theroot--2020-07-23--Where the Only Pain Is Champagne

Where the Only Pain Is Champagne

I once threw a party for myself that lasted 10 years .
I want to say it was a celebration , or at least that ’ s how it started out .
I wanted to celebrate life after so many years of being held back and held down by my illness , so I started going out and drinking almost every night around 2010 .
But in reality , I had traded one extreme for the other , and that “ celebration ” morphed into pity .
But the pity party I had for 10 years ?
It was a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parade , and just like after a parade there was clean up , but I didn ’ t sweep up the ribbons and streamers , I didn ’ t throw away the food waste and confetti .
I ignored the horse manure , or where the band had trampled on my flowers .
I let the debris pile up until I was having that party in a garbage heap of emotion that I was uninterested and unwilling to deal with because I wanted to “ feel good ” in the moment and not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ someone who suffers from Bipolar Type II Disorder and was first diagnosed in 2005 , there ’ s a part of me that totally gets Kanye West , who reportedly also suffers from a version of this illness .
He too has been throwing himself a party , pretty much since he survived that car crash he rapped about on 2003 ’ s “ Through the Wire.
” And that party was also quite impressive—much more grand , gilded and glamorous than my little personal parade of cheap vodka and club soda with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as in life and Bipolar Disorder , what goes up—with mania—always comes down into depression if you aren ’ t regulated by mood stabilizers .
And parties turn into funerals .
I mourned the old manic me for years after I got “ stable.
” I thought she was the real me .
The one who talked a mile a minute .
Who felt like she was struck by lightning and touched by God .
Who thought her writing and creativity were fueled by this illness .
But ultimately , I gave Bipolar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enough .
I didn ’ t see , nor did I acknowledge the damage it did in its wake—to me , to my relationships , to the people I loved .
And , believe me , Kanye doesn ’ t see it either .
He ’ s too busy having “ fun ” at his party , after party , parade and funeral where , as he once rapped , may our only “ pain ” be champagne .
I hate to break it to everyone , but as actual psychiatrist and Married @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Walker posted to Twitter , “ this is what Bipolar Disorder can look like ” if it goes untreated for large swaths of time .
This is what it is .
The delusions .
The victimization .
The persecution complexes .
The unusual , nonlinear thoughts .
The only difference is when someone typically exhibits these traits and goes untreated for the long-term they lose everything—if they ever had anything in the first place .
It ’ s not rare to see someone afflicted with this illness ranting on the streets of any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , screaming to anyone who will listen about their “ genius.
” The difference with Kanye is he ’ s rich and surrounded by enablers who need him to stay rich if they are to survive .
There is no real incentive to break ties ; to demand that he get better or lose them from his lives .
There are no real consequences—not ones obvious to him , anyway—for his behavior .
Sure , people hate it .
People complain about it .
People shake their heads and mutter under their breath @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but they don ’ t look away and they still drop hundreds of dollars on some Yeezys slides while rocking out to his gospel albums .
We ’ re sending the man mixed messages , screaming “ You ’ re sick in the head , get help !
” while wearing some of the fugliest hospital/prison shoes ever to be designed .
When I was very young , my parents did me a favor that didn ’ t feel like one at the time .
They told me to “ knock it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about how bugs were crawling all over me , a sensory hallucination brought on by stress that I did not understand at age 5 .
Sure , in the beginning , they were coddling and concerned , looking for the bugs , reassuring me that there were none there while I cried and cried , inconsolable and unable to process what was happening to me .
But over time they just got sick of it and told me it wasn ’ t real and there was nothing there .
They stopped coddling me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to cope on my own .
Was that the best approach ?
Probably not , in some respects ; but this was the 1980s and back then people didn ’ t rush their kids to therapists or put them on medication just because they freaked out a lot .
It was understood that I was a kid and would probably outgrow it .
And I did .
Sort of .
It was more like I learned how to turn the volume down on my formication .
But the idea was planted in my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my emotions lie to me .
Sometimes the things that afflict me simply are not real , no matter how real or scary they feel , and I would need to learn how to cope if I were to be a productive member of society .
But Kanye , in his 20s , became rich and famous beyond his dreams just as Bipolar started to manifest in his life , seemingly confirming every belief he ever uttered about himself , no matter how nonsensical .
He was a genius .
He was the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a visionary .
He was also a very , very sick man , but that didn ’ t matter .
There was a party to be had and he , quite desperately , wanted to have it .
I don ’ t pretend to know Kanye ’ s home life , how his mother raised him or what things are like between him and his wife , reality TV star Kim Kardashian West .
He tweeted that she tried to get him placed on an emergency 51-50 hold and in paranoid , classic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fashion , he tweeted about things that were nobody ’ s business but him and his wife .
As someone who has tried to help other Black men who have struggled with this disease , that was a familiar sting .
Still , I ’ m not going to begin to unpack what had to be some pretty hurtful rantings—but I also can ’ t find the muster to feel sorry for anyone .
The only difference between the Kanye who said “ George Bush doesn ’ t care about Black people ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hat is the reality that Kanye is only as politically astute as whoever he ’ s enamored with at the moment .
At this moment , it ’ s Candace Owens .
Before , it was his mother , Donda , or Chicago rapper Rhymefest .
Or Jay- Z.
It ’ s not that he doesn ’ t have his own “ ideas.
” But he ’ s bragged about his disinterest in reading and put out a whole album of the futility of higher learning well before he completely lost the plot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He ’ s an intellectual nihilist .
And an emotional black hole .
I want to believe that one day , like me , he ’ ll stop having this party .
My party finally stopped , completely , when coronavirus hit , slamming me with a clarity I hadn ’ t had in decades of drinking and numbing my senses , self-medicating my moods via alcohol .
But even before the coronavirus , at my party , the music was off , the lights were turning on and people were looking for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , even though I had to lose some to get to it .
Kanye ’ s going to have to lose something , but I don ’ t know if or when that will happen .
Because Kanye West , Inc. is too big to fail right now .
His harmful rants about Harriet Tubman and being an alleged “ free thinker ” while spouting man-shouting-at-moon talking points aren ’ t the best look for those who look up to him , follow him and admire him .
It ’ s an unnecessary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s also too important to fail .
So , maybe we just shouldn ’ t look .
You don ’ t have to go to Kanye ’ s party .
You don ’ t have to buy his shoes .
You don ’ t have to listen to his music .
You don ’ t have to engage .
After all , you don ’ t bother with the poor person on the corner screaming about the government tapping their phone or putting chips in their head .
You avoid them .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ one day they find clarity and get help .
But mostly they ’ re just invisible to you , another part of the city cacophony along with the police sirens and dump trucks .
You wouldn ’ t go to this person ’ s party .
You definitely wouldn ’ t have enjoyed my pity parade .
Why indulge Kanye ’ s spectacle ?
That ’ s all it is , after all .
And if you wouldn ’ t gawk at the local moon ranter , you shouldn ’ t entertain this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help he needs , and I wish him well .
But the lights are on , and for me , this party is over .

