theroot--2020-08-05--Zoe Saldana Breaks Down in Tears of Regret About Nina Simone Biopic: 'She Deserves Better'

After years of criticism regarding her decision to play Nina Simone in the 2016 biopic about her life , Zoe Saldana is opening up about her regrets playing the iconic musician and activist .
In a new Instagram Live interview for Saldana ’ s Latino empowerment platform Bese , the actress ( who identifies as Afro-Latina ) discussed the topic of colorism with Pose creator and executive producer Steven Canals .
Around the 41-minute mark of the nearly hourlong chat , Saldana says that she “ should have never played ” the “ Lilac Wine ” singer and that her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wonder : what is your relationship with that choice now ?
” Canals asked .
“ How has the process of evolution for you and loving yourself changed how you reflect on that decision ?
” Saldana says that given the “ leverage ” she had in the industry , she should have done “ everything in [ her ] power ” to cast a darker-skinned Black woman to portray Ms. Simone , whom she praises for being “ an exceptionally perfect Black woman.
” “ That ’ s growing , and it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ I thought back then that I had the permission because I was a Black woman , and I am ... but it was Nina Simone , and she had a life , and she had a journey , and it should be honored to the most specific detail.
” “ I ’ m so sorry , because I loved her music , ” Saldana continues to say through tears .
“ That said , she ’ s one of our giants .
Somebody else should step up , somebody else should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to say that America has a history of “ appropriating ourselves ” and that she knows better today than to accept the offer of a role filled with so much weight and importance .
She also says she is open to having further conversations about reclaiming identity in the future .
Many were outraged with the decision to cast Saldana as Simone .
The icon ’ s daughter Kelly Simone told The New York Times in 2012 that the choice to cast Saldana was “ not the best choice ” due to her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ makeup , a prosthetic nose and false teeth to portray Simone during the film .
The Guardians of the Galaxy actress initially turned down the role because she thought her age was not suitable for the time period the film would be portraying .
She also went back and forth with the idea of giving up the role to a more suitable Black actress , however , she wanted Simone ’ s story to be told one way or another .
“ This project has been pitched at every studio .
It has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , amazing actresses that , for whatever valid reasons of their own , decided to pass on the project , ” she said during a post-screening conversation for the film in 2016 .
“ ‘ Do I sit on the side ... and just pass this project from my hands ... Or do I make the decision to be a part of the telling of the story of an iconic figure in American history that happens to be a woman , that happens to be black ?
’ So I guess the good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Saldana also hit back at her critics during the time for trying to define her Blackness , stating “ There ’ s no one way to be Black .
I ’ m Black the way I know how to be .
You have no idea who I am .
I am Black .
I ’ m raising Black men .
Don ’ t you ever think you can look at me and address me with such disdain.
” Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

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

After years of criticism regarding her decision to play Nina Simone in the 2016 biopic about her life, Zoe Saldana is opening up about her regrets playing the iconic musician and activist.
In a new Instagram Live interview for Saldana’s Latino empowerment platform Bese, the actress (who identifies as Afro-Latina) discussed the topic of colorism with Pose creator and executive producer Steven Canals. Around the 41-minute mark of the nearly hourlong chat, Saldana says that she “should have never played” the “Lilac Wine” singer and that her legacy “deserves better.”
Advertisement
“I wonder: what is your relationship with that choice now?” Canals asked. “How has the process of evolution for you and loving yourself changed how you reflect on that decision?”
Saldana says that given the “leverage” she had in the industry, she should have done “everything in [her] power” to cast a darker-skinned Black woman to portray Ms. Simone, whom she praises for being “an exceptionally perfect Black woman.”
Advertisement Advertisement
“That’s growing, and it’s painful,” she explains. “I thought back then that I had the permission because I was a Black woman, and I am...but it was Nina Simone, and she had a life, and she had a journey, and it should be honored to the most specific detail.”
Advertisement
“I’m so sorry, because I loved her music,” Saldana continues to say through tears. “That said, she’s one of our giants. Somebody else should step up, somebody else should tell her story.” She goes on to say that America has a history of “appropriating ourselves ” and that she knows better today than to accept the offer of a role filled with so much weight and importance. She also says she is open to having further conversations about reclaiming identity in the future.
Many were outraged with the decision to cast Saldana as Simone. The icon’s daughter Kelly Simone told The New York Times in 2012 that the choice to cast Saldana was “not the best choice” due to her appearance. Saldana used skin-darkening and aging makeup, a prosthetic nose and false teeth to portray Simone during the film.
Advertisement
The Guardians of the Galaxy actress initially turned down the role because she thought her age was not suitable for the time period the film would be portraying. She also went back and forth with the idea of giving up the role to a more suitable Black actress, however, she wanted Simone’s story to be told one way or another.
“This project has been pitched at every studio. It has been offered to a number of excellent, amazing actresses that, for whatever valid reasons of their own, decided to pass on the project,” she said during a post-screening conversation for the film in 2016. “‘Do I sit on the side...and just pass this project from my hands...Or do I make the decision to be a part of the telling of the story of an iconic figure in American history that happens to be a woman, that happens to be black?’ So I guess the good outweighed the fear and the bad.”
Advertisement
Saldana also hit back at her critics during the time for trying to define her Blackness, stating “There’s no one way to be Black. I’m Black the way I know how to be. You have no idea who I am. I am Black. I’m raising Black men. Don’t you ever think you can look at me and address me with such disdain.”
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--2020-08-05--Ilia Beauty Tinted Lip Oil Will Have Your Lips Popping In Summertime

To all my fellow beauty girls and guys , Ilia Beauty has just released their Tinted Lip Oil in SIX @ @ @ @ @ is to provide moisture to dry lips , while also giving a bit of fashion @ @ @ @ @ you sweep it over your smackers .
Made with hyaluronic acid and other moisturizing ingredients @ @ @ @ @ have to worry about ashy lips for the duration of summer and then some !
@ @ @ @ @ an affordable Afterpay option , it ’ s an easy splurge .
Indulge a little @ @ @ @ @ self-care .

Ignacia on Kinja Deals, shared by Ignacia to The Root

Balmy Gloss Tinted Lip Oil | $26 | Ilia Beauty
To all my fellow beauty girls and guys, Ilia Beauty has just released their Tinted Lip Oil in SIX new shades. The goal is to provide moisture to dry lips, while also giving a bit of fashion a nd personality every time you sweep it over your smackers. Made with hyaluronic acid and other moisturizing ingredients , you won’t have to worry about ashy lips for the duration of summer and then some! At $26, and an affordable Afterpay option, it’s an easy splurge. Indulge a little and take some selfies as self-care.


theroot--2020-08-05--Devin Booker Reminds NBA Twitter He Isn't Human After Buzzer-Beater Breaks the Internet

The best thing about the NBA restart is that outside of the Washington Wizards—and whatever towering pile of chimpanzee shit that the Brooklyn Nets trot out—every team is legit .
So every single game has the very real potential to keep us on the edge of our seats and become headline news .
That ’ s exactly what happened on Tuesday , when Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker did a very Devin Booker thing .
With the score tied at 115 against the Los Angeles Clippers and only seconds left on the clock , the first-time All-Star figured it was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by doing this : Nah , I don ’ t think you realize what you just watched .
Look at this shit again .
In what realm of reality is this even remotely fair ?
Booker ’ s buzzer-beater not only propelled the Suns to their third straight win since the league restarted but it also threw NBA Twitter into chaos as fans and players alike tried to make sense of what they just witnessed .
“ This is a fun team to be a part of and we ’ re having fun @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the game .
“ This whole experience [ ... ] we just wanted to come down here and make some noise and that ’ s what we ’ re doing.
” Oh , you made some noise alright .
Not only did Booker snatch Paul George ’ s soul with that buzzer-beater , but by winning , the Suns are tied with the San Antonio Spurs and New Orleans Pelicans for 10th place in the West , and brings them to within three games of the Memphis Grizzlies for the 8th seed .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ better way to cap off a 35-point outburst .
We are all witnesses .

The best thing about the NBA restart is that outside of the Washington Wizards—and whatever towering pile of chimpanzee shit that the Brooklyn Nets trot out—every team is legit. So every single game has the very real potential to keep us on the edge of our seats and become headline news.
That’s exactly what happened on Tuesday, when Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker did a very Devin Booker thing. With the score tied at 115 against the Los Angeles Clippers and only seconds left on the clock, the first-time All-Star figured it was the opportune time to break the internet by doing this:
Advertisement
Nah, I don’t think you realize what you just watched. Look at this shit again.
Advertisement Advertisement
In what realm of reality is this even remotely fair?
Booker’s buzzer-beater not only propelled the Suns to their third straight win since the league restarted but it also threw NBA Twitter into chaos as fans and players alike tried to make sense of what they just witnessed.
Advertisement
Advertisement
“This is a fun team to be a part of and we’re having fun with it,” Booker said after the game. “This whole experience [...] we just wanted to come down here and make some noise and that’s what we’re doing.”
Advertisement
Oh, you made some noise alright.
Not only did Booker snatch Paul George’s soul with that buzzer-beater, but by winning, the Suns are tied with the San Antonio Spurs and New Orleans Pelicans for 10th place in the West, and brings them to within three games of the Memphis Grizzlies for the 8th seed.
Advertisement
I can’t think of a better way to cap off a 35-point outburst.
Advertisement
We are all witnesses.


theroot--2020-08-05--Louisiana Supreme Court Decides a Black Man Should Stay in Prison for the Rest of His Life for Steal

Louisiana Supreme Court Decides a Black Man Should Stay in Prison for the Rest of His Life for Stealing Hedge Clippers

