theroot--2020-12-10--Moving Beyond Civil Rights: The Importance of Acknowledging the Movement for Black Lives as a Human

Moving Beyond Civil Rights: The Importance of Acknowledging the Movement for Black Lives as a Human Rights Issue

That was the year the United States officially recognized Black folks “ born or naturalized in the United States ” as full citizens , at least according to the 14th Amendment .
Prior to that point , enslaved Black Americans were only considered three-fifths of a person—not citizens but property .
You know , because of slavery .
And even despite that constitutional change , America ’ s legacy of subjugating Black people continues to this day through inadequate healthcare services ( as made increasingly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic ) , unsafe living conditions , disparities in education , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spite of some social gains achieved through the civil rights movement .
That ’ s why Rukia Lumumba is so adamant about moving past a civil rights framework and into one that prioritizes human rights like shelter , economic stability , and good quality of life .
Though on its surface , the terms may appear interchangeable to some , the founding director of the People ’ s Advocacy Institute and co-director of the Electoral Justice Project of the Movement for Black Lives explained that there is much more that differentiates the two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ civil rights here have been the rights that allow you access , ” Lumumba said .
“ Human rights are the right for you to be even recognized as a human being , which we haven ’ t seen in the United States for that long.
” Lumumba asserts that this call for human rights includes all people , including those indigenous to the United States .
“ The way that this country has treated the indigenous people of this land has been horrific .
So when I ’ m talking about human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that if Black people have human rights , that will impact every single population in the United States , ” she said .
Rampant voter disenfranchisement among Black Americans and rates of disproportionate incarceration—which often strips individuals of voting rights— are evidence of blatant inequalities in potential life outcomes .
Yet there are still many people who don ’ t view the Movement for Black Lives as a human rights issue .
“ The fact that someone can literally be killed , can be smothered to death , shot to death , knee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , even though they saw it on TV , is still unreal to them , ” said Lumumba .
“ I think for other folks it ’ s easier to ignore , or to say that it doesn ’ t exist because it allows them to continue living their life in the way that they feel has been beneficial to them.
” Lumumba breaks down what her hopes are for our future given our past and present , and goes into more detail about how to move beyond a civil rights paradigm in @ @ @ @

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Black News and Black Views with a Whole Lotta Attitude


theroot--2020-12-10--Lodge's Cast Iron Skillet Is What I'm Always Reaching For

The key to a perfect steak ?
A cast-iron skillet .
I bought my first years ago , mostly because I heard of the unbelievable flavor it gave steaks , fish , and pretty much anything else you cooked in it .
While many shy away from cast iron due to its weight and perhaps difficulty to clean , I have found that with a little patience , it ’ s easy to pick up and the results are worth it and the Lodge cast-iron skillet certainly delivered .
I asked my Facebook friends which of them used a Lodge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quickly responded .
“ I had two skillets from Lodge that were my mother ’ s .
I ’ m 40 , and they are older than I am .
Since they were from Lodge , I knew I could trust them.
” Not everyone is a fan , however .
What makes them tempting to some makes them revolting to others .
“ After seeing the metal and oil they hold in them I ’ ve thrown mine away .
I use only surgical steel now , ” says Harley Cheyenne McGuigan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ key to cooking the perfect steak on any cast iron skillet is getting it searing hot before you start cooking .
Iron , unlike regular steel or even copper frying pans , takes time to heat and doesn ’ t always heat evenly .
If you don ’ t allow it to heat up before you start , you ’ ll end up with a steak that doesn ’ t have the signature cast iron sear .
Before you buy , take the time to learn how to clean your cast iron after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As mentioned , it takes a little getting used to , but it ’ s fairly straightforward .
In a Amazon review , chef Morgan C. Valley describes how to do just that.
“ When finished , rinse with hot water ; if you have fond in the pan , scrape with a nylon scraper and rinse away .
Dry the cast iron on the stovetop burner and wipe down with a very light coating of oil .
You ’ re ready for the next use .
( This coating will lightly smoke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ temperature , indicating when to add your cooking fats ) .
Other than the initial wash-down out of the box , I personally do not use soap on my cast iron .
Some people do.
” Plus-size model Leah Stanley tells me about her cast iron fave , burgers .
“ I personally LOVE to make burgers with my Lodge !
When seasoned properly , absolutely nothing sticks !
I ’ ll have my burgers frying in the pan and my sunny side eggs in the other ( the best topping ! )
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ over 48,000 reviews and an overall 4.6 rating , you truly can not go wrong with this skillet .
It will serve you well for years to come .

Chaya M Milchtein on The Inventory, shared by Ignacia to The Root

The key to a perfect steak? A cast-iron skillet. I bought my first years ago, mostly because I heard of the unbelievable flavor it gave steaks, fish, and pretty much anything else you cooked in it.
While many shy away from cast iron due to its weight and perhaps difficulty to clean, I have found that with a little patience, it’s easy to pick up and the results are worth it and the Lodge cast-iron skillet certainly delivered.
I asked my Facebook friends which of them used a Lodge cast iron skillet. Olivia Hibbs Satterfield quickly responded. “I had two skillets from Lodge that were my mother’s. I’m 40, and they are older than I am. Since they were from Lodge, I knew I could trust them.”
Not everyone is a fan, however. What makes them tempting to some makes them revolting to others. “After seeing the metal and oil they hold in them I’ve thrown mine away. I use only surgical steel now,” says Harley Cheyenne McGuigan, a mechanic in Texas.
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The key to cooking the perfect steak on any cast iron skillet is getting it searing hot before you start cooking. Iron, unlike regular steel or even copper frying pans, takes time to heat and doesn’t always heat evenly. If you don’t allow it to heat up before you start, you’ll end up with a steak that doesn’t have the signature cast iron sear.
Before you buy, take the time to learn how to clean your cast iron after you’ve made your dish. As mentioned, it takes a little getting used to, but it’s fairly straightforward.
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In a Amazon review, chef Morgan C. Valley describes how to do just that.“When finished, rinse with hot water; if you have fond in the pan, scrape with a nylon scraper and rinse away. Dry the cast iron on the stovetop burner and wipe down with a very light coating of oil. You’re ready for the next use. (This coating will lightly smoke when it reaches [the] proper temperature, indicating when to add your cooking fats). Other than the initial wash-down out of the box, I personally do not use soap on my cast iron. Some people do.”
Plus-size model Leah Stanley tells me about her cast iron fave, burgers. “I personally LOVE to make burgers with my Lodge! When seasoned properly, absolutely nothing sticks! I’ll have my burgers frying in the pan and my sunny side eggs in the other (the best topping!).”
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At $15 and with over 48,000 reviews and an overall 4.6 rating, you truly can not go wrong with this skillet. It will serve you well for years to come.


theroot--2020-12-10--Black Farmers, Civil Groups ‘Enraged’ After Joe Biden Selects Tom Vilsack Over Rep. Marcia Fudge to

Black Farmers, Civil Groups ‘Enraged’ After Joe Biden Selects Tom Vilsack Over Rep. Marcia Fudge to Head USDA

Black farming and civil rights groups are giving President-elect Joe Biden an earful about his decision to bring former Iowa governor Tom Vilsack back to head up the U.S. Department of Agriculture , a job he held for eight years under former President Barack Obama .
According to Politico , leaders of farming and civil rights organizations say Vilsack ’ s inconsistent record on civil rights have disqualified him for the role , which is charged with overseeing programs supporting the nation ’ s farmers , providing crucial food assistance programs , and managing the agency ’ s $ 146 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the decision has “ enraged many farmers of color.
” “ Vilsack is not good for the agriculture industry , period , ” Michael Stovall , founder of Independent Black Farmers told Politico .
IBF is a coalition of Black growers and producers from Southern states that works to raise awareness on the issues Black farmers face .
“ When it comes to civil rights , the rights of people , he ’ s not for that .
It ’ s very disappointing they even want to consider him coming back after what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and what he continues to do to destroy lives.
” Vilsack ’ s selection was announced this week , after Ohio Congresswoman Marcia Fudge and high profile members of the Congressional Black Caucus spent weeks publicly lobbying for Fudge to be the first Black woman to head the USDA .
Fudge leads the House Agriculture Committee and reportedly wanted to shift the focus of the department from farming to addressing hunger , including in non-rural areas .
While the USDA is most associated with its work supporting farmers , the agency has a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Americans dealing with food insecurity , including through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and school meals .
Some of the criticism against Vilsack is rooted in the USDA ’ s history .
As Politico notes , it has historically been led by white men , and the agency has actively contributed to massive land loss sustained by Black farmers .
Vilsack ’ s supporters suggest that the former USDA secretary brings a lot of “ deep knowledge ” at a crucial time .
From Politico : NAACP President Derrick Johnson , on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Vice President-elect Kamala Harris , warned Biden and his transition team that the Vilsack pick may work against Democrats in the crucial Georgia Senate races .
More from Politico : Black voters , and particularly rural Black voters , there have not forgotten that Shirley Sherrod , the former head of USDA rural development in Georgia and a well-respected civil rights leader , was wrongfully forced out of her job under Vilsack ’ s leadership after a deceptively edited video featured on Breitbart falsely suggested she was racist .
... Biden listened to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the roughly 90-min Zoom meeting , but when Johnson specifically suggested the president-elect owed Sherrod a call to discuss selecting Vilsack , Biden looked up and appeared to be taken aback , the source said , perhaps suggesting the former vice president began to understand just how upset the Black community remains about the episode a decade later .
The USDA is best known for its role in supporting the nation ’ s farmers , though that protection has rarely applied to Black farmers in the same way it has to white ones @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 1910s , approximately 200,000 Black farmers owned 20 million acres of land , with most of that farmland being in the South .
Only 2 percent of that number remains , the result of systemic barriers and outright land theft , aided and abetted by federal agencies .
This history has prompted a Senate bill , the Justice for Black Farmers act , that aims to redress this massive land loss and support Black farmers , including devoting an $ 8 billion fund within the USDA that would buy farmland and grant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ John Boyd , president of the National Black Farmers Association , told Politico he was disappointed about Vilsack ’ s nomination , particularly after he had “ spent months working with Biden ’ s campaign and his transition team , ” the outlet writes .
Boyd said he has contacted Vilsack to learn how he plans to reach out to and support Black and non-white farmers , including improving access to land and credit .
“ I am hopeful he comes with a different attitude for the next four years than he had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ USDA and solves the issues facing Black , other minorities and small farmers , ” said Boyd .
“ There has to be some real initiative and focus that has to come from him .
The agency is not going to do anything if it is not coming from him .
”