I once threw a party for myself that lasted 10 years.
I want to say it was a celebration, or at least that’s how it started out. I wanted to celebrate life after so many years of being held back and held down by my illness, so I started going out and drinking almost every night around 2010. But in reality, I had traded one extreme for the other, and that “celebration” morphed into pity. But the pity party I had for 10 years? It was a rager.
Every day was like a parade, and just like after a parade there was clean up, but I didn’t sweep up the ribbons and streamers, I didn’t throw away the food waste and confetti. I ignored the horse manure, or where the band had trampled on my flowers. I let the debris pile up until I was having that party in a garbage heap of emotion that I was uninterested and unwilling to deal with because I wanted to “feel good” in the moment and not build towards a healthier tomorrow.
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As someone who suffers from Bipolar Type II Disorder and was first diagnosed in 2005, there’s a part of me that totally gets Kanye West, who reportedly also suffers from a version of this illness. He too has been throwing himself a party, pretty much since he survived that car crash he rapped about on 2003’s “Through the Wire.” And that party was also quite impressive—much more grand, gilded and glamorous than my little personal parade of cheap vodka and club soda with lime. It was impressive. But as in life and Bipolar Disorder, what goes up—with mania—always comes down into depression if you aren’t regulated by mood stabilizers. And parties turn into funerals.
I mourned the old manic me for years after I got “stable.” I thought she was the real me. The one who talked a mile a minute. Who felt like she was struck by lightning and touched by God. Who thought her writing and creativity were fueled by this illness. But ultimately, I gave Bipolar too much credit and me, not enough. I didn’t see, nor did I acknowledge the damage it did in its wake—to me, to my relationships, to the people I loved. And, believe me, Kanye doesn’t see it either. He’s too busy having “fun” at his party, after party, parade and funeral where, as he once rapped, may our only “pain” be champagne.
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I hate to break it to everyone, but an actual psychiatrist and Married to Medicine LA cast member Dr. Imani Walker posted to Twitter, “this is what Bipolar Disorder can look like” if it goes untreated for large swaths of time. This is what it is. The delusions. The victimization. The persecution complexes. The unusual, nonlinear thoughts. The only difference is when someone typically exhibits these traits and goes untreated for the long-term they lose everything—if they ever had anything in the first place. It’s not rare to see someone afflicted with this illness ranting on the streets of any American city, battling homelessness and loneliness, screaming to anyone who will listen about their “genius.” The difference with Kanye is he’s rich and surrounded by enablers who need him to stay rich if they are to survive. There is no real incentive to break ties; to demand that he get better or lose them from his lives. There are no real consequences—not ones obvious to him, anyway—for his behavior.
Sure, people hate it. People complain about it. People shake their heads and mutter under their breath, people rage on Twitter at him, but they don’t look away and they still drop hundreds of dollars on some Yeezys slides while rocking out to his gospel albums. We’re sending the man mixed messages, screaming “You’re sick in the head, get help!” while wearing some of the fugliest hospital/prison shoes ever to be designed.
Advertisement
When I was very young, my parents did me a favor that didn’t feel like one at the time. They told me to “knock it off” when I screamed and cried about how bugs were crawling all over me, a sensory hallucination brought on by stress that I did not understand at age 5. Sure, in the beginning, they were coddling and concerned, looking for the bugs, reassuring me that there were none there while I cried and cried, inconsolable and unable to process what was happening to me. But over time they just got sick of it and told me it wasn’t real and there was nothing there. They stopped coddling me completely and let me figure out how to cope on my own. Was that the best approach? Probably not, in some respects; but this was the 1980s and back then people didn’t rush their kids to therapists or put them on medication just because they freaked out a lot. It was understood that I was a kid and would probably outgrow it. And I did. Sort of. It was more like I learned how to turn the volume down on my formication. But the idea was planted in my head from an early age that sometimes my emotions lie to me. Sometimes the things that afflict me simply are not real, no matter how real or scary they feel, and I would need to learn how to cope if I were to be a productive member of society.
But Kanye, in his 20s, became rich and famous beyond his dreams just as Bipolar started to manifest in his life, seemingly confirming every belief he ever uttered about himself, no matter how nonsensical. He was a genius. He was the greatest “since Michael.” He was a visionary.
Advertisement
He was also a very, very sick man, but that didn’t matter. There was a party to be had and he, quite desperately, wanted to have it.
I don’t pretend to know Kanye’s home life, how his mother raised him or what things are like between him and his wife, reality TV star Kim Kardashian West. He tweeted that she tried to get him placed on an emergency 51-50 hold and in paranoid, classic “everyone is against me” Bipolar fashion, he tweeted about things that were nobody’s business but him and his wife. As someone who has tried to help other Black men who have struggled with this disease, that was a familiar sting.
Advertisement
Still, I’m not going to begin to unpack what had to be some pretty hurtful rantings—but I also can’t find the muster to feel sorry for anyone. The only difference between the Kanye who said “George Bush doesn’t care about Black people” and the one who wore a MAGA hat is the reality that Kanye is only as politically astute as whoever he’s enamored with at the moment. At this moment, it’s Candace Owens. Before, it was his mother, Donda, or Chicago rapper Rhymefest. Or Jay-Z. It’s not that he doesn’t have his own “ideas.” But he’s bragged about his disinterest in reading and put out a whole album of the futility of higher learning well before he completely lost the plot. He’s beyond anti-intellectualism. He’s an intellectual nihilist. And an emotional black hole.
I want to believe that one day, like me, he’ll stop having this party. My party finally stopped, completely, when coronavirus hit, slamming me with a clarity I hadn’t had in decades of drinking and numbing my senses, self-medicating my moods via alcohol. But even before the coronavirus, at my party, the music was off, the lights were turning on and people were looking for the exits. I had found stability, even though I had to lose some to get to it.
Advertisement
Kanye’s going to have to lose something, but I don’t know if or when that will happen. Because Kanye West, Inc. is too big to fail right now. His harmful rants about Harriet Tubman and being an alleged “free thinker” while spouting man-shouting-at-moon talking points aren’t the best look for those who look up to him, follow him and admire him. It’s an unnecessary distraction in a 2020 political race that’s also too important to fail. So, maybe we just shouldn’t look. You don’t have to go to Kanye’s party. You don’t have to buy his shoes. You don’t have to listen to his music. You don’t have to engage. After all, you don’t bother with the poor person on the corner screaming about the government tapping their phone or putting chips in their head. You avoid them. You pray for them. You hope one day they find clarity and get help. But mostly they’re just invisible to you, another part of the city cacophony along with the police sirens and dump trucks.
You wouldn’t go to this person’s party. You definitely wouldn’t have enjoyed my pity parade. Why indulge Kanye’s spectacle? That’s all it is, after all. And if you wouldn’t gawk at the local moon ranter, you shouldn’t entertain this man.
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I hope he gets the help he needs, and I wish him well. But the lights are on, and for me, this party is over.


theroot--2020-07-24--Cop Suspended For Terrible Freestyle Rap. No One Seems to Notice the White Supremacist Lyrics

A police officer protecting and serving the suburbs of one of America ’ s blackest cities was demoted and given an extended weekend break after posting a mumblerap freestyle to social media that could only be appreciated by people whose top five emcees are Post Malone , Iggy Azalea , Dylan , Dylan and Dylan ( he does spit hot fiya , though ) .
According to AL.com , Homewood , Ala. police corporal Jon Newland uploaded a 55-second freestyle to his now-deactivated Instagram account .
In an apparent attempt to open for Donald Trump at his next campaign rally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ getting Wiggy with it ” on May 16 , nine days before Minnesota police officer Derek Chauvin responded with a video of what thug life really looks like .
The video featured the officer flowing over a beat that sounds like the music playing in the background of every movie when the idealistic white teacher pulls up to the home of the promising but troubled black student .
The Associated Press press reports that Homewood police officer Jon Newland received a three-day suspension and was demoted from corporal to officer , news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ moved from the department ’ s training division back to patrol .
In the video posted on Newland ’ s Instagram page , which has since been deactivated , the officer rapped , “ I wear black and blue , professional gunslinger , rap singer too.
” At the end of the 55-second video , Newland sang “ my ways are a blaze of mysterious smoke , around your neck I flex this choke.
” Wait… I think I missed the important part of the AP article .
Let me check .
Ok @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You know the Associated Press is very conservative .
Maybe they deleted the racist lyrics from their article because the words were too racist .
Or maybe the Hitler family made a copyright claim because MC White Thought ’ s freestyle was chock-full of references to Odinism , a neo-pagan ideology that has been co-opted by white supremacists around the world according to The Atlantic , Time and the Southern Poverty Law Center .
The cult-like , semi-religious Heathenry is based on the tenets of Nordic and Viking mythology and is popular among @ @ @ @ @ @ @ representation in the hip hop industry…Until now .
Here are the annotated lyrics to Newland ’ s hot 16 : No sympathy !
( born to kill ) No sympathy !
( that ’ s what I feel ) Thorough with this ( unintelligible ) wear black and blue Professional gunslinger , rap singer too .
O.G .
like Hel with a rebel yell , I prevail And sail like a Viking with stories I tell .
The halls of Valhalla , they do call Till the last arrow hits me to my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ burning eyes of an ancient God On top of a pyramid , looking hard Blood on my hands , to Orion I gaze Waiting for the sun rays to hit my face My ways are a blaze of mysterious smoke .
Around your neck I flex this choke .
• None is the Norse goddess who rules over the underworld .
• None in the Civil War , although , to me , it just sounds like the entire city of Tuscaloosa after Alabama wins a football game .
• None Not the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fricke “ White nationalism and Odinism–a modern iteration of Viking religion–progressively are becoming some of the few not-exclusively-Christian options for white male identity.
” • None Valhalla is a mythical place where dead heroes are invited to spend eternity at the invitation of Viking god Odin .
Basically it ’ s the Nordic Mar-a-Lago • None The arrow us a reference to , a beloved , Jesus-like Norse God and son of Odin who was supposedly killed with an arrow made of mistletoe .
Although Hel refused to let Baldur come back from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Baldur will one day rise again .
Many people believe Jesus was based on the myth of Baldur , which is why we at Christmas ( to make sure Baldur returns on • None was Hel ’ s brother , a giant wolf whose eyes were made of fire ( pagan racists ) .
He ’ s chained up somewhere but at Ragnarok , Balduer will rise from the dead and Fenrir will open his mouth and eat the sky ( seriously , they believe this ) , killing Odin ... Or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because he got some racism in his eye .
• None is the mother of Baldur .
Remember that Balder is the white supremacist messiah , so no jokes about these people being out of their “ frigging minds ” • None According to legend , Ragnarok will only happen after , a years -long winter that precedes Ragnarok .
No one will survive the apocalyptic Ragnarok battle , except one white man and one white woman , who were both hiding in a tree watching the battle of the Gods go down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of the tree and repopulate the earth with white people .
Newland also founded and runs Blue Line Combatives , a “ is a self defense system that offers programs for the everyday citizen as well as those who serve in our Military and Law Enforcement agencies , ” according to the company ’ s Facebook page .
The page describes Newland as “ an active law enforcement officer ” who “ serves in an active Hostage Rescue Team and has taught combatives to numerous police officers and civilians.
” Although Lil @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the company ’ s social media contains many memes and photo references to Nordic Mythology and paganism : Thankfully , the Homewood Police Department ’ s crack staff investigated Newland thoroughly and apparently concluded that sharing white supremacist rhetoric doesn ’ t prevent him from doing his job because KKKRS-One wasn ’ t on the clock when he was blowing his white nationalist dog whistles .
“ Our preliminary investigation has revealed that the officer was off duty when the video was posted and was not representing himself as a Homewood Police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the Homewood Police Department in a statement .
“ The lyrics in the video are not reflective of the Homewood Police Department ’ s policies , procedures , standards , training , or views , as articulated in our use of force policy , which is available at www.homewoodpd.org.
” Newland has not appealed his suspension but he is scheduled to go toe-to-toe with Jeff Sessions at the next Verzuz battle .