There has been plenty of discussion about whether prison is more about rehabilitation , punishment or keeping society safe .
However , f or Black people especially , it often seems like there ’ s a fourth option : Prison is about throwing undesirable people away .
More than 20 years ago , a Black man was given a life sentence for stealing a pair of hedge clippers .
Last week , the Louisiana Supreme Court denied that man a request to have his sentence reviewed citing prior bad acts , most of which were nonviolent .
Only one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that his sentence should be reviewed—the Black one .
The Washington Post reports that Fair Wayne Bryant was 38 years old when he was arrested in Shreveport , La.
, and has now spent nearly 23 years at Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola , which happens to be America ’ s largest maximum-security prison and one that sits on land that used to be home to a slave plantation .
Chief Justice Bernette Johnson was the lone voice of dissent , the only African American justice and , apparently , the only one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ racism working in real-time .
“ Mr .
Bryant has already spent nearly 23 years in prison and is now over 60 years old , ” she wrote in a statement .
“ If he lives another 20 years , Louisiana taxpayers will have paid almost one million dollars to punish Mr. Bryant for his failed effort to steal a set of hedge clippers .
“ This man ’ s life sentence for a failed attempt to steal a set of hedge clippers is grossly out of proportion to the crime and serves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ added .
Prior to being condemned to spend the rest of his life in a maximum-security prison , Bryant had four felonies on his criminal record .
His most serious and only violent crime was an attempted armed robbery of a cab driver for which he was convicted in 1979 and served 10 years in prison .
His other crimes include being in possession of stolen goods and forging a check .
In 1992 , he was convicted of breaking into a home and stealing personal property for which he served another four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when Bryant was convicted of attempted simple burglary for stealing the hedge clippers , prosecutors cited Louisiana ’ s habitual offender laws , which “ allows prosecutors to seek harsher sentences for lesser crimes if a defendant has previous convictions , ” the Post reports .
Johnson believes those laws are a “ modern manifestation ” of the “ Pig Laws , ” which she said were designed to keep Black people in poverty during the Reconstruction era .
In the years following Reconstruction , she wrote , Southern states introduced extreme sentences @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cattle and swine , that criminalized recently freed African Americans who were still struggling to come out of poverty .
Much like Black Codes before them , they allowed states to sentence people to forced labor .
Under these laws , the Black prison population in the Deep South exploded starting in the 1870s .
Those laws have drawn heavy scrutiny for allowing excessively harsh sentences and driving mass incarceration .
Almost 80 percent of people incarcerated in Louisiana prisons under the habitual offender laws are Black , the Lens reported .
In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s 2nd Circuit Court of Appeal that his sentencing was “ unconstitutionally excessive.
” The court basically ruled that since he ’ d already spent much of his adult life behind bars , he might as well be kept in lockup forever .
The court wrote that the “ litany of convictions and the brevity of the periods during which the defendant was not in custody for a new offense is ample support for the sentence imposed in this case.
” Two appeals later , Bryant won the possibility of parole , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ motions to have his sentencing reviewed—in which he argued that he “ received an illegal sentence and should have been appointed a lawyer during a resentencing hearing , ” the Post reports—were denied by higher courts and denied again on July 31 by the state ’ s Supreme Court .
No one should have their freedom taken away from them indefinitely for committing a nonviolent crime .
It ’ s unconscionably cruel and the fact that Black people represent 80 percent of those sentenced in Louisiana under habitual offender laws shows that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as lesser even when we have clean records—are easily regarded as disposable .

There has been plenty of discussion about whether prison is more about rehabilitation, punishment or keeping society safe. However, f or Black people especially, it often seems like there’s a fourth option: Prison is about throwing undesirable people away.
More than 20 years ago, a Black man was given a life sentence for stealing a pair of hedge clippers. Last week, the Louisiana Supreme Court denied that man a request to have his sentence reviewed citing prior bad acts, most of which were nonviolent. Only one of the seven justices on the bench agreed that his sentence should be reviewed—the Black one.
Advertisement
The Washington Post reports that Fair Wayne Bryant was 38 years old when he was arrested in Shreveport, La., and has now spent nearly 23 years at Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola, which happens to be America’s largest maximum-security prison and one that sits on land that used to be home to a slave plantation.
Chief Justice Bernette Johnson was the lone voice of dissent, the only African American justice and, apparently, the only one among her colleagues able to see systemic racism working in real-time.
Advertisement Advertisement
“Mr. Bryant has already spent nearly 23 years in prison and is now over 60 years old,” she wrote in a statement. “If he lives another 20 years, Louisiana taxpayers will have paid almost one million dollars to punish Mr. Bryant for his failed effort to steal a set of hedge clippers.
“This man’s life sentence for a failed attempt to steal a set of hedge clippers is grossly out of proportion to the crime and serves no legitimate penal purpose,” she added.
Advertisement
Prior to being condemned to spend the rest of his life in a maximum-security prison, Bryant had four felonies on his criminal record. His most serious and only violent crime was an attempted armed robbery of a cab driver for which he was convicted in 1979 and served 10 years in prison. His other crimes include being in possession of stolen goods and forging a check. In 1992, he was convicted of breaking into a home and stealing personal property for which he served another four years in prison.
In 1997, when Bryant was convicted of attempted simple burglary for stealing the hedge clippers, prosecutors cited Louisiana’s habitual offender laws, which “allows prosecutors to seek harsher sentences for lesser crimes if a defendant has previous convictions,” the Post reports.
Advertisement
Johnson believes those laws are a “modern manifestation” of the “Pig Laws,” which she said were designed to keep Black people in poverty during the Reconstruction era.
From the Post:
In the years following Reconstruction, she wrote, Southern states introduced extreme sentences for petty theft, such as stealing cattle and swine, that criminalized recently freed African Americans who were still struggling to come out of poverty. Much like Black Codes before them, they allowed states to sentence people to forced labor. Under these laws, the Black prison population in the Deep South exploded starting in the 1870s. “Pig Laws were largely designed to re-enslave African Americans,” Johnson wrote. Those laws have drawn heavy scrutiny for allowing excessively harsh sentences and driving mass incarceration. Almost 80 percent of people incarcerated in Louisiana prisons under the habitual offender laws are Black, the Lens reported.
Advertisement
In 2000, Bryant argued to Louisiana’s 2nd Circuit Court of Appeal that his sentencing was “unconstitutionally excessive.” The court basically ruled that since he’d already spent much of his adult life behind bars, he might as well be kept in lockup forever.
The court wrote that the “litany of convictions and the brevity of the periods during which the defendant was not in custody for a new offense is ample support for the sentence imposed in this case.”
Advertisement
Two appeals later, Bryant won the possibility of parole, which he was previously denied. But his motions to have his sentencing reviewed—in which he argued that he “received an illegal sentence and should have been appointed a lawyer during a resentencing hearing,” the Post reports—were denied by higher courts and denied again on July 31 by the state’s Supreme Court.
No one should have their freedom taken away from them indefinitely for committing a nonviolent crime. It’s unconscionably cruel and the fact that Black people represent 80 percent of those sentenced in Louisiana under habitual offender laws shows that the lives of Black folks—who are often treated as lesser even when we have clean records—are easily regarded as disposable.


theroot--2020-08-05--New Slaves: Kanye West Is Being Used by Republicans to Help Ruin the Presidential Election

I ’ m going to need God , Jay-Z , his friend Ty Ty , John Legend , all of the Kardashians , including the recluse boy one , Adidas and Dave Chappelle to put an end to this “ Kanye West for President ” campaign .
No matter how or why this sham of a presidential bid started , no matter what good he honestly believed he could do , it has gone on long enough and Republicans may have found a way to use Kanye to their advantage and they are pulling out all of the stops .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ at least four people working on Kanye ’ s joke of a campaign are active in Republican Party politics , because they know the more that they actually prop Kanye up to appear like a viable option , some frat boys , lames , idiots and goofies are going to vote for him and we need all of these frat boys , lames , idiots and goofies to vote for presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden .
That ’ s it .
This is America ’ s one chance to try and right this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Kanye ’ s unique brand of egomaniacal bullshit .
From the New York Times : A woman was spotted dropping off signatures for Kanye ; that same woman was later learned to be Republican elections lawyer , Lane Ruhland .
“ Ruhland worked for the Republican National Committee during the 2016 presidential election recount in Wisconsin.
” One of West ’ s electors in the state of Vermont will also be a delegate to the Republican National Convention in Charlotte .
Chuck Wilton , one of the three electors West ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with the Vermont secretary of State on Monday , was also elected by the Vermont Republican Party in May to serve as a delegate for President Trump at this year ’ s RNC .
( Electors are the people who would – were the candidate to win the state – vote for them in the Electoral College . )
Wilton told NY Mag that he ’ s been involved in Vermont politics for years and was connected to Kanye ’ s campaign “ through political contacts.
” “ Somebody said that Vermont needs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was ] something I said that I ’ m more than willing to do , ” Wilton explained .
He described himself politically as “ conservative libertarian/center right , ” adding that he was “ not disappointed with [ Trump ] but wanted to search out some more alternatives to him.
” Wilton told the magazine that West was “ center right ” just like him .
I ’ m going to need Kanye to turn center-left and sit his ass down somewhere .
Look , I ’ m no fool .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issues , and I also know that now is not the time for games .
The Kardashians can fix this .
They have found a way to make that one ordinary white woman look half Armenian and turned a sex tape into an empire .
You are telling me that they can ’ t find a way to keep Kanye on a farm in Wyoming until all of this is decided ?
As it stands , Kanye is being cast in the role of Jill Stein in this election and he ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right back into four more years of fucking Trump .
Wilton is joined by Gregg Keller who was “ listed as the campaign ’ s point of contact in a filing with the Arkansas Secretary of State .
Keller , who did not respond to repeated requests for comment , is the former executive director of the American Conservative Union and has worked for a number of prominent Republican politicians including Mitt Romney and Josh Hawley , ” NY Mag reports .
I even hate that this has to be reported seriously , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ far includes opposition to abortion and poverty-based fashions .
Kanye was , at one point , one of Trump ’ s biggest supporters , including sporting a “ Make America Great Again ” hat at the White House in 2018 where he hugged that bama .
West ’ s campaign has faced a number of stumbles in recent weeks while trying to get the rapper on the ballot this November , but the campaign did successfully file to appear on the ballot in Arkansas , West Virginia , and Vermont on Monday .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ two states still need to be validated .
Vermont does not require any petitioning to appear on the ballot .
The rapper is also pushing forward with efforts to get on the ballot in two key swing states this week .
In Wisconsin , which Donald Trump won by fewer than 23,000 votes in 2016 , there are 45 people on the ground working to get West on the ballot .
He needs to collect and submit at least 2,000 valid signatures in that state by Tuesday evening .
In Ohio , West @ @ @ @ @ @ @ signatures needed to appear on the ballot , which have to be submitted on Wednesday .
His campaign still faces a number of hurdles , including a hearing in New Jersey on Tuesday morning over allegations that signatures submitted to get West on the ballot in the state were forged .
In order to make it to the presidential debate phase of this fuckshit , Kanye would have to appear “ in some combination of states totaling 270 electoral votes.
” Here ’ s to hoping he doesn ’ t get there and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he can recognize that this ain ’ t it , chief .
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 !