Black farming and civil rights groups are giving President-elect Joe Biden an earful about his decision to bring former Iowa governor Tom Vilsack back to head up the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a job he held for eight years under former President Barack Obama. According to Politico, leaders of farming and civil rights organizations say Vilsack’s inconsistent record on civil rights have disqualified him for the role, which is charged with overseeing programs supporting the nation’s farmers, providing crucial food assistance programs, and managing the agency’s $146 billion budget. The outlet writes that the decision has “enraged many farmers of color.”
“Vilsack is not good for the agriculture industry, period,” Michael Stovall, founder of Independent Black Farmers told Politico. IBF is a coalition of Black growers and producers from Southern states that works to raise awareness on the issues Black farmers face. “When it comes to civil rights, the rights of people, he’s not for that. It’s very disappointing they even want to consider him coming back after what he has done to limited resource farmers and what he continues to do to destroy lives.”
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Vilsack’s selection was announced this week, after Ohio Congresswoman Marcia Fudge and high profile members of the Congressional Black Caucus spent weeks publicly lobbying for Fudge to be the first Black woman to head the USDA. Fudge leads the House Agriculture Committee and reportedly wanted to shift the focus of the department from farming to addressing hunger, including in non-rural areas. While the USDA is most associated with its work supporting farmers, the agency has a substantial impact in providing assistance to millions of Americans dealing with food insecurity, including through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and school meals.
Some of the criticism against Vilsack is rooted in the USDA’s history. As Politico notes, it has historically been led by white men, and the agency has actively contributed to massive land loss sustained by Black farmers.
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Vilsack’s supporters suggest that the former USDA secretary brings a lot of “deep knowledge” at a crucial time. From Politico:
Biden chose Vilsack because he wanted someone at USDA with deep knowledge of the department’s operations and who can immediately address the problems facing rural communities, farmers and low-income families in need of food assistance during the pandemic, according to a person familiar with Biden’s thinking. The person also pointed to Vilsack’s work at USDA establishing the department’s first Minority Farmers Advisory Committee and creating the Office of Advocacy and Outreach to serve small, beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers.
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NAACP President Derrick Johnson, on a previously scheduled call with Biden, Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, warned Biden and his transition team that the Vilsack pick may work against Democrats in the crucial Georgia Senate races. More from Politico:
Black voters, and particularly rural Black voters, there have not forgotten that Shirley Sherrod, the former head of USDA rural development in Georgia and a well-respected civil rights leader, was wrongfully forced out of her job under Vilsack’s leadership after a deceptively edited video featured on Breitbart falsely suggested she was racist. ...Biden listened to the concerns, quietly taking notes throughout the roughly 90-min Zoom meeting, but when Johnson specifically suggested the president-elect owed Sherrod a call to discuss selecting Vilsack, Biden looked up and appeared to be taken aback, the source said, perhaps suggesting the former vice president began to understand just how upset the Black community remains about the episode a decade later.
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The USDA is best known for its role in supporting the nation’s farmers, though that protection has rarely applied to Black farmers in the same way it has to white ones. As Mother Jones reports, in the 1910s, approximately 200,000 Black farmers owned 20 million acres of land, with most of that farmland being in the South. Only 2 percent of that number remains, the result of systemic barriers and outright land theft, aided and abetted by federal agencies.
This history has prompted a Senate bill, the Justice for Black Farmers act, that aims to redress this massive land loss and support Black farmers, including devoting an $8 billion fund within the USDA that would buy farmland and grant it to new and existing farmers.
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John Boyd, president of the National Black Farmers Association, told Politico he was disappointed about Vilsack’s nomination, particularly after he had “spent months working with Biden’s campaign and his transition team,” the outlet writes. Boyd said he has contacted Vilsack to learn how he plans to reach out to and support Black and non-white farmers, including improving access to land and credit.
“I am hopeful he comes with a different attitude for the next four years than he had his first eight years he was at USDA and solves the issues facing Black, other minorities and small farmers,” said Boyd. “There has to be some real initiative and focus that has to come from him. The agency is not going to do anything if it is not coming from him.”


theroot--2020-12-10--'Thank God I’m Still Here': Jeremih Out of the Hospital Following COVID-19 Diagnosis

Rapper and “ On Chill ‘ ’ singer Jeremih is reportedly now recovering after his battle with coronavirus left him in serious condition and on a ventilator in the intensive care unit last month .
In a statement sent to CNN , the Chicago native and his family expressed their gratitude to both the hospital staff in Chicago as well as friends and family who sent well wishes .
“ First and foremost I would like to thank God and the incredible team of doctors and nurses at Northwestern Memorial Hospital for saving my life .
I will be forever @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thank my family and friends for all their prayers and well wishes .
I ’ m getting stronger every day , and look forward to spending time with my sons.
” Jeremih also posted a photo of his updated condition on Instagram yesterday with the caption : “ THANK GOD IM STILL HERE , THANK [ Y ’ ALL ] FOR THE 🙏🏾 UP # imbackkkk ” Fellow Chicago artist Chance The Rapper took to Twitter to share his excitement over the initial news of Jeremih ’ s recovery , revealing that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be released from the hospital .
“ I AM FILLED WITH PRAISE RIGHT NOW , ” said Chance .
“ I JUST HEARD MY BROTHER JEREMIH ’ S VOICE ON THE PHONE FOR THE FIRST TIME IN ALMOST A MONTH HE WILL BE OUT THE HOSPITAL TOMORROW WE GIVE ALL GLORY TO THE FATHER IN JESUS NAME.
” News of Jeremih ’ s diagnosis swept through the music industry with past and present collaborators and artists pleading for prayers from fans and followers .
Frequent collaborator 50 Cent , who first shared the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , took to Instagram saying : “ pray for my boy Jeremih he ’ s not doing good this covid shit is real .
He ’ s in ICU in Chicago.
” Producer Hitmaka posted a pic of the “ Birthday Sex ” singer on Instagram shortly after the news broke , saying : “ I need everyone to pray for my brother Jeremih this message is posted with his mother ’ s blessings.
” Toni Braxton , Big Sean and Diddy are also among the countless others who sent their love and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ recovery ahead before the “ U 2 Luv ” artist is back to business as usual , fans can now pre-save his joint project with Chance The Rapper , Merry Christmas Lil ’ Mama , which is slated to drop Friday , December 11 on all music streaming platforms .

Shanelle Genai on The Grapevine, shared by Shanelle Genai to The Root

Rapper and “On Chill ‘’ singer Jeremih is reportedly now recovering after his battle with coronavirus left him in serious condition and on a ventilator in the intensive care unit last month.
In a statement sent to CNN, the Chicago native and his family expressed their gratitude to both the hospital staff in Chicago as well as friends and family who sent well wishes.
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“First and foremost I would like to thank God and the incredible team of doctors and nurses at Northwestern Memorial Hospital for saving my life. I will be forever grateful. I would also like to thank my family and friends for all their prayers and well wishes. I’m getting stronger every day, and look forward to spending time with my sons.”
Jeremih also posted a photo of his updated condition on Instagram yesterday with the caption: “THANK GOD IM STILL HERE, THANK [Y’ALL] FOR THE 🙏🏾 UP #imbackkkk”
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Fellow Chicago artist Chance The Rapper took to Twitter to share his excitement over the initial news of Jeremih’s recovery, revealing that the two had spoken and Jeremih would soon be released from the hospital.
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“I AM FILLED WITH PRAISE RIGHT NOW,” said Chance. “I JUST HEARD MY BROTHER JEREMIH’S VOICE ON THE PHONE FOR THE FIRST TIME IN ALMOST A MONTH HE WILL BE OUT THE HOSPITAL TOMORROW WE GIVE ALL GLORY TO THE FATHER IN JESUS NAME.”
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News of Jeremih’s diagnosis swept through the music industry with past and present collaborators and artists pleading for prayers from fans and followers. Frequent collaborator 50 Cent, who first shared the news of the artist’s prognosis, took to Instagram saying: “pray for my boy Jeremih he’s not doing good this covid shit is real. He’s in ICU in Chicago.”
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Producer Hitmaka posted a pic of the “Birthday Sex” singer on Instagram shortly after the news broke, saying: “I need everyone to pray for my brother Jeremih this message is posted with his mother’s blessings.” Toni Braxton, Big Sean and Diddy are also among the countless others who sent their love and support.
While there may be more recovery ahead before the “U 2 Luv” artist is back to business as usual, fans can now pre-save his joint project with Chance The Rapper, Merry Christmas Lil’ Mama, which is slated to drop Friday, December 11 on all music streaming platforms.


theroot--2020-12-10--Susan Rice to Run White House Domestic Policy Council

President-elect Joe Biden is getting the band back together .
According to people with knowledge of these kinds of things , Susan Rice , the former national security adviser under Barack Obama and Biden ’ s reign , has been tapped to run the White House Domestic Policy Council .
According to Politico , Rice also served as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations , and at one point , was vetted as Biden ’ s possible vice president .
Rice was believed to be a shoo-in for the secretary of state position but that went to Antony Blinken @ @ @ @ @ @ @ part of this rumored appointment , the director of the Domestic Policy Council is not a Senate-confirmed position , which means that Rice won ’ t be subjected to Republicans ’ crazy conspiracy theories around her email and Benghazi .
Biden ’ s campaign said the president-elect chose Rice for the role because she “ knows government inside and out ” and will “ turbocharge the effort to build back better.
” Rice ’ s appointment is also a signal Biden wants his domestic and foreign policy advisers to work hand-in-hand .
Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ foreign policy for the middle class ” that takes into account the domestic impact of international trade , globalization and other international issues .
Biden ’ s announcement specifically said Rice would be working directly with his National Security Council team .
“ Rice is among our nation ’ s most senior and experienced government leaders with the skills to harness the power of the federal government to serve the American people , ” Biden ’ s announcement said .
“ As a former member of the Cabinet , she also understands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agency and has extensive experience working with other key members of the Biden-Harris White House team.
” I can ’ t say that I ’ m not surprised since Susan Rice was once considered for high-level positions and has essentially fallen into a “ top domestic policy job ” despite “ her expertise and experience in foreign policy.
” I guess it will all make sense considering my expertise lies in sleeping and buying sneakers I don ’ t need during a pandemic that doesn ’ t allow us to leave the house @ @ @ @ @ @ @ covering politics .