A police officer protecting and serving the suburbs of one of America’s blackest cities was demoted and given an extended weekend break after posting a mumblerap freestyle to social media that could only be appreciated by people whose top five emcees are Post Malone, Iggy Azalea, Dylan, Dylan and Dylan (he does spit hot fiya, though).
According to AL.com, Homewood, Ala. police corporal Jon Newland uploaded a 55-second freestyle to his now-deactivated Instagram account. In an apparent attempt to open for Donald Trump at his next campaign rally, Newland posted the clip of him “getting Wiggy with it” on May 16, nine days before Minnesota police officer Derek Chauvin responded with a video of what thug life really looks like. The video featured the officer flowing over a beat that sounds like the music playing in the background of every movie when the idealistic white teacher pulls up to the home of the promising but troubled black student.
Barz.
The Associated Press press reports that
Homewood police officer Jon Newland received a three-day suspension and was demoted from corporal to officer, news outlets reported Tuesday. Newland was also moved from the department’s training division back to patrol. In the video posted on Newland’s Instagram page, which has since been deactivated, the officer rapped, “I wear black and blue, professional gunslinger, rap singer too.” At the end of the 55-second video, Newland sang “my ways are a blaze of mysterious smoke, around your neck I flex this choke.”
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Wait… I think I missed the important part of the AP article. Let me check.
OK , there’s nothing there. You know the Associated Press is very conservative. Maybe they deleted the racist lyrics from their article because the words were too racist. Or maybe the Hitler family made a copyright claim because MC White Thought’s freestyle was chock-full of references to Odinism, a neo-pagan ideology that has been co-opted by white supremacists around the world according to The Atlantic, Time and the Southern Poverty Law Center. The cult-like, semi-religious Heathenry is based on the tenets of Nordic and Viking mythology and is popular among white men but they have very little representation in the hip hop industry…Until now.
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Here are the annotated lyrics to Newland’s hot 16:
No sympathy! (born to kill)
No sympathy! (that’s what I feel)
Thorough with this(unintelligible) wear black and blue
Professional gunslinger, rap singer too.
O.G. like Hel (1) with a rebel (2) yell, I prevail
And sail like a Viking (3) with stories I tell.
The halls of Valhalla (4) , they do call
Till the last arrow hits me (5), to my knees I fall
I rise like the burning eyes of an ancient God (6)
On top of a pyramid, looking hard
Blood on my hands, to Orion I gaze (7)
Waiting for the sun rays to hit my face
My ways are a blaze of mysterious smoke (8) .
Around your neck I flex this choke.
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Hel is the Norse goddess who rules over the underworld. The “Rebel Yell” is a supposedly terrifying battle cry used by Confederate soldiers in the Civil War, although, to me, it just sounds like the entire city of Tuscaloosa after Alabama wins a football game. Not the Vikings from Minnesota. Researcher Jeremy Michael Fricke writes that “White nationalism and Odinism–a modern iteration of Viking religion–progressively are becoming some of the few not-exclusively-Christian options for white male identity.” Valhalla is a mythical place where dead heroes are invited to spend eternity at the invitation of Viking god Odin. Basically it’s the Nordic Mar-a-Lago The arrow us a reference to Baldur , a beloved, Jesus-like Norse God and son of Odin who was supposedly killed with an arrow made of mistletoe. Although Hel refused to let Baldur come back from the dead, according to legend and Heathen religious teachers , Baldur will one day rise again. Many people believe Jesus was based on the myth of Baldur, which is why we kiss under the mistletoe at Christmas (to make sure Baldur returns on Ragnarok , the pagan “judgment day”).
In Norse mythology, Fenrir was Hel’s brother, a giant wolf whose eyes were made of fire (pagan racists love wolves ). He’s chained up somewhere but at Ragnarok, Balduer will rise from the dead and Fenrir will open his mouth and eat the sky (seriously, they believe this), killing Odin...Or maybe Newland’s retinas were burning because he got some racism in his eye. The Vikings called Orion’s belt “Frigg’s staff.” Frigg is the mother of Baldur. Remember that Balder is the white supremacist messiah, so no jokes about these people being out of their “frigging minds” According to legend, Ragnarok will only happen after Fimbulwinter , a years-long winter that precedes Ragnarok. No one will survive the apocalyptic Ragnarok battle, except one white man and one white woman , who were both hiding in a tree watching the battle of the Gods go down. Ken and Barbie will come down out of the tree and repopulate the earth with white people.
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This is literally a thing
Newland also founded and runs Blue Line Combatives, a “is a self defense system that offers programs for the everyday citizen as well as those who serve in our Military and Law Enforcement agencies,” according to the company’s Facebook page. The page describes Newland as “an active law enforcement officer” who “serves in an active Hostage Rescue Team and has taught combatives to numerous police officers and civilians.” Although Lil’ Racist Jon regularly works with children, the company’s social media contains many memes and photo references to Nordic Mythology and paganism:
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Thankfully, the Homewood Police Department’s crack staff investigated Newland thoroughly and apparently concluded that sharing white supremacist rhetoric doesn’t prevent him from doing his job because KKKRS-One wasn’t on the clock when he was blowing his white nationalist dog whistles.
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“Our preliminary investigation has revealed that the officer was off duty when the video was posted and was not representing himself as a Homewood Police officer in any official capacity,” said the Homewood Police Department in a statement. “The lyrics in the video are not reflective of the Homewood Police Department’s policies, procedures, standards, training, or views, as articulated in our use of force policy, which is available at www.homewoodpd.org.”
Newland has not appealed his suspension but he is scheduled to go toe-to-toe with Jeff Sessions at the next Verzuz battle.
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Kid Rock has 24 hours to respond.


theroot--2020-07-23--13 Sunscreens For Protecting Your Hair and Scalp

Sunblock for the hair and scalp can take many forms , which is great because it gives you the flexibility to choose a formula that ’ s right for you .
Like , the scalp sunscreen needs of a cool bald dude are different from the scalp sunscreen needs of someone who sports a hairstyle with a part , or parts—the cool bald dude will be better off with a spray SPF that he can use to quickly mist his entire dome , while the lady with the braids might find a solid sunblock is the easiest and least messy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her part .
So !
With that , here are 13 sunblocks for the hair and scalp .
And your ears !
Don ’ t forget to protect your ears !
If you ’ re a regular user of dry shampoo , kill two birds with one stone and get a dry shampoo with built-in sunscreen to protect your scalp from the sun .
Bonus !
These formulas can also help to prevent colored hair from fading and brassiness .
Spray-on sunscreens are super easy to apply , but they can weigh down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If you have thinner or more oily hair , look for a sunscreen mist—mists are lighter weight and won ’ t lay as heavily on your hair .
You probably don ’ t need a spray-on sunscreen for scalps—regular old spray-on sunscreen will work just as well on your head as on your arms—but they exist in this world and we ’ re here rounding up hair sunblocks , so !
Sunscreen sticks resemble gel-formula deodorants and are especially great for targeting parts or bald spots since they give you a lot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and stick-style scalp sunscreens ( try saying that five times fast ! )
there are some rather outré options out there that are worth checking out , from brush-on mineral sunscreen powders , to shampoos and conditioners with SPF built right in .

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

Sunblock for the hair and scalp can take many forms, which is great because it gives you the flexibility to choose a formula that’s right for you. Like, the scalp sunscreen needs of a cool bald dude are different from the scalp sunscreen needs of someone who sports a hairstyle with a part, or parts—the cool bald dude will be better off with a spray SPF that he can use to quickly mist his entire dome, while the lady with the braids might find a solid sunblock is the easiest and least messy way to protect the exposed skin of her part. So! With that, here are 13 sunblocks for the hair and scalp. And your ears! Don’t forget to protect your ears!
Dry Shampoos with SPF
If you’re a regular user of dry shampoo, kill two birds with one stone and get a dry shampoo with built-in sunscreen to protect your scalp from the sun. Bonus! These formulas can also help to prevent colored hair from fading and brassiness.
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Healium Hair Dry Shampoo
Supergoop Poof Part Powder SPF 45
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Lightweight Sunscreen Mists
Spray-on sunscreens are super easy to apply, but they can weigh down hair or give it a greasy appearance. If you have thinner or more oily hair, look for a sunscreen mist—mists are lighter weight and won’t lay as heavily on your hair.
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Coola Organic Scalp & Hair Sunscreen Mist SPF 30
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Mist Sunscreen Spray SPF 55
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Spray-on Sunscreens for Scalps
You probably don’t need a spray-on sunscreen for scalps—regular old spray-on sunscreen will work just as well on your head as on your arms—but they exist in this world and we’re here rounding up hair sunblocks, so!
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Banana Boat Hair & Scalp Defense Sunscreen Spray SPF 30
Banana Boat Sport Quik Dri Scalp Spray Sunscreen SPF 30
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Sunscreen Sticks
Sunscreen sticks resemble gel-formula deodorants and are especially great for targeting parts or bald spots since they give you a lot of control.
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Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Non-Greasy Sunscreen Stick for Face & Body SPF 70
Ocean Potion Suncare Dab-On Sport Stick SPF 50
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Wild Cards
In addition to spray-on and stick-style scalp sunscreens (try saying that five times fast!) there are some rather outré options out there that are worth checking out, from brush-on mineral sunscreen powders, to shampoos and conditioners with SPF built right in.
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Bee Bald Smooth Plus Daily Moisturizer With SPF 30 Sunscreen
Cremo Clear Sunscreen for Face, Hairline & Scalp SPF 30
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Brush On Block Mineral Sunscreen Powder SPF 30
Waxhead Sun Defense Body Wash + Shampoo with Zinc Oxide
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Quintessence Q-Sunshade Leave In Hair Conditioner and Scalp Protectant SPF 30


theroot--2020-07-23--Black Reddit Moderators Discuss the Platform's History of Racism and Its New Policy Change Targeting

