skynewsus--2020-06-09--Friends co-creator admits she 'didn't do enough' to encourage diversity

One of the creators of Friends has admitted she `` did n't do enough '' to encourage diversity on the hit TV comedy .
Marta Kauffman co-created the much-loved sitcom , which ran from 1994 to 2004 , alongside David Crane .
Friends is still popular today - but has been criticised in recent years for not featuring more black and Asian characters .
Its six stars - Courteney Cox , Jennifer Aniston , Lisa Kudrow , Matt LeBlanc , Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer - were all white , as was the majority of the supporting cast .
Speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Kauffman said that if she had her time again , she `` would 've made very different decisions '' .
According to US media reports , she became tearful when asked what she wished she had known at the beginning of her career in television .
`` I wish I knew then what I know today .
Sorry , I just wish I knew then what I know now .
I would 've made very different decisions .
`` I mean , we 've always encouraged people of diversity in our company @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and now all I can think about is , what can I do ? ''
Kauffman , who also co-created Netflix comedy Grace and Frankie , added : `` What can I do differently ?
How can I run my show in a new way ?
And that 's something I not only wish I knew when I started showrunning , but I wish I knew all the way up through last year . ''
It is not the first time one of the Friends cast and crew has commented on the lack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to The Guardian last year , Schwimmer , who played Ross Geller , said he was `` well aware '' of the issue and had spoken about it with producers .
He said : `` One of the first girlfriends I had on the show was an Asian American woman and later I dated African American women .
That was a very conscious push on my part . ''
Last month , Kudrow , who played Phoebe Buffay , defended the show , saying it was `` progressive '' at the time but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it was made today .
She told The Sunday Times that fans should look at the show as a `` time capsule '' , saying it would be `` completely different '' now .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' Well , it would not be an all-white cast , for sure , '' she said .
`` I 'm not sure what else , but , to me , it should be looked at as a time capsule , not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Also , this show thought it was very progressive .
There was a guy whose wife discovered she was gay and pregnant , and they raised the child together .
`` We had surrogacy too .
It was , at the time , progressive . ''
A Friends reunion special had been set to air in May , but was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic .
While not a reboot , the `` unscripted special '' promises fans : `` You 'll get to see us together again for the first time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the show and celebrate all the fun we had . ''

One of the creators of Friends has admitted she "didn't do enough" to encourage diversity on the hit TV comedy.
Marta Kauffman co-created the much-loved sitcom, which ran from 1994 to 2004, alongside David Crane.
Friends is still popular today - but has been criticised in recent years for not featuring more black and Asian characters.
Image: Marta Kauffman co-created the hit sitcom
Its six stars - Courteney Cox, Jennifer Aniston, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer - were all white, as was the majority of the supporting cast.
Speaking at a virtual TV festival in Texas, Kauffman said that if she had her time again, she "would've made very different decisions".
According to US media reports, she became tearful when asked what she wished she had known at the beginning of her career in television.
"I wish I knew then what I know today. Sorry, I just wish I knew then what I know now. I would've made very different decisions.
"I mean, we've always encouraged people of diversity in our company, but I didn't do enough and now all I can think about is, what can I do?"
Kauffman, who also co-created Netflix comedy Grace and Frankie, added: "What can I do differently? How can I run my show in a new way? And that's something I not only wish I knew when I started showrunning, but I wish I knew all the way up through last year."
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It is not the first time one of the Friends cast and crew has commented on the lack of diversity in the series.
Image: Jennifer Aniston and David Schwimmer as Ross and Rachel in the last ever episode
Speaking to The Guardian last year, Schwimmer, who played Ross Geller, said he was "well aware" of the issue and had spoken about it with producers.
He said: "One of the first girlfriends I had on the show was an Asian American woman and later I dated African American women. That was a very conscious push on my part."
Last month, Kudrow, who played Phoebe Buffay, defended the show, saying it was "progressive" at the time but would not feature an all-white cast if it was made today.
She told The Sunday Times that fans should look at the show as a "time capsule", saying it would be "completely different" now.
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"Well, it would not be an all-white cast, for sure," she said. "I'm not sure what else, but, to me, it should be looked at as a time capsule, not for what they did wrong.
"Also, this show thought it was very progressive. There was a guy whose wife discovered she was gay and pregnant, and they raised the child together.
"We had surrogacy too. It was, at the time, progressive."
A Friends reunion special had been set to air in May, but was delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
While not a reboot, the "unscripted special" promises fans: "You'll get to see us together again for the first time in ages, as we reminisce about the show and celebrate all the fun we had."


skynewsus--2020-06-09--Ku Klux Klan 'leader' drove into Black Lives Matter protesters - prosecutors

A man accused of driving his car into a group of Black Lives Matter protesters in the US state of Virginia is a local leader of the Ku Klux Klan , prosecutors say .
Harry H Rogers , 36 , was charged with assault and battery for the incident on Sunday , Henrico County police department said .
He allegedly drove through a crowd of people blocking a street in Richmond , Virginia , who were peacefully protesting the death of George Floyd - a black American who died in Minneapolis police custody on 25 May .
One person was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not seriously injured .
Rogers was `` driving recklessly '' in the vicinity of the protest and `` revved the engine '' before ploughing into the group with his pickup truck , prosecutor Shannon Taylor said .
Ms Taylor said authorities are considering whether hate crime charges should be filed against Rogers , an `` admitted '' Ku Klux Klan leader , adding that investigation of his social media profiles revealed he is a `` propagandist for Confederate ideology '' .
Archive footage of Rogers from previous years wearing KKK robes and waving @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Richmond CBS TV affiliate WTVR .
Rogers appeared in Henrico court on the outskirts of Richmond on Monday and is due back in court in August .
In a separate incident on Sunday night , a man was charged with assault for shooting a demonstrator in Seattle after he drove his car up to a march .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker The man , named as Nikolas Fernandez , was captured by a bystander 's video shooting a protester who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protester was shot in the arm and treated in hospital .
Fernandez is currently in custody .

A man accused of driving his car into a group of Black Lives Matter protesters in the US state of Virginia is a local leader of the Ku Klux Klan, prosecutors say.
Harry H Rogers, 36, was charged with assault and battery for the incident on Sunday, Henrico County police department said.
He allegedly drove through a crowd of people blocking a street in Richmond, Virginia, who were peacefully protesting the death of George Floyd - a black American who died in Minneapolis police custody on 25 May.
One person was hit by Rogers' vehicle, but not seriously injured.
Rogers was "driving recklessly" in the vicinity of the protest and "revved the engine" before ploughing into the group with his pickup truck, prosecutor Shannon Taylor said.
Ms Taylor said authorities are considering whether hate crime charges should be filed against Rogers, an "admitted" Ku Klux Klan leader, adding that investigation of his social media profiles revealed he is a "propagandist for Confederate ideology".
Archive footage of Rogers from previous years wearing KKK robes and waving a Confederate flag was aired by the Richmond CBS TV affiliate WTVR.
Rogers appeared in Henrico court on the outskirts of Richmond on Monday and is due back in court in August.
In a separate incident on Sunday night, a man was charged with assault for shooting a demonstrator in Seattle after he drove his car up to a march.
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The man, named as Nikolas Fernandez, was captured by a bystander's video shooting a protester who had reached into his car.
The protester was shot in the arm and treated in hospital. Fernandez is currently in custody.


skynewsus--2020-06-09--'When has America ever been great?' George Floyd's niece asks at his funeral

George Floyd 's niece has asked `` when has America ever been great ? ''
at his funeral .
Brooke Williams spoke passionately about the injustice she said her uncle received when he was killed on 25 May after police officer Derek Chauvin placed his knee on the man 's neck for eight minutes and 46 seconds in Minneapolis , Minnesota .
Mr Floyd , 46 , pleaded he could not breathe and his death in custody sparked anti-racism protests in the US and around the world , including in the UK .
Her question echoed Donald Trump 's campaign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ although she did not name the president .
At the service in Houston , Texas , Ms Williams , referencing her uncle 's final words , said : `` I can breathe and as long as I can breathe justice will be served .
`` He always moved people with his words .
The officer showed no remorse for watching my uncle 's soul leave his body .
`` He begged and pleaded for you to just get up .
`` Why must this system be corrupt and broken ?
Laws were put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fail .
These laws need to be changed .
No more hate crimes , please .
`` Someone said make America great again .
When has America ever been great ? ''
Speaking at the private funeral that was broadcast live , she called Mr Floyd 's death `` not just a murder , this is a hate crime '' .
`` America , it is time for a change , even if it begins with protests , no justice no peace , '' Ms Williams added .
`` My brother and mum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ God says high , he lives low .
Thank you Houston , he 's always loving the hometown . ''
Ms Williams spoke after Mr Floyd 's brother broke down in tears remembering his sibling , and after others spoke about their time at school with him in Houston , most memorably for his basketball skills .
While Mr Floyd died in Minneapolis , he only lived there for a few years and grew up in Houston where he will be laid to rest next to his mother 's grave .
Earlier in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joe Biden also spoke to Mr Floyd 's family and friends via a recorded message .
Mr Biden , who had a meeting with the family on Monday night , told mourners : `` Now is the time for racial justice .
`` That 's the answer we must give to our children when they ask why .
`` Because when there 's justice for George Floyd we will truly be on the way to racial justice for America .
`` And then , as you said Gianna , your daddy will have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker

