a steak exactly how I like it , with absolutely no promises that you will , please continue .
First , get the items in this picture .
And then , the shit in this picture too , which could ’ ve just been the same picture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ olive oil in the first picture .
Which is why there are two pictures now .
Do you see that blue plate in the edge of the second picture ?
Get you one of those , put some olive oil in it , sprinkle each of the seasonings into the olive oil , and then mix it around with a baby ’ s spoon .
I would have a picture of this process too , but I forgot to take one .
Next , get you a big-ass Flintstone ’ s-ass piece of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can grip and throw at a home invader .
The sort of shit , if you had an MBA or whatever the fuck , you ’ d order at a restaurant to impress a WHITE MAN your lame ass wants to work for .
And then place the meat in the rub , and rub it around the rub , and rub the rub in the meat some more .
I also do not have a picture to document this process , because the meat was bigger than the plate , and I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the rub , place the meat in a pre-heated cast iron skillet .
I turn it up to high .
I don ’ t know what temperature that is .
But it seems quite hot !
Also , this is a very large skillet .
I could literally kill a person with it .
Maybe even a bear too .
They should definitely televise men with skillets fighting bears on ESPN this fall instead of the NFL .
I ’ d watch the fuck out of that .
Anyway , this meat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s too big .
There ’ s just too much meat .
If the meat doesn ’ t fit , you must acquit .
Eventually , I had to ease the bone in .
I think I ’ ve had enough fun with this paragraph now .
Also , I like to keep a spare watermelon on hand , just to remind people of the struggle .
If you ’ re white you can do this too .
I ’ d much rather you offer me some watermelon instead of your antiracist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ three to five minutes on each side .
I like it brown as fuck .
Like my liquor .
And my SKIN .
When done searing , put the entire skillet in the preheated oven .
I heat the oven to 450 degrees , and I usually keep it in for five to seven minutes , but this meat was big as fuck so I had to keep it in longer .
Also , if you have a cute widdle toddler who enjoys chasing death by running next to 450-degree ovens , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ After like 16 minutes or whatever , take it out .
The USDA recommends that steak be at least 145 degrees before its safe to eat .
But 1:45 pm was when Ricky from Boyz n The Hood was shot , so I just round up to 160 .
The olive oil remaining in the skillet makes a nice liquid of taste to put over the meat if you ’ re into that sort of thing .
Also , I ’ m not sure why I said “ liquid of taste ” instead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I don ’ t have any plate pictures or pictures of the meat cut open , because I hadn ’ t eaten all day and was really hungry .
Plus I needed more storage space on my phone .
I liked this steak a lot .
You might not , but I don ’ t care !

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

There are places on TV, in magazines, and on the internet where you can find peer-and-eater-reviewed methods for preparing, cooking, and staging great steaks. Where the people who make the steaks promise that, if you follow their directions, step-by-step, you will have a delicious steak too.
I am not one of those people. This is not one of those places. I began cooking more during the pandemic, and I’ve gotten my methods down to a science. The science of Damon. I only care about how it tastes to me. Not you. Because why should I? What sense does that make, for me, to prepare a thing for my mouth based on what you might think about it? None, that’s how much.
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But if you wish to make a steak exactly how I like it, with absolutely no promises that you will, please continue.
First, get the items in this picture.
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And then, the shit in this picture too, which could’ve just been the same picture, but I forgot to include the olive oil in the first picture. Which is why there are two pictures now.
Advertisement
Do you see that blue plate in the edge of the second picture? Get you one of those, put some olive oil in it, sprinkle each of the seasonings into the olive oil, and then mix it around with a baby’s spoon. I would have a picture of this process too, but I forgot to take one.
Next, get you a big-ass Flintstone’s-ass piece of meat. The sort of shit you can grip and throw at a home invader. The sort of shit, if you had an MBA or whatever the fuck, you’d order at a restaurant to impress a WHITE MAN your lame ass wants to work for. And then place the meat in the rub, and rub it around the rub, and rub the rub in the meat some more. I also do not have a picture to document this process, because the meat was bigger than the plate, and I should have planned better.
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When done with the rub, place the meat in a pre-heated cast iron skillet. I turn it up to high. I don’t know what temperature that is. But it seems quite hot! Also, this is a very large skillet. I could literally kill a person with it. Maybe even a bear too. They should definitely televise men with skillets fighting bears on ESPN this fall instead of the NFL. I’d watch the fuck out of that. Anyway, this meat still doesn’t fit. It’s too big. There’s just too much meat. If the meat doesn’t fit, you must acquit. Eventually, I had to ease the bone in. I think I’ve had enough fun with this paragraph now.
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Also, I like to keep a spare watermelon on hand, just to remind people of the struggle. If you’re white you can do this too. I’d much rather you offer me some watermelon instead of your antiracist book recommendations.
Sear the meat for three to five minutes on each side. I like it brown as fuck. Like my liquor. And my SKIN.
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When done searing, put the entire skillet in the preheated oven. I heat the oven to 450 degrees, and I usually keep it in for five to seven minutes, but this meat was big as fuck so I had to keep it in longer.
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Also, if you have a cute widdle toddler who enjoys chasing death by running next to 450-degree ovens, the cute widdle toddler leg is optional.
that flintstone shit
After like 16 minutes or whatever, take it out. The USDA recommends that steak be at least 145 degrees before its safe to eat. But 1:45 pm was when Ricky from Boyz n The Hood was shot, so I just round up to 160. The olive oil remaining in the skillet makes a nice liquid of taste to put over the meat if you’re into that sort of thing. Also, I’m not sure why I said “liquid of taste” instead of just saying “juice.”
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Anyway, I don’t have any plate pictures or pictures of the meat cut open, because I hadn’t eaten all day and was really hungry. Plus I needed more storage space on my phone. I liked this steak a lot. You might not, but I don’t care!


theroot--2020-07-29--The American Academy of Pediatrics Formally Apologizes to 2 Black Doctors Denied Membership Due to R

The American Academy of Pediatrics Formally Apologizes to 2 Black Doctors Denied Membership Due to Racism

Just over 80 years ago , two Black doctors applied for membership to the American Academy of Pediatrics ( AAP ) and there were rejected repeatedly for six years .
On Wednesday , the AAP issued an official apology to the two physicians for the racism that kept them out of the academy from 1939 to 1945 , when they were finally accepted .
According to CNN , AAP President Dr. Sally Goza said in the academy ’ s statement that the apology to Alonzo DeGrate Smith and Roland Boyd Scott is “ long overdue.
” Now , n either @ @ @ @ @ @ @ receive their apologies , but that doesn ’ t lessen the importance of the acknowledgment that racial discrimination kept them out of this prestigious club for years .
DeGrate and Scott were clinicians and faculty members at Howard University College of Medicine when they faced systemic racism and were unable to join either their local chapter of the American Medical Association or gain admitting privileges at local hospitals , the AAP said .
“ When they applied to AAP to become members , they faced a ‘ shameful gauntlet to membership ’ that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the AAP Executive Committee , ” the pediatrics group said .
“ The AAP is celebrating our 90th anniversary this year and we have accomplished a lot of good things for children , ” Goza wrote in the statement that will be published in the September issue of Pediatrics , CNN reports .
“ But we must also acknowledge where we have failed to live up to our ideals .
That is the only way we can work together to build a better future.
” The AAP has been pretty good about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ years .
In 2019 , the organization published an essay on “ The Impact of Racism on Child and Adolescent Health ” and , in June , they published an article that included a quote from Goza saying , “ We must dismantle racism at every level , from individual to institutional to systemic.
” The article also included quotes from other members of the academy who spoke out in the wake of the death of George Floyd and the subsequent surge in the Black Lives Matter movement .
“ In the 90-year @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health has often meant fighting for social justice , ” AAP CEO/Executive Vice President Mark Del Monte , J.D .
said .
“ The mission of the AAP can not be accomplished when structural racism deprives too many children of a fair chance and an equitable future .
”