Black Reddit Moderators Discuss the Platform's History of Racism and Its New Policy Change Targeting Hate Speech

Any Black person who has been on Reddit for any reason knows that the platform exists as the digital capital of the internet for the white , racist and fragile .
On June 29 , Reddit responded to pressure by hundreds of users and moderators on the site to do something about the virtual Klan rally happening on its platform regularly by releasing a new content policy addressing racism and hate speech .
Recently , a number of subreddit admins came out to speak on their experiences with racism on the site and express their cautious optimism that this time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a difference .
In a series of interviews with Insider , subreddit moderators recalled how they started subreddits to provide spaces for Black people to discuss issues , joke around and share memes free of the white Reddit users who spew racism , harass members of color and cause posts by Black users to be “ downvoted into oblivion.
” They all soon found that the Black spaces they created weren ’ t so safe after all , as white racists often infiltrated the subreddits and continued their onslaught of racial harassment .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in 2012 , she was simply looking to “ pursue memes.
” But the now 30-year-old health inspector , who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of safety and privacy concerns , quickly learned that as a Black woman , her experience on Reddit would not be as simple as posting and browsing entertaining content .
“ You start to see that the site is super racist , ” she told Insider .
“ Like , you just can ’ t be openly Black in a lot of spaces on Reddit.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Martina X , had a similar experience when she began posting on the platform .
“ On Reddit , when you ’ re supposed to be anonymous , that emboldens people to be awful — even worse than they would be in public , ” she told Insider .
“ Online , they reveal their true selves.
” In an attempt to find solidarity on the platform , TheYellowRose joined the subreddit r/blackgirls , a space that describes itself as “ a safe community ” for Black women .
But the reality of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not meet that description .
“ We were constantly getting trolled by racists , ” she said .
“ We would post pictures about looking cute , like our hair and stuff , and then people would come and tell us that we are hideous , that we look like monkeys.
” These experiences by Black Reddit users are not unique .
In 2015 , The Southern Poverty Law Center classified Reddit as a source of “ the most violently racist internet content.
” Last year , the platform made a change to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ban “ content that threatens , harasses , or bullies.
” But that apparently didn ’ t do much to stop the constant bigotry aimed at Black people and other marginalized communities .
Reddit didn ’ t finally come to glory on the fact that its platform brings all the Neo-nazis to the yard until after the death of George Floyd caused the biggest Black Lives Matter movement the world has ever seen .
The company decided to take the opportunity to show solidarity with the movement—a move many considered to be a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 , Reddit CEO Huffman penned a blog post for Reddit employees voicing his support for the Black Lives Matter movement — a move that some moderators saw as hypocritical and insufficient given the platform ’ s history .
In response , the Redditor DubTeeDub , a moderator of the r/AgainstHateSubreddits forum , drafted an open letter to Huffman demanding that the platform act on its stated support for Black lives .
The letter called on leadership to implement a sitewide policy against racism and hate speech , ban “ hate communities ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ women and minorities in leadership roles , recruit more community managers to “ to build positive relations ” with moderators , and honor Reddit cofounder Alexis Ohanian ’ s wish to have his board seat filled by a Black candidate .
Then , voilà—by the end of June , Reddit announces its new policy addressing racism and hate speech directly resulting in some 2,000 racist subreddits being banned from the site .
Now , you can imagine plenty of people are like , “ Nah , this is just more posturing and useless @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expressed a degree of optimism .
TheYellowRose—who , also co-founded the r/blackladies subreddit which describes itself as “ the face of Black women on Reddit ” and has become one of the most popular Black spaces on the platform with nearly 50,000 member—told Insider that , despite her issue with the “ vulnerable groups ” language in the new policy that she fears will allow for loopholes , she ’ s “ optimistic ” that , this time , the policy change will yield results for Black people who just want a space @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kelley—who joined the r/BlackPeopleTwitter subreddit which is dedicated to posting “ hilarious or insightful content ” —said he was told by a Reddit admin that he would be allowed to reclaim and moderate the r/BlackFathers subreddit which was recently banned after it became a space where the racist “ absent Black father ” narrative was constantly promoted by other Redditers .
He also expressed optimism about the future of Reddit for Black users .
“ I ’ m really looking forward to the opportunity of being able to actually take this space , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a unique position to be in—so there ’ s a lot of positive movement there .
”

Any Black person who has been on Reddit for any reason knows that the platform exists as the digital capital of the internet for the white, racist and fragile. On June 29, Reddit responded to pressure by hundreds of users and moderators on the site to do something about the virtual Klan rally happening on its platform regularly by releasing a new content policy addressing racism and hate speech. Recently, a number of subreddit admins came out to speak on their experiences with racism on the site and express their cautious optimism that this time Reddit’s policy change might make a difference.
In a series of interviews with Insider, subreddit moderators recalled how they started subreddits to provide spaces for Black people to discuss issues, joke around and share memes free of the white Reddit users who spew racism, harass members of color and cause posts by Black users to be “downvoted into oblivion.” They all soon found that the Black spaces they created weren’t so safe after all, as white racists often infiltrated the subreddits and continued their onslaught of racial harassment.
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From Insider:
When Reddit user TheYellowRose joined the platform in 2012, she was simply looking to “pursue memes.” But the now 30-year-old health inspector, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of safety and privacy concerns, quickly learned that as a Black woman, her experience on Reddit would not be as simple as posting and browsing entertaining content. “You start to see that the site is super racist,” she told Insider. “Like, you just can’t be openly Black in a lot of spaces on Reddit.” Redditor Fried_Green_Potatoes, who publicly goes by Martina X, had a similar experience when she began posting on the platform. “On Reddit, when you’re supposed to be anonymous, that emboldens people to be awful — even worse than they would be in public,” she told Insider. “Online, they reveal their true selves.”
In an attempt to find solidarity on the platform, TheYellowRose joined the subreddit r/blackgirls, a space that describes itself as “a safe community” for Black women. But the reality of the subreddit, she said, did not meet that description. “We were constantly getting trolled by racists,” she said. “We would post pictures about looking cute, like our hair and stuff, and then people would come and tell us that we are hideous, that we look like monkeys.”
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These experiences by Black Reddit users are not unique. In 2015, The Southern Poverty Law Center classified Reddit as a source of “the most violently racist internet content.”
Last year, the platform made a change to its content policy that was purported to ban “content that threatens, harasses, or bullies.” But that apparently didn’t do much to stop the constant bigotry aimed at Black people and other marginalized communities.
Advertisement
Reddit didn’t finally come to glory on the fact that its platform brings all the Neo-nazis to the yard until after the death of George Floyd caused the biggest Black Lives Matter movement the world has ever seen. The company decided to take the opportunity to show solidarity with the movement—a move many considered to be a hollow, opportunistic gesture.
From Insider:
On June 1, Reddit CEO Huffman penned a blog post for Reddit employees voicing his support for the Black Lives Matter movement — a move that some moderators saw as hypocritical and insufficient given the platform’s history. In response, the Redditor DubTeeDub, a moderator of the r/AgainstHateSubreddits forum, drafted an open letter to Huffman demanding that the platform act on its stated support for Black lives. The letter called on leadership to implement a sitewide policy against racism and hate speech, ban “hate communities” and “hate users,” hire women and minorities in leadership roles, recruit more community managers to “to build positive relations” with moderators, and honor Reddit cofounder Alexis Ohanian’s wish to have his board seat filled by a Black candidate. Over 800 subreddits signed the letter.
Then, voilà—by the end of June, Reddit announces its new policy addressing racism and hate speech directly resulting in some 2,000 racist subreddits being banned from the site.
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Now, you can imagine plenty of people are like, “Nah, this is just more posturing and useless policymaking,” but some moderators of expressed a degree of optimism.
TheYellowRose—who, also co-founded the r/blackladies subreddit which describes itself as “the face of Black women on Reddit” and has become one of the most popular Black spaces on the platform with nearly 50,000 member—told Insider that, despite her issue with the “vulnerable groups” language in the new policy that she fears will allow for loopholes, she’s “optimistic” that, this time, the policy change will yield results for Black people who just want a space for themselves.
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Redditor and podcaster Jefferson Kelley—who joined the r/BlackPeopleTwitter subreddit which is dedicated to posting “hilarious or insightful content”—said he was told by a Reddit admin that he would be allowed to reclaim and moderate the r/BlackFathers subreddit which was recently banned after it became a space where the racist “absent Black father” narrative was constantly promoted by other Redditers.
He also expressed optimism about the future of Reddit for Black users.
“I’m really looking forward to the opportunity of being able to actually take this space,” he said. “This is a unique position to be in—so there’s a lot of positive movement there.”


theroot--2020-07-23--Black Lives Matter Organizer in Florida Facing Felony Charges for Snatching Flags at Pro-Trump Event