I’m going to need God, Jay-Z, his friend Ty Ty, John Legend, all of the Kardashians, including the recluse boy one, Adidas and Dave Chappelle to put an end to this “Kanye West for President” campaign.
No matter how or why this sham of a presidential bid started, no matter what good he honestly believed he could do, it has gone on long enough and Republicans may have found a way to use Kanye to their advantage and they are pulling out all of the stops.
Advertisement
According to the New York Times, at least four people working on Kanye’s joke of a campaign are active in Republican Party politics, because they know the more that they actually prop Kanye up to appear like a viable option, some frat boys, lames, idiots and goofies are going to vote for him and we need all of these frat boys, lames, idiots and goofies to vote for presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden.
That’s it. This is America’s one chance to try and right this ship and now is not the time for Kanye’s unique brand of egomaniacal bullshit.
Advertisement Advertisement
From the New York Times:
One operative, Mark Jacoby, is an executive at a company called Let the Voters Decide, which has been collecting signatures for the West campaign in three states. Mr. Jacoby was arrested on voter fraud charges in 2008 while he was doing work for the California Republican Party, and he later pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor.
Advertisement
A woman was spotted dropping off signatures for Kanye; that same woman was later learned to be Republican elections lawyer, Lane Ruhland. “Ruhland worked for the Republican National Committee during the 2016 presidential election recount in Wisconsin.”
From NY Mag:
One of West’s electors in the state of Vermont will also be a delegate to the Republican National Convention in Charlotte. Chuck Wilton, one of the three electors West’s presidential campaign named in a filing submitted with the Vermont secretary of State on Monday, was also elected by the Vermont Republican Party in May to serve as a delegate for President Trump at this year’s RNC. (Electors are the people who would – were the candidate to win the state – vote for them in the Electoral College.)
Advertisement
Wilton told NY Mag that he’s been involved in Vermont politics for years and was connected to Kanye’s campaign “through political contacts.”
“Somebody said that Vermont needs electors for certain people and [it was] something I said that I’m more than willing to do,” Wilton explained. He described himself politically as “conservative libertarian/center right,” adding that he was “not disappointed with [Trump] but wanted to search out some more alternatives to him.” Wilton told the magazine that West was “center right” just like him.
Advertisement
I’m going to need Kanye to turn center-left and sit his ass down somewhere. Look, I’m no fool. I know that Kanye struggles with mental health issues, and I also know that now is not the time for games. The Kardashians can fix this. They have found a way to make that one ordinary white woman look half Armenian and turned a sex tape into an empire. You are telling me that they can’t find a way to keep Kanye on a farm in Wyoming until all of this is decided? As it stands, Kanye is being cast in the role of Jill Stein in this election and he’s going to Jill Stein all of us right back into four more years of fucking Trump.
Wilton is joined by Gregg Keller who was “listed as the campaign’s point of contact in a filing with the Arkansas Secretary of State. Keller, who did not respond to repeated requests for comment, is the former executive director of the American Conservative Union and has worked for a number of prominent Republican politicians including Mitt Romney and Josh Hawley,” NY Mag reports.
Advertisement
I even hate that this has to be reported seriously, but Kanye’s presidential platform so far includes opposition to abortion and poverty-based fashions. Kanye was, at one point, one of Trump’s biggest supporters, including sporting a “Make America Great Again” hat at the White House in 2018 where he hugged that bama.
From NY Mag:
West’s campaign has faced a number of stumbles in recent weeks while trying to get the rapper on the ballot this November, but the campaign did successfully file to appear on the ballot in Arkansas, West Virginia, and Vermont on Monday. The signatures he submitted in the first two states still need to be validated. Vermont does not require any petitioning to appear on the ballot. The rapper is also pushing forward with efforts to get on the ballot in two key swing states this week. In Wisconsin, which Donald Trump won by fewer than 23,000 votes in 2016, there are 45 people on the ground working to get West on the ballot. He needs to collect and submit at least 2,000 valid signatures in that state by Tuesday evening. In Ohio, West is pushing to collect the 5,000 valid signatures needed to appear on the ballot, which have to be submitted on Wednesday. His campaign still faces a number of hurdles, including a hearing in New Jersey on Tuesday morning over allegations that signatures submitted to get West on the ballot in the state were forged.
Advertisement
In order to make it to the presidential debate phase of this fuckshit, Kanye would have to appear “in some combination of states totaling 270 electoral votes.”
Here’s to hoping he doesn’t get there and instead gets whatever help is needed so that he can recognize that this ain’t it, chief.
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--2020-08-06--A Civil Lawsuit Filed in Los Angeles Accuses Migos' Takeoff of Rape

Migos member Takeoff has been accused of nonconsensual “ forceful sexual intercourse , ’ according to a civil lawsuit filed in Los Angeles on Wednesday .
A woman identified only as “ Jane Doe ” alleges that the rapper , whose given name is Kirshnik Khari Ball , raped her during an Encino , Calif. house party on June 22 of this year .
She ’ d attended with plans to meet fellow group member Daryl McPherson , also known as DJ Durel , for a date , having met him at a prior party and subsequently communicating with him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rolling Stone ( which has also embedded the legal filing in full ) , Jane Doe recalled the incident as follows ( Trigger warning : the following recounts an alleged sexual assault in graphic detail ) : Upon arriving at the house on June 22nd , Ball allegedly made repeated advances toward the woman that made her “ uncomfortable , ” according to the suit .
After telling McPherson she had “ no desire to engage in any sort of intimate relationship with Defendant Takeoff , ” McPherson “ offered to take Plaintiff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” she claims .
On the way , the suit alleges that McPherson and Ball passed each other on the staircase and got into a verbal confrontation ; the woman continued up to McPherson ’ s room .
Soon after , the bedroom door opened and Ball entered .
“ Plaintiff clearly and unequivocally refused Defendant Takeoff ’ s advances and stated to Defendant Takeoff that she did not want to have sex with him , ” the lawsuit claims .
“ Notwithstanding Plaintiff ’ s express refusal , Defendant Takeoff grabbed Plaintiff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pulled down her clothing .
Defendant Takeoff then proceeded to have forceful sexual intercourse with Plaintiff from behind , without Plaintiff ’ s consent .
After Defendant Takeoff finished raping Plaintiff , he immediately left the room .
After recovering from the initial shock of what had transpired , Plaintiff promptly walked out of the bedroom and immediately left.
” The lawsuit also states that following the alleged assault , which Jane Doe reports occurred shortly after 2 a.m. , the woman visited the hospital the following morning , “ where hospital staff @ @ @ @ @ @ @ notified the Los Angeles Police Department of the same.
” The LAPD confirmed to the New York Times that there is an open investigation into the incident , but criminal charges have yet to be filed , compelling Jane Doe ’ s attorney , Neama Rahmani to preemptively file a civil lawsuit due to what he termed “ lost confidence ” in the LAPD ’ s investigation .
According to Rolling Stone , “ the civil lawsuit accuses Ball of sexual battery , assault , false imprisonment , inflicting emotional distress , gender @ @ @ @ @ @ @ violations.
” “ We hope that…the media attention will motivate the Los Angeles Police Department to pursue the criminal investigation more aggressively , ” Rahmani said in a statement .
“ Justice delayed is justice denied , and continues to victimize a [ woman ] who has already been victimized by the rich and famous.
” Ball ’ s legal counsel Drew Findling contends that his client is being railroaded by the accusations , and makes the counter-claim that Jane Doe ’ s lawsuit is an “ exploitative money grab , ” saying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the allegations and have similarly done our own due diligence .
What has become abundantly clear is that the allegations made against Mr. Ball are patently and provably false ...
The claims and statements made regarding this lawsuit indicate that the plaintiffs ’ representatives have not spoken with relevant witnesses or reviewed available evidence .
Mr. Ball is renowned for his artistic talent as well as his quiet , reserved and peaceful personality .
In this instance , those known personality traits have made him a target of an obvious , exploitative money @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are well aware and well versed on the importance of civil and criminal prosecution of true sexual assaults .
This is not one of those situations .
The Root will be following this lawsuit as it develops .
If you or anyone you know is a victim of sexual assault or misconduct , you can contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline ( RAINN ) at 800.656.HOPE ( 4673 ) to be connected to a local affiliate that can provide support and assistance .