President-elect Joe Biden is getting the band back together.
According to people with knowledge of these kinds of things, Susan Rice, the former national security adviser under Barack Obama and Biden’s reign, has been tapped to run the White House Domestic Policy Council.
According to Politico, Rice also served as the U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, and at one point, was vetted as Biden’s possible vice president. Rice was believed to be a shoo-in for the secretary of state position but that went to Antony Blinken.
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This might be the most important part of this rumored appointment, the director of the Domestic Policy Council is not a Senate-confirmed position, which means that Rice won’t be subjected to Republicans’ crazy conspiracy theories around her email and Benghazi.
From USA Today:
Biden’s campaign said the president-elect chose Rice for the role because she “knows government inside and out” and will “turbocharge the effort to build back better.” Rice’s appointment is also a signal Biden wants his domestic and foreign policy advisers to work hand-in-hand. Biden has touted the idea of creating a “foreign policy for the middle class” that takes into account the domestic impact of international trade, globalization and other international issues. Biden’s announcement specifically said Rice would be working directly with his National Security Council team. “Rice is among our nation’s most senior and experienced government leaders with the skills to harness the power of the federal government to serve the American people,” Biden’s announcement said. “As a former member of the Cabinet, she also understands the challenges and opportunities of running an agency and has extensive experience working with other key members of the Biden-Harris White House team.”
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I can’t say that I’m not surprised since Susan Rice was once considered for high-level positions and has essentially fallen into a “top domestic policy job” despite “her expertise and experience in foreign policy.”
I guess it will all make sense considering my expertise lies in sleeping and buying sneakers I don’t need during a pandemic that doesn’t allow us to leave the house and yet, here I am, covering politics.


theroot--2020-12-10--Family Calls for Jason Meade, Cop Who Killed Casey Goodson Jr., to Lose His Badge

The family of Casey Goodson Jr. , a 23-year-old Black man who was shot and killed by a Franklin County sheriff ’ s deputy in Columbus , Ohio , last week , is now calling for the cop who fatally shot him to be removed from the force .
Since Goodson was shot by Deputy Jason Meade , local authorities have justified the killing by saying Goodson was waving a gun at members of a police task force , while his family has maintained that he was shot in the back while returning home with Subway sandwiches .
Now Goodson @ @ @ @ @ @ @ firing of Meade , who the Columbus Police say has been with the force for 17 years .
“ I want Jason Meade ’ s badge before he ever hurts another person , he is a danger to society , ” said Goodson ’ s mother Tamala Payne , in a statement to The Root .
“ He killed my son in cold blood .
If it was me who did this , if it was Casey , we would already be in jail .
But Meade is at home , comfortable .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ for police officers than there is for Black people , for me , for my family .
When does it end ?
” Payne ’ s pain and outrage echo so many Black families who lost their loved ones to police violence this year and have seen no justice .
Most visible among them is 26-year-old Breonna Taylor , who was killed by cops who entered her Louisville in March home and shot her multiple times .
None of those cops have been charged for her death .
After a year of protests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in America by police on the streets , it ’ s deeply tragic that the year is closing with yet another one .
Meanwhile , the Franklin County coroner ’ s office has officially ruled Goodson ’ s death a homicide .
From the New York Times : The coroner ’ s office said that an autopsy was performed on Mr. Goodson ’ s body on Tuesday and that Mr. Goodson died from “ multiple gunshot wounds to the torso.
” The office said in a statement that it was waiting for medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a final report , expected in 12 to 14 weeks .
Homicide is generally defined as any killing of one person by another .
The coroner ’ s office declined to answer questions about how many times Mr. Goodson was shot , from which direction the bullets entered his body or what type of bullets struck him .
While officials in Franklin County immediately said Goodson ’ s killing was justified , the FBI and Department of Justice joined the local police investigation into the incident this week after outcry from the family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that no other officers witnessed the shooting , no body camera footage of the incident exists , and they haven ’ t identified any civilian eyewitnesses .
Meanwhile , t he family ’ s lawyers said in a statement that Goodson ’ s killing was witnessed by his 72-year-old grandmother and two toddlers .

The family of Casey Goodson Jr., a 23-year-old Black man who was shot and killed by a Franklin County sheriff’s deputy in Columbus, Ohio, last week, is now calling for the cop who fatally shot him to be removed from the force.
Since Goodson was shot by Deputy Jason Meade, local authorities have justified the killing by saying Goodson was waving a gun at members of a police task force, while his family has maintained that he was shot in the back while returning home with Subway sandwiches.
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Now Goodson’s mother is calling for the firing of Meade, who the Columbus Police say has been with the force for 17 years.
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“I want Jason Meade’s badge before he ever hurts another person, he is a danger to society,” said Goodson’s mother Tamala Payne, in a statement to The Root. “He killed my son in cold blood. If it was me who did this, if it was Casey, we would already be in jail. But Meade is at home, comfortable. There is a different system of justice for police officers than there is for Black people, for me, for my family. When does it end?”
Payne’s pain and outrage echo so many Black families who lost their loved ones to police violence this year and have seen no justice. Most visible among them is 26-year-old Breonna Taylor, who was killed by cops who entered her Louisville in March home and shot her multiple times. None of those cops have been charged for her death. After a year of protests against the summary executions of Black people in America by police on the streets, it’s deeply tragic that the year is closing with yet another one.
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Meanwhile, the Franklin County coroner’s office has officially ruled Goodson’s death a homicide.
From the New York Times:
The coroner’s office said that an autopsy was performed on Mr. Goodson’s body on Tuesday and that Mr. Goodson died from “multiple gunshot wounds to the torso.” The office said in a statement that it was waiting for medical records and a toxicology report before issuing a final report, expected in 12 to 14 weeks. Homicide is generally defined as any killing of one person by another. The coroner’s office declined to answer questions about how many times Mr. Goodson was shot, from which direction the bullets entered his body or what type of bullets struck him.
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While officials in Franklin County immediately said Goodson’s killing was justified, the FBI and Department of Justice joined the local police investigation into the incident this week after outcry from the family and the Columbus community. Police claim that no other officers witnessed the shooting, no body camera footage of the incident exists, and they haven’t identified any civilian eyewitnesses. Meanwhile, t he family’s lawyers said in a statement that Goodson’s killing was witnessed by his 72-year-old grandmother and two toddlers.


theroot--2020-12-10--Atlanta Hawks Become 1st Sports Franchise to Receive a Significant Loan Underwritten Exclusively By

Atlanta Hawks Become 1st Sports Franchise to Receive a Significant Loan Underwritten Exclusively By Black Banks

It ’ s no secret that the Black dollar is big business , and with the Atlanta Hawks needing to refinance the construction loan for their Emory Sports Medicine Complex , who better to go to than a Black-owned bank ?
On Thursday , the Hawks announced that with the help of the newly-formed National Black Bank Foundation , they secured a loan for $ 35 million with a syndicate of Black-owned banks .
The NBBF organized a syndication team to structure the groundbreaking deal , and Georgia-based Carver State Bank served as Lead Arranger for the syndicate .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ become the first professional sports franchise to receive a significant loan underwritten exclusively by Black-owned banks .
And according to the Hawks , this deal proves that “ Black banks can compete with money center banks for commercial loans.
” Additionally , using the team ’ s strong credit rating will “ bolster the capital cushion for Black banks so that they can better serve their traditional customer base.
” “ Today ’ s announcement reflects our commitment to putting our values into action—by choosing to work with Black banks and drawing attention @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thrive as they work toward addressing the lack of access to capital in Black communities , ” Tony Ressler , Principal Owner of the Atlanta Hawks , said in a statement to The Root .
“ We always strive to ask ourselves how the Hawks can best help those in the community that are already helping others , and today ’ s announcement is another step in our commitment to use the Hawks as a positive agent of change .
This is both good for the community and good business to empower new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t just lip service either .
In October , Ressler committed to pouring as much as $ 40 million into Atlanta ’ s Black community , in addition to expanding upon the Hawks ’ diversity and inclusion departments and providing mentorship for local Black entrepreneurs .
“ Because Black-owned banks are so starved for capital , they ’ ve previously not been able to compete with major commercial banks or scale to meet the unique needs of borrowers of color , who are rejected for credit at twice the national rate , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said in a statement to The Root .
“ Because of the Hawks ’ leadership and commitment to financial inclusion , Black banks are finally playing in the major league.
” Aside from Carver State Bank , other Black-owned Banks in this syndicate include Carver Federal Savings Bank , Citizens Savings Bank , Citizens Trust Bank , Commonwealth National Bank , Industrial Bank , Liberty Bank & Trust , M & F Bank , and Optus Bank .
What makes this conglomerate so powerful is that under federal regulations , banks can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their Tier 1 capital .
But with the support of the NBBF , Black-owned banks can form Voltron and significantly increase the amount of money they can lend , in turn , better serving our communities .
“ The Atlanta Hawks are putting their money where their mouth is when it comes to being an ally of Black businesses , and Carver State Bank is proud to be the lead institution on this historic transaction .
By selecting an all-Black bank syndicate to provide this financing , the Hawks are strengthening all of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , II , President , Carver Development & Chairman-Elect , National Bankers Association said in a statement to The Root .
“ What we earn from this loan strengthens our collective ability to provide even more loans and financial services to Black small businesses and consumers , and we are able to show our ability to pull off a large , sophisticated loan transaction .
Tony and his team are real allies in the movement for racial equity.
” This is a huge deal that hopefully inspires other power players in the sports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ When Black banks level up , we all benefit , so hopefully , we hear many more stories like this in the new year .

