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Scholar/Activist Cornel West Declares His Run for President

“I am running for truth and justice as a presidential can didate for the People’s Party to reintroduce America to the best of itself—fighting to end poverty, mass incarceration, ending wars and ecological collapse, guaranteeing hous ing, health care, education, and living wages for all!” declared scholar/activist Dr. Cornel West in a recent video statement.
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West's declaration of running for president in 2024 as the candidate of the independent progressive People’s Party is sure to shake things up in the 2024 race. One of the nation’s most prominent thinkers, West—who has taught at Yale, Princeton, and Harvard and written best-selling books—has long been engaged in politics as a high-profile supporter of progressive candidates.
West says running for president in 2024 represents a continuation of “what I have been doing all of my life.”
“We’re talking about empowering those who have been pushed to the margins because neither political party wants to tell the truth about Wall Street, about Ukraine, about the Pentagon, about Big Tech.”
In response to skeptics, crtics and second-guessers he said: “Do we have what it takes?” We shall see. But some of us are going to go down fighting, go down swinging—with style and a smile—accenting the best in you and trying to tease out the best in me.”
Briefs
USA Today Names Black Editor

USA TODAY has named Terence Samuel, NPR News’ vice president and executive editor, as editor-in-chief effective July 10. . A number of major newspapers in the US now have African Ameriacans heading the newsrooms including the Los AngelesTimes, Houston Chronicle ,and The Dallas Morning News. Sheila Rayam, ,executive editor of The Buffalo News,is the first Black journalist to hold the position in The News’ 142-year history.
Tulsa Race Massacre Survivors Officially Granted Ghanaian Citizenship
Viola Fletcher, a 108-year-old survivor of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, became a Ghanaian citizen alongside her 101-year-old brother, Hughes Van Ellis on February 28, at Ghana’s embassy in Washington, where Fletcher and Ellis were formally sworn in as citizens of Ghana.The release of her Viola Fletcher's book , "Don't Let them Bury My Story: The Oldest Living Survivor of the Tulsa Race Massacre In Her Own Words," will be released July 4. She and her grandson, Ike Howard are the authors.
Uganda Enacts Harsh Anti-LGBTQ Law
Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has signed one of the world's harshest anti-LGBTQ laws, including the death penalty for "aggravated homosexuality", in defiance of Western condemnations and potential sanctions from aid donors.Same-sex relations were already illegal in Uganda, as they are in more than 30 African countries, but the new law further targets lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people.More than half Africa’s 54 nations prohibit consensual same-sex activity, according to the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA).
It's A University United Festival Weekend!
The University United Festival is back and better than ever! The festival will take place on Saturday, June 10 and Sunday, June 11 at the University at Buffalo Rotary Field (across from the VA Hospital), and the entire community is invited to join in celebrating the spirit of unity and togetherness.
One of the highlights of this year's festival is the highly anticipated return of the parade. Starting at 2 PM, the parade will march down Bailey Avenue into the heart of the festival.
Music lovers will be treated to an incredible lineup of talented artists on two stages - The Local Stage will showcase great acts from the local music scene, and the National Stage will feature renowned performers who will captivate audiences with their exceptional skills and captivating performances.
The national anthem will be performed by Buffalo’s own Matt Wilson from ABC’s American Idol.
Saturday June 10 is R&B Day hosted by WBLK 93.5’s Yasmin Young. from 3-9 p.m. featuring national artists Johnny Gill, The Whispers and Lloyd . Local artists include Cami Clune, Vibrant Strings and The Music Company.
Gospel Day Sunday, June 11, will be hosted by Bishop Darius G. Pridgen and feature Hezekiah Walker, Pastor Mike Jr. , and David Vaughn.
Kids Zone will feature a variety of rides, attractions, and activities that will thrill and excite children of all ages. From classic carnival rides to innovative attractions, and activities for kids
A free workout class with La'Movement Fitness, sponsored by Highmark will take place at 2 PM on Sunday for participants of all fitness levels.
For more information on the University United Festival, please visit www.universityunitedfestival.com.