A Black Lives Matter organizer in Florida is facing felony charges for allegedly stealing flags from a car during a Pro-Trump caravan .
According to Insider , Jonathan Gartrelle was attending a protest last Saturday in Miami when a “ Cubans for Trump , ” caravan passed through .
An officer claims to have seen Gartrelle “ removing flags fixed to passing vehicles , damaging them and discarding them in the roadway.
” The officer also alleges that Gartelle was in the street , preventing traffic from passing through .
An officer attempted to arrest Gartrelle but he managed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by removing articles of clothing .
Gartrelle has been charged with strong-arm robbery and escape , both felonies , as well as resisting an officer , obstructing a public street , and criminal mischief .
A witness , who was in the passenger seat of a white car during the caravan , identified Gartrelle to the police .
They alleged that he had ripped a flag from their hand while they waved it out the passenger window .
Gartrelle downplayed the allegations , telling the Miami Herald that he took a couple Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them to the ground but did not steal them .
“ Their goal is to have me in jail for two weeks , get beaten up by some officers , and distract from the movement , ” Gartrelle told the Herald .
During the protest , Gartrelle says that he was struck by one of the cars participating in the caravan .
According to police , after disclosing what had happened , Gartrelle initially declined to press charges .
However , the following day , Gartrelle posted a flyer on Facebook organizing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an effort to launch an investigation into the driver who struck him .
A petition has been launched as well , which says Gartrelle began snatching the flags as a result of being upset over the alleged hit-and-run .
Gartrelle was arrested on Monday after police officers identified him through videos on his Instagram page .
He was released on bond on Tuesday .

A Black Lives Matter organizer in Florida is facing felony charges for allegedly stealing flags from a car during a Pro-Trump caravan.
According to Insider, Jonathan Gartrelle was attending a protest last Saturday in Miami when a “Cubans for Trump,” caravan passed through. An officer claims to have seen Gartrelle “removing flags fixed to passing vehicles, damaging them and discarding them in the roadway.” The officer also alleges that Gartelle was in the street, preventing traffic from passing through.
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An officer attempted to arrest Gartrelle but he managed to escape and successfully hide among the protesters by removing articles of clothing. Gartrelle has been charged with strong-arm robbery and escape, both felonies, as well as resisting an officer, obstructing a public street, and criminal mischief.
A witness, who was in the passenger seat of a white car during the caravan, identified Gartrelle to the police. They alleged that he had ripped a flag from their hand while they waved it out the passenger window. Gartrelle downplayed the allegations, telling the Miami Herald that he took a couple Trump flags from some parked cars and threw them to the ground but did not steal them.
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“Their goal is to have me in jail for two weeks, get beaten up by some officers, and distract from the movement,” Gartrelle told the Herald.
During the protest, Gartrelle says that he was struck by one of the cars participating in the caravan. According to police, after disclosing what had happened, Gartrelle initially declined to press charges. However, the following day, Gartrelle posted a flyer on Facebook organizing a rally at the Miami Police Department in an effort to launch an investigation into the driver who struck him. A petition has been launched as well, which says Gartrelle began snatching the flags as a result of being upset over the alleged hit-and-run.
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Gartrelle was arrested on Monday after police officers identified him through videos on his Instagram page. He was released on bond on Tuesday.


theroot--2020-07-23--Popeyes Signature Sauces, Ranked

Popeyes Signature Sauces, Ranked

I ’ m Black .
I love Popeyes .
My Black love for Popeyes is further proven by the fact that I want to put an apostrophe in Popeyes ( ya know , like Popeye ’ s ) so badly and I keep having to erase it .
Every .
Single .
Time .
Apostrophes were unnecessary ?
That ’ s Black l ove .
Anyway , I love Popeye ’ s—fuck it , the apostrophe stays —and especially their tenders .
And if you order tenders you are probably going to ask for some sauce ( s ) .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ other things ?
I hate when I order Popeye ’ s tenders—now I ’ m just being gratuitous —on , like DoorDash , and they forget my dipping sauces .
Whew , chile .
Anyway , Popeyes—God ain ’ t done with me yet—has , according to its website , six signature sauces and two seafood sauces .
Well , I like all of their sauces , including the seafood sauces .
But everyone can ’ t be the best .
There can only be one ... No .
1 .
So let @ @ @ @ @ @

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

I’m Black. I love Popeyes. My Black love for Popeyes is further proven by the fact that I want to put an apostrophe in Popeyes (ya know, like Popeye’s) so badly and I keep having to erase it. Every. Single. Time. Apostrophes were unnecessary? That’s Black l ove.
Anyway, I love Popeye’s—fuck it, the apostrophe stays —and especially their tenders. And if you order tenders you are probably going to ask for some sauce(s). You know what I hate more than other things? I hate when I order Popeye’ s tenders—now I’m just being gratuitous —on, like DoorDash, and they forget my dipping sauces. Whew, chile. Anyway, Popeyes—God ain’t done with me yet—has, according to its website, six signature sauces and two seafood sauces.
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Well, I like all of their sauces, including the seafood sauces. But everyone can’t be the best. There can only be one...No. 1 . So let’s rank their sauces.
1. Barbecue
2. Bayou Buffalo
3. Sweet Heat
4. Blackened Ranch
5. Cocktail
6. Tarter
7. Buttermilk Ranch
8. Mardi Gras Mustard
Fight me, bro.


theroot--2020-07-23--Pour Yourself a Glass of Something Strong for These Can't-Miss Huckberry Deals

The best Huckberry deals of July 2020 are here .
Huckberry has a few key sale items that are especially worth checking out right now , particularly the Flint and Tinder oxford shirts ( up to $ 36 off each ) and the roomy Mystery Ranch Mission Rover bag , which is earning rave reviews from buyers and is currently $ 55 off .
Keep scrolling to find our picks of other hot deals from Huckberry ’ s current selection , including coats , shorts , shoes , towels , and more .
And note that Huckberry has free shipping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with free returns .
Whether you prefer garment-dyed or soft-washed , these American-made Flint and Tinder oxford button-down shirts are versatile options for your wardrobe .
Huckberry has several colors available for both , with garment-dyed shirts ranging from $ 82-89 ( usually $ 118 ) and soft-washed shirts from $ 79-85 ( usually $ 108 ) .
Click through to see the full selection .
• None Buy it now for $ 79-89 Right now , you can save $ 55 on this roomy Mystery Ranch Mission Rover bag , which has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ carry-on requirements and can be carried as a suitcase or worn as a backpack or shoulder bag .
Huckberry customers have raved over this bag , with one reviewer writing , “ It is versatile , durable , and spacious .
Couldn ’ t recommend more ” after multiple trips .
A Foliage color option is currently $ 20 more expensive , while the sleek Galaxy style is still full-priced as of this writing .
• None Buy it now for $ 130 Finding a functional , yet fashionable outdoor work coat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chore thanks to Flint and Tinder .
The brand ’ s Chore coat is a roomy number made from a durable Italian-made fabric that Huckberry bills as “ tough as nails but comfortable as your most well-worn pair of work boots.
” Huckberry has this coat in Olive , Sagebrush , and Washed Navy colors , and no matter which you choose you ’ ll save $ 33 off the list price .
• None Buy it now for $ 125 Grab some great swim trunks from Huckberry right now , with Flint @ @ @ @ @ @ @ marked down $ 18 from the list price .
These trunks have been improved from last year ’ s edition thanks to additional spandex for comfort and fit , yet have the same lightweight and breathable feel as before .
They ’ re available in Navy , Jungle Green , Fog , and Red .
• None Buy it now for $ 40 These slip-on loafers are built from soft leather and have been handmade in Northern Italy by the same family for six generations now .
According to Huckberry , they ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and represent the best value on the market.
” They ’ re marked down $ 58 off the list right now , so that last part is especially true .
• None Buy it now for $ 107 Whether intended for cool summer nights or the autumn ahead , Grayers ’ Paragon quilted featherweight jacket is a thin and lightweight way to retain heat .
This nylon zip jacket is built to resist the wind without bulking you up , and right now it ’ s down $ 58 from the list @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for $ 70 Plan ahead with the Topo Designs Mountain Jacket , which is marked down more than 50 % from the original $ 349 price point .
This heavy duty coat is perfect for those bitter winter days and built to resist cold and snow alike , thanks to 200g of PrimaLoft Black Eco insulation made from recycled plastic bottles .
• None Buy it now for $ 157 Wellen ’ s Playa stretch chinos pair comfort with a classic chino silhouette , cut from a slubby cotton with subtle detailing and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 35 off the list price right now , whether you opt for cobalt or khaki , while the slate color ( shown ) is now only $ 18 off as of this writing .
• None Buy it now for $ 53 Save $ 67 right now on this sleek and stylish Proof Elements jacket , which looks like the perfect option for cool summer nights and then autumn beyond .
The ThermoTech fabric warms up as you wear it , keeping you comfortable despite the thin build .
• None Buy it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Proof merino-blend travel shirt , which is currently marked down from $ 128 in this black and white check pattern .
It ’ s made from merino wool and polyester and is claimed to be “ temperature-regulating , moisture-wicking , and super breathable.
” • None Buy it now for $ 51 Whether you need something warm for wandering your local surroundings or just want a cozy hoodie to social distance in , the Wellen Waffle Raglan Pullover looks to fit the bill .
The waffle weave design keeps it feeling soft @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hands during spring strolls , plus it ’ s $ 22 off the normal price right now .
• None Buy it now for $ 66 Well-worn towels might still do the job , but if you ’ re keen on adding some “ insanely soft ” towels to your home , then Huckberry can help .
The Nutrl Classic Bath Set promises just that , although only the white towels are still available as of this writing .
They ’ re discounted from $ 110 right now .
• None Buy it @ @ @ @