Cha-ching!
It’s no secret that the Black dollar is big business, and with the Atlanta Hawks needing to refinance the construction loan for their Emory Sports Medicine Complex, who better to go to than a Black-owned bank?
On Thursday, the Hawks announced that with the help of the newly-formed National Black Bank Foundation, they secured a loan for $35 million with a syndicate of Black-owned banks. The NBBF organized a syndication team to structure the groundbreaking deal, and Georgia-based Carver State Bank served as Lead Arranger for the syndicate.
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In doing so, the Atlanta Hawks have become the first professional sports franchise to receive a significant loan underwritten exclusively by Black-owned banks. And according to the Hawks, this deal proves that “Black banks can compete with money center banks for commercial loans.” Additionally, using the team’s strong credit rating will “bolster the capital cushion for Black banks so that they can better serve their traditional customer base.”
It’s a business partnership that’s both mutually beneficial and historic.
“Today’s announcement reflects our commitment to putting our values into action—by choosing to work with Black banks and drawing attention to the need for Black banks to thrive as they work toward addressing the lack of access to capital in Black communities,” Tony Ressler, Principal Owner of the Atlanta Hawks, said in a statement to The Root. “We always strive to ask ourselves how the Hawks can best help those in the community that are already helping others, and today’s announcement is another step in our commitment to use the Hawks as a positive agent of change. This is both good for the community and good business to empower new and existing Black businesses.”
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This isn’t just lip service either. In October, Ressler committed to pouring as much as $40 million into Atlanta’s Black community, in addition to expanding upon the Hawks’ diversity and inclusion departments and providing mentorship for local Black entrepreneurs.
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“Because Black-owned banks are so starved for capital, they’ve previously not been able to compete with major commercial banks or scale to meet the unique needs of borrowers of color, who are rejected for credit at twice the national rate,” Ashley Bell, NBBF general counsel, said in a statement to The Root. “Because of the Hawks’ leadership and commitment to financial inclusion, Black banks are finally playing in the major league.”
Aside from Carver State Bank, other Black-owned Banks in this syndicate include Carver Federal Savings Bank, Citizens Savings Bank, Citizens Trust Bank, Commonwealth National Bank, Industrial Bank, Liberty Bank & Trust, M&F Bank, and Optus Bank. What makes this conglomerate so powerful is that under federal regulations, banks can only produce credit up to 10 times their Tier 1 capital. But with the support of the NBBF, Black-owned banks can form Voltron and significantly increase the amount of money they can lend, in turn, better serving our communities.
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“The Atlanta Hawks are putting their money where their mouth is when it comes to being an ally of Black businesses, and Carver State Bank is proud to be the lead institution on this historic transaction. By selecting an all-Black bank syndicate to provide this financing, the Hawks are strengthening all of our banks,” Robert E. James, II, President, Carver Development & Chairman-Elect, National Bankers Association said in a statement to The Root. “What we earn from this loan strengthens our collective ability to provide even more loans and financial services to Black small businesses and consumers, and we are able to show our ability to pull off a large, sophisticated loan transaction. Tony and his team are real allies in the movement for racial equity.”
This is a huge deal that hopefully inspires other power players in the sports and entertainment industries to follow suit. When Black banks level up, we all benefit, so hopefully, we hear many more stories like this in the new year.


theroot--2020-12-10--The Roomba i3 Robot Vacuum Is $499

The Roomba i3 Robot Vacuum Is $499

The folks who are lucky enough to WFH probably have a bit of clutter going on since our homes are @ @ @ @ @ safe haven .
Luckily the iRobot Roomba i3 Robot Vaccum is here to help .
@ @ @ @ @ because of a price drop , you ’ ll be able to clean your carpet @ @ @ @ @ picking up a broom .
I personally use mine in-between a good traditional sweep and @ @ @ @ @ and dining room a bit tidy .
This Roomba can be controlled with an app @ @ @ @ @ complete rows , and will automatically dock to charge and undock when it is all @ @ @ @ @ comes with automatic dirt disposal so you won ’ t actually have to bend down @ @ @ @ @ it ’ s full .
What are you waiting for ?
Grab it before it @ @ @ @ @ post was originally published on 11/17/2020 , and updated with new information on 12/10/2020 .

Ignacia on Kinja Deals, shared by Jordan McMahon to The Root

iRobot Roomba i4+ Robot Vacuum | $449 | Amazon
iRobot Roomba 692 Robot Vacuum | $199 | Amazon
iRobot Roomba i6+ (6550) Robot Vacuum | $499 | Amazon
iRobot Braava J et m6 (6012) Ultimate Robot Mop | $299 | Amazon
The folks who are lucky enough to WFH probably have a bit of clutter going on since our homes are now even more of a safe haven. Luckily the iRobot Roomba i3+ Robot Vaccum is here to help. Down 40% right now because of Prime Day , you’ll be able to clean your carpet and hardwood floors without actually picking up a broom.
I personally use mine in-between a good traditional sweep and mop to keep my living and dining room a bit tidy. This Roomba can be controlled with an app, navigates your home in complete rows, and will automatically dock to charge and undock when it is all powered up. It also comes with automatic dirt disposal so you won’t actually have to bend down and dump your robot when it’s full. What are you waiting for? Grab it before it’s gone.
This post was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher on 11/17/2020, and updated with new information on 06/21/2021.


theroot--2020-12-10--Pete Rock Thinks Only Sick People Need Vaccines. Will He Be a Soul Survivor of the Infamous Black Tw

Pete Rock Thinks Only Sick People Need Vaccines. Will He Be a Soul Survivor of the Infamous Black Twitter Ratio?

Yet another person in the entertainment industry has decided to hop on Twitter and showcase their ignorance about vaccinations—IN A PANNY .
“ Vaccine shit is real stupid .
How you giving [ a ] vaccine to people who aren ’ t sick ?
?
?
” Rock tweeted along with a “ syringe ” emoji and a “ no entry sign ” emoji .
Clearly missing “ Vaccinations 101 , ” the iconic hip hop rapper , DJ and producer failed to realize that a vaccination is a preventive measure .
In fact , we have entire organizations dedicated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you , Pete .
Immunization is a global health and development success story , saving millions of lives every year .
Vaccines reduce risks of getting a disease by working with your body ’ s natural defences to build protection .
When you get a vaccine , your immune system responds .
We now have vaccines to prevent more than 20 life-threatening diseases , helping people of all ages live longer , healthier lives .
Immunization currently prevents 2-3 million deaths every year from diseases like diphtheria , tetanus , pertussis , influenza @ @ @ @ @ @ @ component of primary health care and an indisputable human right .
It ’ s also one of the best health investments money can buy .
Vaccines are also critical to the prevention and control of infectious-disease outbreaks .
They underpin global health security and will be a vital tool in the battle against antimicrobial resistance .
Needless to say , Pete got “ ratioed ” on Twitter .
At the time of this blog ’ s publishing , his tweet is currently at approximately 2,000 Quote Tweets versus 86 Retweets .
Yikes .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Twitter ?
Basically , when a celebrity or otherwise influential person tweets something controversial or just plain ignorant , you can tell the general consensus based on the ratio between plain Retweets and Quote Tweets—because if they said something ridiculous , most people are prone to comment on the matter than simply retweet the statement , the latter of which is often perceived to be a sign of endorsement ( which is why some people have “ RTs are not endorsements ” in their Twitter bio ) .
Now , back to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trying to talk some sense into him , Pete got trolled , y ’ all .
I mean , he walked right into it .
It was an easy lay-up .
Sigh .
Let ’ s reminisce over the time our fave celebrities were delightfully mysterious and we could simply stan their products and projects in peace without having to know what was going on inside their minds .

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

Yet another person in the entertainment industry has decided to hop on Twitter and showcase their ignorance about vaccinations—IN A PANNY.
This time, it’s Pete Rock.
“Vaccine shit is real stupid. How you giving [a] vaccine to people who aren’t sick???” Rock tweeted along with a “syringe” emoji and a “no entry sign” emoji.
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Clearly missing “Vaccinations 101,” the iconic hip hop rapper, DJ and producer failed to realize that a vaccination is a preventive measure. In fact, we have entire organizations dedicated to providing that information. I got you, Pete.
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Per the World Health Organization (WHO):
Immunization is a global health and development success story, saving millions of lives every year. Vaccines reduce risks of getting a disease by working with your body’s natural defences to build protection. When you get a vaccine, your immune system responds. We now have vaccines to prevent more than 20 life-threatening diseases, helping people of all ages live longer, healthier lives. Immunization currently prevents 2-3 million deaths every year from diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, influenza and measles. Immunization is a key component of primary health care and an indisputable human right. It’s also one of the best health investments money can buy. Vaccines are also critical to the prevention and control of infectious-disease outbreaks. They underpin global health security and will be a vital tool in the battle against antimicrobial resistance.
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Needless to say, Pete got “ratioed” on Twitter. At the time of this blog’s publishing, his tweet is currently at approximately 2,000 Quote Tweets versus 86 Retweets. Yikes.
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Unfamiliar with the “ratio” concept on Twitter? Basically, when a celebrity or otherwise influential person tweets something controversial or just plain ignorant, you can tell the general consensus based on the ratio between plain Retweets and Quote Tweets—because if they said something ridiculous, most people are prone to comment on the matter than simply retweet the statement, the latter of which is often perceived to be a sign of endorsement (which is why some people have “RTs are not endorsements” in their Twitter bio).
Now, back to the foolery. Along with folks earnestly trying to talk some sense into him, Pete got trolled, y’all. I mean, he walked right into it. It was an easy lay-up.
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Sigh. Let’s reminisce over the time our fave celebrities were delightfully mysterious and we could simply stan their products and projects in peace without having to know what was going on inside their minds.


theroot--2020-12-11--Friday Actor and 'Gentle Giant' Tommy 'Tiny' Lister Dead at 62 After Experiencing COVID-19 Symptoms

Tommy “ Tiny ” Lister , best-known for portraying “ Deebo ” in F. Gary Gray ’ s directorial debut Friday , has died at the age of 62 , per TMZ .
An official cause of death has not been determined .
“ He was a gentle giant and one-of-a-kind , ” Lister ’ s manager Cindy Cowan said in a statement to People .
“ A man that ’ s like , been a brother to me for 20 years.
” Cowan added that Lister had been experiencing COVID-19 symptoms , but did not test positive for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In fact , he had been scheduled to work on a movie this weekend , but recently canceled .
“ He was just really complaining , but he was too weak to go to the doctor , ” she added .
Born June 24 , 1958 , in Compton , Calif. , Lister was blind in his right eye with a detached and deformed retina .
“ I started doing these movies and God said , ‘ You thought it was a curse .
It was a blessing , ’ ” he told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ [ My eye ] became my trademark in Hollywood.
” Along with portraying notable character roles such as Deebo in Friday and its sequel , Next Friday , Lister also had a short professional wrestling career in the World Wrestling Federation ( WWF ) and World Championship Wrestling ( WCW ) .
Lister ’ s list of other onscreen credit was quite robust , including The Fifth Element , No Holds Barred , The Dark Knight , The Players Club , Zootopia , The Meteor Man , A Thin Line Between Love and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jackie Brown , Beverly Hills Cop II , The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air , Martin , Moesha , The Jamie Foxx Show , Matlock , and more .
He also made appearances in music videos such as Michael Jackson ’ s “ Remember the Time ” and Ice Cube ’ s “ You Can Do It.
’ Fans and celebrity peers took to social media to honor the late actor following the release of the tragic news .
“ RIP Tiny “ Deebo ” Lister , ” his Friday co-star Ice Cube wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ favorite bully was a born entertainer who would pop into character at the drop of a hat terrifying people on and off camera .
Followed by a big smile and laugh .
Thank you for being a good dude at heart .
I miss you already.
” Rest in Power to the “ gentle giant ” known as Tommy “ Tiny ” Lister .