Maiysha Kai on The Grapevine, shared by Maiysha Kai to The Root

Migos member Takeoff has been accused of nonconsensual “forceful sexual intercourse,” according to a civil lawsuit filed in Los Angeles on Wednesday. A woman identified only as “Jane Doe” alleges that the rapper, whose legal name is Kirshnik Khari Ball, raped her during an Encino, Calif., house party on June 22 of this year. She attended with plans to meet fellow group member Daryl McPherson, also known as DJ Durel, for a date, having met him at a prior party and subsequently communicating with him on social media.
As reported by Rolling Stone (which has also embedded the legal filing in full), Jane Doe recalled the incident as follows (Trigger warning: the following recounts an alleged sexual assault in graphic detail):
Upon arriving at the house on June 22nd, Ball allegedly made repeated advances toward the woman that made her “uncomfortable,” according to the suit. After telling McPherson she had “no desire to engage in any sort of intimate relationship with Defendant Takeoff,” McPherson “offered to take Plaintiff upstairs to Durel’s room,” she claims. On the way, the suit alleges that McPherson and Ball passed each other on the staircase and got into a verbal confrontation; the woman continued up to McPherson’s room. Soon after, the bedroom door opened and Ball entered. “Plaintiff clearly and unequivocally refused Defendant Takeoff’s advances and stated to Defendant Takeoff that she did not want to have sex with him,” the lawsuit claims. “Notwithstanding Plaintiff’s express refusal, Defendant Takeoff grabbed Plaintiff, flipped her over face-down, and pulled down her clothing. Defendant Takeoff then proceeded to have forceful sexual intercourse with Plaintiff from behind, without Plaintiff’s consent. After Defendant Takeoff finished raping Plaintiff, he immediately left the room. After recovering from the initial shock of what had transpired, Plaintiff promptly walked out of the bedroom and immediately left.”
Advertisement
The lawsuit also states that following the alleged assault, which Jane Doe reports occurred shortly after 2 a.m., the woman visited the hospital the following morning, “where hospital staff observed physical evidence of forceful rape and notified the Los Angeles Police Department of the same.”
The LAPD confirmed to the New York Times that there is an open investigation into the incident, but criminal charges have yet to be filed, compelling Jane Doe’s attorney, Neama Rahmani to preemptively file a civil lawsuit due to what he termed “lost confidence” in the LAPD’s investigation. According to Rolling Stone, “the civil lawsuit accuses Ball of sexual battery, assault, false imprisonment, inflicting emotional distress, gender violence and a pair of civil rights violations.”
Advertisement Advertisement
“We hope that…the media attention will motivate the Los Angeles Police Department to pursue the criminal investigation more aggressively,” Rahmani said in a statement. “Justice delayed is justice denied, and continues to victimize a [woman] who has already been victimized by the rich and famous.”
Ball’s legal counsel Drew Findling contends that his client is being railroaded by the accusations, and makes the counter-claim that Jane Doe’s lawsuit is an “exploitative money grab,” saying in a statement:
We have reviewed the allegations and have similarly done our own due diligence. What has become abundantly clear is that the allegations made against Mr. Ball are patently and provably false...The claims and statements made regarding this lawsuit indicate that the plaintiffs’ representatives have not spoken with relevant witnesses or reviewed available evidence. Mr. Ball is renowned for his artistic talent as well as his quiet, reserved and peaceful personality. In this instance, those known personality traits have made him a target of an obvious, exploitative money grab. As his counsel, we are well aware and well versed on the importance of civil and criminal prosecution of true sexual assaults. This is not one of those situations.
Advertisement
The Root will be following this lawsuit as it develops.
If you or anyone you know is a victim of sexual assault or misconduct, you can contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN) at 800.656.HOPE (4673) to be connected to a local affiliate that can provide support and assistance.


theroot--2020-08-06--The Root Institute Chats Harnessing the Black Vote in 2020 With Glynda Carr, Judith Browne Dianis an

The Root Institute Chats Harnessing the Black Vote in 2020 With Glynda Carr, Judith Browne Dianis and Rashad Robinson

What is at stake during the 2020 elections ?
As we live in the midst of an uprising , which @ @ @ @ @ killings of unarmed Black people ( and a legacy of racism that has proliferated throughout @ @ @ @ @ being led by a man who refused to pay his respects to one of this @ @ @ @ @ Rights leaders—perhaps this sounds like a loaded question .
One thing ’ s clear—the various @ @ @ @ @ , etc ) of 2020 are not to be taken lightly .
To unpack this @ @ @ @ @ in conversation with Glynda Carr , Co-Founder & President of Higher Heights ; Judith Browne @ @ @ @ @ the Advancement Project ; and Rashad Robinson , President of Color of Change .
Join @ @ @ @ @ ways in which Black voters hold space in this incredibly hostile political climate .
Join @ @ @ @ @ and others , at The Root ’ s first-ever Root Institute .
Be sure to @ @ @

Felice León on Institute, shared by Felice León to The Root

What is at stake during the 2020 elections?
As we live in the midst of an uprising, which is a response to police killings of unarmed Black people (and a legacy of racism that has proliferated throughout the country), while being led by a man who refused to pay his respects to one of this country’s foremost Civil Rights leaders—perhaps this sounds like a loaded question.
One thing’s clear—the various elections (presidential, congressional, etc) of 2020 are not to be taken lightly.
Advertisement
To unpack this all, we’ve called upon Glynda Carr, Co-Founder & President of Higher Heights; Judith Browne Dianis, Executive Director of the Advancement Project; and Rashad Robinson, President of Color of Change. Join us as we discuss the ways in which Black voters hold space in this incredibly hostile political climate.
Join us for this conversation, and others, at The Root’s first-ever Root Institute.
Advertisement Advertisement
Be sure to subscribe here.


theroot--2020-08-06--Double the Keke: Keke Palmer to Host the 2020 VMAs and Star as a New Character on Disney's Proud Fam

Double the Keke: Keke Palmer to Host the 2020 VMAs and Star as a New Character on Disney's Proud Family Reboot

If you were at all concerned about Keke Palmer ’ s career prospects following the cancellation of Strahan , Sara & Keke , you needn ’ t be .
In fact , the multitalented entertainer will be multitasking in the coming months , scoring two high-profile gigs we ’ ll likely all be “ keke-ing ” about ( sorry , we couldn ’ t help ourselves ) .
First up : As reported by the New York Post , Palmer was just announced as the host of the 37th annual MTV Video Music Awards , set to take place in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Barclays Center , just days after the actress and singer celebrates her 27th birthday on August 26 .
“ We ’ re thrilled to have the multitalented Keke Palmer as this year ’ s ‘ VMAs ’ host , ” said Bruce Gillmer , president of music , music talent , programming and events for ViacomCBS Media Networks , the parent company of MTV .
“ Keke is an energetic force and a quadruple threat with unmatched comedic wit who will make this year ’ s show truly unforgettable.
” It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how the always over-the-top production adapts to our new normal—and how it might set the stage for award shows to come .
This year ’ s VMAs will be the first major awards show held in-person since the onset of the pandemic and resulting social distancing guidelines .
Of course , we ’ ll be watching safely from the comfort of our homes , as we will for Palmer ’ s other new project , the rebooted and highly anticipated The Proud Family : Louder and Prouder on Disney+ .
On Thursday , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as an original character with a decidedly activist streak—fitting , considering the passionate talking-to she gave a National Guardsman during a Los Angeles protest in June .
The Proud Family : Louder and Prouder stars Kyla Pratt ( Penny Proud ) , Tommy Davidson ( Oscar Proud ) , Paula Jai Parker ( Trudy Proud ) , Jo Marie Payton ( Suga Mama ) and Cedric the Entertainer ( Uncle Bobby ) .
Disney graciously shared a few more details on the new character , via a press release emailed to The Root @ @ @ @ @ @ @ # The Proud Family : # Louder and Prouder as Maya Leibowitz-Jenkins , a 14-year-old activist who relentlessly marches to the beat of her own drum .
She is extremely mature for her age and will not hesitate to shut anyone down with her blunt honesty and wisdom .
The adopted daughter of mixed race parents , Maya is new to town , and initially disassociates herself from Penny and her crew because she is skeptical about what she perceives to be the superficiality of social cliques .
However , Penny eventually gains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ good friends .
Of course , Disney+ still hasn ’ t announced a premiere date for the reboot , but we ’ ll be waiting—and hoping the VMAs prioritize safety over sexiness this year .
So far , the ceremony ’ s looking ... interesting .
Aside from Keke ; Doja Cat and J. Balvin were among the first performers announced , and Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga lead nominations , though The Weeknd has also scored several nods .
We ’ ll be keeping an eye out as performers continue to be @ @

If you were at all concerned about Keke Palmer’s career prospects following the cancellation of Strahan, Sara & Keke, you needn’t be. In fact, the multitalented entertainer will be multitasking in the coming months, scoring two high-profile gigs we’ll likely all be “keke-ing” about (sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves).
First up: As reported by the New York Post, Palmer was just announced as the host of the 37th annual MTV Video Music Awards, set to take place in New York on August 30 at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, just days after the actress and singer celebrates her 27th birthday on August 26.
Advertisement
“We’re thrilled to have the multitalented Keke Palmer as this year’s ‘VMAs’ host,” said Bruce Gillmer, president of music, music talent, programming and events for ViacomCBS Media Networks, the parent company of MTV. “Keke is an energetic force and a quadruple threat with unmatched comedic wit who will make this year’s show truly unforgettable.”
It’ll also be intriguing to see how the always over-the-top production adapts to our new normal—and how it might set the stage for award shows to come. This year’s VMAs will be the first major awards show held in-person since the onset of the pandemic and resulting social distancing guidelines.
Advertisement Advertisement
Of course, we’ll be watching safely from the comfort of our homes, as we will for Palmer’s other new project, the rebooted and highly anticipated The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder on Disney+. On Thursday, Disney announced Palmer is joining the cast as an original character with a decidedly activist streak—fitting, considering the passionate talking-to she gave a National Guardsman during a Los Angeles protest in June.
Advertisement
The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder stars Kyla Pratt (Penny Proud), Tommy Davidson (Oscar Proud), Paula Jai Parker (Trudy Proud), Jo Marie Payton (Suga Mama) and Cedric the Entertainer (Uncle Bobby). Disney graciously shared a few more details on the new character, via a press release emailed to The Root:
Keke Palmer joins the cast of #The Proud Family: #Louder and Prouder as Maya Leibowitz-Jenkins, a 14-year-old activist who relentlessly marches to the beat of her own drum. She is extremely mature for her age and will not hesitate to shut anyone down with her blunt honesty and wisdom. The adopted daughter of mixed race parents, Maya is new to town, and initially disassociates herself from Penny and her crew because she is skeptical about what she perceives to be the superficiality of social cliques. However, Penny eventually gains her hard-earned respect and the two become good friends.
Advertisement
Of course, Disney+ still hasn’t announced a premiere date for the reboot, but we’ll be waiting—and hoping the VMAs prioritize safety over sexiness this year. So far, the ceremony’s looking...interesting. Aside from Keke; Doja Cat and J. Balvin were among the first performers announced, and Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga lead nominations, though The Weeknd has also scored several nods. We’ll be keeping an eye out as performers continue to be announced.