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

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


theroot--2020-07-23--Black Lives Matter Mural Vandalized in Portland as Tension Between Protesters and Federal Agents Ris

Black Lives Matter Mural Vandalized in Portland as Tension Between Protesters and Federal Agents Rise

White people really don ’ t like being confronted with the realities of systemic racism .
If they ’ re not spending their time spamming The Root ’ s comments section with all kinds of inventive headassery , they ’ re going out into the world and committing acts of vandalism to further prove that “ All Lives Matter.
” Fox 12 reports that a Black Lives Mural in Portland , Ore. , has been vandalized .
The mural spans a whole city block and within each letter is a story about the history of systemic racism in Portland , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2018 .
Lead artist on the project , Nick Lloyd , went for a walk on Sunday only to find that some had painted out the words “ Neo-Nazi ” and the name of a person killed by the group .
“ This isn ’ t history , this is people ’ s lives .
I think that there ’ s a way for this vandalism to make this piece that does something that ’ s more inclusive , that ’ s more vibrant and more about all of us.
” Lloyd told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supplies needed to fix the mural but has encouraged people to donate to the Urban League of Portland if they wish to help .
He is also looking to speak with people on their experiences with systemic racism so he can share their stories on the mural .
In recent weeks , Portland has been in the national spotlight as federal agents have been deployed to crack down on the ongoing protests against police brutality and systemic racism .
On Wednesday night , the mayor of Portland was speaking with protesters about the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was tear-gassed .

White people really don’t like being confronted with the realities of systemic racism. If they’re not spending their time spamming The Root’s comments section with all kinds of inventive headassery, they’re going out into the world and committing acts of vandalism to further prove that “All Lives Matter.”
Fox 12 reports that a Black Lives Mural in Portland, Ore., has been vandalized. The mural spans a whole city block and within each letter is a story about the history of systemic racism in Portland, with the stories ranging from 1802 to 2018. Lead artist on the project, Nick Lloyd, went for a walk on Sunday only to find that some had painted out the words “Neo-Nazi” and the name of a person killed by the group.
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“This isn’t history, this is people’s lives. I think that there’s a way for this vandalism to make this piece that does something that’s more inclusive, that’s more vibrant and more about all of us.” Lloyd told Fox 12. Lloyd has purchased the supplies needed to fix the mural but has encouraged people to donate to the Urban League of Portland if they wish to help. He is also looking to speak with people on their experiences with systemic racism so he can share their stories on the mural.
In recent weeks, Portland has been in the national spotlight as federal agents have been deployed to crack down on the ongoing protests against police brutality and systemic racism. On Wednesday night, the mayor of Portland was speaking with protesters about the presence of the Federal agents when he was tear-gassed.


theroot--2020-07-23--Democratic Congresswomen Deliver Powerful Remarks in Response to Sexist, Abusive Comments Targeting

Democratic Congresswomen Deliver Powerful Remarks in Response to Sexist, Abusive Comments Targeting Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

Congresswomen Barbara Lee ( D-Tex . )
and Ayanna Pressley ( D-Mass . )
were among those who gave rousing speeches on the House floor Thursday in support of progressive New York Democrat Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez , who excoriated a male , Republican colleague after he called her a sexist slur earlier in the week .
Republican Congressman Ted Yoho , who represents Florida ’ s 3rd district , called the congresswoman a “ fucking bitch ” within earshot of reporters , following a tense exchange with AOC on the steps of the Capitol , Monday .
Ocasio-Cortez , in her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , said she was going to let the incident go until Yoho offered up a half-hearted , non-apology to her on Wednesday .
Yoho apologized for “ the abrupt manner of the conversation I had with my colleague from New York , ” but denied that he called her by any derogatory language .
“ The offensive name-calling words attributed to me by the press were never spoken to my colleagues , and if they were construed that way , I apologize for their misunderstanding , ” he said , according to Slate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apologize for [ his ] passion.
” His abusive remarks , and the subsequent denial and flippant apology , were the subject of multiple testimonials from Democratic congresswomen , who pushed back against what they described as a culture of sexist abuse in their workplace .
“ We have experienced a lifetime of insults , racism and sexism , and believe you me , this did not stop after being elected to public office , ” Rep. Lee said on Thursday .
“ It ’ s past time that this body understand that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Congresswoman AOC is here to stay.
” Lee , who has represented California ’ s 13th district since 2013 , said Yoho ’ s remarks sent the message to others that women amount to “ less than a human being.
” She also invoked the name of mentor Rep. Shirley Chisholm , the first Black woman elected to Congress .
“ As a member of the late Congressman Ron Dellums ’ staff , I spent many years on Capitol Hill and witnessed the personal attacks and curse words against her as a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Lee said .
But , she said , pointing over to Ocasio-Cortez , “ just like yourself , she would not tolerate such behavior.
” Congresswoman Pressley , who has worked closely with Ocasio-Cortez as part of the same freshman class of progressive congresswomen , also stood in support of her colleague .
In her remarks , Pressley was affirming , choosing to address her own daughter , Cora .
“ I speak to our daughters , for they are watching and carefully taking note of how we respond in this moment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in this moment , I say to my Cora and all our daughters : you are powerful , you are limitless .
Your contributions to this world are brilliant , needed , and uniquely yours.
” “ You deserve a life free from fear and filled with dignity and love , you are not defined by your productivity or your chosen work , ” Pressley confirmed .
“ We affirm these truths to be self-evident , that women are the backbone of every family , of our communities , and we are nation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the sharpest rebuttal to Yoho ’ s words came from Ocasio-Cortez herself .
“ This is not new , and that is the problem , ” she said in speech rejecting Yoho ’ s weak apology .
“ Mr .
Yoho was not alone .
He was walking shoulder to shoulder with Representative Roger Williams .
And that ’ s when we start to see that this issue is not about one incident .
It is cultural .
It is a culture of lack of impunity .
Of accepting violence and violent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ structure of power that supports that.
” She also called out Yoho using the fact that he was a wife and daughters—a standard part of the “ I got caught being sexist ” playbook .
Ocasio-Cortez pointed out that she is two years younger than Yoho ’ s youngest daughter .
“ I am someone ’ s daughter , too .
My father , thankfully , is not alive to see how Mr. Yoho treated his daughter , ” she said .
“ My mother got to see Mr. Yoho ’ s disrespect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me on television .
And I am here because I have to show my parents that I am their daughter .
And they did not raise me to accept abuse from men .
”

Congresswomen Barbara Lee (D-Tex.) and Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.) were among those who gave rousing speeches on the House floor Thursday in support of progressive New York Democrat Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who excoriated a male, Republican colleague after he called her a sexist slur earlier in the week.
Republican Congressman Ted Yoho, who represents Florida’s 3rd district, called the congresswoman a “fucking bitch” within earshot of reporters, following a tense exchange with AOC on the steps of the Capitol, Monday. Ocasio-Cortez, in her own remarks to the House on Thursday, said she was going to let the incident go until Yoho offered up a half-hearted, non-apology to her on Wednesday.
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Yoho apologized for “the abrupt manner of the conversation I had with my colleague from New York,” but denied that he called her by any derogatory language.
“The offensive name-calling words attributed to me by the press were never spoken to my colleagues, and if they were construed that way, I apologize for their misunderstanding,” he said, according to Slate.
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Yoho added he “cannot apologize for [his] passion.”
His abusive remarks, and the subsequent denial and flippant apology, were the subject of multiple testimonials from Democratic congresswomen, who pushed back against what they described as a culture of sexist abuse in their workplace.
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“We have experienced a lifetime of insults, racism and sexism, and believe you me, this did not stop after being elected to public office,” Rep. Lee said on Thursday. “It’s past time that this body understand that women of color are here to stay. Congresswoman AOC is here to stay.”
Lee, who has represented California’s 13th district since 2013, said Yoho’s remarks sent the message to others that women amount to “less than a human being.” She also invoked the name of mentor Rep. Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress.
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“As a member of the late Congressman Ron Dellums’ staff, I spent many years on Capitol Hill and witnessed the personal attacks and curse words against her as a Black, female member of Congress,” Lee said. But, she said, pointing over to Ocasio-Cortez, “just like yourself, she would not tolerate such behavior.”
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Congresswoman Pressley, who has worked closely with Ocasio-Cortez as part of the same freshman class of progressive congresswomen, also stood in support of her colleague. In her remarks, Pressley was affirming, choosing to address her own daughter, Cora.
“I speak to our daughters, for they are watching and carefully taking note of how we respond in this moment,” said Pressley. “So in this moment, I say to my Cora and all our daughters: you are powerful, you are limitless. Your contributions to this world are brilliant, needed, and uniquely yours.”
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“You deserve a life free from fear and filled with dignity and love, you are not defined by your productivity or your chosen work,” Pressley confirmed. “We affirm these truths to be self-evident, that women are the backbone of every family, of our communities, and we are nation builders.”
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But, true to form, the sharpest rebuttal to Yoho’s words came from Ocasio-Cortez herself.
“This is not new, and that is the problem,” she said in speech rejecting Yoho’s weak apology. “Mr. Yoho was not alone. He was walking shoulder to shoulder with Representative Roger Williams. And that’s when we start to see that this issue is not about one incident. It is cultural. It is a culture of lack of impunity. Of accepting violence and violent language against women. And an entire structure of power that supports that.”
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She also called out Yoho using the fact that he was a wife and daughters—a standard part of the “I got caught being sexist” playbook. Ocasio-Cortez pointed out that she is two years younger than Yoho’s youngest daughter.
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“I am someone’s daughter, too. My father, thankfully, is not alive to see how Mr. Yoho treated his daughter,” she said. “My mother got to see Mr. Yoho’s disrespect on the floor of this House towards me on television. And I am here because I have to show my parents that I am their daughter. And they did not raise me to accept abuse from men.”