Tommy “Tiny” Lister, best-known for portraying “Deebo” in F. Gary Gray’s directorial debut Friday, has died at the age of 62, per TMZ. An official cause of death has not been determined.
TMZ further reported:
A release from The L.A. County Sheriff’s Department says friends and business associates of Lister became worried Thursday when they hadn’t heard from him since Wednesday night. Deputies performed a welfare check where they made their way into his apartment and found him dead.
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“He was a gentle giant and one-of-a-kind,” Lister’s manager Cindy Cowan said in a statement to People. “A man that’s like, been a brother to me for 20 years.”
Cowan added that Lister had been experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, but did not test positive for the novel coronavirus prior to his death. In fact, he had been scheduled to work on a movie this weekend, but recently canceled.
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“He was just really complaining, but he was too weak to go to the doctor,” she added.
Born June 24, 1958, in Compton, Calif., Lister was blind in his right eye with a detached and deformed retina. “I started doing these movies and God said, ‘You thought it was a curse. It was a blessing,’” he told Grantland in a 2014 interview. “[My eye] became my trademark in Hollywood.”
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Along with portraying notable character roles such as Deebo in Friday and its sequel, Next Friday, Lister also had a short professional wrestling career in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW). Lister’s list of other onscreen credit was quite robust, including The Fifth Element, No Holds Barred, The Dark Knight, The Players Club, Zootopia, The Meteor Man, A Thin Line Between Love and Hate, Austin Powers in Goldmember, Jackie Brown, Beverly Hills Cop II, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Martin, Moesha, The Jamie Foxx Show, Matlock, and more. He also made appearances in music videos such as Michael Jackson’s “Remember the Time” and Ice Cube’s “You Can Do It.’
Friday - Here Come Deebo! / YouTube
Fans and celebrity peers took to social media to honor the late actor following the release of the tragic news.
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“RIP Tiny “Deebo” Lister,” his Friday co-star Ice Cube wrote on Twitter. “America’s favorite bully was a born entertainer who would pop into character at the drop of a hat terrifying people on and off camera. Followed by a big smile and laugh. Thank you for being a good dude at heart. I miss you already.”
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Rest in Power to the “gentle giant” known as Tommy “Tiny” Lister.


theroot--2020-12-12--White House Tells FDA Chief to Authorize Coronavirus Vaccine or Resign for Reasons That Make No Sens

White House Tells FDA Chief to Authorize Coronavirus Vaccine or Resign for Reasons That Make No Sense

Apparently , the White House c hief of s taff told the head of the Food and Drug Administration to grant authorization to a coronavirus vaccine by Friday or submit his resignation .
I guess they think speeding up the process is totally the move that will build up public trust in the vaccine ’ s safety .
The thing is , according to the Washington Post , sources close to the matter have said that speeding up authorization won ’ t speed up the process of getting it to the American people .
Still , that simple fact didn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Staff Mark Meadows from telling the FDA Commissioner Stephen Hahn to either get with it or get packing .
It should come as no surprise that the request came after President Trump went on what must be the 1,420 Twitter rant of his presidency , calling the FDA “ a big , old , slow turtle ” when it comes to vaccines and telling Hahn to “ get the dam vaccines out NOW.
” So ol ’ boy can use selective caps but he can ’ t add an “ n ” to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know .
Further intensifying the fuckery is the fact that the FDA was already on track to approve the vaccine by Saturday morning .
While other countries such as Britain and Canada have already approved the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine , the FDA chose to utilize a more rigorous course of testing in an effort to build public trust in the vaccine ’ s safety .
This is kind of important considering that there isn ’ t exactly widespread trust in the vaccine .
An agency advisory committee had already endorsed the vaccine on Thursday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ morning saying that they had informed Pfizer they would “ rapidly work toward finalization and issuance of an emergency use authorization.
” The FDA was in the process of filing the paperwork to grant that authorization , a process that is now having to be sped up because of an old man having a temper tantrum .
For his part , Hahn has disputed the characterization of the call .
“ This is an untrue representation of the phone call with the Chief of Staff , ” Hahn said in a statement .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ working expeditiously on Pfizer-BioNTech ’ s EUA request .
FDA is committed to issuing this authorization quickly , as we noted in our statement this morning.
” A White House official familiar with the matter told CNN that it is unlikely that Hahn would actually have been fired and that the call was simply representative of the president ’ s frustration with the matter .
I mean , if the man was really frustrated by the situation he would ’ ve encouraged mask wearing , social distancing , wouldn ’ t undermine science @ @ @ @ @ @ @ worked to get at least a second round of stimulus checks to Americans .
Oh !
And he would ’ ve bought more of the damn vaccine he ’ s so anxious to get approved !
This ain ’ t frustration at the virus , b .
This is just an old racist having a bitch fit .

Apparently, the White House c hief of s taff told the head of the Food and Drug Administration to grant authorization to a coronavirus vaccine by Friday or submit his resignation.
I guess they think speeding up the process is totally the move that will build up public trust in the vaccine’s safety.
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The thing is, according to the Washington Post, sources close to the matter have said that speeding up authorization won’t speed up the process of getting it to the American people. Still, that simple fact didn’t stop White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows from telling the FDA Commissioner Stephen Hahn to either get with it or get packing.
It should come as no surprise that the request came after President Trump went on what must be the 1,420 Twitter rant of his presidency, calling the FDA “a big, old, slow turtle” when it comes to vaccines and telling Hahn to “get the dam vaccines out NOW.”
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So ol’ boy can use selective caps but he can’t add an “n” to the end of damn, good to know.
Further intensifying the fuckery is the fact that the FDA was already on track to approve the vaccine by Saturday morning. While other countries such as Britain and Canada have already approved the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, the FDA chose to utilize a more rigorous course of testing in an effort to build public trust in the vaccine’s safety. This is kind of important considering that there isn’t exactly widespread trust in the vaccine.
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An agency advisory committee had already endorsed the vaccine on Thursday and the FDA issued a statement Friday morning saying that they had informed Pfizer they would “rapidly work toward finalization and issuance of an emergency use authorization.” The FDA was in the process of filing the paperwork to grant that authorization, a process that is now having to be sped up because of an old man having a temper tantrum.
For his part, Hahn has disputed the characterization of the call. “This is an untrue representation of the phone call with the Chief of Staff,” Hahn said in a statement. “The FDA was encouraged to continue working expeditiously on Pfizer-BioNTech’s EUA request. FDA is committed to issuing this authorization quickly, as we noted in our statement this morning.”
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A White House official familiar with the matter told CNN that it is unlikely that Hahn would actually have been fired and that the call was simply representative of the president’s frustration with the matter.
I mean, if the man was really frustrated by the situation he would’ve encouraged mask wearing, social distancing, wouldn’t undermine science at every turn, and would have worked to get at least a second round of stimulus checks to Americans.
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Oh! And he would’ve bought more of the damn vaccine he’s so anxious to get approved!
This ain’t frustration at the virus, b. This is just an old racist having a bitch fit.


theroot--2020-12-12--Black ER Doctor Says an Arizona Hospital Sidelined Him After He Tweeted About a Lack of Hospital Bed

Black ER Doctor Says an Arizona Hospital Sidelined Him After He Tweeted About a Lack of Hospital Beds

Dr. Cleavon Gilman , an emergency-medicine physician who has been outspoken about the dire conditions in American hospitals due to the coronavirus pandemic , says he was barred from returning to work at Yuma Regional Medical Center in Arizona after tweeting about shortages in hospital beds last month .
According to Gilman , the healthcare staffing company he works for , Envision , told him the day after his tweets were posted that the hospital didn ’ t want him to come back to work .
On Nov. 22 , Gilman posted on Twitter , “ Just got to work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ICU beds in the state of Arizona.
” “ What happened to the 175 beds ?
?
?
We likely don ’ t have nursing to staff them , ” he added in a follow-up tweet .
As the Arizona Republic reported , the state ’ s Department of Health Services at the time reported that 90 % of ICU beds were in use .
Gilman , who is Black , told the Republic that he was able to finish his shift that day “ without a problem.
” But since then , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work .
“ They told me it was because of the tweets and I couldn ’ t believe it because that was accurate information I posted to inform the citizens of Arizona , ” he said .
“ It is a grave injustice and it ’ s not just happening to me .
Doctors everywhere are afraid to speak up.
” “ What I don ’ t understand about this is I have been advocating for Arizona ; I have been calling for a mask mandate , the closure of schools and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ local news outlet .
“ I did all of this because we are seeing an unprecedented number of cases .
This is my third surge—I know how this ends.
” Gilman noted that hundreds of thousands of healthcare workers have been forced to step away from the front lines after 10 months of fighting COVID-19 .
Many have gotten sick or died from the coronavirus , and many others are burnt out from the toll of the work .
Gilman said it was a “ slap in the face ” to sit on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In an interview with the Washington Post Thursday night , Gilman reiterated his claims , telling the paper , “ The hospital is intentionally hurting me financially for speaking out , and I ’ m not permitted to work.
” The hospital contradicted Gilman ’ s statement in a statement released online late Thursday night , claiming “ there has been a misunderstanding ” and Gilman is scheduled to work this weekend .
As Gilman noted , healthcare workers in other parts of the country have said they ’ ve faced professional repercussions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nation ’ s hospitals .
As the Post reports , one emergency physician was fired for criticizing a Seattle hospital ’ s ER precautions in March , as the state became the nation ’ s first COVID-19 hotspot .
Later , in May , a D.C. hospital worker filed a lawsuit saying she lost a job under similar circumstances ( the hospital claims the employee has not been fired ) .
Dr. Gilman is still sounding the alarm about COVID-19 , which Americans are contracting—and dying from—at alarming numbers as each week passes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of new coronavirus cases reached an all-time high for the pandemic , with more than 231,000 positive results in a single day .
“ The death toll during the entire Iraq War was equivalent to what we see now every single day , ” said Gilman , an Iraq War veteran .
“ You could leave a war zone if you couldn ’ t handle it .
COVID is everywhere .
”