Just over 80 years ago, two Black doctors applied for membership to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and there were rejected repeatedly for six years. On Wednesday, the AAP issued an official apology to the two physicians for the racism that kept them out of the academy from 1939 to 1945, when they were finally accepted.
According to CNN, AAP President Dr. Sally Goza said in the academy’s statement that the apology to Alonzo DeGrate Smith and Roland Boyd Scott is “long overdue.” Now, n either of the doctors are alive today to receive their apologies, but that doesn’t lessen the importance of the acknowledgment that racial discrimination kept them out of this prestigious club for years.
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From CNN:
DeGrate and Scott were clinicians and faculty members at Howard University College of Medicine when they faced systemic racism and were unable to join either their local chapter of the American Medical Association or gain admitting privileges at local hospitals, the AAP said. “When they applied to AAP to become members, they faced a ‘shameful gauntlet to membership’ that lasted six years, through multiple meetings of the AAP Executive Committee,” the pediatrics group said.
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“The AAP is celebrating our 90th anniversary this year and we have accomplished a lot of good things for children,” Goza wrote in the statement that will be published in the September issue of Pediatrics, CNN reports. “But we must also acknowledge where we have failed to live up to our ideals. That is the only way we can work together to build a better future.”
The AAP has been pretty good about addressing racism in the past couple of years. In 2019, the organization published an essay on “The Impact of Racism on Child and Adolescent Health” and, in June, they published an article that included a quote from Goza saying, “We must dismantle racism at every level, from individual to institutional to systemic.” The article also included quotes from other members of the academy who spoke out in the wake of the death of George Floyd and the subsequent surge in the Black Lives Matter movement.
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“In the 90-year history of the AAP, advancing child health has often meant fighting for social justice,” AAP CEO/Executive Vice President Mark Del Monte, J.D. said. “The mission of the AAP cannot be accomplished when structural racism deprives too many children of a fair chance and an equitable future.”


theroot--2020-07-29--The 72nd Emmys Awards Are Definitely Happening—What Else Is Still Happening in 2020? Black History F

The 72nd Emmys Awards Are Definitely Happening—What Else Is Still Happening in 2020? Black History Firsts!

An awards season day in the life of a Black creator or a Black person interested in entertainment/award ceremonies goes a little something like this : • Black person is nominated for or wins a big deal award .
• Black people rejoice ( on Twitter , etc . )
because we ’ re rooting for everybody Black .
• Black people find out that Black history is being made .
• Some variant of “ Damn , that ’ s dope !
Huge deal !
” happens and the historic fact trends .
• The triumphant seasoning is allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wait…we ’ re still saying “ the first Black person to… ” in [ insert modern year here ] ?
!
It ’ s so real—I am always down to celebrate notable historic moments in Black history , but I also can ’ t help but assess and analyze what it means that we ’ re still celebrating certain “ firsts ” in history , after all of these years ... in 2020 .
Sadly even with l egacy ceremonies such as the Emmys and the Oscars are at their “ big age @ @ @ @ @ @ @ momentous accolades that one would think had already happened by now—especially given just how much Hollywood loves to pat itself on the back for its diversity and inclusion .
This all leads us to t he nominations for the 72nd ( !
!
! )
Primetime Emmys Awards that were announced on Tuesday .
In addition to the fact that some folks realized they ’ ll get to put “ Emmy-nominated ” in front of their name for life ( at the very least , some of them may get to designate “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ circulate that there was some Black history being made with this round of noms .
We ’ ve already reported on the fact that Reginald Hudlin will be the first-ever Black producer credited for the telecast .
The biggest news is that this year ’ s Emmys marked an all-time record for Black actor nominations , making up 34.3 % of noms in the acting categories .
Speaking of which , Maya Rudolph not only became the first Black actor to be nominated against herself for guest acting but the first actor period @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under the Best Comedy Guest Actress category for her roles in The Good Place ( as Judge Gen ) and Saturday Night Live ( as Sen. Kamala Harris ) .
Apparently , this feat has only been made possible since 2010 .
Before then , rules only allowed one listing in the category per performer .
Oh , and she has a third nomination for Character Voice-Over Performance in Big Mouth where she plays Connie the Hormone Monstress .
Slay !
Also , Nicole Byer became the first Black woman to be nominated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Competition Program ( the category itself has been in existence for 13 years ) !
Byer was nominated for Nailed It !
and the popular baking show also received another nomination for Outstanding Reality Competition .
Plus , we ’ d be remiss not to reiterate how noticeable ( and notable ) is that 3 out of 5 of the actresses nominated in the Limited Series category are Black ( Kerry Washington , Octavia Spencer and Regina King ) .
In addition to the actors , there are some technical awards that deserve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kelly nabbed a nom in the Outstanding Cinematography For A Single-Camera Series category for Insecure ’ s acclaimed episode titled , “ Lowkey Happy.
” As series writer-star Natasha Rothwell noted , this is especially a big deal as Black women cinematographers ( also known as a Director of Photography or DP ) aren ’ t adequately represented in the first place !
Speaking of Insecure , it was pretty cool to see the show get some real recognition with its 8 nominations , yet it ’ s also important to note how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ here in the grand scheme of things .
Since 8 is the magic number here , the show is only the 8th comedy series starring Black talent to be nominated in the Outstanding Comedy Series category .
Dime Davis became the first Black woman to score a directing nod in the Directing Variety Series category for her work in A Black Lady Sketch Show .
There were also some notable composer noms including Pharrell Williams in the Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics category ( “ Letter to My Godfather , ” The Black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Main Title Theme Music category ( Wu-Tang : An American Saga ) .
Of course , none of this systemic critique is mutually exclusive of my ability to revel and share in the excitement shared on social media .
For example , Yvonne Orji was able to make fun of herself , noting , “ All of that Molly hate this season actually paid off !
” and , of course , called her parents when she got the good news that she ’ d been nominated under the Supporting Comedy Actress category @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ross ( nominated in the Lead Comedy Actress category ) shared a super-cute moment with her always supportive and super-famous mama , Diana Ross .
Frequent Emmy winner Sterling K. Brown landed in both the drama and comedy genres with his roles in This Is Us ( Lead ) and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel ( Supporting ) .
Congrats to the nominees and I hope to be able to congratulate some winners , soon !
As always , the progressive work is ongoing .
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 !