George Floyd's niece has asked "when has America ever been great?" at his funeral.
Brooke Williams spoke passionately about the injustice she said her uncle received when he was killed on 25 May after police officer Derek Chauvin placed his knee on the man's neck for eight minutes and 46 seconds in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Mr Floyd, 46, pleaded he could not breathe and his death in custody sparked anti-racism protests in the US and around the world, including in the UK.
Image: Brooke Williams said America needs to change
Her question echoed Donald Trump's campaign slogan - make America great again - although she did not name the president.
At the service in Houston, Texas, Ms Williams, referencing her uncle's final words, said: "I can breathe and as long as I can breathe justice will be served.
"He always moved people with his words. The officer showed no remorse for watching my uncle's soul leave his body.
"He begged and pleaded for you to just get up.
Image: Jamie Foxx and Channing Tatum joined mourners at the funeral of George Floyd
"Why must this system be corrupt and broken? Laws were put in place for the African-American system to fail. These laws need to be changed. No more hate crimes, please.
"Someone said make America great again. When has America ever been great?"
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:42 Rev Al Sharpton: 'What about the human right of George Floyd?'
Speaking at the private funeral that was broadcast live, she called Mr Floyd's death "not just a murder, this is a hate crime".
"America, it is time for a change, even if it begins with protests, no justice no peace," Ms Williams added.
"My brother and mum tells me this all the time - God says high, he lives low. Thank you Houston, he's always loving the hometown."
Image: Rev Dr Mary White prays in front of a picture of George Floyd as an angel
Ms Williams spoke after Mr Floyd's brother broke down in tears remembering his sibling, and after others spoke about their time at school with him in Houston, most memorably for his basketball skills.
While Mr Floyd died in Minneapolis, he only lived there for a few years and grew up in Houston where he will be laid to rest next to his mother's grave.
Image: George Floyd's son Quincy Mason Floyd in front of his father's coffin
Image: Roxie Washington, the mother of George Floyd's youngest daughter, Gianna, comforts her during his funeral
Earlier in the funeral, Democratic US presidential nominee Joe Biden also spoke to Mr Floyd's family and friends via a recorded message.
Mr Biden, who had a meeting with the family on Monday night, told mourners: "Now is the time for racial justice.
"That's the answer we must give to our children when they ask why.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:48 Joe Biden: 'Now is the time to listen and heal'
"Because when there's justice for George Floyd we will truly be on the way to racial justice for America.
"And then, as you said Gianna, your daddy will have changed the world."
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skynewsus--2020-06-10--Civil rights anthem 'A Change is Gonna Come' provides a note of hope at Floyd funeral

They promised a service for George Floyd that would be a `` foot-stomping , toe-tapping , shouting hallelujah , praise god '' sort of event .
They delivered - and also happened to send a message that George Floyd might just have changed the world .
Mr Floyd 's funeral , in his home town of Houston , came 15 days after his brutal death under a police officer 's knee in Minneapolis .
Since then , his name has become a rallying cry for millions seeking a change in the treatment of the African American community .
The service @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the faces and the words of his family a reminder that his death remains very raw and personal to many .
But the religious and political messages were powerful too , as was the resolve not to let this moment of protest pass without real systemic change .
The civil rights leader , the Reverend Al Sharpton told the congregation : `` Until we know the price for black life is the same as the price for white life , we 're gon na keep coming back to these situations over and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ video message and the invocation by Mr Floyd 's niece of Donald Trump 's 2016 campaign message highlighted how this is now a political issue .
`` Why must the system be corrupt and broken , '' asked Brooke Williams .
`` Laws were already out in place for the African American system to fail .
`` No more hate crimes , please .
Someone said 'Make America great again ' but when has America ever been great ? ''
The message was unequivocal : that if people are seeking real change in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ballot box in November .
There is some fear amongst those leading this movement that momentum will be lost if George Floyd 's story fades from the headlines .
But from the ordinary members of the public to the big names of Hollywood , those at the funeral were optimistic .
`` After George Floyd I think everything is going to change for the better , '' said Reginae Traylor .
`` We already have a movement going on around the world . ''
The actor Jamie Foxx said the evolution of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sure when they put those military people out there and they ran around the corner and saw young white kids protesting , they saw the whole world explode with humanity .
It is different .
They finally got a chance to see what we 've been saying for the longest time . ''
The anxiety to keep George Floyd 's name alive was repeatedly channelled through his young daughter Gianna .
`` Daddy changed the world , '' she said , a hope many want to see fulfilled .
His brother will testify @ @ @ @ @ @ @ today , another small step towards change , another sign of George Floyd 's legacy .
Of all the powerful moments at the funeral though , Dray Tate 's performance of Sam Cooke 's civil rights anthem ' A Change is Gon na Come ' was among the most poignant .
There is hope in that sentiment and , as the lyrics say : `` it 's been a long time coming . ''

They promised a service for George Floyd that would be a "foot-stomping, toe-tapping, shouting hallelujah, praise god" sort of event.
They delivered - and also happened to send a message that George Floyd might just have changed the world.
Mr Floyd's funeral, in his home town of Houston, came 15 days after his brutal death under a police officer's knee in Minneapolis.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:44 Tributes paid and tears wept for George Floyd
Since then, his name has become a rallying cry for millions seeking a change in the treatment of the African American community.
The service was at times heart-wrenching: the grief in the faces and the words of his family a reminder that his death remains very raw and personal to many.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:42 Rev Al Sharpton: 'What about the human right of George Floyd?'
But the religious and political messages were powerful too, as was the resolve not to let this moment of protest pass without real systemic change.
The civil rights leader, the Reverend Al Sharpton, told the congregation: "Until we know the price for black life is the same as the price for white life, we're gonna keep coming back to these situations over and over again."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:48 Biden: 'Now is the time to listen and heal'
Joe Biden's video message and the invocation by Mr Floyd's niece of Donald Trump's 2016 campaign message highlighted how this is now a political issue.
"Why must the system be corrupt and broken?" asked Brooke Williams. "Laws were already out in place for the African American system to fail.
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"No more hate crimes, please. Someone said 'make America great again' but when has America ever been great?"
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:29 George Floyd family challenges Trump's slogan
The message was unequivocal: that if people are seeking real change in society it will only come at the ballot box in November.
There is some fear amongst those leading this movement that momentum will be lost if George Floyd's story fades from the headlines.
But from the ordinary members of the public to the big names of Hollywood, those at the funeral were optimistic.
"After George Floyd I think everything is going to change for the better," said Reginae Traylor. "We already have a movement going on around the world."
Actor Jamie Foxx said the evolution of the protests was key. "I'm sure when they put those military people out there and they ran around the corner and saw young white kids protesting, they saw the whole world explode with humanity. It is different.
"They finally got a chance to see what we've been saying for the longest time."
Image: Actor Jamie Foxx greets members of George Floyd's family
The anxiety to keep George Floyd's name alive was repeatedly channelled through his young daughter Gianna. "Daddy changed the world," she said, a hope many want to see fulfilled.
His brother will testify at a congressional hearing into police brutality today, another small step towards change, another sign of George Floyd's legacy.
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Of all the powerful moments at the funeral though, Dray Tate's performance of Sam Cooke's civil rights anthem A Change is Gonna Come was among the most poignant.
There is hope in that sentiment and, as the lyrics say: "It's been a long time coming."
Race and Revolution: Is Change Going to Come?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests, and examining institutional racism and how we fix it.
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience, and have a chance of putting a question to our panel, please send your name, location and question to newsdebates@sky.uk


skynewsus--2020-06-09--Donald Trump suggests injured protester 'set up' shove by police