Dr. Cleavon Gilman, an emergency-medicine physician who has been outspoken about the dire conditions in American hospitals due to the coronavirus pandemic, says he was barred from returning to work at Yuma Regional Medical Center in Arizona after tweeting about shortages in hospital beds last month.
According to Gilman, the healthcare staffing company he works for, Envision, told him the day after his tweets were posted that the hospital didn’t want him to come back to work.
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On Nov. 22, Gilman posted on Twitter, “Just got to work and was notified there are no more ICU beds in the state of Arizona.”
“What happened to the 175 beds??? We likely don’t have nursing to staff them,” he added in a follow-up tweet. As the Arizona Republic reported, the state’s Department of Health Services at the time reported that 90% of ICU beds were in use.
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Gilman, who is Black, told the Republic that he was able to finish his shift that day “without a problem.” But since then, he has not been called back in to work.
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“They told me it was because of the tweets and I couldn’t believe it because that was accurate information I posted to inform the citizens of Arizona,” he said. “It is a grave injustice and it’s not just happening to me. Doctors everywhere are afraid to speak up.”
“What I don’t understand about this is I have been advocating for Arizona; I have been calling for a mask mandate, the closure of schools and indoor dining,” Gilman told the local news outlet. “I did all of this because we are seeing an unprecedented number of cases. This is my third surge—I know how this ends.”
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Gilman noted that hundreds of thousands of healthcare workers have been forced to step away from the front lines after 10 months of fighting COVID-19. Many have gotten sick or died from the coronavirus, and many others are burnt out from the toll of the work. Gilman said it was a “slap in the face” to sit on the sidelines for “no reason.”
In an interview with the Washington Post Thursday night, Gilman reiterated his claims, telling the paper, “The hospital is intentionally hurting me financially for speaking out, and I’m not permitted to work.”
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The hospital contradicted Gilman’s statement in a statement released online late Thursday night, claiming “there has been a misunderstanding” and Gilman is scheduled to work this weekend.
“News to me,” Gilman tweeted in response.
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As Gilman noted, healthcare workers in other parts of the country have said they’ve faced professional repercussions from speaking out about conditions in the nation’s hospitals. As the Post reports, one emergency physician was fired for criticizing a Seattle hospital’s ER precautions in March, as the state became the nation’s first COVID-19 hotspot. Later, in May, a D.C. hospital worker filed a lawsuit saying she lost a job under similar circumstances (the hospital claims the employee has not been fired).
Dr. Gilman is still sounding the alarm about COVID-19, which Americans are contracting—and dying from—at alarming numbers as each week passes. On Dec. 4, the rate of new coronavirus cases reached an all-time high for the pandemic, with more than 231,000 positive results in a single day.
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“The death toll during the entire Iraq War was equivalent to what we see now every single day,” said Gilman, an Iraq War veteran. “You could leave a war zone if you couldn’t handle it. COVID is everywhere.”


theroot--2020-12-12--A Bright Spot? Pantone's Colors of 2021 Are as Conflicted as Our Emotions

What colors would you say reflect an era filled with uncertainty , angst and sheer frustration—one in which there , at last , appears to be a light at the end of a very long tunnel , but no one really knows exactly when—or how , things will begin to feel even remotely right-side-up again ( if ever ) .
If you ’ re on the color forecasting team at Pantone , maybe the only way to translate the mood of the moment into color is to consider it a study in contrasts .
After choosing the stable , calming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it ) boring “ Classic Blue ” for 2020—a year that was anything but ( maybe they were subversively trying to sway the vote ?
I ’ m sure Trump and Co. would say so ) , the newly announced Color—err , Colors of 2021 , “ Ultimate Gray , ” and “ Illuminating ” ( “ a bright and cheerful yellow ” ) are simultaneously somber and optimistic ; perhaps subconsciously communicating that we ’ d be wise to manage our expectations in this new year .
As described by Pantone : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Illuminating , two independent colors that highlight how different elements come together to support one another , best express the mood for Pantone Color of the Year 2021 .
Practical and rock solid but at the same time warming and optimistic , the union of PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray + PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating is one of strength and positivity .
It is a story of color that encapsulates deeper feelings of thoughtfulness with the promise of something sunny and friendly .
A message of happiness supported by fortitude , the combination of PANTONE @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is aspirational and gives us hope .
We need to feel that everything is going to get brighter – this is essential to the human spirit .
Emboldening the spirit , the pairing of PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray + PANTONE 13-0647 highlights our innate need to be seen , to be visible , to be recognized , to have our voices heard .
A combination of color whose ties to insight , innovation and intuition , and respect for wisdom , experience , and intelligence inspires regeneration , pressing us forward toward new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ... OK , I guess .
I mean , gray is gray ( and wearable pretty much everywhere and with everything ) , but how did they somehow manage to pick one of the least enchanting shades of yellow imaginable ?
Having been a child in the ’ 80s , this color combo—which is meant to be paired together at all times—most vividly called to mind a splatter-painted sweatshirt I wore incessantly in junior high ( which , come to think of it , would likely be back in style now ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s ironically also a combination Teen Vogue plainly called “ really weird , ” writing : As usual , Pantone ’ s choice strikes me as rather tone-deaf and half-hearted , gesturing clumsily towards current events without taking any identifiable political stance ... And perhaps that ’ s the biggest reason I dislike this choice .
It feels wishy-washy and vague .
Pantone has such a great global reach , I wish it either stop trying to hitch its color trends to current events , or pick something more meaningful .
Medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a reminder that we ’ re not through this crisis yet and we still need to be masking up .
Or Ultimate Gray , as a reminder that the future is always a vast unknown space , no matter how much we project our desires onto it .
Honestly , “ Medical Mask Blue ” ( which I imagine might look something like this ) sounds both practical and more appealing as a hue—a color that both connotes safety and can be coordinated with a vast array of scrub-like , minimalist fashions ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moment ) as we await the distribution of the vaccine—and then wait God knows how much longer for enough people to take it so we can achieve that elusive and oft-misunderstood “ herd immunity.
” But regardless , what we really need right now is some inspiration to see us through—and sadly , Pantone , this ain ’ t it .

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

What colors would you say reflect an era filled with uncertainty, angst and sheer frustration—one in which there, at last, appears to be a light at the end of a very long time-loop tunnel, but no one really knows exactly when—or how, things will begin to feel even remotely right-side-up again (if ever).
If you’re on the color forecasting team at Pantone, maybe the only way to translate the mood of the moment into color is to consider it a study in contrasts. After choosing the stable, calming and (let’s just say it) boring “Classic Blue” for 2020—a year that was anything but (maybe they were subversively trying to sway the vote? I’m sure Trump and Co. would say so), the newly announced Color—err, Colors of 2021, “Ultimate Gray,” and “Illuminating” (“a bright and cheerful yellow”) are simultaneously somber and optimistic; perhaps subconsciously communicating that we’d be wise to manage our expectations in this new year.
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As described by Pantone:
PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray + PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating, two independent colors that highlight how different elements come together to support one another, best express the mood for Pantone Color of the Year 2021. Practical and rock solid but at the same time warming and optimistic, the union of PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray + PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating is one of strength and positivity. It is a story of color that encapsulates deeper feelings of thoughtfulness with the promise of something sunny and friendly. A message of happiness supported by fortitude, the combination of PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray + PANTONE 13-0647 Illuminating is aspirational and gives us hope. We need to feel that everything is going to get brighter – this is essential to the human spirit.
... Emboldening the spirit, the pairing of PANTONE 17-5104 Ultimate Gray + PANTONE 13-0647 highlights our innate need to be seen, to be visible, to be recognized, to have our voices heard. A combination of color whose ties to insight, innovation and intuition, and respect for wisdom, experience, and intelligence inspires regeneration, pressing us forward toward new ways of thinking and concepts.
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Uhh...OK, I guess. I mean, gray is gray (and wearable pretty much everywhere and with everything), but how did they somehow manage to pick one of the least enchanting shades of yellow imaginable? Having been a child in the ’80s, this color combo—which is meant to be paired together at all times—most vividly called to mind a splatter-painted sweatshirt I wore incessantly in junior high (which, come to think of it, would likely be back in style now). Yet despite my juvenile association, it’s ironically also a combination Teen Vogue plainly called “really weird,” writing:
As usual, Pantone’s choice strikes me as rather tone-deaf and half-hearted, gesturing clumsily towards current events without taking any identifiable political stance...And perhaps that’s the biggest reason I dislike this choice. It feels wishy-washy and vague. Pantone has such a great global reach, I wish it either stop trying to hitch its color trends to current events, or pick something more meaningful. Medical Mask Blue, for instance, as a reminder that we’re not through this crisis yet and we still need to be masking up. Or Ultimate Gray, as a reminder that the future is always a vast unknown space, no matter how much we project our desires onto it.
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Honestly, “Medical Mask Blue” (which I imagine might look something like this) sounds both practical and more appealing as a hue—a color that both connotes safety and can be coordinated with a vast array of scrub-like, minimalist fashions (fitting for what feels like a post-war moment) as we await the distribution of the vaccine—and then wait God knows how much longer for enough people to take it so we can achieve that elusive and oft-misunderstood “herd immunity.” But regardless, what we really need right now is some inspiration to see us through—and sadly, Pantone, this ain’t it.


