theroot--2020-08-21--Trailer Roundup: It's Time to Unpack Black Love

How is August over ?
Did August even happen ?
Let ’ s focus less energy on things that make our respective brains hurt and get into this week ’ s roundup of trailers ... First Impressions : Directed by Melissa Haizlip , Mr .
Soul !
celebrates the legacy of her uncle Ellis Haizlip , who was America ’ s first Black nighttime talk show host during the civil rights movement/Black Power movement from 1968 to 1973 .
As an openly gay Black man , Ellis ’ very existence was political , especially during that time .
This film @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to learn about him and his impact—I ’ m in !
First Impressions : We have more COVID content !
The tagline for this film is literally “ the new normal is anything but ” ( just like “ unprecedented , ” I ’ m so tired of using the phrase “ new normal ” ) .
Known as social distancing satire , Coastal Elites is yet another one of Issa Rae ’ s projects .
She co-stars in the upcoming project that is a self-exploration of how this lockdown shit affects human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actor monologue vignettes and I ’ m feelin ’ it .
First Impressions : Per the press release , Daughters Of is described as “ a multifaceted-initiative to examine the immediate and critical importance of self-care and healing for Black women through the lens of their matrilineal traditions.
” Not only was I raised by a Black woman , I currently work under the leadership of Black women .
Go Black matriarchy !
I ’ m looking forward to watching this ; in fact , I ’ d especially love to watch with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me cry , ain ’ t it ?
Additional info , including screening schedule is located at the BlackStar Film Festival website .
The First Ever Look At LeBron James In His Space Jam Movie / YouTube First Impressions : So ... this is actually happening .
K. First Impressions : I actually reviewed this film out of Sundance and was excited that it finally got a release date so that everyone else could see it , too !
Then , the actual promo rollout happened ... which , resulted in a quite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the streaming platform apologized .
Regardless of that very unfortunate flub ( that I hope doesn ’ t do irreparable damage to the film ’ s director Maïmouna Doucouré ) , I am really looking forward to seeing what Black Muslim girls and women think of the film .
Though , I wholly related to and connected with certain aspects of this film , it would be good to get this specific perspective , which is out of my range .
First Impressions : Featuring Samuel L. Jackson , Enslaved is a six-part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ never-before-seen look at the transatlantic slave trade .
The series will follow Jackson ’ s personal journey across the world from U.S. to Gabon .
“ The ocean holds stories that haven ’ t been told , ” Jackson muses in the trailer .
Yes , indeed , it does .
First Impressions : After hearing of the Set It Off play tour , I always wanted to go to one of these chitlin circuit plays and review it as part of my job .
They look so ridiculous , but at the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear unmatched energy that you can only ingest by being a part of the just-as-ridiculous audience .
Move the hell over Hamilton , Madea ’ s Farewell is coming to your streaming screens .
Just when you thought Madea was gone for good ... ha !
Actually , I ’ m sure no one really thought that , despite Tyler Perry ’ s insistence .
First Impressions : This week ’ s trailer roundup has its fair share of controversy because Black Love received some too , when it released its first teaser @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to call out the network and producers for excluding dark-skinned women ( One of the producers , Tommy Oliver did publicly address the controversy ) .
There ’ s a new trailer featuring an additional couple , though I expect the colorism convo to continue in addition to a real and raw conversation on what it means when we glorify the stories of Black women having to go through hell in order to “ earn ” love .
If this is the vehicle to launch those important conversations , so be it !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ YouTube First Impressions : Ooh a mystery thriller !
And this cast looks stacked !
I mean , as a general rule , I ’ m tired of white folks dominating stories set in African countries , but I digress .
I spy Letitia Wright and Sophie Okonedo !
And it looks pretty !
And intriguing !
On the Rocks — Official Trailer / YouTube First Impressions : So , this is directed by Sophia Coppola and stars Bill Murray and I was prepared to groan at yet another extra-white Lost in Translation-esque @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( assuming she ’ s specifically portraying a biracial character and not doing the androgynous white-presenting character ) and Marlon Wayans in the cast .
Marlon Wayans !
I ’ m especially interested and intrigued to see what he ’ ll bring here .
This film is giving me quirky indie .
Yep .
First Impressions : This series isn ’ t new to the world , but it may be new the U.S. as it ’ s making its American debut in October .
The British action-drama series first premiered this past @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the pond for American audiences .
Among the Black-ass stars are Sopé Dìrísù ( Humans ) , Lucian Msamati ( His Dark Materials , Black Earth Rising , Kiri ) , Pippa Bennett-Warner ( MatherFatherSon , Harlots , Sick Note ) and oh-my-God , Paapa Essiedu ( Press , Kiri , I May Destroy You ) !
I have to check this out .
First Impressions : I was hoping to catch this at Sundance , but my schedule absolutely did not permit .
But , I ’ m in luck because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The press release describes this film as , “ Fox Rich is a fighter .
The entrepreneur , abolitionist and mother of six boys has spent the last two decades campaigning for the release of her husband , Rob G. Rich , who is serving a 60-year sentence for a robbery they both committed in the early 90s in a moment of desperation.
” This doc is a story of resilience and radical love and I am here for it .
That ’ s all for this week !
‘ Til next Friday @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

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

How is August over? Did August even happen? Let’s focus less energy on things that make our respective brains hurt and get into this week’s roundup of trailers...
Mr. Soul! (Virtual Theaters; Release Date: Aug. 28)
Mr. SOUL! Trailer / YouTube
First Impressions: Directed by Melissa Haizlip, Mr. Soul! celebrates the legacy of her uncle Ellis Haizlip, who was America’s first Black nighttime talk show host during the civil rights movement/Black Power movement from 1968 to 1973. As an openly gay Black man, Ellis’ very existence was political, especially during that time. This film will be a great way for me to learn about him and his impact—I’m in!
Advertisement
Coastal Elites (HBO; Release Date: Sept. 12 at 8 p.m. ET)
Coastal Elites: Official Trailer / YouTube
First Impressions: We have more COVID content! The tagline for this film is literally “the new normal is anything but” (just like “unprecedented,” I’m so tired of using the phrase “new normal”). Known as social distancing satire, Coastal Elites is yet another one of Issa Rae’s projects. She co-stars in the upcoming project that is a self-exploration of how this lockdown shit affects human connection. This is giving me epic actor monologue vignettes and I’m feelin’ it.
Advertisement Advertisement
Daughters Of (BlackStar Film Festival; Release Date: Aug. 23)
DAUGHTERS OF TRAILER / YouTube
First Impressions: Per the press release, Daughters Of is described as “a multifaceted-initiative to examine the immediate and critical importance of self-care and healing for Black women through the lens of their matrilineal traditions.” Not only was I raised by a Black woman, I currently work under the leadership of Black women. Go Black matriarchy! I’m looking forward to watching this; in fact, I’d especially love to watch with my mama. This gon’ make me cry, ain’t it? Additional info, including screening schedule is located at the BlackStar Film Festival website.
Advertisement
Space Jam: A New Legacy (Theaters ; Release Date: 2021)
The First Ever Look At LeBron James In His Space Jam Movie / YouTube
First Impressions: So...this is actually happening. K.
Cuties (Netflix; Release Date: Sept. 9)
Cuties Official Trailer / YouTube
First Impressions: I actually reviewed this film out of Sundance and was excited that it finally got a release date so that everyone else could see it, too! Then, the actual promo rollout happened...which, resulted in a quite a bit of controversy for Netflix and the streaming platform apologized. Regardless of that very unfortunate flub (that I hope doesn’t do irreparable damage to the film’s director Maïmouna Doucouré), I am really looking forward to seeing what Black Muslim girls and women think of the film. Though, I wholly related to and connected with certain aspects of this film, it would be good to get this specific perspective, which is out of my range.
Advertisement
Enslaved (Epix; Release Date: Sept. 14 at 10 p.m. ET)
Enslaved Documentary Series Trailer / YouTube
First Impressions: Featuring Samuel L. Jackson, Enslaved is a six-part documentary series set to give us a never-before-seen look at the transatlantic slave trade. The series will follow Jackson’s personal journey across the world from U.S. to Gabon. “The ocean holds stories that haven’t been told,” Jackson muses in the trailer. Yes, indeed, it does.
Advertisement
Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Farewell Play (BET+; Release Date: Aug. 27)
Madea’s Farewell Play Streaming August 27 On BET+ / YouTube
First Impressions: After hearing of the Set It Off play tour, I always wanted to go to one of these chitlin circuit plays and review it as part of my job. They look so ridiculous, but at the same time, there’s a clear unmatched energy that you can only ingest by being a part of the just-as-ridiculous audience. Move the hell over Hamilton, Madea’s Farewell is coming to your streaming screens. Just when you thought Madea was gone for good...ha! Actually, I’m sure no one really thought that, despite Tyler Perry’s insistence.
Advertisement
Black Love (OWN: Season 4 Release Date: Sept. 5)
First Impressions: This week’s trailer roundup has its fair share of controversy because Black Love received some too, when it released its first teaser for the 4th season, causing viewers to call out the network and producers for excluding dark-skinned women (One of the producers, Tommy Oliver did publicly address the controversy). There’s a new trailer featuring an additional couple, though I expect the colorism convo to continue in addition to a real and raw conversation on what it means when we glorify the stories of Black women having to go through hell in order to “earn” love. If this is the vehicle to launch those important conversations, so be it!
Advertisement
Death on the Nile (Theaters; Release Date: Oct. 23)
Death on the Nile Official Trailer / YouTube
First Impressions: Ooh a mystery thriller! And this cast looks stacked! I mean, as a general rule, I’m tired of white folks dominating stories set in African countries, but I digress. I spy Letitia Wright and Sophie Okonedo! And it looks pretty! And intriguing!
Advertisement
On the Rocks (Apple TV+; Release Date: October)
On the Rocks — Official Trailer / YouTube
First Impressions: So, this is directed by Sophia Coppola and stars Bill Murray and I was prepared to groan at yet another extra-white Lost in Translation-esque film but then I saw Rashida Jones (assuming she’s specifically portraying a biracial character and not doing the androgynous white-presenting character) and Marlon Wayans in the cast. Marlon Wayans! I’m especially interested and intrigued to see what he’ll bring here. This film is giving me quirky indie. Yep.
Advertisement
Gangs of London (AMC+; U.S. Release Date: Oct. 1)
GANGS OF LONDON Official Trailer (2020) / YouTube
First Impressions: This series isn’t new to the world, but it may be new the U.S. as it’s making its American debut in October. The British action-drama series first premiered this past spring and it’s coming on across the pond for American audiences. Among the Black-ass stars are Sopé Dìrísù (Humans), Lucian Msamati (His Dark Materials, Black Earth Rising, Kiri), Pippa Bennett-Warner (MatherFatherSon, Harlots, Sick Note) and oh-my-God, Paapa Essiedu (Press, Kiri, I May Destroy You)! I have to check this out.
Advertisement
Time (Amazon Prime Video; Release Date: Oct. 23)
TIME – First Look Clip / YouTube
First Impressions: I was hoping to catch this at Sundance, but my schedule absolutely did not permit. But, I’m in luck because Amazon Studios acquired this little gem. The press release describes this film as, “Fox Rich is a fighter. The entrepreneur, abolitionist and mother of six boys has spent the last two decades campaigning for the release of her husband, Rob G. Rich, who is serving a 60-year sentence for a robbery they both committed in the early 90s in a moment of desperation.” This doc is a story of resilience and radical love and I am here for it.
Advertisement
That’s all for this week! ‘Til next Friday!
Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-21--Grab a Sex Toy Bundle From Ella Paradis and Get Freaky, It's $194 Off [Exclusive]