theroot--2020-08-06--Keep Your Mind and Hands Busy With the Best LEGO Deals

These are the best LEGO deals for August 2020 .
If you ’ re looking for something to occupy your quarantine hours , why not pick up a new LEGO set or two ?
They ’ re mentally stimulating , whether you ’ re building to instructions or just creating things from scratch , and they ’ re a great activity whether you ’ re solo or with family .
Right now , you ’ ll find solid savings on LEGO sets inspired by Star Wars , Minecraft , Minions , Toy Story , Frozen , and more .
Scroll @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deals !
While not the most sizable discount , this is the first time we ’ ve seen any cash knocked off the price of this Amazon-exclusive LEGO rendition of Darth Vader ’ s castle .
This big build has 1,060 pieces and includes the lava-tinged castle itself , which has little rooms accessible from the back—including Vader ’ s bacta tank .
You also get a small TIE Fighter ship along with Vader himself in both suited and bacta tank forms , two Imperial Guards , and an Imperial Transport Pilot .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ on this one right now .
We will get the new live-action Mulan movie soon… just via Disney+ instead of theaters .
In any case , if you ’ ve got a young Mulan fan in the house , here ’ s an affordable and fun LEGO option .
Mulan ’ s Storybook Adventures is a compact set that comes in a booklike case that you can close and take anywhere , and within is an environment complete with two versions of Mulan , Li Shang , and Khan the horse .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right now .
Big Tony Stark fan ?
Now you can add the Iron Man Hall of Armor to your LEGO Avengers setup for $ 12 off of the list price .
It comes with four different Iron Man suits , including a swappable Stark head , plus two enemy Outriders and a big robotic Igor Suit that you can put Tony Stark into .
This 524-piece set is 20 % off .
Recreate this moment from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban with Hagrid ’ s Hut and Buckbeak ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everything you need to uh… execute a Hippogriff .
Things ultimately work out in the end , thankfully , but you can reimagine the scene however you see fit .
You get the hut , a pumpkin patch , six minifigs ( including Harry and Hagrid ) , and Buckbeak himself—all for $ 12 off the list price for this 496-piece kit .
This 540-piece Mandalorian set sadly doesn ’ t have any Baby Yoda in sight , but what it does have is a pretty sick-looking AT-ST walker that ’ s been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
You also get minifigs of The Mandalorian himself and ally Cara Dune , as well as a pair of Klatooinian Raider baddies , all for $ 10 off of the list price right now .
At times , Minecraft can be intense and action-packed .
And at other times , it can be loose and breezy .
In the case of this LEGO set , it ’ s downright adorable .
The Panda Nursery set comes with 204 pieces , letting you create a mom and baby panda , Alex , an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s 15 % off right now .
365 Things to Do With LEGO Bricks | $ 18 If you ’ ve got a stash of LEGO ( or plan to buy one ) but your family is running out of ideas while being cooped up right now , this officially-licensed book might help .
365 Things to Do With LEGO Bricks is a hardcover book that spotlights a wide array of potential building projects , and it even has a built-in electronic timer for certain challenges .
Save $ 7 right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s worth of bright ideas ahead .
Speed junkies , point your eyes and wallets here .
This LEGO Speed Champions set gives you a pair of Dodge roadsters for just $ 24 .
You ’ ll build the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon and the classic 1970 Dodge Charger R/T , plus a pair of drivers , a race marshall , and a Christmas tree-style starting light tower .
It ’ s 20 % off the list price right now and a surprisingly stellar value at 478 pieces for that price @ @ @ @ @ @ @ brain ?
This set likewise doesn ’ t have a Baby Yoda in tow , but you do get a quartet of Mandalorian warriors ready to wage battle against your other minifigs .
This compact set has the four variously-designed Mandalorian fighters along with a small speeder bike and a defensive fort , all crammed within 102 pieces .
It ’ s only a 10 % discount , but even so you don ’ t have to spend much here to add some awesome minifigs to your LEGO Star Wars setup .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : The Rise of Gru didn ’ t happen thanks to the pandemic , but if you ’ ve ever dreamed of constructing your own Minions with LEGO bricks , you don ’ t have to wait .
The officially-licensed Minions sets slipped out even amidst the film ’ s delay , and this set gives you a surprisingly generous 876 bricks for the price… probably because it ’ s a lot of plain yellow and blue ones in the mix .
Still , the end result is a pair of large Minions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a price that ’ s currently 10 % off list at Walmart .
If you ’ re buying LEGO for a young kid , start with one of the LEGO Classic boxes .
This Medium set is a good size , providing a robust 484 pieces within a handy plastic carrying case .
Without step-by-step directions , this set is ideal for getting kids familiar with the tiny blocks and unlocking a bit of creativity in the process .
Of course , there are larger Duplo blocks for the really young ’ uns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for ages 4+ .
It ’ s $ 8 off right now .
We haven ’ t seen many deals on LEGO Architecture kits of late , so this is a special bargain .
Right now , you can save $ 20 off the price of the towering Statue of Liberty kit .
With 1,685 pieces , it ’ s a meaty challenge aimed at anyone 16+ , and the end result stands 17 inches tall .
Grab this deal while it lasts !
Here ’ s a great little entry-level kit for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 4 build lets you assemble RC and Woody , complete with orange cones , little army men , and building blocks for the surroundings .
It ’ s only 69 blocks within a simplified build , and is rated 4+ , and right now it ’ s 20 % off the list price at a mere $ 8 .
If you don ’ t have a baseplate for anchoring buildings , landscapes , and other custom creations , then this is an easy and affordable upgrade—especially for kids .
Right now , Amazon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ green baseplate for just $ 5 , which is half off the regular price .
If you ’ re buying a new LEGO Classic kit , don ’ t forget to grab a couple of these as well .
For an affordable , modestly-sized 342-piece kit , this is a pretty sick-looking Batmobile .
It looks angular and powerful , and all the more intimidating with the Dark Knight in the driver ’ s seat .
Along with Batman and Joker minifigs , you also get various Bat-cessories , while the Batmobile itself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Save 18 % on this one right now .

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

Featured Deal: LEGO Star Wars The Child | $79 | Amazon
These are the best LEGO deals for January 2022 .
If you’re looking for something to occupy your quarantine hours, why not pick up a new LEGO set or two? They’re mentally stimulating, whether you’re building to instructions or just creating things from scratch, and they’re a great activity whether you’re solo or with family. Right now, you’ll find solid savings on LEGO sets inspired by Super Mario, Star Wars, and more. Scroll on for today’s best LEGO deals!
Build the charming Child (a.k.a. Grogu/Baby Yoda) from The Mandalorian with this LEGO Star Wars kit, which has 1,073 pieces to build a 7.5” tall recreation, plus it comes with a minifigure and placard. It’s a few dollars off.
Advertisement
Advertisement Advertisement
If you want to showcase your favorite Mandalorian in your gaming room or office, this is the best way to do just that. At 635 pieces there’s a lot of impressive detail here, with Boba Fett’s iconic helmet in all its glory. This LEGO Boba Fett Helmet measures 21cm high, which won’t take up too much room anywhere, and when you consider that his targeting rangefinder can be swiveled for when Boba needs to lock-on to a lone Jedi or Wampa, it’s hard to resist at 17% off.
Advertisement
The LEGO Jeep Wrangler belongs on the open road. Or at least moving around on the floor or a table. This model vehicle actually has front steering and a powerful axle-articulation suspension. The best part is once you have your own LEGO Jeep Wrangler, you get to do the secret wave when you see other LEGO Jeep Wrangler owners playing with their LEGO Jeep Wrangler. It’s quite the community. You can get in on this for $30 off.
Save $30 LEGO Technic Jeep Wrangler High-Performance, Off-Road Toy
There’s a button to operate the front steering and its powerful axle-articulation suspension means kids will love testing out their model on obstacles around the home. With opening doors and hood, fold-down rear seats, a full-size spare tire, winch and classic Jeep branding, this fun toy model car brings kids closer than ever to the real Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. Buy for $40 at Walmart
Advertisement
Playing Minecraft sparks the same feeling as playing with LEGO. Using basic building blocks for endless possibilities of creations. You enter this flow when you are setting up a farm or erecting a home in Minecraft in the same way you do when you play with LEGO. So what better pairing than a Minecraft LEGO set? Even better, you can get it for $12 off on Amazon.
Advertisement
The LEGO Bonsai Tree kit is another one that’s been popular in that batch, and right now Amazon is slashing $10 off the list price. It’s a build with 878 pieces for just $5 0 right now, and it comes with both green leaves and cherry blossom blooms that you can swap out with ease. Otherwise, unlike the real thing, you won’t have to trim this tree to keep it looking just right once it’s completed.
Advertisement
This 540-piece Mandalorian set sadly doesn’t have any Baby Yoda in sight, but what it does have is a pretty sick-looking AT-ST walker that’s been heavily modified from the original Empire issue. You also get minifigs of The Mandalorian himself and ally Cara Dune, as well as a pair of Klatooinian Raider baddies, all for $10 off of the list price right now.
Advertisement
Build your own pint-sized X-Wing Fighter with LEGO bricks in this affordable kit, which is currently $10 off at Amazon. The 474-piece build turns out a ship with extendable wings, spring-loaded lasers, and other fun details, plus you get Luke, R2-D2, and Leia amongst the included minifigs. Pick up a new TIE Fighter build for $32, meanwhile, and reenact some classic Star Wars space battles in your own home. Just be prepared to pick up the pieces and rebuild after your blast them.
Advertisement
Here’s a great way to get your kids started on LEGO building or to bulk up your own collection. In honor of the great LEGO Masters TV show, Walmart is offering a bundle that contains multiple basic LEGO Creative kits for a total of 613 pieces for just $25. That’s $20 off the list price, plus you get a big storage bag to hold everything. Unlock your imagination with the wide variety of color bricks in this set.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Set course for the red planet with this LEGO City Space kit. Maybe you’ll be able to beat Elon Musk. The main attraction is a sleek shuttled headed to an unfamiliar destination. You’ll have a couple of astronaut minifigs to help explore the new terrain, not to mention a Mars rover, a tiny Helidrone, and other gadgets. This STEM-centric set has 273 pieces and is currently 20% off the list price.
Advertisement
These new LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Moments sets are adorable. Each looks like an old-timey book from the outside, but opens up to reveal a different classroom playset from the magical school. There’s a few different sets, each with 200+ pieces and currently 20% the list price at Amazon at $24 apiece. Choose from Charms Class, Potions Class, or Transfiguration Class. Or ya know, don’t choose and get all three.
Advertisement
Advertisement
“Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled bricks that are too stuck together yearning to breathe free.” Right now, you can save $6% off the price of the towering Statue of Liberty kit. With 1,685 pieces, it’s a meaty challenge aimed at anyone 16+, and the end result stands 17 inches tall. If you’re looking for a big distraction right about now, this should fit the bill.
Advertisement
If you held off on picking up the LEGO Super Mario starter kit, now’s the time: it’s 20% off at Amazon. While the price-per-brick ratio may seem way off for a 231-piece set, that’s because you get a digitally-enhanced Mario here with video-screen eyes and the ability to interact with the game courses you construct. Beyond the starter pack, many of the expansion packs are also 20% off, as listed below.
Advertisement