Donald Trump has fuelled a conspiracy theory about a 75-year-old protester in New York state who was pushed over by police , tweeting the confrontation may have been a `` set-up '' .
The president attempted to cast doubt on video showing police in Buffalo shoving the man , who fell backwards and hit his head on the pavement .
He is seen bleeding from his head as officers walk away .
Two Buffalo police officers have been charged with second-degree assault for the incident and could face prison sentences of up to seven years if convicted .
They have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shoved by Police could be an ANTIFA provocateur , '' Mr Trump wrote .
`` 75 year old Martin Gugino was pushed away after appearing to scan police communications in order to black out the equipment .
@ OANN I watched , he fell harder than was pushed .
Was aiming scanner .
Could be a set up ? ''
Mr Trump 's remarks follow a report on One America News Network , a far-right news channel that he often praises .
The president has tried to label violent protesters as `` radical-left @ @ @ @ @ @ @ terrorism and has repeatedly invoked the label `` antifa '' - an umbrella term for leftist militants bound more by belief than organisational structure .
Despite some violence , federal law enforcement officials have offered little evidence that antifa-aligned protesters could be behind a movement that has appeared nearly simultaneously in hundreds of cities and towns in all 50 states since the death of George Floyd .
Mr Gugino , who is out of intensive care but remains in hospital , has been described by friends as a veteran peace activist driven by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ justice .
He is involved with the Western New York Peace Centre and Latin American Solidarity Committee , said Vicki Ross , the centre 's executive director .
Mr Gugino 's lawyer , Kelly Zarcone , said : `` No one from law enforcement has even suggested anything otherwise , so we are at a loss to understand why the president of the United States would make such dark , dangerous , and untrue accusations about him . ''
The number two Republican in the Senate , John Thune , also criticised Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a serious accusation , which should only be made with facts and evidence .
And I have n't seen any yet , '' he said .
Asked if the president should not be making such an accusation , Mr Thune said : `` Well , I think that 's a given . ''
`` The president continues to use his platform to peddle conspiracy theories , this time about a peaceful protestor and fellow New Yorker .
Not sure how this is supposed to bring our country together , '' she tweeted .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ called on Mr Trump to apologise for a `` wholly unacceptable '' tweet .
He said : `` How reckless , how irresponsible , how mean , how crude .
I mean if there was ever a reprehensible , dumb comment , and from the president of the United States .
`` At this moment of anguish and anger , what does he do ?
Pour gasoline on the fire .
Show some decency .
Show some humanity .
Show some fairness .
You 're the president of the United States . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ have emerged in recent weeks showing police using seemingly excessive force against protesters demanding justice and racial equality following the killing of Mr Floyd , a black man who died in police custody in Minneapolis after a white police officer pressed a knee into his neck .

Donald Trump has fuelled a conspiracy theory about a 75-year-old protester in New York state who was pushed over by police, tweeting the confrontation may have been a "set-up".
The president attempted to cast doubt on video showing police in Buffalo shoving the man, who fell backwards and hit his head on the pavement.
He is seen bleeding from his head as officers walk away.
Two Buffalo police officers have been charged with second-degree assault for the incident and could face prison sentences of up to seven years if convicted. They have pleaded not guilty.
Image: Buffalo Police officers Aaron Torgalski, 39, (L) and Robert McCabe, 32, have been arraigned on felony assault charges
"Buffalo protester shoved by Police could be an ANTIFA provocateur," Mr Trump wrote.
"75 year old Martin Gugino was pushed away after appearing to scan police communications in order to black out the equipment. @OANN I watched, he fell harder than was pushed. Was aiming scanner. Could be a set up?"
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:38 Police officers appear to shove Mr Gugino, causing him to fall backwards.
Mr Trump's remarks follow a report on One America News Network, a far-right news channel that he often praises.
The president has tried to label violent protesters as "radical-left, bad people" engaging in domestic terrorism and has repeatedly invoked the label "antifa" - an umbrella term for leftist militants bound more by belief than organisational structure.
Despite some violence, federal law enforcement officials have offered little evidence that antifa-aligned protesters could be behind a movement that has appeared nearly simultaneously in hundreds of cities and towns in all 50 states since the death of George Floyd.
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Mr Gugino, who is out of intensive care but remains in hospital, has been described by friends as a veteran peace activist driven by his faith and a desire for social justice.
He is involved with the Western New York Peace Centre and Latin American Solidarity Committee, said Vicki Ross, the centre's executive director.
Mr Gugino's lawyer, Kelly Zarcone, said: "No one from law enforcement has even suggested anything otherwise, so we are at a loss to understand why the president of the United States would make such dark, dangerous, and untrue accusations about him."
The number two Republican in the Senate, John Thune, also criticised Mr Trump's tweet.
Image: Blood was seen spilling from Mr Gugino's head
"It's a serious accusation, which should only be made with facts and evidence. And I haven't seen any yet," he said.
Asked if the president should not be making such an accusation, Mr Thune said: "Well, I think that's a given."
New York lieutenant governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, called Mr Trump's tweet "sick".
"The president continues to use his platform to peddle conspiracy theories, this time about a peaceful protestor and fellow New Yorker. Not sure how this is supposed to bring our country together," she tweeted.
Image: George Floyd. Pic: Shutterstock
New York's Democratic governor Andrew Cuomo called on Mr Trump to apologise for a "wholly unacceptable" tweet.
He said: "How reckless, how irresponsible, how mean, how crude. I mean if there was ever a reprehensible, dumb comment, and from the president of the United States.
"At this moment of anguish and anger, what does he do? Pour gasoline on the fire. Show some decency. Show some humanity. Show some fairness. You're the president of the United States."
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The video is one of several that have emerged in recent weeks showing police using seemingly excessive force against protesters demanding justice and racial equality following the killing of Mr Floyd, a black man who died in police custody in Minneapolis after a white police officer pressed a knee into his neck.


skynewsus--2020-06-09--Elon Musk makes getting humans to Mars his top priority - here's how he wants to do it

Having completed its first human launch , SpaceX 's founder and chief executive Elon Musk says the company is now focusing on developing its next-generation spacecraft Starship .
In the last week of May , NASA and SpaceX successfully launched astronauts from US soil for the first time in almost a decade .
According to an internal email sent to staff and seen by CNBC , the CEO told staff that development on Starship is now the primary focus for the company , alongside the safe return of the Crew Dragon from the International Space Station .
Starship was unveiled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a crew and cargo `` to the moon , Mars or anywhere else in the solar system '' , according to the billionaire .
Musk 's intention is to make the spaceflight vehicles as reusable as planes - although they will land back on Earth perpendicularly instead of horizontally .
Four years ago the billionaire outlined his vision of building a colony on Mars `` in our lifetimes '' - with the first rocket propelling humans to the Red Planet by 2025 .
For many years the company used an image of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) in its promotional material .
However , a NASA-sponsored study published in 2018 dismissed these plans as impossible with today 's technology .
Last year , Musk tweeted he believed it was `` possible to make a self-sustaining city on Mars by 2050 , if we start in five years '' .
According to SpaceX 's most recent detailed plans - published in 2016 - there are two phases for the first human missions as part of a programme to colonise Mars .
The first will take place in 2022 when at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mars .
These will be unmanned spacecraft but containing drones and robots which will confirm whether there are sufficient resources of water on the planet , and check for any geographic risks .
The second phase will start in 2024 , when another pair of Starship spacecraft will land on Mars with the first astronauts .
These spacecraft will bring equipment and supplies , as well as a number of production plants for ongoing life on the planet - as well as develop a base of operations .
Separately , the successful mission @ @ @ @ @ @ @ boost ahead of the US space agency 's new moon landing programme , which will return humans to the moon by 2024 , and lay the groundwork for a manned mission to Mars .
NASA 's new Artemis programme is named after the mythological sister of Apollo , the first moon mission 's namesake , and is intended to fly the first woman to the moon .
The Artemis programme will be used as a way to develop something called the Lunar Gateway - essentially a version of the ISS but orbiting the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a stepping stone for missions destined for Mars .
NASA has given SpaceX and Blue Origin the nod to develop its new lunar landers which will take the first woman and the next man to the surface of the moon .
The status of these acquisitions is in question , however , with an ongoing audit by the NASA Office of Inspector General prompting the agency 's head of human spaceflight , Douglas Loverro , to resign just days before the successful manned mission to the ISS .