An awards season day in the life of a Black creator or a Black person interested in entertainment/award ceremonies goes a little something like this:
Black person is nominated for or wins a big deal award. Black people rejoice (on Twitter, etc.) because we’re rooting for everybody Black. Black people find out that Black history is being made. Some variant of “Damn, that’s dope! Huge deal!” happens and the historic fact trends. The triumphant seasoning is allowed to marinate for a bit. Wait…we’re still saying “the first Black person to…” in [insert modern year here]?!
It’s so real—I am always down to celebrate notable historic moments in Black history, but I also can’t help but assess and analyze what it means that we’re still celebrating certain “firsts” in history, after all of these years...in 2020 . Sadly even with l egacy ceremonies such as the Emmys and the Oscars are at their “big age,” we’re still encountering momentous accolades that one would think had already happened by now—especially given just how much Hollywood loves to pat itself on the back for its diversity and inclusion.
Advertisement
This all leads us to t he nominations for the 72nd (!!!) Primetime Emmys Awards that were announced on Tuesday.
Advertisement Advertisement
In addition to the fact that some folks realized they’ll get to put “Emmy-nominated” in front of their name for life (at the very least, some of them may get to designate “Emmy-winning”), news began to circulate that there was some Black history being made with this round of noms.
We’ve already reported on the fact that Reginald Hudlin will be the first-ever Black producer credited for the telecast.
Advertisement
The biggest news is that this year’s Emmys marked an all-time record for Black actor nominations, making up 34.3% of noms in the acting categories. Speaking of which, Maya Rudolph not only became the first Black actor to be nominated against herself for guest acting but the first actor period in Emmy history. She is nominated under the Best Comedy Guest Actress category for her roles in The Good Place (as Judge Gen) and Saturday Night Live (as Sen. Kamala Harris). Apparently, this feat has only been made possible since 2010. Before then, rules only allowed one listing in the category per performer.
Advertisement
Oh, and she has a third nomination for Character Voice-Over Performance in Big Mouth where she plays Connie the Hormone Monstress. Slay!
Also , Nicole Byer became the first Black woman to be nominated for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program (the category itself has been in existence for 13 years)! Byer was nominated for Nailed It! and the popular baking show also received another nomination for Outstanding Reality Competition.
Advertisement
Plus, we’d be remiss not to reiterate how noticeable (and notable) is that 3 out of 5 of the actresses nominated in the Limited Series category are Black (Kerry Washington, Octavia Spencer and Regina King).
Advertisement
In addition to the actors, there are some technical awards that deserve some shine, particularly the fact Kira Kelly nabbed a nom in the Outstanding Cinematography For A Single-Camera Series category for Insecure’s acclaimed episode titled, “Lowkey Happy.” As series writer-star Natasha Rothwell noted, this is especially a big deal as Black women cinematographers (also known as a Director of Photography or DP) aren’t adequately represented in the first place!
Advertisement
Speaking of Insecure, it was pretty cool to see the show get some real recognition with its 8 nominations, yet it’s also important to note how long it’s taken to get here in the grand scheme of things. Since 8 is the magic number here, the show is only the 8th comedy series starring Black talent to be nominated in the Outstanding Comedy Series category.
Advertisement
Dime Davis became the first Black woman to score a directing nod in the Directing Variety Series category for her work in A Black Lady Sketch Show.
Advertisement
There were also some notable composer noms including Pharrell Williams in the Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics category (“Letter to My Godfather,” The Black Godfather) and RZA in the Original Main Title Theme Music category (Wu-Tang: An American Saga).
Of course, none of this systemic critique is mutually exclusive of my ability to revel and share in the excitement shared on social media.
Advertisement
For example, Yvonne Orji was able to make fun of herself, noting, “All of that Molly hate this season actually paid off!” and, of course, called her parents when she got the good news that she’d been nominated under the Supporting Comedy Actress category. Speaking of parents, Tracee Ellis Ross (nominated in the Lead Comedy Actress category) shared a super-cute moment with her always supportive and super-famous mama, Diana Ross.
Advertisement
Frequent Emmy winner Sterling K. Brown landed in both the drama and comedy genres with his roles in This Is Us (Lead) and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (Supporting).
Advertisement
Congrats to the nominees and I hope to be able to congratulate some winners, soon! As always, the progressive work is ongoing.
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--2020-07-29--This Digital Photo Frame Is the Perfect Gift While You're Away From Loved Ones

Hopefully , most of us have been spending a lot of time trying not to contract a scary virus , @ @ @ @ @ ’ t been around to see family much outside the immediate area .
A photo @ @ @ @ @ memories is the perfect way to remind them of your love .
Brookstone ’ s @ @ @ @ @ to $ 88 at Amazon for today only , and it comes with three interchangeable @ @ @ @ @ things change things up every now and then .
It actually looks nice and homely @ @ @ @ @ the need to point out considering many frame manufacturers are content with shipping glorified neutered @ @

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

Brookstone PhotoShare 8" Photo Frame | $88 | Amazon Gold Box
Hopefully, most of us have been spending a lot of time trying not to contract a scary virus, which means you probably haven’t been around to see family much outside the immediate area. A photo frame constantly updated with family memories is the perfect way to remind them of your love. Brookstone’s 8" frame is down to $88 at Amazon for today only, and it comes with three interchangeable frames to help you keep things change things up every now and then. It actually looks nice and homely aesthetically, which I felt the need to point out considering many frame manufacturers are content with shipping glorified neutered tablets.


theroot--2020-07-29--Can You Get Coronavirus in Your Butt? Well, Rep. Louie Gohmert, a Texas-Sized Asshole, Just Got It

Rep. Louie Gohmert , who can only be described as a Texas-sized asshole who has famously refused to wear a mask , has tested positive for the coronavirus .
According to Politico , Gohmert was supposed to fly to Texas on Wednesday with his homie President Quakenhaus von Shitbag , but during a prescreen at the White House , life came at Gohmert fast .
The eighth-term Texas Republican was using the president ’ s excuse for why he was refusing to wear a mask , telling CNN last month that he was not wearing a mask because he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ If I get it , ” he told CNN in June , “ you ’ ll never see me without a mask.
” “ Reps .
Mario Diaz Balart ( R-Fla. ) , Neal Dunn ( R-Fla. ) , Morgan Griffith ( R-Va. ) , Mike Kelly ( R-Pa. ) , Ben McAdams ( D-Utah ) and Tom Rice ( R-S.C. ) have tested positive for the virus , along with Sen. Rand Paul ( R-Ky. ) , ” Politico reports .
Gohmert attended the House Judiciary Committee hearing with Attorney General @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who knows how this will all play out .
Politico does note that footage showed Gohmert and Barr walking close together and neither was wearing a mask .
Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec told Politico that Barr will be tested for coronavirus on Wednesday .
At one point during the hearing , Chairman Jerry Nadler ( D-N.Y. ) scolded several Republicans who weren ’ t wearing their masks .
“ I would remind Mr. Jordan , Mr. Biggs and Mr. Johnson to stop violating the rules of the committee , ” Nadler said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , Arizona Rep. Andy Biggs and Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson , three GOP lawmakers .
“ To stop violating the safety of the members of the committee .
To stop holding themselves out as not caring by refusing to wear their masks.
” “ Is it permissible to drink a sip of coffee ?
” one of the members asked .
He also called Jim Jordan a piece of shit and threatened to punch him in his jacketless face .
Fine , Nadler didn ’ t say this but he probably thought @ @