theroot--2020-12-11--A Republican Coronavirus Denier’s Story Told In 2 Acts

Tennessee state Rep. David Byrd once claimed that the “ mainstream media has sensationalized the reporting on COVID-19 in the service of political agendas.
” Byrd has been seen on the House floor without a mask , which goes against everything that scientists have suggested during the pandemic .
On Thursday , Byrd posted a message to Facebook asking friends to pray for him as he was hospitalized over the weekend and , barring a “ miracle , ” he was going to be placed on a ventilator due to COVID-19 .
Byrd was reportedly flown by helicopter to a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from pneumonia symptoms and subsequently testing positive for COVID-19 .
“ I really need a miracle today !
!
” Byrd wrote Thursday .
“ My doctor said if my oxygen level doesn ’ t improve then he has no choice but to put me on a ventilator .
So please pray that God will breathe His healing spirit into my lungs !
!
” According to the Tennessean , the 63-year-old Waynesboro Representative was seen amongst some 70 House Republicans during a caucus meeting Nov. 24 , with his face butt-ass naked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s not living in a pandemic .
A week-and-a-half later he was hospitalized with the virus .
“ Several members from the House and Senate have contracted coronavirus in recent months .
Byrd is at least the second House Republican to be hospitalized with the virus , ” the Tennessean reports .
This was not the first time that Byrd had asked for healing in his lungs ; earlier this week he asked everyone who follows him on Facebook to send healing love his way .
“ Thanks everyone for your prayers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for God ’ s healing for my lungs , and that He will give me strength and endurance as I battle this virus .
Also , please pray for Sherry , and my family !
!
THANK YOU !
!
” Do you think now is a bad time to mention the doctors and scientists who have been advocating for people to wear masks and practice social distancing ?
Is it too soon or too late to bring this up ?
What if God specifically gave the message of wearing masks to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ so , has Bryd been ignoring God this whole time ?
OK , fine .
I will see myself out .

Tennessee state Rep. David Byrd once claimed that the “mainstream media has sensationalized the reporting on COVID-19 in the service of political agendas.” Byrd has been seen on the House floor without a mask, which goes against everything that scientists have suggested during the pandemic.
On Thursday, Byrd posted a message to Facebook asking friends to pray for him as he was hospitalized over the weekend and, barring a “miracle,” he was going to be placed on a ventilator due to COVID-19.
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Byrd was reportedly flown by helicopter to a local hospital where he remains after suffering from pneumonia symptoms and subsequently testing positive for COVID-19.
“I really need a miracle today!!” Byrd wrote Thursday. “My doctor said if my oxygen level doesn’t improve then he has no choice but to put me on a ventilator. So please pray that God will breathe His healing spirit into my lungs!!”
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According to the Tennessean, the 63-year-old Waynesboro Representative was seen amongst some 70 House Republicans during a caucus meeting Nov. 24, with his face butt-ass naked just raw dogging air like he’s not living in a pandemic. A week-and-a-half later he was hospitalized with the virus.
“Several members from the House and Senate have contracted coronavirus in recent months. Byrd is at least the second House Republican to be hospitalized with the virus,” the Tennessean reports.
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This was not the first time that Byrd had asked for healing in his lungs; earlier this week he asked everyone who follows him on Facebook to send healing love his way.
“Thanks everyone for your prayers, and PLEASE CONTINUE!! Please pray for God’s healing for my lungs, and that He will give me strength and endurance as I battle this virus. Also, please pray for Sherry, and my family!! THANK YOU!!”
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Do you think now is a bad time to mention the doctors and scientists who have been advocating for people to wear masks and practice social distancing? Is it too soon or too late to bring this up? What if God specifically gave the message of wearing masks to the doctors and scientists? And, if so, has Bryd been ignoring God this whole time?
OK, fine. I will see myself out.


theroot--2020-12-11--37 Major Companies Join Effort to Hire 1 Million Black People Over 10 Years

Recruitment startup OneTen has joined forces with 37 major companies to employ 1 million Black people over the course of the next 10 years .
NBC News reports that Comcast , Nike , and Target are among the companies that have agreed to work with OneTen on this endeavor .
The coalition will focus on finding sustainable careers for Black people without four-year degrees .
“ Many times , companies require four-year degrees for the kinds of jobs that really do not require a four-year degree , ” Merck CEO Ken Frazier , co-founder of OneTen and just one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said in an interview with CBS News .
As someone who has a four-year degree and worked that 9-5 life for most of my adult career , I can firmly attest to the fact that there are many , many job listings that require a four-year degree for work that really doesn ’ t need it .
Like on the real , how is an undergraduate degree needed for basic paperwork jobs ?
You don ’ t need to go to college to learn how to use a copier , dammit .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a system that connects employers with non-profits , community colleges , and trade schools to not only get more Black people in these jobs , but to also ensure that they are given the resources needed to truly succeed in these environments .
The hope is that these steps will help improve the stunning lack of diversity in corporate America .
The corporate world has long had a diversity problem .
One side effect of systemic racism in the U.S. , is that Black people account for 8 percent of white-collar professional employees @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Center for Talent Innovation .
Furthermore , only 3.2 percent of executives , senior-level officials and managers are Black , the researchers found .
Meanwhile , Black people are more than twice as likely to live below the poverty line than white people , according to the U.S. Census Bureau ’ s Current Population Survey , even though the poverty rate for Black people reached a historic low in 2019 .
Inequitable access to well-paying jobs has generational consequences , too , as Black children born to parents in the lowest income bracket @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ever leaving it .
Both Frazier and fellow OneTen co-founder , IBM ’ s Ginni Rometty , understand that this disparity doesn ’ t stem from a lack of talent or ability in the Black community .
“ It ’ s just a lack of access , ” Rometty told CBS News .
There is hope that these jobs will lead to upward mobility and allow Black people to rise through the ranks in these companies .
No lie , this is a really cool endeavor .
I ’ ll never complain about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only concern is that we keep seeing all these initiatives pop up about hiring more Black people , but not a lot of conversation about why these initiatives have to happen .
Corporate America historically hasn ’ t been kind to Black folks and I simply hope that these shifts in hiring practices will also be buoyed by shifts in culture .
Otherwise , it could just be a two steps forward , one step back situation .
The fact that there is a Black person heading this does give me hope , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ endeavor , saying it could be instrumental in America ’ s road to economic recovery from the ongoing coronavirus pandemic .
“ We can rebuild our country coming out of this pandemic .
And if private companies decide that they ’ re going to hire , as we rebuild our economy , with an equity lens , then we ’ ll change the country , ” Frazier said .

Recruitment startup OneTen has joined forces with 37 major companies to employ 1 million Black people over the course of the next 10 years.
NBC News reports that Comcast, Nike, and Target are among the companies that have agreed to work with OneTen on this endeavor. The coalition will focus on finding sustainable careers for Black people without four-year degrees. “Many times, companies require four-year degrees for the kinds of jobs that really do not require a four-year degree,” Merck CEO Ken Frazier, co-founder of OneTen and just one of five Black CEOs in the Fortune 500, said in an interview with CBS News.
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As someone who has a four-year degree and worked that 9-5 life for most of my adult career, I can firmly attest to the fact that there are many, many job listings that require a four-year degree for work that really doesn’t need it. Like on the real, how is an undergraduate degree needed for basic paperwork jobs? You don’t need to go to college to learn how to use a copier, dammit.
OneTen’s mission is to create a system that connects employers with non-profits, community colleges, and trade schools to not only get more Black people in these jobs, but to also ensure that they are given the resources needed to truly succeed in these environments. The hope is that these steps will help improve the stunning lack of diversity in corporate America.
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From NBC News:
The corporate world has long had a diversity problem. One side effect of systemic racism in the U.S., is that Black people account for 8 percent of white-collar professional employees, according to a report from the Center for Talent Innovation. Furthermore, only 3.2 percent of executives, senior-level officials and managers are Black, the researchers found. Meanwhile, Black people are more than twice as likely to live below the poverty line than white people, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey, even though the poverty rate for Black people reached a historic low in 2019. Inequitable access to well-paying jobs has generational consequences, too, as Black children born to parents in the lowest income bracket have just a 2.5 percent chance of ever leaving it.
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Both Frazier and fellow OneTen co-founder, IBM’s Ginni Rometty, understand that this disparity doesn’t stem from a lack of talent or ability in the Black community. “It’s just a lack of access,” Rometty told CBS News. There is hope that these jobs will lead to upward mobility and allow Black people to rise through the ranks in these companies.
No lie, this is a really cool endeavor. I’ll never complain about more Black people making money. My only concern is that we keep seeing all these initiatives pop up about hiring more Black people, but not a lot of conversation about why these initiatives have to happen. Corporate America historically hasn’t been kind to Black folks and I simply hope that these shifts in hiring practices will also be buoyed by shifts in culture. Otherwise, it could just be a two steps forward, one step back situation. The fact that there is a Black person heading this does give me hope, though.
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Frazier is optimistic about the endeavor, saying it could be instrumental in America’s road to economic recovery from the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. “We can rebuild our country coming out of this pandemic. And if private companies decide that they’re going to hire, as we rebuild our economy, with an equity lens, then we’ll change the country,” Frazier said.


theroot--2020-12-11--Retired—and Hired! Teyana Taylor Announces New Creative Director Role With PrettyLittleThing

Those of you old enough to remember Teyana Taylor ’ s national television debut on a 2007 episode of MTV ’ s My Super Sweet 16 will no doubt also remember the outspoken and already immensely talented birthday girl entering her fête posed in a Barbie-like box wearing a multicolored tulle frock by Heatherette .
Thirteen years later , the singer , who just last week announced she ’ d be taking an indefinite hiatus ( or full-on retirement ) from the music industry via an Instagram Live , citing a lack of support from her label and feeling “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feelings that had led to a loss of love for entertaining .
“ Baby , I got to do it for my mental health .
I have to do it for my emotional health , ” she said .
“ I have to do it for my kids , so I can stay alive for my kids .
Until I ’ m free , until I can get [ Def Jam ] to release me , yes I want to retire .
I don ’ t want to do this anymore.
” During @ @ @ @ @ @ @ jack of all trades ” listed designing among her many talents and interests .
Several days later , as she celebrated her 30th birthday on December 10 , Taylor made another big announcement : she ’ s the new creative director of fast-fashion brand PrettyLittle Thing , writing in an Instagram post : Dirty 30 and its time make some more BIG moves .
“ Remember when I said “ when one door closes another one opens..either that or I ’ m picking the locks ” ?
Well I damn sure did & @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have officially been named CREATIVE DIRECTOR of @ prettylittlething 😩😆😆 We ’ re going to be collaborating on some amazing projects together and i can not wait to get started !
What a way to bring some positive vibes & more # blackgirlmagic into 2021 !
PrettyLittleThing , which recently dropped another collab with rapper Saweetie and counts Karrueche Tran among its brand ambassadors ( as was Taylor , as of earlier this week ) , confirmed its new hire in its own post , which read : So , what can we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Well , if Taylor ’ s earlier ventures in fashion are any indication , her vision for the brand might include some homegrown Harlem swagger , a deep dose of reverence for classic hip-hop and ballroom culture , and ... body—this is , after all , the woman who gave us the iconic sweat-drenched visuals and workout-inspired choreography of Kanye West ’ s “ Fade ” video .
We shall see ... but in the meantime , we applaud the pivot and the hustle , and hope that whatever moves Taylor makes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ energy .
”