Yeah , the headline is right .
From now until 8/23 you can grab a whole sex toy bundle which @ @ @ @ @ a WeVibe tango blue vibrator , as well as a pack of 12 bath bombs @ @ @ @ @ price of $ 49 .
That ’ s like 85 % off ( not really @ @ @ @ @ do math ) the original price of $ 243 !
So go ahead and get @ @ @ @ @ someone else because I really don ’ t know what can beat this deal !

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

It Takes 2 To Tango Bundle | $49 | Ella Paradis
Yeah, the headline is right. From now until 8/23 you can grab a whole sex toy bundle which includes a rabbit vibrator, a WeVibe tango blue vibrator, as well as a pack of 12 bath bombs for a low, LOW price of $49. That’s like 85% off (not really because I can’t do math) the original price of $243! So go ahead and get off by yourself or with someone else because I really don’t know what can beat this deal!


theroot--2020-08-21--Auntie Unfiltered: On Generational Trauma and Healing

How many of you got beatings when you were younger ?
How many of you are still trying to heal from them ?
How many of you are still trying to heal from your childhood period ?
Last week , Lauryn Hill ’ s daughter Selah posted a two-hour video on Instagram where she discussed her upbringing .
She talked about her relationship with both of her parents , the struggles she witnessed her mother having , the impact those struggles had on her and her siblings , and the way her mother ’ s trauma manifested in the way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heal from the trauma of it all , and that resonated deeply with me , because don ’ t we all want to heal from our childhood trauma ?
I was so moved by it , I wrote a thread on Twitter discussing it .
The thread ended up going viral , and so many people reached out to tell me that they were moved and inspired by it , I wanted to bring the topic here and discuss it with you as well .
We all have pain .
We all have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ healthy , happy , and whole .
It is not an easy journey , and it can take some time to get there , but trust me when I tell you : We can get there .
I talk about my own healing journey and what works for me .
Hopefully this will resonate with you as well and hit those who need it .
As always , I want to hear from you .
I receive many emails , DMs and messages from you each week , and you all are a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
If you have a question , comments , or concerns , if you need advice or even if you just have a topic you think I should discuss , please hit me up at AuntieSubmissions @ theroot.com .

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


theroot--2020-08-21--Postmaster General Imitates the ‘This Is Fine’ Meme During Senate Hearing

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy , aka Louis DaFuckboi , claimed that there is nothing to worry about during the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing on Friday .
Sure , mail-sorting machines have been removed , including in places where there were only two machines to begin with , and yes , some public mailboxes have been removed , and yes , some older folks haven ’ t been able to receive important life-saving medication on time , but everything is just fine .
In fact , Louis DeTrump ’ s3rdTesticle ensured the committee that mail-in ballots are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ As we head in the election season , I want to assure this committee and the American public that the Postal Service is fully capable and committed to delivering the nation ’ s election mail securely and on time , ” DeGetTheFuckOutofHereWitThatBullshit said , the Hill notes .
“ This sacred duty is my No .
1 priority between now and Election Day.
” The Hill notes that “ In longer prepared remarks , DeJoy described recent concerns that new reforms to the Postal Service could delay or impede the delivery of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but vowed to not implement two major reforms until after Election Day in order to uphold the Postal Service ’ s “ valued reputation as a source of reliability and strength for the American people.
” “ While the governors and I believe significant reforms are essential ... even longstanding efficiency efforts have become a distraction from our mission of service to the public as the nation prepares to hold a presidential election in the midst of a devastating pandemic , ” DeFuckFace read in his prepared statement .
But when asked flatly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back mail sorting machines which postal workers have leaked are essential for doing their jobs , the postmaster general who couldn ’ t tell you the expiration date on a forever stamp flatly said , “ No.
” Since taking over the job– which he ’ s grossly underqualified for , but he did sleep at a Holiday Day Inn Express last night–DeFuckThisGuy , who is also a Trump campaign donor , said the changes he made were needed to keep the agency functioning as it ’ s expected to face an $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ DeBubbleGuts told Congress he needs funding for the Postal Service , which , much like the rest of America , has been struggling with the aftermath of the coronavirus , the Draya Michelle of airborne viruses .
“ I urge Congress to enact legislation that would provide the Postal Service with financial relief to account for the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our financial condition , ” DeI ’ mFuckingUpThisElection said .
What DeLilLindseyGraham doesn ’ t seem to understand is that Democrats would like to fund the Postal Service but Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ general , who has never worked for the post office , might want to talk to his president about this .
But that would imply that he doesn ’ t already know this ; trust me , DeTrumpAndMeAreInThisTogether knows this .
“ Your decisions have cost Americans their health , their livelihood , and their peace of mind , ” Sen. Gary Peters ( D-Mich. ) , the ranking member of the committee , told DeMailboxThief .
“ I believe you owe them an apology for the harm you have caused , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear answers today.
” The Hill notes that DePresident ’ sBae “ is set to testify before the House Oversight and Reform Committee early next week on similar concerns around the Postal Service and election mail.
” Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, aka Louis DaFuckboi, claimed that there is nothing to worry about during the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing on Friday. Sure, mail-sorting machines have been removed, including in places where there were only two machines to begin with, and yes, some public mailboxes have been removed, and yes, some older folks haven’t been able to receive important life-saving medication on time, but everything is just fine.
In fact, Louis DeTrump’s3rdTesticle ensured the committee that mail-in ballots are his “No. 1 priority.”
Advertisement
“As we head in the election season, I want to assure this committee and the American public that the Postal Service is fully capable and committed to delivering the nation’s election mail securely and on time,” DeGetTheFuckOutofHereWitThatBullshit said, the Hill notes.
“This sacred duty is my No. 1 priority between now and Election Day.”
The Hill notes that “In longer prepared remarks, DeJoy described recent concerns that new reforms to the Postal Service could delay or impede the delivery of ballots as a ‘false narrative’ but vowed to not implement two major reforms until after Election Day in order to uphold the Postal Service’s “valued reputation as a source of reliability and strength for the American people.”
Advertisement Advertisement
“While the governors and I believe significant reforms are essential ... even longstanding efficiency efforts have become a distraction from our mission of service to the public as the nation prepares to hold a presidential election in the midst of a devastating pandemic,” DeFuckFace read in his prepared statement.
But when asked flatly if he had any intention on bringing back mail sorting machines which postal workers have leaked are essential for doing their jobs, the postmaster general who couldn’t tell you the expiration date on a forever stamp flatly said, “No.”
Advertisement
Since taking over the job– which he’s grossly underqualified for, but he did sleep at a Holiday Day Inn Express last night–DeFuckThisGuy, who is also a Trump campaign donor, said the changes he made were needed to keep the agency functioning as it’s expected to face an $11 billion loss for fiscal 2020.
Advertisement
DeBubbleGuts told Congress he needs funding for the Postal Service, which, much like the rest of America, has been struggling with the aftermath of the coronavirus, the Draya Michelle of airborne viruses.
“I urge Congress to enact legislation that would provide the Postal Service with financial relief to account for the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our financial condition,” DeI’mFuckingUpThisElection said.
Advertisement
What DeLilLindseyGraham doesn’t seem to understand is that Democrats would like to fund the Postal Service but Trump is against this. So the postmaster general, who has never worked for the post office, might want to talk to his president about this. But that would imply that he doesn’t already know this; trust me, DeTrumpAndMeAreInThisTogether knows this.
“Your decisions have cost Americans their health, their livelihood, and their peace of mind,” Sen. Gary Peters (D-Mich.), the ranking member of the committee, told DeMailboxThief. “I believe you owe them an apology for the harm you have caused, and you owe all of us some very clear answers today.”
Advertisement
The Hill notes that DePresident’sBae “is set to testify before the House Oversight and Reform Committee early next week on similar concerns around the Postal Service and election mail.”
Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-21--Tune-In: The AAFCA TV Honors Are Going Virtual in 2020 and Janet Mock Has Been Named Creative of the