Rep. Louie Gohmert, who can only be described as a Texas-sized asshole who has famously refused to wear a mask, has tested positive for the coronavirus.
According to Politico, Gohmert was supposed to fly to Texas on Wednesday with his homie President Quakenhaus von Shitbag, but during a prescreen at the White House, life came at Gohmert fast.
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The eighth-term Texas Republican was using the president’s excuse for why he was refusing to wear a mask, telling CNN last month that he was not wearing a mask because he was being tested regularly for the coronavirus.
“If I get it,” he told CNN in June, “you’ll never see me without a mask.”
“Reps. Mario Diaz Balart (R-Fla.), Neal Dunn (R-Fla.), Morgan Griffith (R-Va.), Mike Kelly (R-Pa.), Ben McAdams (D-Utah) and Tom Rice (R-S.C.) have tested positive for the virus, along with Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.),” Politico reports.
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Gohmert attended the House Judiciary Committee hearing with Attorney General William Barr in person Tuesday, so who knows how this will all play out.
Politico does note that footage showed Gohmert and Barr walking close together and neither was wearing a mask.
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Justice Department spokeswoman Kerri Kupec told Politico that Barr will be tested for coronavirus on Wednesday.
At one point during the hearing, Chairman Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.) scolded several Republicans who weren’t wearing their masks.
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“I would remind Mr. Jordan, Mr. Biggs and Mr. Johnson to stop violating the rules of the committee,” Nadler said, referring to Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), Arizona Rep. Andy Biggs and Louisiana Rep. Mike Johnson, three GOP lawmakers. “To stop violating the safety of the members of the committee. To stop holding themselves out as not caring by refusing to wear their masks.”
“Is it permissible to drink a sip of coffee?” one of the members asked.
“It is not permissible,” replied Nadler.
He also called Jim Jordan a piece of shit and threatened to punch him in his jacketless face.
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Fine, Nadler didn’t say this but he probably thought it.


theroot--2020-07-29--NYPD Uses Unmarked Van to Grab Protester Off the Street: ‘It Was Like a Kidnapping’ [UPDATED]

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio had to answer for the NYPD again on Wednesday morning , after a viral video showed officers in an unmarked van , some of whom were in plainclothes , grabbing a young protester off a Manhattan street on Tuesday evening .
The video instantly recalled reports coming from Portland , Ore. , where federal agents had used similar tactics targeting alleged protesters around the city ’ s downtown .
“ I think it was the wrong time and the wrong place to effectuate that arrest , ” the mayor said , according to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ arrest as I understand it was for damaging police property .
No one is allowed to damage police property .
My message to everyone is if you ’ re out there protesting , protest peacefully.
” The scene of the arrest quickly turned chaotic , as protesters raised alarm about the detainment of 18-year-old transwoman Nikki Stone as it was happening , writes the Washington Post .
Stone was among those leading the protest .
The NYPD confirmed the arrest in a Twitter statement , claiming Stone had a warrant for “ damaging @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in & around City Hall Park.
” Last month , protesters camped out outside of City Hall in an attempt to push City Council to defund the NYPD .
“ When officers from the Warrant Squad took the woman into custody in a gray NYPD minivan this evening , they were assaulted with rocks and bottles , ” the NYPD added .
“ The Warrant Squad uses unmarked vehicles to effectively locate wanted suspects.
” That claim was vehemently disputed by protesters on the scene , however .
“ Four guys jumped out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out from down the block — we hadn ’ t seen them , ” Derrick , a 32-year-old protester , told Gothamist .
“ They pushed us back .
They grabbed Nikki like she was a rag doll ...
They had her arms on her neck and then they drove off.
” “ We didn ’ t see where they came from , ” another witness told Gothamist .
“ All of a sudden they grabbed Nikki .
It was like a kidnapping.
” Protester Clara Kraebber told the local outlet that officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” on protesters during the arrest .
“ We literally turned the corner and were met with a line of police who attacked us without warning , ” she said .
“ They were trying to make it painful to be there.
” The arrest is raising alarms well outside of New York City , where Black Lives Matter protests have gone on daily for the last two months .
As surges of federal agents are set to land in Chicago and Albuquerque , N.M , civil rights organizers are anticipating increased use @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local law enforcement , particularly in minority communities and at protest sites .
Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ( D-NY ) tweeted a video of the arrest last night , writing , “ Our civil liberties are on [ the ] brink.
” “ This is not a drill .
There is no excuse for snatching women off the street and throwing them into unmarked vans , ” she wrote .
“ To not protect our rights is to give them away .
It is our responsibility to resist authoritarianism.
” Updated : Wednesday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PM , ET : LGBTQ organization Human Rights Campaign released a statement today in support of Nikki Stone , noting that her identity as a transwoman put her at greater risk for police brutality while under police custody .
“ We know that people of color and transgender people are at greater risk of police brutality , with transgender people at particular risk of harassment and abuse while detained , ” the organization wrote in a statement shared with The Root .
“ We must transform policing and the criminal justice system in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ free from police brutality and a militarized police force.
” Stone was released from police custody after receiving a desk appearance ticket .
Since her arrest , a GoFundMe that was set up for Stone , who has been experiencing homelessness , has surpassed its goal .
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 @