Those of you old enough to remember Teyana Taylor’s national television debut on a 2007 episode of MTV’s My Super Sweet 16 will no doubt also remember the outspoken and already immensely talented birthday girl entering her fête posed in a Barbie-like box wearing a multicolored tulle frock by Heatherette. Thirteen years later, the singer, who just last week announced she’d be taking an indefinite hiatus (or full-on retirement) from the music industry via an Instagram Live, citing a lack of support from her label and feeling “unappreciated” and “overlooked,” feelings that had led to a loss of love for entertaining.
As reported by People:
“Baby, I got to do it for my mental health. I have to do it for my emotional health,” she said. “I have to do it for my kids, so I can stay alive for my kids. Until I’m free, until I can get [Def Jam] to release me, yes I want to retire. I don’t want to do this anymore.”
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During the over-30-minute revelation, the self-professed “jack of all trades” listed designing among her many talents and interests. Several days later, as she celebrated her 30th birthday on December 10, Taylor made another big announcement: she’s the new creative director of fast-fashion brand PrettyLittle Thing, writing in an Instagram post:
Dirty 30 and its time make some more BIG moves. “Remember when I said “when one door closes another one opens..either that or I’m picking the locks”? Well I damn sure did & I am proud to announce that I have officially been named CREATIVE DIRECTOR of @prettylittlething 😩😆😆 We’re going to be collaborating on some amazing projects together and i cannot wait to get started! What a way to bring some positive vibes & more #blackgirlmagic into 2021! Happy birthday to me! 🤎🎈🤎
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PrettyLittleThing, which recently dropped another collab with rapper Saweetie and counts Karrueche Tran among its brand ambassadors (as was Taylor, as of earlier this week), confirmed its new hire in its own post, which read:
MAKING MOVES 💖🦄 We are so excited to announce that @teyanataylor is joining the PLTHQ family as our brand new Creative Director 💕 2021 - you ready!? 🔥 P.S. Happy Birthday, girl ✨ It’s gonna be one to remember 🙏
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So, what can we expect from the new creative director? Well, if Taylor’s earlier ventures in fashion are any indication, her vision for the brand might include some homegrown Harlem swagger, a deep dose of reverence for classic hip-hop and ballroom culture, and...body—this is, after all, the woman who gave us the iconic sweat-drenched visuals and workout-inspired choreography of Kanye West’s “Fade” video. We shall see...but in the meantime, we applaud the pivot and the hustle, and hope that whatever moves Taylor makes, she continues to “keep that same energy.”


theroot--2020-12-11--Taking It Back in This Week’s Good-Ass Games at Good-Ass Prices

Happy Friday , folks !
I ’ m so proud of you for surviving another week of 2020 .
This shit ain ’ t easy , I know it .
As a reward for your tenacity I shall provide a list of good-ass games at some solid-ass prices .
So earlier this week I tried my best to convince you to stop stressing over a PS5 and start digging through the current-gen backlog .
Since everything is on sale now , I figure it ’ s the perfect time to put you on game to some bangers you may have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the street is that Cyberpunk 2077 is straight basura on current-gen consoles .
I ’ m playing the game on a decently kitted out PC and I ’ ve still encountered quite a few glitches in my limited time playing , so I ’ m not surprised .
For those of y ’ all desperate for their cyberpunk fix , but also want to play a game that actually works , I present to you Deus Ex : Mankind Divided .
While the game is a sequel to 2011 ’ s Deus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ does a solid job of explaining the stakes of the world before flinging you into its dystopian cyberpunk future .
The game is pretty similar to Cyberpunk 2077 : you have branching story paths , a futuristic open-world to explore , a litany of lethal and non-lethal options to navigate through missions , and complex themes that the game just doesn ’ t have the depth to successfully explore .
Despite that last bit , I really enjoyed my time with Mankind Divided and felt that it , along with Titanfall 2 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 2016 .
If you missed out the first time , give this game a go .
Zone of the Enders : The 2nd Runner , $ 7.49 ( Playstation Network ) Sometimes a man gets crossfaded on a Sunday and unnecessarily adds more games to his backlog .
While there is the slight possibility that Zone of the Enders : The 2nd Runner is on this list so I can justify the purchase under “ work purposes , ” it is a genuinely a fun mech combat game .
If you , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home from school to watch Mobile Suit Gundam on Toonami , then this game is your shit .
If you , like me , have watched Pacific Rim countless times because it ’ s the only good giant robot movie , then this game is your shit .
If you just like games with unique art styles and slick combat , I ’ m telling you , b , this game is your shit .
Also , if you have PSVR the game will let you live out your childhood dream of slapboxing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more do you need me to say ?
Yo , you want to cry and climb some trees ?
Well luckily I have the game for you .
Ori and the Blind Forest is a delightful yet surprisingly emotional platformer .
The game is Metroid-ish in its design .
It ’ s built around precise platforming , inventive level design , and a gameplay loop that requires you to gain new powers and backtrack to previously inaccessible places on the map .
I got a feeling this game would appeal to the Nintendo/Sega @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mhm , don ’ t think I don ’ t be seeing y ’ all .
I ’ ve only played it a handful of times , but I remember watching my best friend/former roommate playing through it when it first came out and being like “ Damn , this shit is beautiful ” in between bouts of telling him to “ learn how to play video games , ” whenever he died or missed a jump .
Just because I ’ m a petty bitch doesn ’ t mean I can ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you know ?
So those are just a few of the bangers on sale right now .
You can get the first three Uncharted games for $ 9.99 on Playstation and most of the PS4 exclusives are heavily discounted as part of the year end sale .
Xbox heads need only a Game Pass subscription to have access to generations upon generations of bangers .
I ’ m just saying , y ’ all .
There have been some hitters this year , I can ’ t front .
Overall though , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when it comes to gaming .
So instead of being disappointed in the new hotness , I implore you , dig through that backlog .
There ’ s some heat there , I promise you .

Happy Friday, folks! I’m so proud of you for surviving another week of 2020. This shit ain’t easy, I know it. As a reward for your tenacity I shall provide a list of good-ass games at some solid-ass prices.
So earlier this week I tried my best to convince you to stop stressing over a PS5 and start digging through the current-gen backlog. Since everything is on sale now, I figure it’s the perfect time to put you on game to some bangers you may have missed.
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Deus Ex: Mankind Divided, $4.49 (Playstation Network)
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So, uh, word on the street is that Cyberpunk 2077 is straight basura on current-gen consoles. I’m playing the game on a decently kitted out PC and I’ve still encountered quite a few glitches in my limited time playing, so I’m not surprised.
For those of y’all desperate for their cyberpunk fix, but also want to play a game that actually works, I present to you Deus Ex: Mankind Divided. While the game is a sequel to 2011’s Deus Ex: Human Revolution, the game does a solid job of explaining the stakes of the world before flinging you into its dystopian cyberpunk future. The game is pretty similar to Cyberpunk 2077: you have branching story paths, a futuristic open-world to explore, a litany of lethal and non-lethal options to navigate through missions, and complex themes that the game just doesn’t have the depth to successfully explore.
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Despite that last bit, I really enjoyed my time with Mankind Divided and felt that it, along with Titanfall 2, were two of the biggest sleeper gems of 2016. If you missed out the first time, give this game a go.
Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner, $7.49 (Playstation Network)
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Sometimes a man gets crossfaded on a Sunday and unnecessarily adds more games to his backlog. While there is the slight possibility that Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner is on this list so I can justify the purchase under “work purposes,” it is a genuinely a fun mech combat game.
If you, like me, spent childhood afternoons rushing home from school to watch Mobile Suit Gundam on Toonami, then this game is your shit.
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If you, like me, have watched Pacific Rim countless times because it’s the only good giant robot movie, then this game is your shit.
If you just like games with unique art styles and slick combat, I’m telling you, b, this game is your shit.
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Also, if you have PSVR the game will let you live out your childhood dream of slapboxing folks in a giant robot. What more do you need me to say?
Ori and the Blind Forest, $4.99 (Xbox Marketplace)
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Yo, you want to cry and climb some trees? Well luckily I have the game for you. Ori and the Blind Forest is a delightful yet surprisingly emotional platformer. The game is Metroid-ish in its design. It’s built around precise platforming, inventive level design, and a gameplay loop that requires you to gain new powers and backtrack to previously inaccessible places on the map. I got a feeling this game would appeal to the Nintendo/Sega OG’s in the comments.
Mhm, don’t think I don’t be seeing y’all.
I’ve only played it a handful of times, but I remember watching my best friend/former roommate playing through it when it first came out and being like “Damn, this shit is beautiful” in between bouts of telling him to “learn how to play video games,” whenever he died or missed a jump.
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Just because I’m a petty bitch doesn’t mean I can’t stop and appreciate great art, you know?
So those are just a few of the bangers on sale right now. You can get the first three Uncharted games for $9.99 on Playstation and most of the PS4 exclusives are heavily discounted as part of the year end sale. Xbox heads need only a Game Pass subscription to have access to generations upon generations of bangers.
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I’m just saying, y’all. There have been some hitters this year, I can’t front. Overall though, it’s been a thoroughly mid year when it comes to gaming. So instead of being disappointed in the new hotness, I implore you, dig through that backlog. There’s some heat there, I promise you.