Tune-In: The AAFCA TV Honors Are Going Virtual in 2020 and Janet Mock Has Been Named Creative of the Year

It ’ s time to celebrate the best in Black entertainment , hosted by the African American Film Critics Association !
Due to the global pandemic , I ’ m sure y ’ all know things will be a bit different this year .
The inaugural AAFCA TV Honors were held in Marina Del Rey , California , but of course , 2020 is the year of the virtual event .
So this year , the 2nd Annual AAFCA TV Honors will be held online !
Still maintaining a bit of that exclusive invite-only energy , the private live event @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( I ’ ll be there—er , at home— tuning in with my food and cocktails ! )
and then shortly after it concludes , the recorded broadcast will be posted on AAFCA ’ s YouTube channel .
There will be a host of winners to receive their honors on Saturday , but the headlining moment goes to writer-director-producer Janet Mock , who will be receiving the inaugural AAFCA ADCOLOR Breakout Creative of the Year Award .
“ Janet Mock is like a Phoenix rising , overcoming the obstacles that society imposes on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ creative vision ; author , writer , producer , she ’ s an example to us all , ” AAFCA president and co-founder Gil Robertson said in a statement sent to The Root .
“ Janet Mock is one of the most singular talents in recent memory , ” ADCOLOR founder and president Tiffany R. Warren added .
“ Her authenticity , transparency and leadership in bringing to light the voices of marginalized communities at the core of culture has created an undeniable blueprint for generations to follow .
In 2013 , ADCOLOR @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and it ’ s a joy to see the swift progress she ’ s made .
As she ’ s risen up in the industry , Janet has broken so many barriers and she continually reaches back to pull up others with her.
” Of course there ’ s more !
Here ’ s the deets : Winners , honorees and presenters including John Legend ( Best Documentary winner for Atlanta ’ s Missing and Murdered : The Lost Children ) , Viola Davis ( Best Actress winner for How To Get Away @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( Best Actor winner for This is Us ) , Jeremy Pope and Laura Harrier ( Breakout Performer winners for Netflix ’ Hollywood ) , Josh Gad and Leslie Odom , Jr. ( Best Animated winner for Central Park on Apple TV+ ) , Mindy Kaling ( Best YA winner for Never Have I Ever ) , along with presenters including Rashida Jones , Octavia Spencer , William Jackson Harper ( The Good Place ) , MJ Rodriguez and Angelica Ross ( Pose ) , Sheryl Lee Ralph ( Ray Donovan ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ The Neighborhood ) , Entertainment Tonight host Kevin Frazier and many others .
The event will feature a special performance by Abby Dobson of “ Lift Every Voice and Sing.
” In recognition of the devastating impact of Covid-19 the AAFCA TV Honors will also feature as presenters some of the first responders , government leaders , firefighters and others from around the country who are leading the fight against the Coronavirus including : The Honorable Hank Johnson ( Atlanta , GA Congressman ) , the Honorable Steven Reed ( Mayor of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Beverly White , Reverend Jamal Bryant ( New Birth Church , Altanta ) , Cherelle Barsdale ( Nurse , University of Michigan Medical Center ) , Dr. Ala Stanford ( Physician at Stanford Pediactric Surgery in Philadelphia ) , Tanya Rivers ( EMT in New York City ) , Quentin Curtis ( Fire Lieutenant from Chicago ) , NPR Journalist / Host Rose Scott and Dr. Christopher Emdin ( Associate Professor of Science Education at the Teachers College , Columbia University ) .
The full list of 2020 honorees are currently listed at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2nd Annual AAFCA TV Honors ceremony will post on AAFCA ’ s YouTube channel Saturday , Aug. 22 at 1:30 p.m. PT / 4:30 p.m .
ET .
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

It’s time to celebrate the best in Black entertainment, hosted by the African American Film Critics Association!
Due to the global pandemic, I’m sure y’all know things will be a bit different this year. The inaugural AAFCA TV Honors were held in Marina Del Rey, California, but of course, 2020 is the year of the virtual event. So this year, the 2nd Annual AAFCA TV Honors will be held online! Still maintaining a bit of that exclusive invite-only energy, the private live event will be held earlier in the day (I’ll be there—er, at home— tuning in with my food and cocktails!) and then shortly after it concludes, the recorded broadcast will be posted on AAFCA’s YouTube channel.
Advertisement
There will be a host of winners to receive their honors on Saturday, but the headlining moment goes to writer-director-producer Janet Mock, who will be receiving the inaugural AAFCA ADCOLOR Breakout Creative of the Year Award.
“Janet Mock is like a Phoenix rising, overcoming the obstacles that society imposes on race and sexual identity to fulfill her creative vision; author, writer, producer, she’s an example to us all,” AAFCA president and co-founder Gil Robertson said in a statement sent to The Root.
Advertisement Advertisement
“Janet Mock is one of the most singular talents in recent memory,” ADCOLOR founder and president Tiffany R. Warren added. “Her authenticity, transparency and leadership in bringing to light the voices of marginalized communities at the core of culture has created an undeniable blueprint for generations to follow. In 2013, ADCOLOR honored Mock with its prestigious Catalyst Award and it’s a joy to see the swift progress she’s made. As she’s risen up in the industry, Janet has broken so many barriers and she continually reaches back to pull up others with her.”
Of course there’s more! Here’s the deets:
Winners, honorees and presenters including John Legend (Best Documentary winner for Atlanta’s Missing and Murdered: The Lost Children), Viola Davis (Best Actress winner for How To Get Away With Murder), Sterling K. Brown (Best Actor winner for This is Us), Jeremy Pope and Laura Harrier (Breakout Performer winners for Netflix’ Hollywood), Josh Gad and Leslie Odom, Jr. (Best Animated winner for Central Park on Apple TV+), Mindy Kaling (Best YA winner for Never Have I Ever), along with presenters including Rashida Jones, Octavia Spencer, William Jackson Harper (The Good Place), MJ Rodriguez and Angelica Ross (Pose), Sheryl Lee Ralph (Ray Donovan), Derek Luke, Tichina Arnold (CBS’ The Neighborhood), Entertainment Tonight host Kevin Frazier and many others. The event will feature a special performance by Abby Dobson of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” In recognition of the devastating impact of Covid-19 the AAFCA TV Honors will also feature as presenters some of the first responders, government leaders, firefighters and others from around the country who are leading the fight against the Coronavirus including: The Honorable Hank Johnson (Atlanta, GA Congressman), the Honorable Steven Reed (Mayor of Montgomery, AL), KNBC Journalist Beverly White, Reverend Jamal Bryant (New Birth Church, Altanta), Cherelle Barsdale (Nurse, University of Michigan Medical Center), Dr. Ala Stanford (Physician at Stanford Pediactric Surgery in Philadelphia), Tanya Rivers (EMT in New York City), Quentin Curtis (Fire Lieutenant from Chicago), NPR Journalist / Host Rose Scott and Dr. Christopher Emdin (Associate Professor of Science Education at the Teachers College, Columbia University).
Advertisement
The full list of 2020 honorees are currently listed at aafcatvhonors.com. The public viewing of the 2nd Annual AAFCA TV Honors ceremony will post on AAFCA’s YouTube channel Saturday, Aug. 22 at 1:30 p.m. PT / 4:30 p.m. ET.
Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-21--Jalen Rose, New York Post Unveil Multiplatform Partnership, The Renaissance Man

Jalen Rose is a man of many talents .
After 13 seasons in the NBA , he ’ s blossomed into a celebrated journalist , mastermind behind the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy , New York Times best-selling author , noted social justice advocate and possessor of the crispiest hairline in the history of Western civilization .
He ’ s a renaissance man .
And in staying true to form , he ’ s now expanding his empire to include a new multi platform partnership with the New York Post , aptly titled The Renaissance Man .
Set to launch this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a weekly column , as well as a weekly video podcast series that will be hosted by the Fab Five legend .
“ The New York Post is an institution , ” Rose said in a statement .
“ The Renaissance Man is about celebrating culture , those who create it and advance it , and I am honored to be given this platform to share my insights and speak with people I admire about topics that matter in today ’ s world .
I appreciate the team at the Post for showing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and helping bring it to life.
” As a haven of sorts for Rose ’ s myriad of talents , the 47-year-old will provide his insight and unique perspective on sports , entertainment , fashion , education , entrepreneurship , technology , food , healthy living , travel and other topics of interest .
He ’ ll also engage with other athletes , celebrities , business leaders and more during his weekly series .
“ Jalen is an extraordinary talent and we ’ re very excited to have him join our New York @ @ @ @ @ @ @ CEO and Publisher of The New York Post , said in a statement .
“ As an industry veteran and highly regarded influencer , Jalen will bring his experience and perspective on a wide variety of topics to our audience of over 100 million engaged sports , entertainment and style enthusiasts .
We are looking forward to delivering entertaining and thoughtful content with his credible and unique voice , and creating engaging integrated opportunities for our advertising partners.
” No word on if this will have any effect on his deal with ESPN @ @ @ @ @ @ @ man , it ’ s safe to assume he ’ s up for whatever challenges lie ahead .