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio had to answer for the NYPD again on Wednesday morning, after a viral video showed officers in an unmarked van, some of whom were in plainclothes, grabbing a young protester off a Manhattan street on Tuesday evening.
The video instantly recalled reports coming from Portland, Ore., where federal agents had used similar tactics targeting alleged protesters around the city’s downtown.
Advertisement
“I think it was the wrong time and the wrong place to effectuate that arrest,” the mayor said, according to Gothamist reporter Jake Offenhartz. “The arrest as I understand it was for damaging police property. No one is allowed to damage police property. My message to everyone is if you’re out there protesting, protest peacefully.”
Advertisement Advertisement
The scene of the arrest quickly turned chaotic, as protesters raised alarm about the detainment of 18-year-old transwoman Nikki Stone as it was happening, writes the Washington Post. Stone was among those leading the protest.
The NYPD confirmed the arrest in a Twitter statement, claiming Stone had a warrant for “damaging police cameras during 5 separate criminal incidents in & around City Hall Park.”
Advertisement
Last month, protesters camped out outside of City Hall in an attempt to push City Council to defund the NYPD.
“When officers from the Warrant Squad took the woman into custody in a gray NYPD minivan this evening, they were assaulted with rocks and bottles,” the NYPD added. “The Warrant Squad uses unmarked vehicles to effectively locate wanted suspects.”
Advertisement
That claim was vehemently disputed by protesters on the scene, however.
“Four guys jumped out and a line of police bicycles came out from down the block — we hadn’t seen them,” Derrick, a 32-year-old protester, told Gothamist. “They pushed us back. They grabbed Nikki like she was a rag doll...They had her arms on her neck and then they drove off.”
Advertisement
“We didn’t see where they came from,” another witness told Gothamist. “All of a sudden they grabbed Nikki. It was like a kidnapping.”
Protester Clara Kraebber told the local outlet that officers used pepper spray “seemingly at random” on protesters during the arrest.
Advertisement
“We literally turned the corner and were met with a line of police who attacked us without warning,” she said. “They were trying to make it painful to be there.”
The arrest is raising alarms well outside of New York City, where Black Lives Matter protests have gone on daily for the last two months. As surges of federal agents are set to land in Chicago and Albuquerque, N.M, civil rights organizers are anticipating increased use of force from federal, state and local law enforcement, particularly in minority communities and at protest sites.
Advertisement
Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) tweeted a video of the arrest last night, writing, “Our civil liberties are on [the] brink.”
“This is not a drill. There is no excuse for snatching women off the street and throwing them into unmarked vans,” she wrote. “To not protect our rights is to give them away. It is our responsibility to resist authoritarianism.”
Advertisement
Updated: Wednesday, July 29, 2020, at 2:50 PM, ET: LGBTQ organization Human Rights Campaign released a statement today in support of Nikki Stone, noting that her identity as a transwoman put her at greater risk for police brutality while under police custody.
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“We know that people of color and transgender people are at greater risk of police brutality, with transgender people at particular risk of harassment and abuse while detained,” the organization wrote in a statement shared with The Root. “We must transform policing and the criminal justice system in this country so that marginalized populations are free from police brutality and a militarized police force.”
Stone was released from police custody after receiving a desk appearance ticket. Since her arrest, a GoFundMe that was set up for Stone, who has been experiencing homelessness, has surpassed its goal.
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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--2020-07-29--13-Year-Old Keedron Bryant's Visual for Viral Song 'I Just Wanna Live' Is a Strong Contender for Vid

13-Year-Old Keedron Bryant's Visual for Viral Song 'I Just Wanna Live' Is a Strong Contender for Video of the Year

Whether through sheer creativity or by amplifying a moment or a movement , music videos used to mean something and make you feel something .
I crave the days of yore when I ’ d rush home off of the school bus in order to watch MTV ’ s Total Request Live ( TRL ) or BET ’ s 106 & Park .
I was eager to see moments everyone would discuss for the next few days .
Thankfully , we ’ re getting back to seeing some standout visuals in 2020 , and viral superstar Keedron Bryant has something @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for his original track “ I Just Wan na Live ” is profound and poignant , and features several references to the Black Lives Matter movement and police brutality .
From the image of a bleeding American flag , as school children are heard reciting the Declaration of Independence to a hanging black hoodie with Skittles in one pocket and an AriZona iced tea in the other ( a clear nod to the killing of Trayvon Martin ) , this Sara Lacombe-directed video is without a doubt one of 2020 ’ s best @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reminiscent of how Childish Gambino ’ s 2018 visual for “ This Is America ” made us think , highlighting some important aspects of the country ’ s current state .
Throughout the video , Bryant is singing on his knees in front of a white cop who has a gun pointed in his direction .
Several people are looking by as he pleads for his life .
Elsewhere in the video , a shirtless Black man is seen with the names of police brutality victims and gun violence victims written on him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Breonna Taylor , Botham Jean , Eric Garner and Michael Brown are some of the names clearly shown .
A Confederate flag and a KKK hoodie are both burned near the clip ’ s end , and at the duration of the video , a peaceful resolution between Bryant and the cop is made .
In May after the death of George Floyd , the 13-year-old made headlines for a cappella rendition of an original song “ I Just Wan na Live , ” which was written by his mother , Johnetta Bryant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by former President Barack Obama and was signed to Warner Records in June .
“ I just wan na live ... God , protect me , ” the simple but stirring lyrics go .
“ I ’ m a young Black man , doing all that I can.
” Bryant began singing at the age of five , and he developed a passion for gospel early on .
He also appeared on the fourth season of the show Little Big Shots .
Watch the original viral clip of “ I Just Wan na @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
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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J'na Jefferson on The Grapevine, shared by J'na Jefferson to The Root

Whether through sheer creativity or by amplifying a moment or a movement, music videos used to mean something and make you feel something. I crave the days of yore when I’d rush home off of the school bus in order to watch MTV’s Total Request Live (TRL) or BET’s 106 & Park. I was eager to see moments everyone would discuss for the next few days. Thankfully, we’re getting back to seeing some standout visuals in 2020, and viral superstar Keedron Bryant has something special on his hands.
The video for his original track “I Just Wanna Live” is profound and poignant, and features several references to the Black Lives Matter movement and police brutality. From the image of a bleeding American flag, as school children are heard reciting the Declaration of Independence to a hanging black hoodie with Skittles in one pocket and an AriZona iced tea in the other (a clear nod to the killing of Trayvon Martin), this Sara Lacombe-directed video is without a doubt one of 2020’s best. The feeling this video provides is reminiscent of how Childish Gambino’s 2018 visual for “This Is America” made us think, highlighting some important aspects of the country’s current state.
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Throughout the video, Bryant is singing on his knees in front of a white cop who has a gun pointed in his direction. Several people are looking by as he pleads for his life. Elsewhere in the video, a shirtless Black man is seen with the names of police brutality victims and gun violence victims written on him in white paint: George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Botham Jean, Eric Garner and Michael Brown are some of the names clearly shown. A Confederate flag and a KKK hoodie are both burned near the clip’s end, and at the duration of the video, a peaceful resolution between Bryant and the cop is made.
In May after the death of George Floyd, the 13-year-old made headlines for a cappella rendition of an original song “I Just Wanna Live,” which was written by his mother, Johnetta Bryant. He was praised for his singing by former President Barack Obama and was signed to Warner Records in June.
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“I just wanna live...God, protect me,” the simple but stirring lyrics go. “I’m a young Black man, doing all that I can.”
Bryant began singing at the age of five, and he developed a passion for gospel early on. He also appeared on the fourth season of the show Little Big Shots.
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Watch the original viral clip of “I Just Wanna Live” below.
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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--2020-07-29--The New Orleans Pelicans, Utah Jazz Are Cooking Up Something Big for the NBA Restart on Thursday