theroot--2020-07-23--Joe Biden: Trump Is a Racist. Also Joe Biden: Desegregation Will Have My Kids Growing Up in a 'Racia

Joe Biden: Trump Is a Racist. Also Joe Biden: Desegregation Will Have My Kids Growing Up in a 'Racial Jungle'

I ’ m not being flippant or facetious or any other f-word when I say that I really want former Vice President Joe Biden to shut the fuck up .
If I say , “ God is good—all the time !
” I don ’ t want to hear Joe Biden say a fucking word .
If I say “ the roof ... the roof..the roof is on fire….
” I don ’ t want Joe Biden to tell me shit about the lack of water and how we ’ ve got to let it burn .
If Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lead talker asks the crowd , “ Wa-Wa-Wa-Where y ’ all from ?
” I don ’ t want Joe Biden to say the street that he grew up on in Scranton , Pa .
Seriously , enough with the Corn Pop stories and the fucking Black people-gaffes .
Enough with the tales of him and Obama back in the good old days .
As much as the right keeps blasting Biden for hiding in the basement , I ’ m totally fine with him hiding in a basement because when Joe Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Recently , Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. , aka “ Old Simba , ” aka “ Obama ’ s BFF , ” aka the former presidential plus-one , Joe Biden , the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee , on Wednesday called Trump the first racist to be elected to the White House .
This is the part of the rap battle where J-Bizzy spits what he believes is a hot bar about Trump being a racist and waits for the crowd to go apeshit and no one does because it ’ s not a hot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lukewarm bar .
It ’ s like a lower-than room temperature bar .
Tap water bar .
J-Bizzle made the claim during a virtual town hall after a healthcare worker noted that Trump continues to blame Asians for the coronavirus pandemic , including stooping so low as to refer to it as the “ China virus ” and “ the Kung Flu.
” “ The way he deals with people based on the color of their skin , their national origin , where they ’ re from , is absolutely sickening , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has ever done this , ” he continued .
“ Never , never , never .
No Republican president has done this .
No Democratic president .
We ’ ve had racists , and they ’ ve existed , they ’ ve tried to get elected president .
He ’ s the first one that has.
” Man , fuck Joe Biden .
Biden continues to try and rewrite history as if his own fucked up racial past with Blacks in the country stopped when he became the vice president to America ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Joe .
They remember how you let a group of white men berate Anita Hill during her sexual assault testimony in Congress and your shady-ass record with the crime bill .
The North ( well , Black people ) remembers and I don ’ t have the energy or the bandwidth to go through all of it , but just know that we ’ ve not forgotten that Biden once claimed that desegregation would cause his children to grow up in a “ racial jungle.
” So , fuck Joe Biden , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about what Biden ’ s said in the past , this is about him needing to STFU .
Biden continued : “ And the way he pits people against one another is all designed to divide the country , divide people , not pull them together , ” Biden continued .
“ Look what he ’ s doing now .
He ’ s blaming everything on China .
...
He ’ s using it as a wedge.
” See , Biden truly believes because he ’ s not as overtly racist as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sit with us .
If Joe Biden doesn ’ t move his goofy ass over to the Dungeons and Old Niggas table .
Biden is and has been Biden ’ s biggest problem .
Let me put it in terms that could make it easier to understand : I was young , probably 19 and I was dating this girl and we were talking on the phone ( well , I was talking on the phone and she was listening ) and I was probably saying some stupid 19-year-old shit , and she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talking myself out of a date .
Sometimes the best thing you can do is STFU .
America is going to vote for Biden—not because we like him , as I don ’ t know one person who is firmly in Biden ’ s camp—but he ’ s got to stop talking .
It ’ s not as if Biden is pushing voters Trump ’ s way , but the more he talks , the more he ’ s creating apathy amongst voters who may just stay home because the difference between a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a few calories .
Trump isn ’ t the first racist to sit in the White House , as some presidents actually owned slaves .
A nd while I know that Sen. Lindsey Graham is chained in the White House basement , I ’ m almost positive he requested that be done .
The only time I want Biden to speak is when he ’ s announcing his vice presidential pick .
Other than that , just hide in the basement , Joe , until America is finished reluctantly voting for your racist-y @ @

I’m not being flippant or facetious or any other f-word when I say that I really want former Vice President Joe Biden to shut the fuck up. If I say, “God is good—all the time!” I don’t want to hear Joe Biden say a fucking word. If I say “the roof...the roof..the roof is on fire….” I don’t want Joe Biden to tell me shit about the lack of water and how we’ve got to let it burn. If Joe Biden finds himself at a go-go and the lead talker asks the crowd, “Wa-Wa-Wa-Where y’all from?” I don’t want Joe Biden to say the street that he grew up on in Scranton, Pa.
Seriously, enough with the Corn Pop stories and the fucking Black people-gaffes. Enough with the tales of him and Obama back in the good old days. As much as the right keeps blasting Biden for hiding in the basement, I’m totally fine with him hiding in a basement because when Joe Biden speaks he just fucks shit up.
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Recently, Joseph Robinette Biden Jr., aka “Old Simba,” aka “Obama’s BFF,” aka the former presidential plus-one, Joe Biden, the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee, on Wednesday called Trump the first racist to be elected to the White House.
I...Mean...I...Just...Can’t.
This is the part of the rap battle where J-Bizzy spits what he believes is a hot bar about Trump being a racist and waits for the crowd to go apeshit and no one does because it’s not a hot bar; it’s barely a lukewarm bar. It’s like a lower-than room temperature bar. Tap water bar.
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J-Bizzle made the claim during a virtual town hall after a healthcare worker noted that Trump continues to blame Asians for the coronavirus pandemic, including stooping so low as to refer to it as the “China virus” and “the Kung Flu.”
“The way he deals with people based on the color of their skin, their national origin, where they’re from, is absolutely sickening,” Biden said. “No sitting president has ever done this,” he continued. “Never, never, never. No Republican president has done this. No Democratic president. We’ve had racists, and they’ve existed, they’ve tried to get elected president. He’s the first one that has.”
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Man, fuck Joe Biden. Biden continues to try and rewrite history as if his own fucked up racial past with Blacks in the country stopped when he became the vice president to America’s first Black man. America remembers, Joe. They remember how you let a group of white men berate Anita Hill during her sexual assault testimony in Congress and your shady-ass record with the crime bill. The North (well, Black people) remembers and I don’t have the energy or the bandwidth to go through all of it, but just know that we’ve not forgotten that Biden once claimed that desegregation would cause his children to grow up in a “racial jungle.” So, fuck Joe Biden, too.
But this isn’t about what Biden’s said in the past, this is about him needing to STFU.
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Biden continued: “And the way he pits people against one another is all designed to divide the country, divide people, not pull them together,” Biden continued. “Look what he’s doing now. He’s blaming everything on China. ... He’s using it as a wedge.”
See, Biden truly believes because he’s not as overtly racist as the current president, then he gets to sit with us. If Joe Biden doesn’t move his goofy ass over to the Dungeons and Old Niggas table. Biden is and has been Biden’s biggest problem.
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Let me put it in terms that could make it easier to understand: I was young, probably 19 and I was dating this girl and we were talking on the phone (well, I was talking on the phone and she was listening) and I was probably saying some stupid 19-year-old shit, and she interrupted me to say that I was talking myself out of a date.
Sometimes the best thing you can do is STFU.
America is going to vote for Biden—not because we like him, as I don’t know one person who is firmly in Biden’s camp—but he’s got to stop talking. It’s not as if Biden is pushing voters Trump’s way, but the more he talks, the more he’s creating apathy amongst voters who may just stay home because the difference between a full-size racist and a snack-size racist is a few calories.
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Trump isn’t the first racist to sit in the White House, as some presidents actually owned slaves. A nd while I know that Sen. Lindsey Graham is chained in the White House basement, I’m almost positive he requested that be done.
The only time I want Biden to speak is when he’s announcing his vice presidential pick. Other than that, just hide in the basement, Joe, until America is finished reluctantly voting for your racist-y ass.


theroot--2020-07-23--HBO Is Adapting Ta-Nehisi Coates’ Between the World and Me and It Will Debut This Fall