Jalen Rose is a man of many talents.
After 13 seasons in the NBA, he’s blossomed into a celebrated journalist, mastermind behind the Jalen Rose Leadership Academy, New York Times best-selling author, noted social justice advocate and possessor of the crispiest hairline in the history of Western civilization.
He’s a renaissance man. And in staying true to form, he’s now expanding his empire to include a new multi platform partnership with the New York Post, aptly titled The Renaissance Man.
Advertisement
Set to launch this fall, The Renaissance Man will feature a weekly column, as well as a weekly video podcast series that will be hosted by the Fab Five legend.
“The New York Post is an institution,” Rose said in a statement. “The Renaissance Man is about celebrating culture, those who create it and advance it, and I am honored to be given this platform to share my insights and speak with people I admire about topics that matter in today’s world. I appreciate the team at the Post for showing me love, believing in this concept and helping bring it to life.”
Advertisement Advertisement
As a haven of sorts for Rose’s myriad of talents, the 47-year-old will provide his insight and unique perspective on sports, entertainment, fashion, education, entrepreneurship, technology, food, healthy living, travel and other topics of interest. He’ll also engage with other athletes, celebrities, business leaders and more during his weekly series.
“Jalen is an extraordinary talent and we’re very excited to have him join our New York Post family,” Sean Giancola, CEO and Publisher of The New York Post, said in a statement. “As an industry veteran and highly regarded influencer, Jalen will bring his experience and perspective on a wide variety of topics to our audience of over 100 million engaged sports, entertainment and style enthusiasts. We are looking forward to delivering entertaining and thoughtful content with his credible and unique voice, and creating engaging integrated opportunities for our advertising partners.”
Advertisement
No word on if this will have any effect on his deal with ESPN, but in being a true renaissance man, it’s safe to assume he’s up for whatever challenges lie ahead.


theroot--2020-08-21--Fate Continues to Laugh In the Face of the New York Knicks After Minnesota Timberwolves Win No. 1 Pi

Fate Continues to Laugh In the Face of the New York Knicks After Minnesota Timberwolves Win No. 1 Pick In NBA Draft

There ’ s bad luck , “ an unfortunate set of circumstances , ” being outright cursed and the New York Knicks .
Heading into Thursday night ’ s NBA Lottery , the same team that missed out on the Zion Williamson sweepstakes last summer , then scared off Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving as free agents , had a nine percent chance of landing the No .
1 pick in the 2020 NBA Draft .
Sadly , once fate got wind of these odds , it keeled over with laughter before muttering , “ Oh , you really thought @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all live ?
” Then with a snap of its finger and a foot firmly entrenched in Knicks owner James Dolan ’ s ass , fate did what fate does : wipe its ass with the Knicks yet again .
You hate to see it , but it sure as hell didn ’ t stop NBA Twitter from clowning .
For those wondering , the last time the Knicks won the top pick in the NBA Draft was in 1985—Patrick Ewing anyone ?
—and it ’ s been a torrential downpour of disappointment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ State Warriors , whose 2020 season might as well have contracted COVID-19 after finishing with the worse record in the league , were rewarded with the No .
2 pick in the upcoming draft .
But Thursday night ’ s big winner was the Minnesota Timberwolves , who entered the night with a 14 percent chance to win the top pick and did exactly that .
“ There ’ s a lot of steps left in this journey for us , but today was a significant one , ” Gersson Rosas , Timberwolves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ winning the NBA Lottery .
“ We ’ re excited about the potential level of player that we can add to our organization , but at the same time , we are going to be very aggressive and look at every avenue to improve this team .
We have two young stars in Karl-Anthony Towns and D ’ Angelo Russell that we ’ re building this together [ with ] .
We ’ ve got a great young core that ’ s young and being one of the youngest , if not the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We have a lot of upside .
“ But this allows us to take a major step in talent acquisition , whether it ’ s in the draft or the trade market , whatever the case may be .
It really positions us well moving forward.
” The Timberwolves have plenty of holes on their roster and are expected to take either Georgia phenom Anthony Edwards or combo-guard LaMelo Ball with the top pick .
Meanwhile , the Knicks will be off somewhere crying in the car .
Please keep the Knicks faithful @ @ @ @ @ @

There’s bad luck, “an unfortunate set of circumstances,” being outright cursed and the New York Knicks.
Heading into Thursday night’s NBA Lottery, the same team that missed out on the Zion Williamson sweepstakes last summer, then scared off Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving as free agents, had a nine percent chance of landing the No. 1 pick in the 2020 NBA Draft.
Advertisement
Sadly, once fate got wind of these odds, it keeled over with laughter before muttering, “Oh, you really thought I was gonna let y’all live?” Then with a snap of its finger and a foot firmly entrenched in Knicks owner James Dolan’s ass, fate did what fate does: wipe its ass with the Knicks yet again.
Advertisement Advertisement
You hate to see it, but it sure as hell didn’t stop NBA Twitter from clowning.
Advertisement
Advertisement
For those wondering, the last time the Knicks won the top pick in the NBA Draft was in 1985—Patrick Ewing anyone?—and it’s been a torrential downpour of disappointment and disarray ever since.
Advertisement
The Golden State Warriors, whose 2020 season might as well have contracted COVID-19 after finishing with the worse record in the league, were rewarded with the No. 2 pick in the upcoming draft. But Thursday night’s big winner was the Minnesota Timberwolves, who entered the night with a 14 percent chance to win the top pick and did exactly that.
Advertisement
“There’s a lot of steps left in this journey for us, but today was a significant one,” Gersson Rosas, Timberwolves president of basketball operations, said after winning the NBA Lottery. “We’re excited about the potential level of player that we can add to our organization, but at the same time, we are going to be very aggressive and look at every avenue to improve this team. We have two young stars in Karl-Anthony Towns and D’Angelo Russell that we’re building this together [with]. We’ve got a great young core that’s young and being one of the youngest, if not the youngest, team in the NBA. We have a lot of upside.
“But this allows us to take a major step in talent acquisition, whether it’s in the draft or the trade market, whatever the case may be. It really positions us well moving forward.”
Advertisement
The Timberwolves have plenty of holes on their roster and are expected to take either Georgia phenom Anthony Edwards or combo-guard LaMelo Ball with the top pick. Meanwhile, the Knicks will be off somewhere crying in the car.
Advertisement
Please keep the Knicks faithful in your thoughts and prayers.


theroot--2020-08-21--'These Intergenerational Wounds Continue': How Trauma From Hurricane Katrina and COVID-19 Are Affect

'These Intergenerational Wounds Continue': How Trauma From Hurricane Katrina and COVID-19 Are Affecting Black New Orleanians

The Black experience in America is rooted in trauma .
Blacks folks have been the objects of systemic and state-sanctioned trauma beginning in 1619 and existing well into today .
There ’ s no denying the staggering Black maternal mortality rate , effects of weathering and environmental racism on the Black body , as well as the harmful ways police brutality impacts Black mental health .
And susceptibility to stress and vulnerability can be passed on through genetic transmission .
“ Pregnant women who are stressed in disasters , are more likely to pass on vulnerability to PTSD in their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been done on the Holocaust and also during 9/11 , ” said president/CEO of the Institute for Women and Ethnic Studies ( IWES ) , Dr. Denese Shervington .
Dr. Shervington is based in New Orleans and works in the community to assess post-disaster mental health conditions such as depression , substance abuse , and PTSD .
She ’ s found that much of the psychological trauma residents experienced after Hurricane Katrina is happening again—this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic .
Black people in Louisiana are dying at disproportionately high rates of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a third of the state ’ s total population .
And due to the current public health crisis , social distancing , and need for masks , the traditional celebration of the deceased through second lines has been disrupted .
“ It ’ s a coping mechanism for the grief and the loss that has really acutely hit New Orleans .
We don ’ t have access to that , ” said Shervington .
In the video above Dr. Shervington breaks down how conditions can emerge in people who were previously mentally well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ multiple levels , and more .


theroot--2020-08-21--It's Official: Joe Biden Has His Night, The Chicks are Aight, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus Had Twitter Ti

It's Official: Joe Biden Has His Night, The Chicks are Aight, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus Had Twitter Tight