In the NBA , secrets don ’ t exist .
The streets talk .
So despite the best efforts of players for the New Orleans Pelicans and Utah Jazz to keep things quiet , the word on the street is that the two teams will join forces to peacefully protest during the national anthem when the NBA season officially resumes on Thursday .
The New Orleans Pelicans and Utah Jazz are discussing a plan to surround the Black Lives Matter signage on the Wide World of Sports arena court and kneel together during the playing of the national anthem on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Instead of having two groups protest separately , the Pelicans and Jazz are adamant that they want to display a united front , sources said .
The coaches are expected to join the players in the demonstration .
Last weekend , during the WNBA ’ s much-anticipated restart , not only were we treated to powerful speeches from New York Liberty guard Layshia Clarendon and Seattle Storm star Breanna Stewart , but both teams walked off the court prior to the national anthem being played .
While I don ’ t expect to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NBA , it ’ s clear that something is about to go down , despite the fact that the league has a policy in place that requires “ players , coaches and trainers to stand and line up in a dignified posture along the sidelines or on the foul line ” during the national anthem , per ESPN .
As to whether or not that rule will be enforced remains to be seen , but during an interview Wednesday morning on Good Morning America , NBA Commissioner Adam Silver made it abundantly clear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pushback from him .
“ I respect peaceful protest , ” he said , adding , “ I ’ m not sure what our players will do when they come out tomorrow night and we ’ ll , of course , address it at the time .
But I also understand these are highly unusual times.
” To that end , CBS News conducted a poll and nearly 60 percent of Americans believe that kneeling during the national anthem to protest racial inequities is an acceptable form of protest .
Those percentages get @ @ @ @ @ @ @ broken down by race and political affiliation , with 88 percent of Black folks , 62 percent of the Latinx community and 88 percent of Democrats down with the cause , while 52 percent of white folks and 77 percent of Republicans are off somewhere throwing a temper tantrum .
They ’ re just gon na have to be big mad on Thursday .
But trust and believe I ’ ll have my popcorn ready for whatever it is that the Pelicans and Jazz have planned .

In the NBA, secrets don’t exist. The streets talk.
So despite the best efforts of players for the New Orleans Pelicans and Utah Jazz to keep things quiet, the word on the street is that the two teams will join forces to peacefully protest during the national anthem when the NBA season officially resumes on Thursday.
From Malika Andrews of ESPN:
The New Orleans Pelicans and Utah Jazz are discussing a plan to surround the Black Lives Matter signage on the Wide World of Sports arena court and kneel together during the playing of the national anthem on Thursday, league sources told ESPN. Instead of having two groups protest separately, the Pelicans and Jazz are adamant that they want to display a united front, sources said. The coaches are expected to join the players in the demonstration.
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Last weekend, during the WNBA’s much-anticipated restart, not only were we treated to powerful speeches from New York Liberty guard Layshia Clarendon and Seattle Storm star Breanna Stewart, but both teams walked off the court prior to the national anthem being played.
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While I don’t expect to see anything near as brazen in the NBA, it’s clear that something is about to go down, despite the fact that the league has a policy in place that requires “players, coaches and trainers to stand and line up in a dignified posture along the sidelines or on the foul line” during the national anthem, per ESPN.
As to whether or not that rule will be enforced remains to be seen, but during an interview Wednesday morning on Good Morning America, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver made it abundantly clear that players shouldn’t expect any pushback from him.
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“I respect peaceful protest,” he said, adding, “I’m not sure what our players will do when they come out tomorrow night and we’ll, of course, address it at the time. But I also understand these are highly unusual times.”
That they are.
To that end, CBS News conducted a poll and nearly 60 percent of Americans believe that kneeling during the national anthem to protest racial inequities is an acceptable form of protest. Those percentages get even more interesting when they’re broken down by race and political affiliation, with 88 percent of Black folks, 62 percent of the Latinx community and 88 percent of Democrats down with the cause, while 52 percent of white folks and 77 percent of Republicans are off somewhere throwing a temper tantrum.
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Oh well!
They’re just gonna have to be big mad on Thursday. But trust and believe I’ll have my popcorn ready for whatever it is that the Pelicans and Jazz have planned.


theroot--2020-07-29--Democrats to Bill Barr: Keep John Lewis’ Good Name Out of Your Mouth

When Attorney General Evil Fred Flintstone , aka Bill Barr , agreed to testify in front of the House Judiciary Committee , he knew he was going to face some fire .
Evil John Goodman has been Trump ’ s body man since being appointed America ’ s top cop .
He ’ s made no bones about pushing Trump ’ s agenda , including freeing Trump ’ s cronies from prison .
In truth , Trump is just another loud voice without Bill Barr to swing the axe , so it was only fitting that a few Democrats had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attorney general .
Members of the committee wanted Barr to answer for the treatment of peaceful protesters who ’ ve been shown on the news and social media being beaten and pepper-sprayed by federal law enforcement in cities like Portland , Ore. Barr was evasive and aloof during the majority of the hearing and smug when he wasn ’ t being an asshole .
Rep. Cedric Richmond ( D-La . )
, wasn ’ t trying to hear Barr ’ s opening statement , which had a sentence of praise about the late @ @ @ @ @ @ @ John Lewis .
Barr , in his opening testimony , called Lewis an “ indomitable champion of civil rights and rule of law , ” and highlighted his “ unwavering commitment to nonviolence.
” “ You started your testimony with eloquent words about the life and legacy of John Lewis fighting systematic racism , ” Richmond said , CNN notes .
“ When you all came here and brought your top staff , you brought no Black people , ” the Louisiana Democrat pointed out .
“ That , sir , is systematic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lewis spent his life fighting .
“ And so I would just suggest that actions speak louder than words and you really should keep the name of the honorable John Lewis out of the Justice Department ’ s mouth , ” ( Bitch ! )
Richmond said .
Richmond didn ’ t call Trump ’ s hype man and his favorite attorney general a bitch , but you can ’ t argue that there wasn ’ t an implied bitch in that sentence .
Richmond wasn ’ t the only Democrat who was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ general ’ s bullshit .
Rep. Joe Neguse ( D-Col. ) asked Barr to affirm under oath an earlier statement that the White House was fully cooperative with Mueller ’ s investigation , Barr said he believed the statement to be true at the time .
When he attempted to elaborate , Neguse cut him off .
As Neguse sought to continue his questioning , Barr interjected : “ You said under penalty of perjury , I ’ m going to answer the damn question.
” Neguse also pressed Barr on his statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Berman , the top federal prosecutor in Manhattan , last month .
Barr said in a public statement at the time that Berman was “ stepping down , ” but Berman quickly issued a statement saying he had not relinquished his post and would ensure the cases he oversaw were continuing .
Berman later resigned after an assurance that his trusted deputy , Audrey Strauss , would succeed him .
Asked about Barr ’ s initial false statement about Berman and whether he still stood by it , Barr said , “ He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was stepping down.
” What the fuck does that even mean ?
Barr sounds like a mafioso using coded language to describe a hit .
The Dems weren ’ t done with Barr just yet .
Rep. Pramila Jayapal ( D-Wash. ) took the attorney general behind the woodshed and gave him the Joe Biden treatment after Barr kept trying to interrupt her .
Jayapal wanted to know why Barr sent troops into Black Lives Matter protest but didn ’ t do shit when “ armed militias swarmed government buildings in Michigan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during the coronavirus pandemic , ” Rolling Stone notes .
Jayapal wanted to know if Barr felt it was appropriate for federal officers to “ tear gas , pepper spray , and beat protesters ” in Lafayette Park , in Washington , D.C. , so Trump could walk his orange ass to a church for a photo-op with a Bible he ’ s clearly never seen before .
Barr did what he ’ d done during the entire hearing , which was to argue semantics instead of answering questions knowing that each congress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wanted to pontificate on whether tear gas was used .
“ I don ’ t accept your characterization of what happened , ” Barr said .
Barr tried to interrupt Jayapal—and why did he do that ?
Jayapal then went full Bruce Banner on Barr .
“ I ’ m starting to lose my temper , ” she said , and yes the “ bitch ” is implied here too , Rolling Stone reports .
After dragging Barr over Trump ’ s comments that he was going to “ activate ” the attorney @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t “ dominated , ” she wanted to know why the AG didn ’ t seem to care when armed white militiamen , some even wearing swastikas , Confederate flags , and hatred called for Michigan Gov .
Gretchen Whitmer to be lynched .
“ The point I ’ m trying to make , ” Jayapal continued , “ is that there is a real discrepancy between how you react as the attorney general .
When white men with swastikas storm a government building with guns there is no need for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they ’ re getting the president ’ s personal agenda done .
But when black people and people of color protest police brutality , systemic racism , and the president ’ s very own lack of response to those critical issues , then you forcibly remove them with armed federal officers and pepper bombs , because they are considered terrorists by the president .
“ You are supposed to represent the people of the United States of America , not violate people ’ s First Amendment rights , ” she concluded .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ secure equal justice under the law , not violently dismantle certain protesters based on the president ’ s personal agenda.
” You can watch the glorious takedown below :