The ever-illustrious Ta-Nehisi Coates is taking his talents to HBO !
The premium network has announced it will be adapting the critically acclaimed stage show Between the World and Me , which is based on Coates ’ # 1 New York Times bestselling book of the same name .
On Thursday , Casey Bloys , President , HBO Programming announced the adaptation will air as an HBO Special event .
Structured as a letter to his teenage son in 2015 , Between the World and Me is a nonfiction work that is “ a compelling mix of history , analysis @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 2015 National Book Award for Nonfiction and was a finalist for the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction .
More deets on the upcoming special from the HBO press release sent to The Root : Originally adapted and staged by the Apollo Theater in 2018 , the special will combine elements of that production , including powerful readings from Coates ’ book , and will once again be directed by award-winning director and Apollo Theater Executive Producer Kamilah Forbes .
Ta-Nehisi Coates and Susan Kelechi Watson are also executive producers .
Oscar-winning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It will also incorporate documentary footage from the actors ’ home life , archival footage , and animation .
The special will be produced under COVID-19 guidelines .
In addition to producing this special , HBO will be making a charitable donation to Howard University and the Apollo Theater .
“ As people across our country continue to speak out about violent , systemic racism and the urgent need for tangible change , Ta-Nehisi ’ s words resonate as strongly today as they did five years ago , ” Forbes said in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to collaborate again with both Ta-Nehisi and HBO on this important special event , ensuring that the powerful voices in this work and the cry for justice from the Black community continue to reach a broader audience.
” “ I ’ ve been working with Kamilah for almost as long as I ’ ve been a writer , ” Coates said .
“ I can think of no one better to put Between the World and Me on screen and no better home for it than HBO.
” “ Through BETWEEN THE WORLD @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a space of communion where Black people can metabolize our grief , celebrate our joys , and continue to amplify the current discourse regarding race and culture in our country and around the world , ” Watson added .
“ Ta-Nehisi ’ s words lend themselves to an experience that is shared by so many of us .
I ’ m thrilled to work with HBO and these brilliant minds on a special that is both timely and urgent.
” The frequent Root 100 honoree also had a great previous year with his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which was selected as part of Oprah ’ s Book Club series on Apple TV+ this past winter .
Between the World and Me will debut on HBO stream on HBO Max this fall .

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

The ever-illustrious Ta-Nehisi Coates is taking his talents to HBO!
The premium network has announced it will be adapting the critically acclaimed stage show Between the World and Me, which is based on Coates’ #1 New York Times bestselling book of the same name. On Thursday, Casey Bloys, President, HBO Programming announced the adaptation will air as an HBO Special event.
Structured as a letter to his teenage son in 2015, Between the World and Me is a nonfiction work that is “a compelling mix of history, analysis and memoir.” The acclaimed book won the 2015 National Book Award for Nonfiction and was a finalist for the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for General Non-Fiction.
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More deets on the upcoming special from the HBO press release sent to The Root:
Originally adapted and staged by the Apollo Theater in 2018, the special will combine elements of that production, including powerful readings from Coates’ book, and will once again be directed by award-winning director and Apollo Theater Executive Producer Kamilah Forbes. Ta-Nehisi Coates and Susan Kelechi Watson are also executive producers. Oscar-winning filmmaker Roger Ross Williams is producing. It will also incorporate documentary footage from the actors’ home life, archival footage, and animation. The special will be produced under COVID-19 guidelines. In addition to producing this special, HBO will be making a charitable donation to Howard University and the Apollo Theater.
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“As people across our country continue to speak out about violent, systemic racism and the urgent need for tangible change, Ta-Nehisi’s words resonate as strongly today as they did five years ago,” Forbes said in a statement. “I’m excited to collaborate again with both Ta-Nehisi and HBO on this important special event, ensuring that the powerful voices in this work and the cry for justice from the Black community continue to reach a broader audience.”
“I’ve been working with Kamilah for almost as long as I’ve been a writer,” Coates said. “I can think of no one better to put Between the World and Me on screen and no better home for it than HBO.”
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“Through BETWEEN THE WORLD AND ME, we intend to create a space of communion where Black people can metabolize our grief, celebrate our joys, and continue to amplify the current discourse regarding race and culture in our country and around the world,” Watson added. “Ta-Nehisi’s words lend themselves to an experience that is shared by so many of us. I’m thrilled to work with HBO and these brilliant minds on a special that is both timely and urgent.”
The frequent Root 100 honoree also had a great previous year with his latest book, The Water Dancer, which was selected as part of Oprah’s Book Club series on Apple TV+ this past winter.
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Between the World and Me will debut on HBO stream on HBO Max this fall.


theroot--2020-07-23--Google's Online Marketing Tool Identified 'Black Girls' Searches With Porn: Report

The world of online marketing turns on keywords and w ith Search Engine Optimization of vital concern to business owners and advertisers alike , tools like Google ’ s Keyword Planner can be essential to identifying what keywords to buy ads near in Google search results .
But until recently , when advertisers typed in “ Black Girls , ” “ Latina girls ” ( we know , it ’ s redundant ) and “ Asian girls , ” the majority of the keyword ideas suggested by the Keyword Planner were pornographic .
Under “ Black girls , ” for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ girls , ” “ big booty black girls ” and “ ebony cam ” under suggested terms .
But if you typed in “ white girls ” —or , for that matter , “ white boys ” — into the keyword planner , no suggested terms appeared at all .
The discovery was recently made by The Markup , a tech-focused nonprofit news site .
When it reached out to Google for comment about the issue , the tech giant quickly blocked its ad portal from returning results featuring any combination of “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ racial or ethnic terms .
But these results have a direct effect on marketers attempting to build campaigns specifically for young , nonwhite audiences .
From The Markup : These findings indicate that , until The Markup brought it to the company ’ s attention , Google ’ s systems contained a racial bias that equated people of color with objectified sexualization while exempting White people from any associations whatsoever .
In addition , by not offering a significant number of non-pornographic suggestions , this system made it more difficult for marketers attempting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Asian people with products and services relating to other aspects of their lives .
As the Markup notes , Google ’ s Keyword Planner is “ an important part of the company ’ s online advertising ecosystem , ” generating more than $ 134 billion in revenue just in 2019 .
“ The language that surfaced in the keyword planning tool is offensive and while we use filters to block these kinds of terms from appearing , it did not work as intended in this instance , ” Google spokesperson Suzanne Blackburn @ @ @ @ @ @ @ findings .
“ We ’ ve removed these terms from the tool and are looking into how we stop this from happening again.
” Google stands apart from other search engines , commanding 70 percent of the search market share in 2018 , making their missteps all the more visible and impactful .
But what ’ s true of Google is true of other kinds of technology : These tools and systems mirror , and in some cases amplify , the biases and blindspots of its makers and users .
Google has had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last decade with regard to racism in its algorithms .
In 2012 , UCLA professor Safiya Noble called out how the search engine would regularly bring up porn sites in top results when people searched for “ Black girls.
” Google subsequently and quietly fixed the issue— “ Black girls ” now returns the nonprofit Black Girls Code as its top search result—but searches for “ Asian girls ” still return mostly fetishistic sites .
In 2016 , researchers in Brazil found that Google was more likely to return images of white people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ searched for “ beautiful woman ” images .
The inverse was true when people searched for “ ugly woman .
”

Anne Branigin on The Glow Up, shared by Anne Branigin to The Root

The world of online marketing turns on keywords and w ith Search Engine Optimization of vital concern to business owners and advertisers alike, tools like Google’s Keyword Planner can be essential to identifying what keywords to buy ads near in Google search results.
But until recently, when advertisers typed in “Black Girls,” “Latina girls” (we know, it’s redundant) and “Asian girls,” the majority of the keyword ideas suggested by the Keyword Planner were pornographic. Under “Black girls,” for instance, Google returned “naked black girls,” “big booty black girls” and “ebony cam” under suggested terms.
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But if you typed in “white girls”—or, for that matter, “white boys”— into the keyword planner, no suggested terms appeared at all.
The discovery was recently made by The Markup, a tech-focused nonprofit news site. When it reached out to Google for comment about the issue, the tech giant quickly blocked its ad portal from returning results featuring any combination of “boys” or “girls” and racial or ethnic terms.
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But these results have a direct effect on marketers attempting to build campaigns specifically for young, nonwhite audiences. From The Markup:
These findings indicate that, until The Markup brought it to the company’s attention, Google’s systems contained a racial bias that equated people of color with objectified sexualization while exempting White people from any associations whatsoever. In addition, by not offering a significant number of non-pornographic suggestions, this system made it more difficult for marketers attempting to reach young Black, Latinx, and Asian people with products and services relating to other aspects of their lives.
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As the Markup notes, Google’s Keyword Planner is “an important part of the company’s online advertising ecosystem,” generating more than $134 billion in revenue just in 2019.
“The language that surfaced in the keyword planning tool is offensive and while we use filters to block these kinds of terms from appearing, it did not work as intended in this instance,” Google spokesperson Suzanne Blackburn wrote in a statement responding to the findings. “We’ve removed these terms from the tool and are looking into how we stop this from happening again.”
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Google stands apart from other search engines, commanding 70 percent of the search market share in 2018, making their missteps all the more visible and impactful. But what’s true of Google is true of other kinds of technology: These tools and systems mirror, and in some cases amplify, the biases and blindspots of its makers and users.
Google has had several high profile proble ms in the last decade with regard to racism in its algorithms. In 2012, UCLA professor Safiya Noble called out how the search engine would regularly bring up porn sites in top results when people searched for “Black girls.” Google subsequently and quietly fixed the issue—“Black girls” now returns the nonprofit Black Girls Code as its top search result—but searches for “Asian girls” still return mostly fetishistic sites.
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In 2016, researchers in Brazil found that Google was more likely to return images of white people than Black or Asian women when users searched for “beautiful woman” images. The inverse was true when people searched for “ugly woman.”