In what can only be called the longest Zoom conference in the history of small box teleconferences , the first-ever virtual Democratic National Convention has come to a close .
All of this was supposed to be an in-person event in Milwaukee , but the president fucked up the handling of the coronavirus and here we are .
Democrats have made their official case as to why Democratic presidential nominee ( no presumptive ) Joe Biden is the man for the job , and in truth Joe Biden himself made a compelling case as to why voters should vote for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This night was all about Biden and he delivered a compelling speech that made him look and sound , possibly for the first time since announcing his candidacy , like a president .
He vowed to purge the darkness that is really just the president ’ s orange blush brush covering the sun with hope , love and light .
Trump and his campaign have been trying for months to smear Biden as a doddering , senile 77-year-old who is being controlled by nefarious left-wing forces in the Democratic Party .
But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seem like an expectations-lowering miscalculation .
It will become clear in November whether the Democratic vision spelled out at the convention — one of diversity , inclusion , empathy and vows to tackle difficult challenges like racism and climate change — will be embraced by voters in a deeply polarized America .
The election will also show whether Biden and his team put sufficient focus on the economy — an area where Trump has enjoyed higher poll ratings than for many other policy aspects of his term .
In truth , if Biden @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said , “ Thank y ’ all for coming out , God bless and good night , ” I would probably be here hyping that up just as well considering that ’ s how bad I want Trump out of office .
But to Biden ’ s credit , he had to check off two boxes on my list .
First was to deliver a competent speech , and not because I believe that he ’ s senile or whatever Trump ’ s administration has been pushing , but because I ’ m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up fucking him and the whole party in an election that ’ s far too important .
( That ’ s where the senile accusations come from . )
And secondly , I wanted Biden to push whatever leftover idea of hope that the Obamas left behind .
We have been in arguably the worst year in America ’ s history and the only way to pull us out of this , the only way to beat back the enormous amount of darkness smothering modern day Gotham is a message of change , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t Biden that pulled on America ’ s emotional heart strings , that moment ( and probably the moment of the night ) belonged to 13-year-old Brayden Harrington , who has a stutter .
And yet he delivered a “ more succinct and eloquent argument to vote for Joe Biden than many former presidents and heads of states who had spoken before him , ” Vox reports .
Harrington noted that Biden shared with him that he too had a stutter for years “ He told me that we were members of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Harrington recalled in a pre-taped video recorded at his home , Vox reports .
“ I ’ m just a regular kid , and in the short amount of time , Joe Biden made me more confident about something that ’ s bothered me my whole life.
” What Harrington and Jacquelyn , the New York Times security guard whose spontaneous meeting with Biden went viral , did was not only push the humanistic side of Biden ( and going against this current administration , believe me that ’ s important ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and empathy with the common person—a component that ’ s been sorely missed during King Joffrey ’ s reign .
“ Joe Biden cared , ” Harrington said .
“ Imagine what he can do for all of us .
Kids like me are counting on you to elect someone we can all look up to.
” Sen. Tammy Duckworth ( D-Ill. ) and Sen. Cory Booker ( D-N.J. ) both showed up and delivered .
It ’ s hard not to love Duckworth , a wounded Iraq vet who is one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the loose skin under the president ’ s chin , and she pulled no punches on Thursday : “ We have a coward-in-chief who won ’ t stand up to Vladimir Putin.
” And just like that I realized that I can ’ t love Tammy Duckworth more than I already do .
Booker didn ’ t stand out during his presidential campaign , partly because of the overcrowding and partly because this was Biden ’ s race to lose , but on Thursday he reminded America why he was at one point @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up where Obama left off .
But the whole night wasn ’ t a homerun ; in fact there were several moments that were an absolute miss .
Like , Michael Bloomberg .
What .
The .
Fuck .
Was .
This ?
Seriously , who thought it was a good idea to have Bloomberg punching at the TV ?
Presidential historian Jon Meacham , who I ’ m sure is a nice fellow , was a bad choice during a teleconference conference .
In short , I completely understand why he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wasn ’ t nobody trying to hear that shit .
The great thing about Trump is that we don ’ t need historical data to understand why he ’ s a horrible president .
He ’ s doing that work for us .
I still don ’ t know where I stand on having Julia Louis-Dreyfus moderate the evening .
I mean she played a vice president in Veep so I guess that makes her relevant but this is a different time and a different level of urgency and I don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But I ’ m still mulling this over .
The Chicks ’ version of “ The Star-Spangled Banner ” seemed to play well with white ally Twitter but ...
I mean ... that shit was iight .
It wouldn ’ t get no play in this house but I wouldn ’ t run shouting to Alexa to turn it off .
I mean I don ’ t think it was better than this woman who just showed up at the Lincoln Memorial and showed out , but I mean ... Black people .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ Glory ” is always going to be with us .
It ’ s a thing .
A thing you can ’ t publicly bash because slave movie and all but nigga I ’ m so tired of these modernized spirituals .
Like enough already .
I get it , the road was long , we have a lot more work to do but I don ’ t know if I need to hear it sung out to me with Common ’ s monotone ass rapping .
That ’ s it .
It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to do .
If you are looking for me I ’ ll be working on a song called “ Voting ” about the struggles of Black voting to be sung by Jamie Foxx and J. Cole .
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

In what can only be called the longest Zoom conference in the history of small box teleconferences, the first-ever virtual Democratic National Convention has come to a close. All of this was supposed to be an in-person event in Milwaukee, but the president fucked up the handling of the coronavirus and here we are. Democrats have made their official case as to why Democratic presidential nominee (no presumptive) Joe Biden is the man for the job, and in truth Joe Biden himself made a compelling case as to why voters should vote for him and not just against Donald Trump.
This night was all about Biden and he delivered a compelling speech that made him look and sound, possibly for the first time since announcing his candidacy, like a president. He vowed to purge the darkness that is really just the president’s orange blush brush covering the sun with hope, love and light.
Advertisement
From CNN:
Trump and his campaign have been trying for months to smear Biden as a doddering, senile 77-year-old who is being controlled by nefarious left-wing forces in the Democratic Party. But his smooth performance made those attacks now seem like an expectations-lowering miscalculation. It will become clear in November whether the Democratic vision spelled out at the convention — one of diversity, inclusion, empathy and vows to tackle difficult challenges like racism and climate change — will be embraced by voters in a deeply polarized America. The election will also show whether Biden and his team put sufficient focus on the economy — an area where Trump has enjoyed higher poll ratings than for many other policy aspects of his term.
Advertisement Advertisement
In truth, if Biden had walked onto the stage and just said, “Thank y’all for coming out, God bless and good night,” I would probably be here hyping that up just as well considering that’s how bad I want Trump out of office. But to Biden’s credit, he had to check off two boxes on my list. First was to deliver a competent speech, and not because I believe that he’s senile or whatever Trump’s administration has been pushing, but because I’m tired of his off-the-cuff comments that end up fucking him and the whole party in an election that’s far too important. (That’s where the senile accusations come from.) And secondly, I wanted Biden to push whatever leftover idea of hope that the Obamas left behind. We have been in arguably the worst year in America’s history and the only way to pull us out of this, the only way to beat back the enormous amount of darkness smothering modern day Gotham is a message of change, and Biden delivered.
But it wasn’t Biden that pulled on America’s emotional heart strings, that moment (and probably the moment of the night) belonged to 13-year-old Brayden Harrington, who has a stutter. And yet he delivered a “more succinct and eloquent argument to vote for Joe Biden than many former presidents and heads of states who had spoken before him,” Vox reports.
Advertisement
Harrington noted that Biden shared with him that he too had a stutter for years
“He told me that we were members of the same club. We stutter,” Harrington recalled in a pre-taped video recorded at his home, Vox reports. “I’m just a regular kid, and in the short amount of time, Joe Biden made me more confident about something that’s bothered me my whole life.”
Advertisement
What Harrington and Jacquelyn, the New York Times security guard whose spontaneous meeting with Biden went viral, did was not only push the humanistic side of Biden (and going against this current administration, believe me that’s important) but it pushed a message of kindness and empathy with the common person—a component that’s been sorely missed during King Joffrey’s reign.
“Joe Biden cared,” Harrington said. “Imagine what he can do for all of us. Kids like me are counting on you to elect someone we can all look up to.”
Advertisement
Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) both showed up and delivered. It’s hard not to love Duckworth, a wounded Iraq vet who is one of the most outspoken senators in staying on the loose skin under the president’s chin, and she pulled no punches on Thursday: “We have a coward-in-chief who won’t stand up to Vladimir Putin.” And just like that I realized that I can’t love Tammy Duckworth more than I already do.
Booker didn’t stand out during his presidential campaign, partly because of the overcrowding and partly because this was Biden’s race to lose, but on Thursday he reminded America why he was at one point the sweetheart who everyone thought would pick up where Obama left off.
Advertisement
From CNN’s Chris Cillizza:
His speech — about the power of hard work and the need to work together — was full of the sort of brimming-over optimism that is his calling card. Don’t underestimate how difficult it is to bring that optimism, passion and energy when standing in a mostly empty room in New York City, with no audience or applause. I also thought Booker’s self-effacing joke that his girlfriend (aka actress Rosario Dawson) liked Bernie Sanders more than him — in a segment of former 2020 candidates he moderated — was a nice touch.
Advertisement
But the whole night wasn’t a homerun; in fact there were several moments that were an absolute miss.
Like, Michael Bloomberg. What. The. Fuck. Was. This?
Advertisement
Seriously, who thought it was a good idea to have Bloomberg punching at the TV?
Presidential historian Jon Meacham, who I’m sure is a nice fellow, was a bad choice during a teleconference conference. In short, I completely understand why he was there and historical context is relevant but wasn’t nobody trying to hear that shit. The great thing about Trump is that we don’t need historical data to understand why he’s a horrible president. He’s doing that work for us.
Advertisement
I still don’t know where I stand on having Julia Louis-Dreyfus moderate the evening. I mean she played a vice president in Veep so I guess that makes her relevant but this is a different time and a different level of urgency and I don’t know if Dreyfus hit the mark. But I’m still mulling this over.
The Chicks’ version of “The Star-Spangled Banner” seemed to play well with white ally Twitter but...I mean...that shit was iight. It wouldn’t get no play in this house but I wouldn’t run shouting to Alexa to turn it off. I mean I don’t think it was better than this woman who just showed up at the Lincoln Memorial and showed out, but I mean... Black people.
John Legend and Common’s “Glory” is always going to be with us. It’s a thing. A thing you can’t publicly bash because slave movie and all but nigga I’m so tired of these modernized spirituals. Like enough already. I get it, the road was long, we have a lot more work to do but I don’t know if I need to hear it sung out to me with Common’s monotone ass rapping.
Advertisement
That’s it. It’s over. Now we have work to do. If you are looking for me I’ll be working on a song called “Voting” about the struggles of Black voting to be sung by Jamie Foxx and J. Cole.
Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-21--Exclusive: You're Officially Invited to the DC FanDome Blerd & Boujee Afterparty With DJ D-Nice On t

Exclusive: You're Officially Invited to the DC FanDome Blerd & Boujee Afterparty With DJ D-Nice On the 1s and 2s