Having completed its first human launch, SpaceX's founder and chief executive Elon Musk says the company is now focusing on developing its next-generation spacecraft Starship.
In the last week of May, NASA and SpaceX successfully launched astronauts from US soil for the first time in almost a decade.
According to an internal email sent to staff and seen by CNBC, the CEO told staff that development on Starship is now the primary focus for the company, alongside the safe return of the Crew Dragon from the International Space Station.
Image: Starship is 50 metres tall
Starship was unveiled last September and is designed to carry a crew and cargo "to the moon, Mars or anywhere else in the solar system", according to the billionaire.
Musk's intention is to make the spaceflight vehicles as reusable as planes - although they will land back on Earth perpendicularly instead of horizontally.
Four years ago the billionaire outlined his vision of building a colony on Mars "in our lifetimes" - with the first rocket propelling humans to the Red Planet by 2025.
Image: SpaceX's images of the terraforming of Mars. Pic: SpaceX
For many years the company used an image of the Martian surface being terraformed (turned Earth-like) in its promotional material.
However, a NASA-sponsored study published in 2018 dismissed these plans as impossible with today's technology.
Last year, Musk tweeted he believed it was "possible to make a self-sustaining city on Mars by 2050, if we start in five years".
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Image: The picture of SpaceX's new rocket Starship. Pic: Elon Musk
According to SpaceX's most recent detailed plans - published in 2016 - there are two phases for the first human missions as part of a programme to colonise Mars.
The first will take place in 2022 when at least two Starship rockets will land on Mars.
These will be unmanned spacecraft but containing drones and robots which will confirm whether there are sufficient resources of water on the planet, and check for any geographic risks.
The second phase will start in 2024, when another pair of Starship spacecraft will land on Mars with the first astronauts.
These spacecraft will bring equipment and supplies, as well as a number of production plants for ongoing life on the planet - as well as develop a base of operations.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:26 SpaceX successful in rocket launch
Separately, the successful mission for NASA has given the company a boost ahead of the US space agency's new moon landing programme, which will return humans to the moon by 2024, and lay the groundwork for a manned mission to Mars.
NASA's new Artemis programme is named after the mythological sister of Apollo, the first moon mission's namesake, and is intended to fly the first woman to the moon.
The Artemis programme will be used as a way to develop something called the Lunar Gateway - essentially a version of the ISS but orbiting the moon - allowing it to be used as a stepping stone for missions destined for Mars.
NASA has given SpaceX and Blue Origin the nod to develop its new lunar landers which will take the first woman and the next man to the surface of the moon.
The status of these acquisitions is in question, however, with an ongoing audit by the NASA Office of Inspector General prompting the agency's head of human spaceflight, Douglas Loverro, to resign just days before the successful manned mission to the ISS.


skynewsus--2020-06-10--Gone With The Wind and US reality show Cops pulled as racism protests continue

US reality TV show Cops has been dropped from its network and Gone With The Wind has also been temporarily removed by a streaming service as demonstrations against racism and police violence continue around the world .
HBO Max , which launched in the US last month , says American Civil War epic Gone With The Wind includes `` racist depictions '' that were `` wrong then and are wrong today '' .
It added that the 1939 film - which President Donald Trump has named as one of his favourites - will eventually return with a discussion of its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which started in 1989 , is no longer on the network and there are no future plans for it to return .
The moves come following the announcement on Tuesday that comedy show Little Britain had been removed from streaming platforms in the UK , and after public apologies from some celebrities over previous behaviour on screen .
Black Lives Matter demonstrations have taken place around the world following the killing of George Floyd , an unarmed black man who died after a white police officer was filmed kneeling on his neck for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Cops , which allowed viewers to ride along with police officers on patrol in various cities in the US , had been pulled temporarily from air at the end of last month , following Mr Floyd 's death on 25 May .
However , the move has now been made permanent .
A spokesperson for the Paramount Network said : `` Cops is not on the Paramount Network and we do n't have any current or future plans for it to return . ''
It is not clear whether Langley Productions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will try to find a new network .
Sky News has contacted the firm for comment .
The show , which has the reggae song Bad Boys as its theme tune , ran on the Fox network for 25 years until 2013 .
It then moved to Spike TV , which was rebranded as the Paramount Network in 2018 .
Gone With The Wind , starring Vivien Leigh , Clark Gable and Hattie McDaniel , tells the love story of Scarlett O'Hara ( Leigh ) , the daughter of a plantation owner in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , a Southern aristocrat .
The film broke theatre attendance records on its release and went on to win eight Oscars , including best picture , best actress for Leigh and best supporting actress for McDaniel - the first black person to ever win an Academy Award .
However , McDaniel had to sit separately from her co-stars , at a table at the back of the room , and the film has been heavily criticised for its depiction of slavery .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In a statement sent to US entertainment sites Variety and Deadline , an HBO Max spokesperson said : `` Gone With The Wind is a product of its time and depicts some of the ethnic and racial prejudices that have , unfortunately , been commonplace in American society .
`` These racist depictions were wrong then and are wrong today , and we felt that to keep this title up without an explanation and a denouncement of those depictions would be irresponsible . ''
When the film returns , `` it will return @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and a denouncement of those very depictions , but will be presented as it was originally created , because to do otherwise would be the same as claiming these prejudices never existed '' , the statement said .
`` If we are to create a more just , equitable and inclusive future , we must first acknowledge and understand our history . ''
Mr Trump referenced the film at a rally earlier this year , as he mocked South Korean picture Parasite following its historic success at the Oscars in February .
Imitating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` And the winner is a movie from South Korea !
What the hell was that all about ?
`` We got enough problems with South Korea with trade .
On top of that , they give him best movie of the year ?
Was it good ?
I do n't know .
Let 's get Gone With The Wind .
Can we get Gone With The Wind back , please ? ''
In the UK , Little Britain has been removed from Netflix , NOW TV , iPlayer and Britbox @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of blackface in some of its sketches .
Meanwhile , comedian Leigh Francis has apologised for `` offensive '' portrayals of celebrities including Craig David , Michael Jackson and Trisha Goddard on sketch show Bo ' Selecta , which first aired in 2002 .
US late night TV host Jimmy Fallon has also apologised for wearing blackface during a Saturday Night Live ( SNL ) sketch 20 years ago .
Race and Revolution : Is Change Going to Come ?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Black Lives Matter protests , and examining institutional racism and how we fix it .
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience , and have a chance of putting a question to our panel , please send your name , location and question to newsdebates @ sky.uk

US reality TV show Cops has been dropped from its network and Gone With The Wind has also been temporarily removed by a streaming service as demonstrations against racism and police violence continue around the world.
HBO Max, which launched in the US last month, says American Civil War epic Gone With The Wind includes "racist depictions" that were "wrong then and are wrong today".
It added that the 1939 film - which President Donald Trump has named as one of his favourites - will eventually return with a discussion of its historical context.
Paramount says Cops, which started in 1989, is no longer on the network and there are no future plans for it to return.
Image: Gone With The Wind won eight Oscars after its release in 1939 but has been heavily criticised for its depictions of slavery
The moves follow the announcement on Tuesday that comedy show Little Britain had been removed from streaming platforms in the UK, and after public apologies from some celebrities over previous behaviour on screen.
Black Lives Matter demonstrations have taken place around the world following the killing of George Floyd, an unarmed black man who died after a white police officer was filmed kneeling on his neck for eight minutes and 46 seconds during an arrest.
Cops, which allowed viewers to ride along with police officers on patrol in various cities in the US, had been pulled temporarily from air at the end of last month, following Mr Floyd's death in Minneapolis on 25 May.
However, the move has now been made permanent.
A spokesperson for the Paramount Network said: "Cops is not on the Paramount Network and we don't have any current or future plans for it to return."
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It is not clear whether Langley Productions, the company that makes the show, will try to find a new network. Sky News has contacted the firm for comment.
The show, which has the reggae song Bad Boys as its theme tune, ran on the Fox network for 25 years until 2013. It then moved to Spike TV, which was rebranded as the Paramount Network in 2018.
Image: Demonstrations have taken place around the world following the death of George Floyd
Gone With The Wind, starring Vivien Leigh, Clark Gable and Hattie McDaniel, tells the love story of Scarlett O'Hara (Leigh), the daughter of a plantation owner in Georgia, and Rhett Butler (Gable), a Southern aristocrat.
The film broke theatre attendance records on its release and went on to win eight Oscars, including best picture, best actress for Leigh and best supporting actress for McDaniel - the first black person to ever win an Academy Award.
However, McDaniel had to sit separately from her co-stars, at a table at the back of the room, and the film has been heavily criticised for its depiction of slavery.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
In a statement sent to US entertainment sites Variety and Deadline, an HBO Max spokesperson said: "Gone With The Wind is a product of its time and depicts some of the ethnic and racial prejudices that have, unfortunately, been commonplace in American society.
"These racist depictions were wrong then and are wrong today, and we felt that to keep this title up without an explanation and a denouncement of those depictions would be irresponsible."
When the film returns, "it will return with a discussion of its historical context and a denouncement of those very depictions, but will be presented as it was originally created, because to do otherwise would be the same as claiming these prejudices never existed", the statement said.
"If we are to create a more just, equitable and inclusive future, we must first acknowledge and understand our history."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 'Can we get Gone With The Wind back please?'
Mr Trump referenced the film at a rally earlier this year, as he mocked South Korean picture Parasite following its historic success at the Oscars in February.
Imitating an Academy Awards presenter, Mr Trump said: "And the winner is a movie from South Korea! What the hell was that all about?
"We got enough problems with South Korea with trade. On top of that, they give him best movie of the year? Was it good? I don't know. Let's get Gone With The Wind. Can we get Gone With The Wind back, please?"
Image: Little Britain has been pulled from streaming services in the UK after facing criticism for its blackface characters. Pic: BBC
In the UK, Little Britain has been removed from Netflix, NOW TV, iPlayer and Britbox after coming under fire over the use of blackface in some of its sketches.
Meanwhile, comedian Leigh Francis has apologised for "offensive" portrayals of celebrities including Craig David, Michael Jackson and Trisha Goddard on sketch show Bo' Selecta, which first aired in 2002.
US late night TV host Jimmy Fallon has also apologised for wearing blackface during a Saturday Night Live (SNL) sketch 20 years ago.
Race and Revolution: Is Change Going to Come?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests, and examining institutional racism and how we fix it.
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience, and have a chance of putting a question to our panel, please send your name, location and question to newsdebates@sky.uk