When Attorney General Evil Fred Flintstone, aka Bill Barr, agreed to testify in front of the House Judiciary Committee, he knew he was going to face some fire. Evil John Goodman has been Trump’s body man since being appointed America’s top cop. He’s made no bones about pushing Trump’s agenda, including freeing Trump’s cronies from prison. In truth, Trump is just another loud voice without Bill Barr to swing the axe, so it was only fitting that a few Democrats had some harsh words for the jolly fat attorney general.
Members of the committee wanted Barr to answer for the treatment of peaceful protesters who’ve been shown on the news and social media being beaten and pepper-sprayed by federal law enforcement in cities like Portland, Ore.
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Barr was evasive and aloof during the majority of the hearing and smug when he wasn’t being an asshole.
Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-La.), wasn’t trying to hear Barr’s opening statement, which had a sentence of praise about the late great champion of civil rights, Rep. John Lewis.
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Barr, in his opening testimony, called Lewis an “indomitable champion of civil rights and rule of law,” and highlighted his “unwavering commitment to nonviolence.”
“You started your testimony with eloquent words about the life and legacy of John Lewis fighting systematic racism,” Richmond said, CNN notes.
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“When you all came here and brought your top staff, you brought no Black people,” the Louisiana Democrat pointed out. “That, sir, is systematic racism. That is exactly what John Lewis spent his life fighting.
“And so I would just suggest that actions speak louder than words and you really should keep the name of the honorable John Lewis out of the Justice Department’s mouth,” (Bitch!) Richmond said.
Richmond didn’t call Trump’s hype man and his favorite attorney general a bitch, but you can’t argue that there wasn’t an implied bitch in that sentence.
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Richmond wasn’t the only Democrat who was tired of listening to the smug attorney general’s bullshit.
From Politico:
Rep. Joe Neguse (D-Col.) asked Barr to affirm under oath an earlier statement that the White House was fully cooperative with Mueller’s investigation, Barr said he believed the statement to be true at the time. When he attempted to elaborate, Neguse cut him off. As Neguse sought to continue his questioning, Barr interjected: “You said under penalty of perjury, I’m going to answer the damn question.” Neguse also pressed Barr on his statement about the removal of U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Berman, the top federal prosecutor in Manhattan, last month. Barr said in a public statement at the time that Berman was “stepping down,” but Berman quickly issued a statement saying he had not relinquished his post and would ensure the cases he oversaw were continuing. Berman later resigned after an assurance that his trusted deputy, Audrey Strauss, would succeed him. Asked about Barr’s initial false statement about Berman and whether he still stood by it, Barr said, “He may not have known it, but he was stepping down.”
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What the fuck does that even mean?
Barr sounds like a mafioso using coded language to describe a hit.
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The Dems weren’t done with Barr just yet.
Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) took the attorney general behind the woodshed and gave him the Joe Biden treatment after Barr kept trying to interrupt her. Jayapal wanted to know why Barr sent troops into Black Lives Matter protest but didn’t do shit when “armed militias swarmed government buildings in Michigan and elsewhere to demand the economy reopen during the coronavirus pandemic,” Rolling Stone notes.
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Jayapal wanted to know if Barr felt it was appropriate for federal officers to “tear gas, pepper spray, and beat protesters” in Lafayette Park, in Washington, D.C., so Trump could walk his orange ass to a church for a photo-op with a Bible he’s clearly never seen before. Barr did what he’d done during the entire hearing, which was to argue semantics instead of answering questions knowing that each congress member only had five minutes of questioning wanted to pontificate on whether tear gas was used.
“I don’t accept your characterization of what happened,” Barr said.
Barr tried to interrupt Jayapal—and why did he do that?
Jayapal then went full Bruce Banner on Barr.
“I’m starting to lose my temper,” she said, and yes the “bitch” is implied here too, Rolling Stone reports.
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After dragging Barr over Trump’s comments that he was going to “activate” the attorney general if Black Lives Matter demonstrators weren’t “dominated,” she wanted to know why the AG didn’t seem to care when armed white militiamen, some even wearing swastikas, Confederate flags, and hatred called for Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to be lynched.
Barr had nothing.
“The point I’m trying to make,” Jayapal continued, “is that there is a real discrepancy between how you react as the attorney general. When white men with swastikas storm a government building with guns there is no need for the president to ‘activate’ you because they’re getting the president’s personal agenda done. But when black people and people of color protest police brutality, systemic racism, and the president’s very own lack of response to those critical issues, then you forcibly remove them with armed federal officers and pepper bombs, because they are considered terrorists by the president.
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“You are supposed to represent the people of the United States of America, not violate people’s First Amendment rights,” she concluded. “You are supposed to uphold democracy and secure equal justice under the law, not violently dismantle certain protesters based on the president’s personal agenda.”
Bitch!
You can watch the glorious takedown below:


theroot--2020-07-29--These Under Armour Polos Keep the Heat at Bay for $23 Each, Today Only

Today only , Under Armour HeatGear polo shirts are on sale for $ 23 each at Amazon , courtesy of @ @ @ @ @ available in a variety of sizes in cooler tones of blue and gray , which @ @ @ @ @ ability to keep you comfortable under the sun .
Fabric composition works out to be @ @ @ @ @ % elastane , made in such a way that it ’ ll wick sweat from @ @ @ @ @ to prevent that sticky icky feeling we all hate .