theroot--2020-08-06--40,000 Former Inmates in Iowa Have Their Voting Rights Restored After Governor Signs Executive Order

On Wednesday , Iowa Gov .
Kim Reynolds ( R ) signed an executive order that immediately restored voting rights to former inmates who have completed their sentences .
According to NBC News , this move means Iowa is no longer the only state to permanently disenfranchise former inmates .
Approximately 40,000 former inmates who have completed their prison sentences , probation and parole will immediately have their rights restored .
The order doesn ’ t extend to people convicted of particular crimes , such as first- and second-degree murder , attempted murder and certain sex offenses .
Those people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have their rights restored .
The order also doesn ’ t require former inmates to pay financial restitution to victims before they can vote .
Reynolds has long spoken about her desire to give former inmates a second chance , citing her own experiences with alcoholism and DUI arrests before she got sober over 20 years ago .
“ It boils down to our fundamental belief in redemption and second chances .
It ’ s a big step for so many on the road to redemption and proving to themselves and maybe to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not define them , ” Reynolds said before signing the order .
Reynolds is still pushing for an amendment to the state ’ s constitution so that the change can ’ t be reversed by any future governor .
She made an attempt last year but received push back from the Republican-led state legislature .
Some of the governor ’ s Republican colleagues oppose the order , believing that certain crimes are beyond redemption , and that those who owe restitution should pay it in full before their rights are restored .
Betty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , has spent years advocating for this change and is now focused on ensuring those whose rights have been newly restored are able to take full advantage .
“ We absolutely encourage people to take this day and register .
Now our work is to make sure that people are registered and understand as of today they don ’ t need to do paperwork , they don ’ t need to do anything like that .
As of today they are allowed to vote.
” State Rep. Ako Abdul-Samad ( D ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reynolds over the last two years to address the issue , was glad to see the order signed but noted that it was only a single step in the process of addressing systemic racism .
“ We ’ re asking everyone to reach in their own hearts to begin dealing with the root cause .
You need to help us show that Black lives matter and if Black lives did matter this wouldn ’ t have been such a hoorah today , ” Samad told NBC News .
“ This would have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @

On Wednesday, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds (R) signed an executive order that immediately restored voting rights to former inmates who have completed their sentences.
According to NBC News, this move means Iowa is no longer the only state to permanently disenfranchise former inmates. Approximately 40,000 former inmates who have completed their prison sentences, probation and parole will immediately have their rights restored. The order doesn’t extend to people convicted of particular crimes, such as first- and second-degree murder, attempted murder and certain sex offenses. Those people will have to petition the Governor to have their rights restored. The order also doesn’t require former inmates to pay financial restitution to victims before they can vote.
Advertisement
Reynolds has long spoken about her desire to give former inmates a second chance, citing her own experiences with alcoholism and DUI arrests before she got sober over 20 years ago. “It boils down to our fundamental belief in redemption and second chances. It’s a big step for so many on the road to redemption and proving to themselves and maybe to others that their crimes or convictions do not define them,” Reynolds said before signing the order.
Reynolds is still pushing for an amendment to the state’s constitution so that the change can’t be reversed by any future governor. She made an attempt last year but received push back from the Republican-led state legislature. Some of the governor’s Republican colleagues oppose the order, believing that certain crimes are beyond redemption, and that those who owe restitution should pay it in full before their rights are restored.
Advertisement Advertisement
Betty Andrews, president of the Iowa-Nebraska NAACP, has spent years advocating for this change and is now focused on ensuring those whose rights have been newly restored are able to take full advantage. “We absolutely encourage people to take this day and register. Now our work is to make sure that people are registered and understand as of today they don’t need to do paperwork, they don’t need to do anything like that. As of today they are allowed to vote.”
State Rep. Ako Abdul-Samad (D), a Black lawmaker who has worked with Reynolds over the last two years to address the issue, was glad to see the order signed but noted that it was only a single step in the process of addressing systemic racism. “We’re asking everyone to reach in their own hearts to begin dealing with the root cause. You need to help us show that Black lives matter and if Black lives did matter this wouldn’t have been such a hoorah today,” Samad told NBC News. “This would have been something that was already automatic.”


theroot--2020-08-06--Vice Presidential Verzuz Battle: Susan Rice vs. Kamala Harris

After months of vetting , evaluating and probably texting “ WYD ” to Michelle Obama , sources say presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden has whittled down his choices of potential running mates to two Black women .
Axios reports that more than a dozen people close to Biden ( which sounds like they are not social distancing ) have the same unanimous opinion : that Biden will either choose Sen. Kamala Harris ( D-Calif. ) or former National Security Adviser Susan Rice as his vice presidential candidate .
While noting that the final choice is up to Biden , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shocked if Biden chooses anyone but these two candidates , with Rep. Karen Bass ( D-Calif. ) narrowly missing the chance to face Donald “ The Dirtbag ” Trump and Mike “ Just a White Man ” Pence for the winner-take-all 2020 election .
Because of the DMX vs. Snoop Verzuz battle was the best show this year , we decided to handicap the Harris vs. Rice matchup by comparing the strengths and weaknesses of each candidate based on a select set of Black criteria that Biden probably hasn ’ t considered because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he was probably taking a nap .
( Not because he ’ s old but ... Who doesn ’ t like naps ? )
Susan Rice isn ’ t really an emcee as much as she is a producer who worked behind the scenes on some of our favorite hits .
Rice is a Rhodes scholar with a Ph.D. in international relations and the daughter of the Black woman who quite literally created the Pell Grant program that helped millions of disadvantaged students attend college .
Her father was an Ivy League economics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ eventually became the second Black man to serve on the Federal Reserve Board .
Rice is also a high school valedictorian , a three-sport athlete , a member of Phi Beta Kappa and a policy expert whose Oxford doctoral dissertation was honored as the best in the United Kingdom .
Unfortunately , in America , this means her upbringing is slightly less impressive than Mike Pence ’ s whose father owned a few gas stations .
Rice has never served in an elected or public-facing position , which means voters have never had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
She has never been on the campaign trail ; she ’ s never had to give five interviews every day and she ’ s never had to answer questions about some dumb shit her boss said .
Rice is also hated by conservatives for reportedly misleading the public when she read actual CIA talking points on the 2012 Benghazi attack .
* GOP members also allege that she is the one who “ unmasked ” Trump campaign officials who were communicated with Russians .
None of this is true .
But if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Benghazi ?
” or “ Unmasking , though ... ” could become this election season ’ s version of “ ... but her emails.
” She is mostly hated by conservatives because she is an intelligent Black woman who worked for an intelligent Black president .
Basically , Susan Rice is Mannie Fresh .
No one really wants to hear her on the mic but she produces classics from behind the scenes *If you think the charges about Benghazi are bullshit , so do the ten congressional investigations ( six of which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incident which has yielded no substantial claims of wrongdoing against Susan Rice .
• As the and youngest person ever to represent the U.S. in the United Nations , she set a global agenda on climate change , international LGBTQ advocacy , human rights and fighting global poverty .
• Served as for the Obama administration during two wars .
• Sat on National Security Council during the Clinton administration .
• Was the first Black president ’ s “ ride or die.
” White people have told a lot of lies on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like a weakness to some , it is really a badge of honor .
Every significant non-white person in history had to overcome white lies , including Martin Luther King Jr. , Malcolm X , Barack Obama and this one dude named Jesus who received the death penalty for being disrespectful to white people .
Do Black People Like Her Music ?
That ’ s the thing about Susan Rice ; she ’ s not really popular among Black Democratic voters .
It ’ s not that she ’ s unpopular , it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ politics has been dedicated to actually doing shit , which means she is not well-known .
I don ’ t know how many new voters she brings to the table .
Will White People Like Her Music ?
Why Joe Will Pick Her Joe Biden knows her and Susan Rice knows how dumb Biden can be sometimes .
Because the Biden campaign seems to care about what white people think who aren ’ t going to vote for him anyway .
Also , what about Benghazi ?
First of all , if she @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 47th president and , not since Dylan has someone bodied as many political foes as Susan Rice .
And , unlike Rice , Harris is from the streets ...
The political streets , that is .
Not only has she run for the same job as Biden during the 2020 primaries , but she has also served in elected positions for 15 years .
The child of an Indian mother and a Jamaican father , Harris is the second Black woman to serve in the Senate .
Kamala Harris also has hella albums @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including the coronavirus .
Because she has been in electoral politics for so long , she has experience on the campaign trail and with fundraising .
She is known for policy-making , her bulldog attitude and for always talking about her alma mater , which is a requirement of graduating from Howard University .
Serving as the attorney general of a state the size of a small country , she has experience in law enforcement and the criminal justice system .
She also claims to have smoked weed while listening to 2pac @ @ @ @ @ @ @ general of a state the size of a small country , Harris has experience in law enforcement and the criminal justice system , which means she might snitch on you .
As California ’ s “ top cop , ” Harris was one the most powerful law enforcement agents in the world and , rightly or wrongly , some hold her accountable for the scandals and corruption that occurred under her watch .
While there is some merit to the claim that there is a valid need for progressives who can reform America @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , many people understandably can never trust someone who worked in law enforcement .
And , because she has been in public positions , there is a history that her opponents can criticize , including her previous stance on marijuana , her stance on reparations and the fact that she can ’ t spit hot fiyah like Dylan .
• Senator for the most populous state in America .
• Dragging Joe Biden in a rap battle at the presidential debates .
• in a cipher at his Senate confirmation hearing • r @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supremacist extremists • Has been to Howard Homecoming • Knows who 2pac is While smoking weed while listening to Pac might not be an achievement , Harris is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha , a Black sorority .
What difference does this make ?
Biden ’ s fundraising will see a big boost in fundraising when he introduces a line of pink and green T-shirts .
Also , white people hate her for publicly dragging so many white men .
Do Black People Like Her Music ?
This is hard to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ engender love , most Black voters have already made up their minds about Harris .
The question is : Is the K-Hive bigger than her squad of haters ?
Will her history in law enforcement make voters stay home or can she motivate enough new Black voters to come out ?
Ultimately , anyone in the “ Kamala is a cop ” crowd who decides to sit this one out or vote for Trump wasn ’ t going to vote for Biden anyway , so he loses nothing by picking her .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ table than she drives away .
Do White people Like Her Music ?
Did I mention that no one cares ?
Wypipo are gon na wypipo and , for the last half-century , they ’ ve been doing the same dance .
The majority of white voters have voted for the Republican presidential candidate for 50 years , Why Joe Will Pick Her Biden needs to balance the ticket with someone progressive enough to motivate Black voters but moderate enough to not scare away white voters .
Plus , as a former senator @ @ @ @ @ @ @ experience .
Plus , she has the exact opposite personality of Joe Biden .
While Harris is congenial and pleasant , she ’ s not necessarily charismatic like Biden .
In fact , it can be argued that Harris is more likable when she ’ s doing her prosecutor schtick and raking someone over the coals , unlike Joe Biden , who seems to get flustered when he ’ s confronted .
Politically , Harris is Loaded Lux and Joe Biden is Cassidy .
Joe don ’ t know her like that .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ when Harris whipped his ass the last time they were on stage together .
So there you have it .
The Root predicts Kamala Harris will narrowly upset Susan Rice in the vice presidential Verzuz battle and go on to meet Mike Pence .
I can ’ t wait to see her drag his ass in the vice presidential debate and hear the moderator say .