Before we get to the turn-up referenced in the headline , let ’ s go over what to expect at DC FanDome ( think Warner Bros. ’ own special version of Comic-Con ) .
Via the press release sent to The Root : DC FanDome , a first-of-its kind , virtual experience for DC superfans around the world , was a lot to handle in one day !
It turned out to be so massive that with so many hours of programming , not even The Flash could get through it in 24 hours !
In order to super-serve our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , DC FanDome has been expanded into — the first on August 22nd - and a second on-demand experience in on September 12th , where fans can create and curate their own adventure .
And — fans can now teleport their FanDome experience as both will be accessible across all mobile platforms ( in addition to desktop ) .
Since this is a 24-hour event , I know y ’ all are going to have your electrolytes ready ( hey , I know it ’ s virtual and you ’ re not running @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dedicated fandom requires energy , even from home ! )
so keep them handy for the afterparty .
For the second year in a row , DJ D-Nice will be headlining the official AT & T Dream in Black “ Blerd and Boujee ” Hall of Heroes after party on his IG Live !
“ I can ’ t wait to bring my beats to Blerd nation this Saturday , August 22 , worldwide !
” D-Nice told The Root .
Here ’ s the kicker—The Root has exclusively obtained the official invite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s dope as hell—illustrated by Marcus Williams !
“ I wanted to show what a celebration environment would look and feel like if 15 Black superheroes came together just to party and have a good time , ” Williams told The Root , in regards to his inspiration behind the art .
“ Something like this is almost never seen in comics , and I jumped at the opportunity to bring forth such an image .
I wanted fans to feel the joy in the room .
To want to actually jump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lose themselves in the music .
I wanted fans to see how beautiful , stylish and relatable Black Superheroes can be if given the opportunity.
” Yes !
We need that Black joy more than ever this year .
And just in case you can ’ t get enough of D-Nice ( clearly none of us can because that man stays booked and busy ! )
, we got the scoop on more content involving the popular DJ : Y ’ all know we ’ re over here extra anticipating Black-ass DC universe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The Batman and Batwoman .
Heads-up !
We do have some insight into what to expect during the continuation of DC FanDome scheduled to occur on Sept. 12 .
There ’ s specific Blerd & Boujee content and panels such as “ Re-introducing Nubia : The Black Amazonian Queen ” ( featuring L.L .
McKinney and Robyn Smith ! )
, “ Black Lightning Panel with an Ode to the 1990s !
” ( moderated by Robert Townsend ! )
and additional programming such as “ Immortal Vigilante : Hooded Justice , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that right , special content linked to the acclaimed HBO series ) and “ From the Vault : Static Shock.
” To register for DC FanDome , head to dcfandome.com .
For the parents out there , there ’ s something for the young Black children too , so head to dckidsfandome.com and sign up .
The AT & T Dream in Black “ Blerd and Boujee ” Hall of Heroes afterparty kicks off on Saturday , Aug. 22 at 6:30 p.m. PT / 9:30 p.m .
ET via DJ D-Nice ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ invite with all necessary details below .
See y ’ all there !
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

Blerds! Are y’all ready for DC FanDome?
Before we get to the turn-up referenced in the headline, let’s go over what to expect at DC FanDome (think Warner Bros.’ own special version of Comic-Con).
Via the press release sent to The Root:
DC FanDome, a first-of-its kind, virtual experience for DC superfans around the world, was a lot to handle in one day! It turned out to be so massive that with so many hours of programming, not even The Flash could get through it in 24 hours! In order to super-serve our fans and provide the best possible experience, DC FanDome has been expanded into two global events — the first on August 22nd - DC FanDome: Hall of Heroes , and a second on-demand experience in DC FanDome: Explore the Multiverse on September 12th, where fans can create and curate their own adventure. And — fans can now teleport their FanDome experience as both will be accessible across all mobile platforms (in addition to desktop).
Advertisement
Since this is a 24-hour event, I know y’all are going to have your electrolytes ready (hey, I know it’s virtual and you’re not running around a huge convention center, but dedicated fandom requires energy, even from home!) so keep them handy for the afterparty. For the second year in a row, DJ D-Nice will be headlining the official AT&T Dream in Black “Blerd and Boujee” Hall of Heroes after party on his IG Live!
“I can’t wait to bring my beats to Blerd nation this Saturday, August 22, worldwide!” D-Nice told The Root.
Advertisement Advertisement
Here’s the kicker—The Root has exclusively obtained the official invite flyer to the afterparty! And it’s dope as hell—illustrated by Marcus Williams!
“I wanted to show what a celebration environment would look and feel like if 15 Black superheroes came together just to party and have a good time,” Williams told The Root, in regards to his inspiration behind the art. “Something like this is almost never seen in comics, and I jumped at the opportunity to bring forth such an image. I wanted fans to feel the joy in the room. To want to actually jump on the dance floor with everyone and lose themselves in the music. I wanted fans to see how beautiful, stylish and relatable Black Superheroes can be if given the opportunity.”
Advertisement
Yes! We need that Black joy more than ever this year. And just in case you can’t get enough of D-Nice (clearly none of us can because that man stays booked and busy!), we got the scoop on more content involving the popular DJ:
D-Nice will be co-moderating the “Bawse Females of Color in the DC Universe” panel with Grammy Award-winning singer Estelle, featuring Javicia Leslie (Batwoman), Meagan Good (Shazam!), Candice Patton (The Flash), Damaris Lewis (Titans), Tala Ashe (DC’s Legends of Tomorrow), Anna Diop (Titans), Nafessa Williams (Black Lightning) and Chantal Thuy (Black Lightning).
Advertisement
Y’all know we’re over here extra anticipating Black-ass DC universe sneak-peek content at DC FanDome such as The Batman and Batwoman. Heads-up! We do have some insight into what to expect during the continuation of DC FanDome scheduled to occur on Sept. 12. There’s specific Blerd & Boujee content and panels such as “Re-introducing Nubia: The Black Amazonian Queen” (featuring L.L. McKinney and Robyn Smith!), “Black Lightning Panel with an Ode to the 1990s!” (moderated by Robert Townsend!) and additional programming such as “Immortal Vigilante: Hooded Justice,” “Watchmen Unmasked” (you read that right, special content linked to the acclaimed HBO series) and “From the Vault: Static Shock.”
To register for DC FanDome, head to dcfandome.com. For the parents out there, there’s something for the young Black children too, so head to dckidsfandome.com and sign up.
Advertisement
The AT&T Dream in Black “Blerd and Boujee” Hall of Heroes afterparty kicks off on Saturday, Aug. 22 at 6:30 p.m. PT / 9:30 p.m. ET via DJ D-Nice’s Instagram page. Check out the official invite with all necessary details below. See y’all there!
Advertisement
Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-21--Tika Sumpter and Thai Randolph's Sugaberry to Celebrate Black Breastfeeding Week With the Milk & Sug

Tika Sumpter and Thai Randolph's Sugaberry to Celebrate Black Breastfeeding Week With the Milk & Suga Summit

For mothers , there is perhaps nothing more important than the health of their children , and when it comes to giving them the most and best nutrients from the very start , research has long proven that breastfeeding does exactly that .
While every mother may not be able to breastfeed—and those who are able may find it incredibly challenging—when possible , it is an opportunity to both bond with and uniquely nourish your baby with proteins and antibodies tailored specifically to their developmental needs .
Next week , Aug. 25-31 , is the eighth annual celebration of Black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s theme is “ Revive , Restore , Reclaim.
” In hopes of doing exactly that , Sugaberry , the recently launched lifestyle brand and community for modern moms of color co-founded by actress , producer and entrepreneur Tika Sumpter and award-winning business executive Thai Randolph , is hosting its inaugural Milk & Suga Summit on Aug. 28 , calling it “ a bountiful day of virtual programming designed to celebrate , educate and empower Black moms on their breastfeeding journey.
” Per a release sent to The Glow Up , the Milk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a day of virtual programming bringing together moms , doctors , doulas , nutritionists and midwives for candid conversations about the joys and challenges of Black breastfeeding.
” For the free to the public livestream sponsored by organic baby and children ’ s clothing brand Monica + Andy , Tika and Thai will be joined by talent including actress and doula Yaya DaCosta , Dr. Jackie Walters from Bravo ’ s Married to Medicine , and celebrity wellness and lifestyle maven , autho r , doula and 2019 Root 100 honoree Latham Thomas @ @ @ @ @ @ @ showcase in celebrating significant joys of Black motherhood , ” says Sumpter .
“ When I discovered I ’ d be a mom , I didn ’ t see spaces where we existed to embody the pleasures of this journey .
We are not made up of only our pain and trauma , we need and deserve sweetness and my hope is the Milk & Suga Summit carves out a space I wish I saw back then.
” “ There is a significant disparity in the rate at which Black mothers and White @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ That gap is not driven by a mere matter of ‘ preference , ’ but rather is the byproduct of complex chasms in access to healthcare , representation and societal support that marginalizes Black moms and their babies during what ’ s supposed to be a special time in the mother/child development journey.
” Speaking to the frustrations of mothers unable to breastfeed , Randolph continues : “ As a mom who faced challenges breastfeeding ( and out of frustration ultimately opted not to ) , I am thrilled to create a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , celebrated and guided through their options to nourish their babies.
” Per the Sugaberry release , the day-long Milk & Suga Summit intends to be both inspiring and inclusive .
Panels will include : We ’ ve all heard about the value of “ Liquid Gold ” but we also know breastfeeding isn ’ t always an option for or preference of every mom .
In this session , moms , nutritionists , and medical doctors will explore the fundamentals of keeping your child full , fed , and feeling fine – @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IF AT FIRST YOU DON ’ T SUCCEED It ’ s not latch and go for all of us and early struggles can be a deterrent for many new moms .
Sure nursing can be lovely , but it can also be HARD .
In this session , our lactation specialist will guide women on tips , tricks , and techniques for latching , pumping , and getting through the early parts of your breastfeeding journey .
Let go and let it flow .
Breastfeeding isn ’ t all about the mechanics , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In this Doula-led session , we ’ ll get mantras and meditation exercises to relax your bodies and your mind when easing into Breastfeeding .
Join visible and vocal public figures on a quest to normalize the beauty of Black breastfeeding .
Moms will share their experiences breastfeeding – from navigating public breastfeeding to showcasing their precious moments on social media .
The first-ever Milk & Suga Summit will be free to livestream on Perigon , and the full schedule is available on its website .
Attendees must RSVP online .
Join the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