skynewsus--2020-06-10--America accuses China of attempting to bully the UK on Huawei role

The US has accused the Chinese Communist Party of `` coercive bullying tactics '' towards the UK as the British government reassesses its decision to allow Huawei a role within 5G networks .
The reassessment follows new sanctions in the US which would prohibit the Chinese telecommunications company from using any computer chips designed by American firms , and not just those manufactured in the US .
Huawei warned the move might put it out of business .
Almost all semiconductors on the market - which are essential across the whole of Huawei 's product line , from radio base @ @ @ @ @ @ @ US intellectual property .
Preparing for the impact of such an embargo , which might eventually result in an increase of Chinese-developed computer chips across the UK 's critical national infrastructure , the UK 's National Cyber Security Centre said it was re-evaluating whether it can still manage the risks that using Huawei equipment posed .
In a statement on Tuesday , US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said : `` Beijing has reportedly threatened to punish British bank HSBC and to break commitments to build nuclear power plants in the United Kingdom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 5G network . ''
Huawei was `` an extension of the Chinese Communist Party 's surveillance state '' alleged Mr Pomeo , an accusation which the US has made consistently for a number of years - although without any evidence , in marked contrast to indictments targeting Russian state espionage actors .
He added that China 's `` browbeating of HSBC , in particular , should serve as a cautionary tale '' - noting that the threats against the bank came despite a senior executive signing a petition `` supporting Beijing 's disastrous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' .
`` That show of fealty seems to have earned HSBC little respect in Beijing , which continues to use the bank 's business in China as political leverage against London , '' added Mr Pompeo .
Boris Johnson has pledged to allow nearly three million Hong Kong citizens the right to live and work indefinitely in the UK , with a route to full citizenship , if China imposes a new national security law on the city .
`` Beijing 's aggressive behaviour shows why countries should avoid economic over-reliance on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from CCP influence , '' he added .
`` The United States stands ready to assist our friends in the UK with any needs they have , from building secure and reliable nuclear power plants to developing trusted 5G solutions that protect their citizens ' privacy . ''
`` Free nations deal in true friendship and desire mutual prosperity , not political and corporate kowtow , '' Mr Pompeo added .

The US has accused the Chinese Communist Party of "coercive bullying tactics" towards the UK as the British government reassesses its decision to allow Huawei a role within 5G networks.
The reassessment follows new sanctions in the US which would prohibit the Chinese telecommunications company from using any computer chips designed by American firms, and not just those manufactured in the US.
Huawei warned the move might put it out of business. Almost all semiconductors on the market - which are essential across the whole of Huawei's product line, from radio base stations to servers and smartphone - contain US intellectual property.
Image: Mike Pompeo said China was attempting to 'coerce' the UK
Preparing for the impact of such an embargo, which might eventually result in an increase of Chinese-developed computer chips across the UK's critical national infrastructure, the UK's National Cyber Security Centre said it was re-evaluating whether it can still manage the risks that using Huawei equipment posed.
In a statement on Tuesday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said: "Beijing has reportedly threatened to punish British bank HSBC and to break commitments to build nuclear power plants in the United Kingdom unless London allows Huawei to build its 5G network."
Huawei was "an extension of the Chinese Communist Party's surveillance state" alleged Mr Pomeo, an accusation which the US has made consistently for a number of years - although without any evidence, in marked contrast to indictments targeting Russian state espionage actors.
He added that China's "browbeating of HSBC, in particular, should serve as a cautionary tale" - noting that the threats against the bank came despite a senior executive signing a petition "supporting Beijing's disastrous decision to destroy Hong Kong's autonomy".
"That show of fealty seems to have earned HSBC little respect in Beijing, which continues to use the bank's business in China as political leverage against London," added Mr Pompeo.
Boris Johnson has pledged to allow nearly three million Hong Kong citizens the right to live and work indefinitely in the UK, with a route to full citizenship, if China imposes a new national security law on the city.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:31 China hits back at UK over citizenship offer
"Beijing's aggressive behaviour shows why countries should avoid economic over-reliance on China and should guard their critical infrastructure from CCP influence," he added.
"The United States stands ready to assist our friends in the UK with any needs they have, from building secure and reliable nuclear power plants to developing trusted 5G solutions that protect their citizens' privacy."
"Free nations deal in true friendship and desire mutual prosperity, not political and corporate kowtow," Mr Pompeo added.


skynewsus--2020-06-09--Joe Biden: George Floyd is going to change the world

Joe Biden has said George Floyd `` is going to change the world '' after speaking to his family ahead of his funeral .
The Democratic US presidential candidate said the killing of Mr Floyd on 25 May in Minneapolis is `` one of those great inflection points in American history '' .
The killing of Mr Floyd , an unarmed African-American , at the hands of police has sparked protests in America and across the world , including the UK .
Video showed a white police officer , Derek Chauvin , kneeling on Mr Floyd 's neck .
Chauvin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vice president Mr Biden and his wife , Jill , sat down with Mr Floyd 's family in a restaurant in Houston , Texas , on Monday before the private funeral on Tuesday , which will be broadcast live with a recorded message from Mr Biden .
`` Jill and I spoke to them about it 's hard enough to grieve but it 's much harder to do it with the whole world watching , '' he told CBS .
`` They 're an incredible family .
His little daughter was there , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ going to change the world ' , and I think her daddy is going to change the world .
`` I think what 's happened here is one of those great inflection points in American history , in terms of civil liberties , civil rights and just treating people with dignity . ''
Lots of protesters in the US have been calling for police forces to lose their funding as Mr Floyd is just one in a long line of black people in America to have died at the hands of the police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ course of action , suggesting conditions are placed on the amount of funding forces get .
`` I support conditioning federal aid to police based on whether or not they meet certain standards of decency and honourableness .
`` And in fact , are able to demonstrate they can protect the community and everybody in the community . ''
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Mr Biden also said the Floyd family was `` encouraged '' by the numbers of white people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lives Matter marches across the US and the world .
The Democrat has condemned Donald Trump for saying Mr Floyd was `` looking down right now and saying this a great thing that 's happening for our country '' as he announced an unexpected uptick in unemployment figures .
Mr Trump was speaking after the 10th night of anti-racism protests following Mr Floyd 's death and said it was `` a great day for him '' .
Mr Biden said the president was `` despicable '' for trying `` to put any other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' other than his last , which were `` I ca n't breathe '' .