After months of vetting, evaluating and probably texting “WYD” to Michelle Obama, sources say presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden has whittled down his choices of potential running mates to two Black women.
Axios reports that more than a dozen people close to Biden (which sounds like they are not social distancing) have the same unanimous opinion: that Biden will either choose Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) or former National Security Adviser Susan Rice as his vice presidential candidate. While noting that the final choice is up to Biden, the insiders all say that they would be shocked if Biden chooses anyone but these two candidates, with Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.) narrowly missing the chance to face Donald “The Dirtbag” Trump and Mike “Just a White Man” Pence for the winner-take-all 2020 election.
Advertisement
Because of the DMX vs. Snoop Verzuz battle was the best show this year, we decided to handicap the Harris vs. Rice matchup by comparing the strengths and weaknesses of each candidate based on a select set of Black criteria that Biden probably hasn’t considered because he’s white. Plus, he was probably taking a nap. (Not because he’s old but...Who doesn’t like naps?)
Susan “So-Nice” Rice
Advertisement Advertisement
Credits
Susan Rice isn’t really an emcee as much as she is a producer who worked behind the scenes on some of our favorite hits.
Advertisement
Rice is a Rhodes scholar with a Ph.D. in international relations and the daughter of the Black woman who quite literally created the Pell Grant program that helped millions of disadvantaged students attend college. Her father was an Ivy League economics professor and also a Tuskegee airman who eventually became the second Black man to serve on the Federal Reserve Board.
Rice is also a high school valedictorian, a three-sport athlete, a member of Phi Beta Kappa and a policy expert whose Oxford doctoral dissertation was honored as the best in the United Kingdom.
Advertisement
Unfortunately, in America, this means her upbringing is slightly less impressive than Mike Pence’s whose father owned a few gas stations.
Credits score: 8
Duds
Rice has never served in an elected or public-facing position, which means voters have never had the chance to weigh in on her. She has never been on the campaign trail; she’s never had to give five interviews every day and she’s never had to answer questions about some dumb shit her boss said.
Advertisement
Rice is also hated by conservatives for reportedly misleading the public when she read actual CIA talking points on the 2012 Benghazi attack.* GOP members also allege that she is the one who “unmasked” Trump campaign officials who were communicated with Russians.
None of this is true.
But if Rice is nominated, “What happened in Benghazi?” or “Unmasking, though...” could become this election season’s version of “...but her emails.”
Advertisement
She is mostly hated by conservatives because she is an intelligent Black woman who worked for an intelligent Black president. Basically, Susan Rice is Mannie Fresh.
No one really wants to hear her on the mic but she produces classics from behind the scenes
Advertisement
*If you think the charges about Benghazi are bullshit, so do the ten congressional investigations (six of which were led by Republicans) into the incident which has yielded no substantial claims of wrongdoing against Susan Rice.
Duds Score: -3
Hits
As the first Black woman
Served as national security adviser
Sat on National Security Council during the Clinton administration.
Foreign policy aide to Michael Dukakis’ presidential campaign.
Was the first Black president’s “ride or die.”
Hits score: 7
Biggest Banger
White people have told a lot of lies on Susan Rice.
While this may seem like a weakness to some, it is really a badge of honor. Every significant non-white person in history had to overcome white lies, including Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Barack Obama and this one dude named Jesus who received the death penalty for being disrespectful to white people.
Advertisement
Achievement score: 7
Do Black People Like Her Music?
That’s the thing about Susan Rice; she’s not really popular among Black Democratic voters. It’s not that she’s unpopular, it’s that her entire career in politics has been dedicated to actually doing shit, which means she is not well-known. I don’t know how many new voters she brings to the table.
Advertisement
Black score: 4
Will White People Like Her Music?
They hate her songs.
Also...Who cares?
White score: 4
Why Joe Will Pick Her
Joe Biden knows her and Susan Rice knows how dumb Biden can be sometimes.
Why Joe Won’t Pick Her
Because the Biden campaign seems to care about what white people think who aren’t going to vote for him anyway.
Advertisement
Also, what about Benghazi?
Biden score: 7
Susan Rice Total Score: 34
Kamala “AKA-47” Harris
Advertisement
Credits
Kamala Harris spits hot fiyah.
First of all, if she succeeds Biden, she will be the 47th president and, not since Dylan has someone bodied as many political foes as Susan Rice. And, unlike Rice, Harris is from the streets...
Advertisement
The political streets, that is.
Not only has she run for the same job as Biden during the 2020 primaries, but she has also served in elected positions for 15 years. The child of an Indian mother and a Jamaican father, Harris is the second Black woman to serve in the Senate.
Advertisement
Kamala Harris also has hella albums because she has a plan for everything, including the coronavirus. Because she has been in electoral politics for so long, she has experience on the campaign trail and with fundraising. She is known for policy-making, her bulldog attitude and for always talking about her alma mater, which is a requirement of graduating from Howard University. Serving as the attorney general of a state the size of a small country, she has experience in law enforcement and the criminal justice system.
She also claims to have smoked weed while listening to 2pac and Snoop.
Credits score: 9
Duds
Serving as the attorney general of a state the size of a small country, Harris has experience in law enforcement and the criminal justice system, which means she might snitch on you.
Advertisement
As California’s “top cop,” Harris was one the most powerful law enforcement agents in the world and, rightly or wrongly, some hold her accountable for the scandals and corruption that occurred under her watch. While there is some merit to the claim that there is a valid need for progressives who can reform America’s broken criminal system from inside, many people understandably can never trust someone who worked in law enforcement.
And, because she has been in public positions, there is a history that her opponents can criticize, including her previous stance on marijuana, her stance on reparations and the fact that she can’t spit hot fiyah like Dylan.
Advertisement
Duds score: -4
Hits
Senator for the most populous state in America.
Dragging Joe Biden in a rap battle at the presidential debates.
Dragged Brett Kavanaugh
Dragged FBI Directo
California attorney general
San Francisco district attorney
Has been to Howard Homecoming
Knows who 2pac is
Hits score: 8
Biggest Banger
“Skee-Wee Wit Me”
While smoking weed while listening to Pac might not be an achievement, Harris is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, a Black sorority. What difference does this make?
Advertisement
Biden’s fundraising will see a big boost in fundraising when he introduces a line of pink and green T-shirts.
Also, white people hate her for publicly dragging so many white men.
Achievement score: 8
Do Black People Like Her Music?
This is hard to say. While Susan Rice may not engender love, most Black voters have already made up their minds about Harris. The question is: Is the K-Hive bigger than her squad of haters? Will her history in law enforcement make voters stay home or can she motivate enough new Black voters to come out?
Advertisement
Ultimately, anyone in the “Kamala is a cop” crowd who decides to sit this one out or vote for Trump wasn’t going to vote for Biden anyway, so he loses nothing by picking her. I think she brings more to the metaphorical table than she drives away.
Black score: 6
Do White people Like Her Music?
Did I mention that no one cares?
Wypipo are gonna wypipo and, for the last half-century, they’ve been doing the same dance. The majority of white voters have voted for the Republican presidential candidate for 50 years,
Advertisement
White score: 5
Why Joe Will Pick Her
Biden needs to balance the ticket with someone progressive enough to motivate Black voters but moderate enough to not scare away white voters. Plus, as a former senator, Joe values her experience and policymaking experience.
Advertisement
Plus, she has the exact opposite personality of Joe Biden. While Harris is congenial and pleasant, she’s not necessarily charismatic like Biden. In fact, it can be argued that Harris is more likable when she’s doing her prosecutor schtick and raking someone over the coals, unlike Joe Biden, who seems to get flustered when he’s confronted.
Politically, Harris is Loaded Lux and Joe Biden is Cassidy.
Why Joe Won’t Pick Her
Joe don’t know her like that.
Also, Biden might have PTSD from when Harris whipped his ass the last time they were on stage together.
Advertisement
Biden score: 8
Kamala Harris Total Score: 39
So there you have it.
The Root predicts Kamala Harris will narrowly upset Susan Rice in the vice presidential Verzuz battle and go on to meet Mike Pence.
Advertisement
I can’t wait to see her drag his ass in the vice presidential debate and hear the moderator say.
“That motherfucker spittin’!”