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

Under Armour HeatGear Polo Shirts (S-2XL) | $23 Each | Amazon Gold Box
Today only, Under Armour HeatGear polo shirts are on sale for $23 each at Amazon, courtesy of Woot. The shirts are available in a variety of sizes in cooler tones of blue and gray, which is only part of its ability to keep you comfortable under the sun. Fabric composition works out to be 88% polyester and 12% elastane , made in such a way that it’ll wick sweat from your skin and dry quickly to prevent that sticky icky feeling we all hate.


theroot--2020-07-29--Nevada Sheriff Threatens to Stop Responding to 911 Calls From Library Over Its Support for Black Liv

Nevada Sheriff Threatens to Stop Responding to 911 Calls From Library Over Its Support for Black Lives Matter

Is anyone else beginning to feel like cops are really just a bunch of babies ?
It ’ s as if they spent generations in the top five of white suburban kids ’ “ What I want to be when I grow up ” lists and , for 32 seasons , had the show Cops calling them “ bad boys ” and making policing look sexy .
Then , the big , bad Black Lives Matter boogeyman came along and ruined everything .
Now , they ’ re throwing temper tantrums and collectively threatening to take their ball and go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comes out of Nevada , where a public library expressed its support for the BLM movement and a county sheriff got all in his wittle feewings about it and told the library ( and I ’ m paraphrasing here ) , “ You can ’ t call us to solve your cwimes anymore , so there !
” *sticks out tongue* The Washington Post reports that last week , the Douglas County Public Library released a statement announcing a virtual meeting held Tuesday by the Library Board of Trustees , which the public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said it would discuss things like pandemic preparedness , budgetary issues and the library ’ s plans for the future .
Included at the end of their release was a “ Possible Diversity Statement for discussion ” in which they declared that “ The Douglas County Public Library denounces all acts of racism , violence and disregard for human rights .
We support # BlackLivesMatter.
” Well , the mere inclusion of “ Black Lives Matter ” was enough to bring out Douglas County Sheriff Daniel Coverley ’ s inner spoiled brat and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ statement by saying the library wouldn ’ t get to call 911 anymore .
“ Due to your support of Black Lives Matter and the obvious lack of support or trust with the Douglas County Sheriff ’ s Office , please do not feel the need to call 911 for help , ” Coverley wrote in a letter to the library Monday .
“ I wish you good luck with disturbances and lewd behavior.
” First of all , nowhere in the library ’ s statement is the Douglas County Sheriff ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s unclear why Sheriff Waah Waah , I Want My Binky felt so personally attacked , but he sure as hell responded with big hit-dog-hollering energy .
Coverley included in his letter statistics that show police shootings of unarmed Black people have declined and he cited that data as proof that systemic racism in policing is nonexistent .
What Sheriff Waah Waah , I Wan na Watch Paw Patrol doesn ’ t understand is that police shootings of unarmed Black people are only one aspect of what the BLM movement fights against .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Zimmerman is what planted the seeds for the Black Lives Matter uprisings .
His death didn ’ t involve the police at all—just as Ahmaud Arbery ’ s death didn ’ t involve the police but still has managed to inspire BLM protests .
Eric Garner died while police were trying to arrest him for selling loosies .
His death , along with the shooting death of Mike Brown , kicked off the BLM hashtag .
Garner wasn ’ t shot by cops ; he died after being put in a chokehold—just as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police custody and Floyd ’ s case is what sent the movement into overdrive .
Coverley ’ s letter did mention the “ tragic and preventable death of George Floyd , ” but no police brutality statistics outside of shooting incidents were included at all .
There were also no statistics showing how many officers were prosecuted and convicted for shooting unarmed Black people .
It ’ s almost as if Sheriff Waah Waah , I Need a Diaper Change but I Don ’ t Want One doesn ’ t actually understand what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Anyway , a Douglas County spokesperson later told the Reno Gazette Journal that Coverly was basically just talking shit and that the sheriff ’ s deputies will still be responding to calls from the library .
Coverly attempted to explain his tantrum in a statement posted to the Douglas County Facebook page Tuesday .
“ This has been a difficult time to be a law enforcement professional and can be disheartening when we perceive that our office may be under attack , ” Coverley wrote .
“ My response was rooted in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be openly discussed in a way that values diversity and law enforcement.
” Again , nobody mentioned your office , bro .
Stop crying .

Is anyone else beginning to feel like cops are really just a bunch of babies? It’s as if they spent generations in the top five of white suburban kids’ “What I want to be when I grow up” lists and, for 32 seasons, had the show Cops calling them “bad boys” and making policing look sexy. Then, the big, bad Black Lives Matter boogeyman came along and ruined everything. Now, they’re throwing temper tantrums and collectively threatening to take their ball and go home.
The latest instance of this comes out of Nevada, where a public library expressed its support for the BLM movement and a county sheriff got all in his wittle feewings about it and told the library (and I’m paraphrasing here), “You can’t call us to solve your cwimes anymore, so there!” *sticks out tongue*
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The Washington Post reports that last week, the Douglas County Public Library released a statement announcing a virtual meeting held Tuesday by the Library Board of Trustees, which the public was invited to attend. The board said it would discuss things like pandemic preparedness, budgetary issues and the library’s plans for the future. Included at the end of their release was a “Possible Diversity Statement for discussion” in which they declared that “The Douglas County Public Library denounces all acts of racism, violence and disregard for human rights. We support #BlackLivesMatter.”
Well, the mere inclusion of “Black Lives Matter” was enough to bring out Douglas County Sheriff Daniel Coverley’s inner spoiled brat and he responded to the Library’s statement by saying the library wouldn’t get to call 911 anymore.
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“Due to your support of Black Lives Matter and the obvious lack of support or trust with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, please do not feel the need to call 911 for help,” Coverley wrote in a letter to the library Monday. “I wish you good luck with disturbances and lewd behavior.”
First of all, nowhere in the library’s statement is the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office even mentioned, so it’s unclear why Sheriff Waah Waah, I Want My Binky felt so personally attacked, but he sure as hell responded with big hit-dog-hollering energy.
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Coverley included in his letter statistics that show police shootings of unarmed Black people have declined and he cited that data as proof that systemic racism in policing is nonexistent. What Sheriff Waah Waah, I Wanna Watch Paw Patrol doesn’t understand is that police shootings of unarmed Black people are only one aspect of what the BLM movement fights against.
The killing of Trayvon Martin by George Zimmerman is what planted the seeds for the Black Lives Matter uprisings. His death didn’t involve the police at all—just as Ahmaud Arbery’s death didn’t involve the police but still has managed to inspire BLM protests. Eric Garner died while police were trying to arrest him for selling loosies. His death, along with the shooting death of Mike Brown, kicked off the BLM hashtag. Garner wasn’t shot by cops; he died after being put in a chokehold—just as George Floyd died of asphyxiation while in police custody and Floyd’s case is what sent the movement into overdrive.
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Coverley’s letter did mention the “tragic and preventable death of George Floyd,” but no police brutality statistics outside of shooting incidents were included at all. There were also no statistics showing how many officers were prosecuted and convicted for shooting unarmed Black people. It’s almost as if Sheriff Waah Waah, I Need a Diaper Change but I Don’t Want One doesn’t actually understand what Black Lives Matter is about at all.
Anyway, a Douglas County spokesperson later told the Reno Gazette Journal that Coverly was basically just talking shit and that the sheriff’s deputies will still be responding to calls from the library.
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Coverly attempted to explain his tantrum in a statement posted to the Douglas County Facebook page Tuesday.
“This has been a difficult time to be a law enforcement professional and can be disheartening when we perceive that our office may be under attack,” Coverley wrote. “My response was rooted in my belief that these issues need to be openly discussed in a way that values diversity and law enforcement.”
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Again, nobody mentioned your office, bro. Stop crying.