Joe Biden has said George Floyd "is going to change the world" after speaking to his family ahead of his funeral.
The Democratic US presidential candidate said the killing of Mr Floyd on 25 May in Minneapolis is "one of those great inflection points in American history".
The killing of Mr Floyd, an unarmed African-American, at the hands of police has sparked protests in America and across the world, including the UK.
Video showed a white police officer, Derek Chauvin, kneeling on Mr Floyd's neck. Chauvin has been charged with murder.
Image: Pall-bearers carry George Floyd's coffin into the church for his funeral
Former vice president Mr Biden and his wife, Jill, sat down with Mr Floyd's family in a restaurant in Houston, Texas, on Monday before the private funeral on Tuesday, which will be broadcast live with a recorded message from Mr Biden.
"Jill and I spoke to them about it's hard enough to grieve but it's much harder to do it with the whole world watching," he told CBS.
"They're an incredible family. His little daughter was there, the one who said, 'Daddy's going to change the world', and I think her daddy is going to change the world.
"I think what's happened here is one of those great inflection points in American history, in terms of civil liberties, civil rights and just treating people with dignity."
Lots of protesters in the US have been calling for police forces to lose their funding as Mr Floyd is just one in a long line of black people in America to have died at the hands of the police.
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Image: George Floyd. Pic: Shutterstock
Image: Roxie Washington, the mother of George Floyd's six-year-old daughter Gianna Floyd
But Mr Biden disagreed with that course of action, suggesting conditions are placed on the amount of funding forces get.
He added: "I don't support defunding the police.
"I support conditioning federal aid to police based on whether or not they meet certain standards of decency and honourableness.
"And in fact, are able to demonstrate they can protect the community and everybody in the community."
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Mr Biden also said the Floyd family was "encouraged" by the numbers of white people demonstrating alongside black protesters in the Black Lives Matter marches across the US and the world.
The Democrat has condemned Donald Trump for saying Mr Floyd was "looking down right now and saying this a great thing that's happening for our country" as he announced an unexpected uptick in unemployment figures.
Mr Trump was speaking after the 10th night of anti-racism protests following Mr Floyd's death and said it was "a great day for him".
Mr Biden said the president was "despicable" for trying "to put any other words in the mouth of George Floyd" other than his last, which were "I can't breathe".


skynewsus--2020-06-10--George Floyd 'didn't deserve to die over $20', his brother tells US politicians

The brother of George Floyd has said the unarmed black man `` did n't deserve to die over $ 20 '' as he urged politicians to make sure his death `` was n't in vain '' .
Philonise Floyd addressed the house judiciary committee a day after his brother was buried next to his mother in Houston , Texas .
George Floyd was killed after police officer Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for eight minutes and 46 seconds in Minneapolis on 25 May .
He had been arrested after allegedly using a counterfeit $ 20 note in a shop @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the US and the world .
The 46-year-old 's brother said at the hearing on Wednesday : `` I 'm tired .
I 'm tired of the pain I 'm feeling now and I 'm tired of the pain I feel every time another black person is killed for no reason .
`` I 'm here today to ask you to make it stop .
Stop the pain .
Stop us from being tired .
`` George 's calls for help were ignored .
Please listen to the call I 'm making @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our family , and to the calls ringing out in the streets across the world . ''
Mr Floyd was speaking to a committee of 40 members at the hearing in Washington DC which is examining policing and law enforcement accountability .
He continued : `` George was n't hurting anyone that day .
He did n't deserve to die over $ 20 .
I am asking you , is that what a black man 's life is worth ?
$ 20 ?
This is 2020 .
Enough is enough . ''
Mr @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It is on you to make sure his death is n't in vain . ''
He also told the committee members how he had called his brother `` Perry '' and described him as `` gentle giant '' who was `` mild-mannered '' .
Politicians are reviewing the Justice in Policing Act , a wide-ranging set of proposals amid a national debate on policing and racial inequality in the US .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker George Floyd was laid to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service which included passionate speeches from members of his family .
His niece Brooke Williams referred to President Donald Trump 's slogan when she told mourners : `` Someone said make America great again .
When has America ever been great ? ''
The civil rights leader Al Sharpton delivered the eulogy at the service in Houston , where George Floyd grew up and went to school .
Chauvin has been charged with second-degree murder after footage of the arrest was shared widely online .
Race and Revolution : Is Change Going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests , and examining institutional racism and how we fix it .
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience , and have a chance of putting a question to our panel , please send your name , location and question to newsdebates @ sky.uk .

The brother of George Floyd has said the unarmed black man "didn't deserve to die over $20" as he urged politicians to make sure his death "wasn't in vain".
Philonise Floyd addressed the House Judiciary Committee a day after his brother was buried next to his mother in Houston, Texas.
George Floyd was killed after police officer Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for eight minutes and 46 seconds in Minneapolis on 25 May.
He had been arrested after allegedly using a counterfeit $20 note in a shop, and his death sparked anti-racism protests across the US and the world.
Image: Philonise Floyd said his brother didn't deserve to die for $20
The 46-year-old's brother said at the hearing on Wednesday: "I'm tired. I'm tired of the pain I'm feeling now and I'm tired of the pain I feel every time another black person is killed for no reason.
"I'm here today to ask you to make it stop. Stop the pain. Stop us from being tired.
"George's calls for help were ignored. Please listen to the call I'm making to you now to the calls of our family, and to the calls ringing out in the streets across the world."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:20 Philonise Floyd arrives to give evidence to a hearing in Washington
Mr Floyd was speaking to a committee of 40 members at the hearing in Washington DC which is examining policing and law enforcement accountability.
He continued: "George wasn't hurting anyone that day. He didn't deserve to die over $20. I am asking you, is that what a black man's life is worth? $20? This is 2020. Enough is enough."
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Mr Floyd later told the politicians: "It is on you to make sure his death isn't in vain."
He also told the committee members how he had called his brother "Perry" and described him as "gentle giant" who was "mild-mannered".
Politicians are reviewing the Justice in Policing Act, a wide-ranging set of proposals amid a national debate on policing and racial inequality in the US.
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
George Floyd was laid to rest on Tuesday after an emotionally-charged funeral service which included passionate speeches from members of his family.
His niece Brooke Williams referred to President Donald Trump's slogan when she told mourners: "Someone said make America great again. When has America ever been great?"
The civil rights leader Al Sharpton delivered the eulogy at the service in Houston, where George Floyd grew up and went to school.
Chauvin has been charged with second-degree murder after footage of the arrest was shared widely online.
Race and Revolution: Is Change Going to Come?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests, and examining institutional racism and how we fix it.
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience, and have a chance of putting a question to our panel, please send your name, location and question to newsdebates@sky.uk.


skynewsus--2020-06-10--Gone With The Wind and US show Cops pulled as anti-racism protests continue

US reality TV show Cops has been dropped from its network and Gone With The Wind has also been temporarily removed by a streaming service as demonstrations against racism and police violence continue around the world .
HBO Max , which launched in the US last month , says American Civil War epic Gone With The Wind includes `` racist depictions '' that were `` wrong then and are wrong today '' .
It added that the 1939 film - which President Donald Trump has named as one of his favourites - will eventually return with a discussion of its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which started in 1989 , is no longer on the network and there are no future plans for it to return .
The moves follow the announcement on Tuesday that comedy show Little Britain had been removed from streaming platforms in the UK , and after public apologies from some celebrities over previous behaviour on screen .
Black Lives Matter demonstrations have taken place around the world following the killing of George Floyd , an unarmed black man who died after a white police officer was filmed kneeling on his neck for eight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Cops , which allowed viewers to ride along with police officers on patrol in various cities in the US , had been pulled temporarily from air at the end of last month , following Mr Floyd 's death in Minneapolis on 25 May .
However , the move has now been made permanent .
A spokesperson for the Paramount Network said : `` Cops is not on the Paramount Network and we do n't have any current or future plans for it to return . ''
It is not clear whether Langley @ @ @ @ @ @ @ show , will try to find a new network .
Sky News has contacted the firm for comment .
The show , which has the reggae song Bad Boys as its theme tune , ran on the Fox network for 25 years until 2013 .
It then moved to Spike TV , which was rebranded as the Paramount Network in 2018 .
Gone With The Wind , starring Vivien Leigh , Clark Gable and Hattie McDaniel , tells the love story of Scarlett O'Hara ( Leigh ) , the daughter of a plantation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( Gable ) , a Southern aristocrat .
The film broke theatre attendance records on its release and went on to win eight Oscars , including best picture , best actress for Leigh and best supporting actress for McDaniel - the first black person to ever win an Academy Award .
However , McDaniel had to sit separately from her co-stars , at a table at the back of the room , and the film has been heavily criticised for its depiction of slavery .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Spreaker In a statement sent to US entertainment sites Variety and Deadline , an HBO Max spokesperson said : `` Gone With The Wind is a product of its time and depicts some of the ethnic and racial prejudices that have , unfortunately , been commonplace in American society .
`` These racist depictions were wrong then and are wrong today , and we felt that to keep this title up without an explanation and a denouncement of those depictions would be irresponsible . ''
When the film returns , `` it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ historical context and a denouncement of those very depictions , but will be presented as it was originally created , because to do otherwise would be the same as claiming these prejudices never existed '' , the statement said .
`` If we are to create a more just , equitable and inclusive future , we must first acknowledge and understand our history . ''
Mr Trump referenced the film at a rally earlier this year , as he mocked South Korean picture Parasite following its historic success at the Oscars in February @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mr Trump said : `` And the winner is a movie from South Korea !
What the hell was that all about ?
`` We got enough problems with South Korea with trade .
On top of that , they give him best movie of the year ?
Was it good ?
I do n't know .
Let 's get Gone With The Wind .
Can we get Gone With The Wind back , please ? ''
In the UK , Little Britain has been removed from Netflix , NOW TV , iPlayer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the use of blackface in some of its sketches .
Meanwhile , comedian Leigh Francis has apologised for `` offensive '' portrayals of celebrities including Craig David , Michael Jackson and Trisha Goddard on sketch show Bo ' Selecta , which first aired in 2002 .
US late night TV host Jimmy Fallon has also apologised for wearing blackface during a Saturday Night Live ( SNL ) sketch 20 years ago .
Race and Revolution : Is Change Going to Come ?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ raised by the Black Lives Matter protests , and examining institutional racism and how we fix it .
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience , and have a chance of putting a question to our panel , please send your name , location and question to newsdebates @ sky.uk