theroot--2020-08-06--It's the 55th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act. The Phenomenal Campaign Hopes We Honor It

Can the White House be won back in November ?
There are admittedly obstacles to face in the next 88 days , but one thing ’ s for certain : We definitely can ’ t win if we don ’ t vote .
Today is the 55th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 , and as voter suppression via any number of dirty tricks threatens to derail our upcoming electoral process , the Phenomenal campaign wants to ensure apathy isn ’ t one of them .
The nonprofit founded and led by attorney , author , and activist @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pick Kamala , and an adviser on her aunt ’ s presidential campaign ) teamed up with its longtime nonprofit partner , Black female-focused political collective Higher Heights to run a full-page ad in today ’ s New York Times .
Featuring Gen Z Changemaker Winter BreeAnne in one of the campaign ’ s viral tees flanked by affirmations by writers Cleo Wade and Stevona Elem-Rogers , the ad highlights the phenomenal power of Black women in not only fighting for the right to vote but continuing to protect it by engaging in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We recognize this month as the 100th anniversary of women ’ s suffrage .
But while the 19th Amendment ostensibly applied to all women , in practice Black women were still prevented from voting .
It was not until the passage of the Voting Rights Act — almost a half-century later — that Black women were fully enfranchised , the culmination of a centuries-long battle for Black voting rights .
That fight continues today , as our nation faces an unprecedented assault on voting rights , from mass voter suppression and felony disenfranchisement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ballot box , Black women remain one of the most reliable and powerful voting blocs in the country .
Black women will not be suppressed .
We will not be silenced .
We will not be deterred .
We will not be defeated .
We ’ re gon na win .
Black women are gon na win .
Those familiar with Phenomenal may also remember its other incredible campaigns , including 2018 's # 1600Men ad in support of Christine Blasey Ford , and its affirming array of T-shirts and social media campaigns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Phenomenally Trans ” and “ Phenomenally Indigenous .
To get involved , you can visit Phenomenal or Higher Heights—but most importantly , please vote .
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 !

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

Can the White House be won back in November? There are admittedly obstacles to face in the next 88 days, but one thing’s for certain: We definitely can’t win if we don’t vote. Today is the 55th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and as voter suppression via any number of dirty tricks threatens to derail our upcoming electoral process, the Phenomenal campaign wants to ensure apathy isn’t one of them.
Advertisement
The nonprofit founded and led by attorney, author, and activist Meena Harris (niece of possible VP pick Kamala, and an adviser on her aunt’s presidential campaign) teamed up with its longtime nonprofit partner, Black female-focused political collective Higher Heights to run a full-page ad in today’s New York Times. Featuring Gen Z Changemaker Winter BreeAnne in one of the campaign’s viral tees flanked by affirmations by writers Cleo Wade and Stevona Elem-Rogers, the ad highlights the phenomenal power of Black women in not only fighting for the right to vote but continuing to protect it by engaging in the political process from every angle.
We recognize this month as the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage. But while the 19th Amendment ostensibly applied to all women, in practice Black women were still prevented from voting. It was not until the passage of the Voting Rights Act — almost a half-century later — that Black women were fully enfranchised, the culmination of a centuries-long battle for Black voting rights. That fight continues today, as our nation faces an unprecedented assault on voting rights, from mass voter suppression and felony disenfranchisement. Despite these significant barriers to the ballot box, Black women remain one of the most reliable and powerful voting blocs in the country. Black women will not be suppressed. We will not be silenced. We will not be deterred. We will not be defeated. We’re gonna win. Black women are gonna win.
Advertisement Advertisement
Those familiar with Phenomenal may also remember its other incredible campaigns, including 2018's #1600Men ad in support of Christine Blasey Ford, and its affirming array of T-shirts and social media campaigns, including “Phenomenally Black,” “Phenomenally Trans” and “Phenomenally Indigenous. To get involved, you can visit Phenomenal or Higher Heights—but most importantly, please vote.
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--2020-08-06--Joe Biden Says 'Unlike African Americans' the Latino Community is 'Incredibly Diverse' And...Well...

Joe Biden Says 'Unlike African Americans' the Latino Community is 'Incredibly Diverse' And...Well...This Election 'Bout to be Long AF

Boooooy , y ’ all ’ s presumptive Democratic nominee appears to be bound and determined to join y ’ all ’ s president in making the upcoming presidential race as excruciatingly cringeworthy has humanly possible .
This racism vs. diet racism Pepsi challenge we ’ re all being subjected to is getting ... well ... interesting .
In an interview with NPR ’ s Lulu Garcia-Navarro that aired during the virtual convention of the National Association of Black Journalists and National Association of Hispanic Journalists , Joe “ You Ain ’ t Black if You Don ’ t Like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Much as I Do ” Biden was asked a question about the extension of temporary protected status to Venezuelans and whether the deportations of Cubans will be halted as well .
Biden started off well enough , saying that the TPS program is something that he will “ move on the first day that I ’ m in office and make sure that we extend it to people.
” And then , out of nowhere , this shit happened ... “ And by the way , what you all know , but most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the African American community , with notable exceptions , the Latino community is an incredibly diverse community with incredibly different attitudes about different things , ” Biden said .
First of all : Why the fuck is Black people ’ s name in his mouth in the first place ?
We weren ’ t even part of the conversation .
This man threw us under a bus that wasn ’ t even driving down our street .
Third : I don ’ t care if Black people overwhelmingly voted Democrat in every election @ @ @ @ @ @ @ isn ’ t a reflection of our collective attitudes towards any and all subjects .
I promise we don ’ t have big Black people meetings where we collectively decide what we ’ re for and against .
It just so happens that Black people share a lived experience that has us overwhelmingly believing that racism is alive and well in America .
And Republicans—who never seem to pass on an opportunity to express that they don ’ t believe systemic racism is an actual thing—have done a piss-poor job for the last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ None of that means that we lack “ incredibly different attitudes about different things.
” Listen : I know we all want Cheeto McButthole-Mouth out of the White House , but as Biden ’ s dog whistle slowly but surely morphs into a bullhorn , it ’ s getting harder and harder for us to justify casting that ballot in his name .
Biden ’ s strategy from here on out should be to shut the entire fuck up until November and let Trump continue digging his own grave .
Maybe choosing a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will snatch his caucasity-filled ass up when he starts to speak wrong will also help .
Otherwise , this election bout to be long as fuck and I might not make it to the mountain top with y ’ all .

Boooooy, y’all’s presumptive Democratic nominee appears to be bound and determined to join y’all’s president in making the upcoming presidential race as excruciatingly cringeworthy has humanly possible. This racism vs. diet racism Pepsi challenge we’re all being subjected to is getting...well...interesting.
In an interview with NPR’s Lulu Garcia-Navarro that aired during the virtual convention of the National Association of Black Journalists and National Association of Hispanic Journalists, Joe “You Ain’t Black if You Don’t Like the Taste of Your Own Feet as Much as I Do” Biden was asked a question about the extension of temporary protected status to Venezuelans and whether the deportations of Cubans will be halted as well. Biden started off well enough, saying that the TPS program is something that he will “move on the first day that I’m in office and make sure that we extend it to people.”
Advertisement
And then, out of nowhere, this shit happened...
Advertisement Advertisement
“And by the way, what you all know, but most people don’t know, unlike the African American community, with notable exceptions, the Latino community is an incredibly diverse community with incredibly different attitudes about different things,” Biden said.
*takes deep breath*
NIGGA, What???
First of all: Why the fuck is Black people’s name in his mouth in the first place? We weren’t even part of the conversation. This man threw us under a bus that wasn’t even driving down our street.
Advertisement
Secondly: Bitch, fuck you!
Third: I don’t care if Black people overwhelmingly voted Democrat in every election in the history of ever-dom. That isn’t a reflection of our collective attitudes towards any and all subjects. I promise we don’t have big Black people meetings where we collectively decide what we’re for and against. It just so happens that Black people share a lived experience that has us overwhelmingly believing that racism is alive and well in America. And Republicans—who never seem to pass on an opportunity to express that they don’t believe systemic racism is an actual thing—have done a piss-poor job for the last several decades of appealing to us. None of that means that we lack “incredibly different attitudes about different things.”
Advertisement
Listen: I know we all want Cheeto McButthole-Mouth out of the White House, but as Biden’s dog whistle slowly but surely morphs into a bullhorn, it’s getting harder and harder for us to justify casting that ballot in his name.
Biden’s strategy from here on out should be to shut the entire fuck up until November and let Trump continue digging his own grave. Maybe choosing a Black woman as a running mate who will snatch his caucasity-filled ass up when he starts to speak wrong will also help.
Advertisement
Otherwise, this election bout to be long as fuck and I might not make it to the mountain top with y’all.