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

For mothers, there is perhaps nothing more important than the health of their children, and when it comes to giving them the most and best nutrients from the very start, research has long proven that breastfeeding does exactly that. While every mother may not be able to breastfeed—and those who are able may find it incredibly challenging—when possible, it is an opportunity to both bond with and uniquely nourish your baby with proteins and antibodies tailored specifically to their developmental needs.
Advertisement
Next week, Aug. 25-31, is the eighth annual celebration of Black Breastfeeding Week, and this year’s theme is “Revive, Restore, Reclaim.” In hopes of doing exactly that, Sugaberry, the recently launched lifestyle brand and community for modern moms of color co-founded by actress, producer and entrepreneur Tika Sumpter and award-winning business executive Thai Randolph, is hosting its inaugural Milk & Suga Summit on Aug. 28, calling it “a bountiful day of virtual programming designed to celebrate, educate and empower Black moms on their breastfeeding journey.”
Per a release sent to The Glow Up, the Milk & Suga Summit is billed as “a day of virtual programming bringing together moms, doctors, doulas, nutritionists and midwives for candid conversations about the joys and challenges of Black breastfeeding.” For the free to the public livestream sponsored by organic baby and children’s clothing brand Monica + Andy, Tika and Thai will be joined by talent including actress and doula Yaya DaCosta, Dr. Jackie Walters from Bravo’s Married to Medicine, and celebrity wellness and lifestyle maven, autho r, doula and 2019 Root 100 honoree Latham Thomas.
Advertisement Advertisement
“Milk & Suga is a showcase in celebrating significant joys of Black motherhood,” says Sumpter. “When I discovered I’d be a mom, I didn’t see spaces where we existed to embody the pleasures of this journey. We are not made up of only our pain and trauma, we need and deserve sweetness and my hope is the Milk & Suga Summit carves out a space I wish I saw back then.”
Advertisement
“There is a significant disparity in the rate at which Black mothers and White mothers breastfeed,” Randolph adds. “That gap is not driven by a mere matter of ‘preference,’ but rather is the byproduct of complex chasms in access to healthcare, representation and societal support that marginalizes Black moms and their babies during what’s supposed to be a special time in the mother/child development journey.”
Speaking to the frustrations of mothers unable to breastfeed, Randolph continues: “As a mom who faced challenges breastfeeding (and out of frustration ultimately opted not to), I am thrilled to create a space where Black women can be supported, celebrated and guided through their options to nourish their babies.”
Advertisement
Per the Sugaberry release, the day-long Milk & Suga Summit intends to be both inspiring and inclusive. Panels will include:
FED IS BEST We’ve all heard about the value of “Liquid Gold” but we also know breastfeeding isn’t always an option for or preference of every mom. In this session, moms, nutritionists, and medical doctors will explore the fundamentals of keeping your child full, fed, and feeling fine – regardless of which path you choose. IF AT FIRST YOU DON’T SUCCEED It’s not latch and go for all of us and early struggles can be a deterrent for many new moms. Sure nursing can be lovely, but it can also be HARD. In this session, our lactation specialist will guide women on tips, tricks, and techniques for latching, pumping, and getting through the early parts of your breastfeeding journey. LACTATION & RELAXATION - A Guided Meditation Let go and let it flow. Breastfeeding isn’t all about the mechanics, it’s about your mindset. In this Doula-led session, we’ll get mantras and meditation exercises to relax your bodies and your mind when easing into Breastfeeding. BLACK BREASTFEEDING IS BEAUTIFUL – AND NORMAL Join visible and vocal public figures on a quest to normalize the beauty of Black breastfeeding. Moms will share their experiences breastfeeding – from navigating public breastfeeding to showcasing their precious moments on social media.
Advertisement
The first-ever Milk & Suga Summit will be free to livestream on Perigon, and the full schedule is available on its website. Attendees must RSVP online.
Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-21--Terry Crews Twitter Wants to Speak to the Manager After Kansas City Chiefs Ban Headdresses, Face Pai

Terry Crews Twitter Wants to Speak to the Manager After Kansas City Chiefs Ban Headdresses, Face Paint

While the majority of us have enough sense to know that cultures should not be treated as costumes , there are those of us who would much rather dress up as “ pow wow princesses ” during Halloween or attend Kansas City Chiefs games rocking bootleg war bonnets .
The Chiefs have dissuaded their fans from engaging in this behavior for years , but now that our current climate is allegedly less tolerant of such offenses , the team is now banning headdresses outright—because about damn time .
In a statement released on their website , the team explained that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group of local leaders from diverse American Indian backgrounds and experiences ” and are making the following changes : • Effective immediately , fans are prohibited from wearing headdresses into the stadium .
• Face paint is still allowed by fans , but any face paint that is styled in a way that references or appropriates American Indian cultures and traditions will be prohibited .
The Chiefs also announced their signature Arrowhead Chop—which you can behold in all of its racially insensitive glory here—is undergoing a “ thorough review process.
” “ These @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Working Group helped us educate ourselves and our fans , and our partnership with these leaders has helped guide our American Indian Heritage Month Games , as well as the ceremonial Blessing of the Drum and the Four Directions of Arrowhead Stadium , ” the team wrote in its statement .
“ We are grateful to the members of the working group for their counsel and collaboration , and we look forward to continuing our partnership.
” As to be expected , these decisions have been met with a deluge of unseasoned tears @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want no parts of openly mocking Indigenous cultures and traditions .
While this doesn ’ t erase decades of redface , tribal headdresses or other racist-ass behavior that the team and its fans have actively engaged in , it is a step in the right direction .
Hopefully , it forces the Atlanta Braves , the Cleveland Indians and other offenders to follow suit .
All Lives Matter Twitter will just have to deal .

While the majority of us have enough sense to know that cultures should not be treated as costumes, there are those of us who would much rather dress up as “pow wow princesses” during Halloween or attend Kansas City Chiefs games rocking bootleg war bonnets.
The Chiefs have dissuaded their fans from engaging in this behavior for years, but now that our current climate is allegedly less tolerant of such offenses, the team is now banning headdresses outright—because about damn time.
Advertisement
In a statement released on their website, the team explained that they’ve consulted with “a group of local leaders from diverse American Indian backgrounds and experiences” and are making the following changes:
Advertisement Advertisement
Effective immediately, fans are prohibited from wearing headdresses into the stadium.
Face paint is still allowed by fans, but any face paint that is styled in a way that references or appropriates American Indian cultures and traditions will be prohibited.
Advertisement
The Chiefs also announced their signature Arrowhead Chop—which you can behold in all of its racially insensitive glory here—is undergoing a “thorough review process.”
“These meaningful conversations with the American Indian Community Working Group helped us educate ourselves and our fans, and our partnership with these leaders has helped guide our American Indian Heritage Month Games, as well as the ceremonial Blessing of the Drum and the Four Directions of Arrowhead Stadium,” the team wrote in its statement. “We are grateful to the members of the working group for their counsel and collaboration, and we look forward to continuing our partnership.”
Advertisement
As to be expected, these decisions have been met with a deluge of unseasoned tears and manufactured outrage now that the Chiefs want no parts of openly mocking Indigenous cultures and traditions.
Advertisement
Advertisement
She’s done, y’all!
While this doesn’t erase decades of redface, tribal headdresses or other racist-ass behavior that the team and its fans have actively engaged in, it is a step in the right direction. Hopefully, it forces the Atlanta Braves, the Cleveland Indians and other offenders to follow suit.
Advertisement
All Lives Matter Twitter will just have to deal.


theroot--2020-08-20--Protect Yourself and Others From COVID-19 With 20% off KN95 Masks [Exclusive]

Listen , no matter how loud the anti-maskers have a temper tantrum , masks protect yourself and others from COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ in a pandemic and you know , it requires a bit of preparation for going @ @ @ @ @ 20-Pack of KN95 masks ( and any other size ) are $ 48 , 20 @ @ @ @ @ KINJA20 , which is $ 12 off the original price of $ 60 .
If @ @ @ @ @ , you might want to invest in the 50-pack for $ 104 , or even @ @ @ @ @ .
Like I said before , yes , masks are overpriced these days , but @ @ @ @ @ are certified by the CDC to block 95 % of air particles up to .3-micron @ @ @ @ @ waiting for ?
Grab a box and start using them !