skynewsus--2020-06-10--Grammys drops 'urban' term to describe albums by black artists

The Grammys has dropped the term `` urban '' to describe music made by black artists at its awards shows , as one of several changes being made to `` evolve with the musical landscape '' .
It means the best urban contemporary album category will become best progressive R & B album for next year 's ceremony .
`` This change includes a more accurate definition to describe the merit or characteristics of music compositions or performances themselves within the genre of R & B , '' a Grammys spokesman said .
Changes announced by The Recording Academy , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Republic Records , which represents stars including Drake , Ariana Grande , Stevie Wonder and Taylor Swift , confirmed it was erasing the `` outdated '' urban tag from all parts of its business with immediate effect .
The word `` urban '' has frequently been applied as a catch-all to describe music genres including hip-hop , grime , R & B , soul and rap .
It is criticised as a term that groups all music of black origin into one genre .
Lizzo 's Cuz I Love You won the award @ @ @ @ @ @ @ year 's Grammy Awards , which took place in January , following in the footsteps of artists including Beyonce , Pharrell Williams , Rihanna and Frank Ocean .
Teenager Billie Eilish was the big winner , taking home all four of the night 's major awards .
In other changes announced by the Grammys , the best rap/sung performance category has been renamed best melodic rap performance , while the Latin rock , urban or alternative album category has switched to best Latin rock or alternative album .
However , the word urban @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best Latin pop album , which now becomes best Latin pop or urban album .
`` This category is intended to recognise excellence in Latin pop or urban music recordings that utilise a stylistic intention , song structure , lyrical content , and/ or musical presentation to create a sensibility that reflects the broad spectrum of Latin pop music style and culture , '' organisers said .
`` The category includes recordings from balladeers and commercial Latin music and is not limited to any one region . ''
: : Listen to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker It is the latest music industry announcement as the Black Lives Matter movement continues following the death of George Floyd .
Mr Floyd , 46 , was killed in Minneapolis , Minnesota , on 25 May , after white police officer Derek Chauvin was filmed kneeling on his neck for more than eight minutes during an arrest .
Earlier this month , millions of people and businesses followed music labels in pausing work for a day and posting black squares on their Instagram accounts as part of # @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Change Going to Come ?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests , and examining institutional racism and how we fix it .
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience , and have a chance of putting a question to our panel , please send your name , location and question to newsdebates @ sky.uk

The Grammys has dropped the term "urban" to describe music made by black artists at its awards shows, as one of several changes being made to "evolve with the musical landscape".
It means the best urban contemporary album category will become best progressive R&B album for next year's ceremony.
"This change includes a more accurate definition to describe the merit or characteristics of music compositions or performances themselves within the genre of R&B," a Grammys spokesman said.
Image: Beyonce won the award for Lemonade in 2017
Changes announced by The Recording Academy, which organises the Grammys, come after Republic Records, which represents stars including Drake, Ariana Grande, Stevie Wonder and Taylor Swift, confirmed it was erasing the "outdated" urban tag from all parts of its business with immediate effect.
The word "urban" has frequently been applied as a catch-all to describe music genres including hip-hop, grime, R&B, soul and rap. It is criticised as a term that groups all music of black origin into one genre.
Lizzo's Cuz I Love You won the award for best urban contemporary album at this year's Grammy Awards, which took place in January, following in the footsteps of artists including Beyonce, Pharrell Williams, Rihanna and Frank Ocean.
Teenager Billie Eilish was the big winner, taking home all four of the night's major awards.
In other changes announced by the Grammys, the best rap/sung performance category has been renamed best melodic rap performance, while the Latin rock, urban or alternative album category has switched to best Latin rock or alternative album.
However, the word urban has been added to the award for best Latin pop album, which now becomes best Latin pop or urban album.
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"This category is intended to recognise excellence in Latin pop or urban music recordings that utilise a stylistic intention, song structure, lyrical content, and/ or musical presentation to create a sensibility that reflects the broad spectrum of Latin pop music style and culture," organisers said.
"The category includes recordings from balladeers and commercial Latin music and is not limited to any one region."
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:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
It is the latest music industry announcement as the Black Lives Matter movement continues following the death of George Floyd.
Mr Floyd, 46, was killed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on 25 May, after white police officer Derek Chauvin was filmed kneeling on his neck for more than eight minutes during an arrest.
Earlier this month, millions of people and businesses followed music labels in pausing work for a day and posting black squares on their Instagram accounts as part of #BlackoutTuesday.
Race and Revolution: Is Change Going to Come?
Sky News will broadcast a global debate show on Tuesday night at 8pm - looking at the issues raised by the Black Lives Matter protests, and examining institutional racism and how we fix it.
If you would like to be part of our virtual audience, and have a chance of putting a question to our panel, please send your name, location and question to newsdebates@sky.uk


skynewsus--2020-06-10--Just Eat nears deal to enter US market in Grubhub takeover

Just Eat Takeaway.com has revealed it is in `` advanced '' takeover talks with US online food delivery firm Grubhub .
Just Eat Takeaway - the result of a £6.2bn merger of Just Eat and Takeaway.com that was itself only approved by regulators in April - said the negotiations were centred on an all-stock deal .
An agreement would give Just Eat Takeaway a foothold in the lucrative US market , that is seen as only continuing to grow at pace in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis .
However , shares in the Amsterdam-based firm collapsed by 17 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Grubhub stock on the NYSE was more than 2 % lower .
It had been reported that Grubhub was a takeover target for Uber 's Eats operation but CNBC reported that the ride-sharing platform was on the verge of pulling out because of likely opposition from regulators .
The business news service said the all-share offer on the table was based on a small premium to Grubhub 's share price .
Market experts have pointed to the food delivery sector being ripe for consolidation , especially if people become more reluctant to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are eased globally .
In the UK , the Competition and Markets Authority ( CMA ) has given itself two more months to make a final ruling on Amazon 's planned purchase of a minority stake in Deliveroo .
The regulator , which has been investigating the investment since December , provisionally cleared the deal in April saying it had become clear that the lockdown , which forced most restaurants on its platform to close , was damaging Deliveroo 's revenues .
Just Eat Takeaway was among critics of that decision in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the CMA now due in August .

Just Eat Takeaway.com has agreed a deal to buy US online food delivery firm Grubhub.
Just Eat Takeaway - the result of a £6.2bn merger of Just Eat and Takeaway.com that was itself only approved by regulators in April - said the all-share deal valued Grubhub at $7.3bn (£5.8bn).
However, market moves meant it was actually worth around $6bn (£4.7bn) on Thursday, analysts said.
The agreement, subject to regulatory approvals, gives Just Eat Takeaway a foothold in the lucrative US market that is seen as only continuing to grow at pace in the wake of the COVID-19 crisis.
Grubhub had been a takeover target for Uber's Eats operation but it is understood Uber's interest was tempered by expected opposition from regulators on competition grounds.
Image: The UK competition regulator has extended its deadline for a decision on Amazon's investment in Deliveroo
Market experts have pointed to the food delivery sector being ripe for consolidation, especially if people become more reluctant to venture out as coronavirus-linked social distancing restrictions are eased globally.
Shares in Amsterdam-based Just Eat Takeaway collapsed by 13% after news of the talks was divulged on Wednesday - wiping out the year's gains to date.
Grubhub's market value also fell - hitting the deal's value.
Grubhub shareholders will still receive $65.24 per share - a premium of 10% - under the terms, which will see existing shareholders of the US firm continue to own 30% of the expanded business.
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Both Just Eat Takeaway and Grubhub investors must vote on the deal.
Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, said of the acquisition: "Snapping up Grubhub might strategically make sense as it expands the company's reach, but there is a fear of indigestion by rushing to do another massive deal when arguably Just Eat and Takeaway.com won't have had time to properly integrate."
News of the negotiations on Wednesday came as the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) announced that it had given itself two more months to make a final ruling on Amazon's planned purchase of a minority stake in Deliveroo.
The regulator, which has been investigating the investment since December, provisionally cleared the deal in April saying it had become clear that the lockdown, which forced most restaurants on its platform to close, was damaging Deliveroo's revenues.
Just Eat Takeaway was among critics of that decision in the resulting consultation - with a final decision by the CMA now due in August.


skynewsus--2020-06-11--NASCAR bans Confederate flag in support of Black Lives Matter

NASCAR has banned the Confederate flag from its races and venues , formally severing itself from what many believe is a symbol of slavery and racism .
The move comes amid social unrest around the globe following the death of George Floyd , an unarmed black man who died in Minneapolis while being detained by police .
Protests continue across the country with Confederate monuments being taken down across the South - the traditional fan base for NASCAR .
Confederate flags have been a familiar sight at races over the sport 's 72-year history however , the stock car series @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in recent years taken cautious steps to sever the connection .
The issue came to a head this week as Bubba Wallace , NASCAR 's lone black driver , called for the banishment of the Confederate flag and said there was `` no place '' for them in the sport .
`` The presence of the confederate flag at NASCAR events runs contrary to our commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all fans , our competitors and our industry , '' a statement said .
`` Bringing people together around @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that it creates is what makes our fans and sport special .
The display of the confederate flag will be prohibited from all NASCAR events and properties . ''
The move was announced before Wednesday night 's race at Martinsville Speedway where Wallace , from Alabama , was driving Richard Petty Motorsports ' No43 Chevrolet with a # BlackLivesMatter paint job .
The driver was praised for his stance on Twitter from several athletes , including NBA star LeBron James , and for using the slogan during the race .
Wallace said before @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a stressful couple of weeks .
`` This is no doubt the biggest race of my career tonight .
I 'm excited about tonight .
There 's a lot of emotions on the race track . ''
Wallace wore a black `` I Ca n't Breathe '' T-shirt but did not kneel during the national anthem .
NASCAR has not said how it would enforce the policy or what might happen for fans who bring the Confederate flag to the track .
While no fans have attended since racing resumed last month , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ small number back at upcoming events in Florida and Georgia .

NASCAR has banned the Confederate flag from its races and venues, formally severing itself from what many believe is a symbol of slavery and racism.
The move comes amid social unrest around the globe following the death of George Floyd, an unarmed black man who died in Minneapolis while being detained by police.
Protests continue across the country with Confederate monuments being taken down across the South - the traditional fan base for NASCAR.
Confederate flags have been a familiar sight at races over the sport's 72-year history however, the stock car series with its roots in moonshine running has in recent years taken cautious steps to sever the connection.
Image: NASCAR has not said how it would enforce the policy
The issue came to a head this week as Bubba Wallace, NASCAR's lone black driver, called for the banishment of the Confederate flag and said there was "no place" for them in the sport.
"The presence of the confederate flag at NASCAR events runs contrary to our commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all fans, our competitors and our industry," a statement said.
"Bringing people together around a love for racing and the community that it creates is what makes our fans and sport special. The display of the confederate flag will be prohibited from all NASCAR events and properties."
Image: Bubba Wallace Wallace was praised for his stance on Twitter from several athletes
The move was announced before Wednesday night's race at Martinsville Speedway where Wallace, from Alabama, was driving Richard Petty Motorsports' No43 Chevrolet with a #BlackLivesMatter paint job.
The driver was praised for his stance on Twitter from several athletes, including NBA star LeBron James, and for using the slogan during the race.
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Wallace said before the race: "It's been a stressful couple of weeks.
"This is no doubt the biggest race of my career tonight. I'm excited about tonight. There's a lot of emotions on the race track."
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Wallace wore a black "I Can't Breathe" T-shirt but did not kneel during the national anthem.
NASCAR has not said how it would enforce the policy or what might happen for fans who bring the Confederate flag to the track.
While no fans have attended since racing resumed last month, it has announced plans to welcome a small number back at upcoming events in Florida and Georgia.


skynewsus--2020-06-11--Coachella cancelled amid 'growing indications' of COVID surge in autumn

The Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals have been cancelled this year amid `` growing indications '' that coronavirus cases are going to surge in the autumn .
Both events were meant to have taken place in California in April , and had been rescheduled for October .
But health officials have said they are `` not comfortable moving forward '' - especially given how Coachella is one of the world 's biggest music festivals , bringing half a million fans to an open-air site east of Los Angeles .
Cameron Kaiser , who signed the order cancelling the festivals for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concerned as indications grow that COVID-19 could worsen in the fall .
`` Given the projected circumstances and potential , I would not be comfortable moving forward . ''
Mr Kaiser stressed that the decision was not taken lightly - and he acknowledged many people will be affected .
`` My first priority is the health of the community , '' he added .
Travis Scott , Frank Ocean , Lewis Capaldi , Calvin Harris , Lana Del Rey , Fatboy Slim and Rage Against The Machine were among the acts set to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while Carrie Underwood and Billy Ray Cyrus were in the line-up for the Stagecoach country music festival .
: : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The loss of the festivals will be a major blow to the tourism and hospitality industries in the area .
It was recently reported that Anschutz Entertainment Group , the parent company of the firm that organises Coachella and Stagecoach , was planning to lay off 15 % of its workforce .
Restrictions on travel and large public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mean more and more music stars are cancelling gigs .
The Who , Madonna , Miley Cyrus and Avril Lavigne are among the acts that have cancelled live dates due to the outbreak .
Snowbombing , the annual alpine music festival , was due to take place in the town of Mayrhofen in Austria for a week in April , but was cancelled after Austrian authorities banned all outdoor events above 500 people .
And Glastonbury - which attracts crowds of 200,000 - was forced to abandon plans to celebrate its 50th anniversary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Taylor Swift and Sir Paul McCartney were due to perform .

The Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals have been cancelled this year amid "growing indications" that coronavirus cases are going to surge in the autumn.
Both events were meant to have taken place in California in April, and had been rescheduled for October.
But health officials have said they are "not comfortable moving forward" - especially given how Coachella is one of the world's biggest music festivals, bringing half a million fans to an open-air site east of Los Angeles.
Image: Officials in California fear that coronavirus cases may surge in the autumn
Cameron Kaiser, who signed the order cancelling the festivals for 2020, said: "I am concerned as indications grow that COVID-19 could worsen in the fall.
"Given the projected circumstances and potential, I would not be comfortable moving forward."
Mr Kaiser stressed that the decision was not taken lightly - and he acknowledged many people will be affected.
"My first priority is the health of the community," he added.
Travis Scott, Frank Ocean, Lewis Capaldi, Calvin Harris, Lana Del Rey, Fatboy Slim and Rage Against The Machine were among the acts set to take to the stage at Coachella - while Carrie Underwood and Billy Ray Cyrus were in the line-up for the Stagecoach country music festival.
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
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The loss of the festivals will be a major blow to the tourism and hospitality industries in the area.
It was recently reported that Anschutz Entertainment Group, the parent company of the firm that organises Coachella and Stagecoach, was planning to lay off 15% of its workforce.
Restrictions on travel and large public events in some parts of the world mean more and more music stars are cancelling gigs.
Image: Both Coachella and Stagecoach festivals had been postponed until October
The Who, Madonna, Miley Cyrus and Avril Lavigne are among the acts that have cancelled live dates due to the outbreak.
Snowbombing, the annual alpine music festival, was due to take place in the town of Mayrhofen in Austria for a week in April, but was cancelled after Austrian authorities banned all outdoor events above 500 people.
And Glastonbury - which attracts crowds of 200,000 - was forced to abandon plans to celebrate its 50th anniversary this year. Headliners including Diana Ross, Taylor Swift and Sir Paul McCartney were due to perform.