Ignacia on Kinja Deals, shared by Ignacia to The Root

KN95 Masks (40-Pack) | $24 | MorningSave
Listen, no matter how loud the anti-maskers have a temper tantrum, masks protect yourself and others from COVID-19. We’re living in a pandemic and you know, it requires a bit of preparation for going out in public. This 40-Pack of KN95 masks is $24 . Yes, masks are overpriced these days, but these five-layer KN95 masks block 95% of air particles up to .3-micron levels. What are you waiting for? Grab a box and start using them!
This deal was originally published by Ignacia Fulcher in August 2020 and updated by Quentyn Kennemer with new information on 10/27/2020.


theroot--2020-08-21--Young Black Gamers Get a Pathway Into the Industry Through the ESA Foundation

Despite Anime Avatar Twitter ’ s claims to the contrary , gaming has one of the most diverse fanbases of any medium .
A study by Pew research found that Black teens play more video games than their white peers , at 83 percent and 71 percent respectively .
Despite making up a large portion of the player base , more often than not , players are usually controlling some white dude voiced by Troy Baker , and the representation behind the scenes really isn ’ t much better The ESA Foundation is working to change that .
Since its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ selects a group of students every year to receive its Computer and Video Game Arts and Sciences Scholarship .
The scholarship is intended to help students from underrepresented communities obtain an education in game development , as well as provide a pathway towards landing a job in the industry .
The Foundation also has scholarships for LGBTQ+ gamers and athletes who want to pursue a career in esports .
“ One of things I ’ m very proud about being attached to the foundation is our scholarship fund .
It has been around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to support almost 400 students and share their stories and [ help them ] follow their dreams of entering the industry , ” Anastasia Staten , e xecutive d irector of the ESA Foundation , told The Root .
Staten stressed how the Foundation wants to make sure students are aware from a young age of just how many opportunities exist for them within the industry .
“ You can do anything you want to do in this industry , ” Maurice Hendricks , one of the recipients of this year ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel like game development is really special because you can create a world that you can ’ t do in any other art form .
You can create it , manipulate it and interact with it at the same time.
” Hendricks cites the classic Need for Speed : Underground as one of the major games that inspired him to go into game design .
After expressing interest , his father got him some books and taught him how to design websites .
Maurice then decided to apply that knowledge towards designing video @ @ @ @ @ @ @ major benefit to Hendricks as he has three siblings and his parents can only contribute so much to his tuition .
“ The scholarship allows me to go to school without having to work full-time or something like that .
That gives me time to focus on building my games , establishing myself in the industry and perfecting my craft , ” Maurice said .
Hendricks would ultimately like to run his own game development company .
His goal is to create story-driven games that feature a diverse cast of characters .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his games and create worlds where players piece out the lore through contextual clues .
“ I feel like I ’ ve gotten a lot of opportunities I wouldn ’ t have otherwise , ” Geneva Heyward , another of this year ’ s scholars , said .
“ Last year , I was able to go to E3 for the first time .
It was really cool being able to network and being able to see what it ’ s like to showcase at this big event .
I always know about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how the show floor looks and how there ’ s actually indie developers there trying to showcase their games.
” Heyward is a student and game designer currently working on the Insecure mobile game with Glow Up Games .
They started interning at the studio in October of last year and their time with the company has been very educational .
“ My experience there has been really cool .
In my head I ’ m saying ‘ this is my first game dev job , ’ because I ’ m working in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ m trying to meet deadlines , ” they said .
“ It ’ s been a really great experience working there and all the people working on the game are great.
” Some of Heyward ’ s earliest inspirations were Paper Mario and Pokemon .
They have a desire to create games that blend genre lines .
The game they ’ re currently working on , Skate & Date , is a perfect reflection of that desire .
The game , a charming blend of visual novels and rhythm games , casts you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ teenage girl who ’ s lead jammer for the Rockin Rollergirls roller derby team .
Maggie has a crush on Patricia , a member of a rival team , and the only way you can impress her is with your roller derby skills .
Both students have said that the bonds they ’ ve forged with their fellow scholars has been one of the best parts of the scholarship .
“ It ’ s ... really cool being able to interact with the different scholars and get to know them .
We have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ share resources and things like that , ” Geneva said .
“ I ’ ve made friends from just other scholars and that ’ s future teammates you could work on a project with .
We build each other up at the same time as we ’ re on the come up ...
It builds that network , ” Hendricks said .
“ I think for students that really want to think about this or explore this , there are a lot of non formal programs that don ’ t cost any money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Staten said .
She recommended the programs After-School All-Stars and Girls Make Games , as both provide courses that teach the basics of game development .
She added that the application period for the next round of scholarships will open between the end of this year and the beginning of next .
Students and parents can register for the ESA Foundation ’ s newsletter to be the first to know when applications go live .
For those just starting out in game development , Maurice had some pretty concise advice .
“ Just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Practice , practice .
Just focus on what you ’ re good at and try to learn skills that summarize that skillset you have.
” Geneva ’ s advice is to make sure you ’ re not too hard on yourself as you ’ re starting out .
“ Balance working with taking care of yourself because it ’ s hard , sometimes , developing games , ” they said .
“ Rejections shouldn ’ t be a message that you ’ re not good enough .
You put in hard work , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re trying your best and I think that really matters .
Reminding yourself that you ’ re trying your best.
” All three were quick to express just how many opportunities there currently are within game development .
“ The industry is opening up , ” Hendricks said .
“ This is the perfect time to try and get into it .
”

Despite Anime Avatar Twitter’s claims to the contrary, gaming has one of the most diverse fanbases of any medium. A study by Pew research found that Black teens play more video games than their white peers, at 83 percent and 71 percent respectively. Despite making up a large portion of the player base, more often than not, players are usually controlling some white dude voiced by Troy Baker, and the representation behind the scenes really isn’t much better
The ESA Foundation is working to change that.
Since its inception in 2007, the ESA Foundation selects a group of students every year to receive its Computer and Video Game Arts and Sciences Scholarship. The scholarship is intended to help students from underrepresented communities obtain an education in game development, as well as provide a pathway towards landing a job in the industry. The Foundation also has scholarships for LGBTQ+ gamers and athletes who want to pursue a career in esports.
Advertisement
“One of things I’m very proud about being attached to the foundation is our scholarship fund. It has been around for 13 years and we have been able to support almost 400 students and share their stories and [help them] follow their dreams of entering the industry,” Anastasia Staten, e xecutive d irector of the ESA Foundation, told The Root. Staten stressed how the Foundation wants to make sure students are aware from a young age of just how many opportunities exist for them within the industry.
“You can do anything you want to do in this industry,” Maurice Hendricks, one of the recipients of this year’s scholarship, said. “I feel like game development is really special because you can create a world that you can’t do in any other art form. You can create it, manipulate it and interact with it at the same time.” Hendricks cites the classic Need for Speed: Underground as one of the major games that inspired him to go into game design. After expressing interest, his father got him some books and taught him how to design websites. Maurice then decided to apply that knowledge towards designing video games.
Advertisement Advertisement
The scholarship has been a major benefit to Hendricks as he has three siblings and his parents can only contribute so much to his tuition. “The scholarship allows me to go to school without having to work full-time or something like that. That gives me time to focus on building my games, establishing myself in the industry and perfecting my craft,” Maurice said.
Hendricks would ultimately like to run his own game development company. His goal is to create story-driven games that feature a diverse cast of characters. He wants to imbue a positive message within his games and create worlds where players piece out the lore through contextual clues.
Advertisement
“I feel like I’ve gotten a lot of opportunities I wouldn’t have otherwise,” Geneva Heyward, another of this year’s scholars, said. “Last year, I was able to go to E3 for the first time. It was really cool being able to network and being able to see what it’s like to showcase at this big event. I always know about E3 but I didn’t know how the show floor looks and how there’s actually indie developers there trying to showcase their games.”
Heyward is a student and game designer currently working on the Insecure mobile game with Glow Up Games. They started interning at the studio in October of last year and their time with the company has been very educational. “My experience there has been really cool. In my head I’m saying ‘this is my first game dev job,’ because I’m working in a studio [and] I’m trying to meet deadlines,” they said. “It’s been a really great experience working there and all the people working on the game are great.”
Advertisement
Some of Heyward’s earliest inspirations were Paper Mario and Pokemon. They have a desire to create games that blend genre lines. The game they’re currently working on, Skate & Date, is a perfect reflection of that desire. The game, a charming blend of visual novels and rhythm games, casts you in the role of Maggie, a teenage girl who’s lead jammer for the Rockin Rollergirls roller derby team. Maggie has a crush on Patricia, a member of a rival team, and the only way you can impress her is with your roller derby skills.
Both students have said that the bonds they’ve forged with their fellow scholars has been one of the best parts of the scholarship. “It’s...really cool being able to interact with the different scholars and get to know them. We have a little ESA Foundation Discord where we share resources and things like that,” Geneva said.
Advertisement
“I’ve made friends from just other scholars and that’s future teammates you could work on a project with. We build each other up at the same time as we’re on the come up... It builds that network,” Hendricks said.
“I think for students that really want to think about this or explore this, there are a lot of non formal programs that don’t cost any money that they can participate in,” Staten said. She recommended the programs After-School All-Stars and Girls Make Games, as both provide courses that teach the basics of game development. She added that the application period for the next round of scholarships will open between the end of this year and the beginning of next. Students and parents can register for the ESA Foundation’s newsletter to be the first to know when applications go live.
Advertisement
For those just starting out in game development, Maurice had some pretty concise advice. “Just practice,” he said. “Practice, practice. Just focus on what you’re good at and try to learn skills that summarize that skillset you have.” Geneva’s advice is to make sure you’re not too hard on yourself as you’re starting out.
“Balance working with taking care of yourself because it’s hard, sometimes, developing games,” they said. “Rejections shouldn’t be a message that you’re not good enough. You put in hard work, you’re learning, you’re trying your best and I think that really matters. Reminding yourself that you’re trying your best.”
Advertisement
All three were quick to express just how many opportunities there currently are within game development. “The industry is opening up,” Hendricks said. “This is the perfect time to try and get into it.”