Los AngelesNews Observer
Rams Honor First Responders During NFL Draft Event
By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer
On Day Two of the NFL Draft, the Los Angeles Rams hosted a special Chalk Talk event honoring 150 hometown heroes from all four public safety agencies at the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Air Operations facility in Van Nuys, which also served as this year’s Rams Draft Headquarters.
Head Coach Sean McVay, along with players Matthew Stafford, Puka Nacua, Jared Verse, Kyren Williams, Tyler Higbee, Braden Fiske, Kobie Turner, and Blake Corum, spent the morning recognizing and celebrating first responders in an emotional and well-deserved tribute.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Los Angeles Rams for their unwavering support of the Los Angeles City Fire Department and our wildfireimpacted communities,” said Interim Fire Chief Ronnie Villanueva.
A Community Celebration
The event was set against the impressive backdrop of LAFD helicopters, city officials, families of firefighters, team mascot Rampage, and Rams Cheerleaders. It highlighted the team’s ongoing commitment to honoring those who protect and serve Los Angeles, especially those who battled January’s devastating wildfires.
Coach McVay delivered an inspiring speech, thanking the first responders for their dedication to keeping Los Angeles safe. His words earned a standing ovation from the crowd.
Throughout the day, Rams players mingled with first responders and their families, signing jerseys and footballs and posing for photos. Players also toured the fire station and learned about the critical role of helicopters in emergency operations. Puka Nacua even joined some firefighters in running training drills.
Supporting the Heroes In partnership with Zillow, the Rams are renovating the LAFD Air Operations recreation room to provide firefighters with a more comfortable space to rest between 24-hour shifts. Bob’s Discount Furniture, another Rams partner, supplied new recliners for the room.
“At Zillow, we know that home is more than just a place — it’s about comfort, safety, and a sense of belonging,” said Beverly Jackson, Zillow Vice President of Brand and Product Marketing. “We’re proud to return as a Rams Draft partner for the second year and to help honor these heroes.”
Custom LAFD-Rams apparel is also being sold to raise funds for wildfire relief efforts. The Kroenke Family Foundation donated $1 million to the LAFD Foundation, with total Rams contributions to fire relief now approaching $2 million.
A Historic First
This year marks the first time an NFL team has used a fire station as its Draft headquarters. The Rams’ decision to host the event at LAFD Air Operations underscores their dedication to community resilience and to honoring the first responders who safeguard the city they proudly call home.
LAS VEGAS (AP) — A young woman who says she was raped and threatened by retired NFL player Shannon Sharpe during a “rocky consensual relationship” has filed a civil lawsuit against him seeking $50 million in damages.
Attorneys filed the lawsuit Sunday in Clark County, Nevada, for a woman listed in court documents as Jane Doe. The lawsuit also accuses Sharpe of using physical force on her and inflicting emotional distress.
The woman first met Sharpe at a gym in Los Angeles in 2023 when she was 20 and a nearly two-year relationship followed, according to court documents. Sharpe, 56, is accused of raping the woman in October 2024 and again in January, court documents said. Sharpe on Monday posted a statement from his lawyer on X saying the relationship was consensual and calling the lawsuit a “blatant and cynical attempt
time, once threatening to kill her and recording their sexual encounters without consent, according to the complaint.
“Sharpe flew into fits of anger when Plaintiff noted his infidelity to their relationship, or called him out about his extraneous activities,” the lawsuit said. “Sharpe even figured out how to get into Doe’s apartment complex without her permission.”
Sharpe was a four-time All-Pro tight end who played on two Super Bowl champions with Denver and another with Baltimore over 14 seasons from 1990 to 2003. He was voted into the Hall of Fame in 2011.
Sharpe retired as the NFL’s all-time leader among tight ends in receptions (815), yards receiving (10,060) and touchdowns (62). Those records have since been broken.
Sharpe has been a staple on TV and social media since retiring. He left FS1’s sports debate show “Undisputed” in 2023 and joined ESPN soon afterward.
By Stacy M. Brown
BlackPressUSA.com
Senior National Correspondent
Rev. Jamal Bryant is urging Black Americans to keep the pressure on Target by continuing the national boycott that began as a 40-day economic “fast.” The move, sparked by the retail giant’s decision to end its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, has already cost the company an estimated $12 billion, Bryant said. “Because of your fast, Target has lost $12 billion,” Bryant told his congregation. “I am so grateful that there is power in unity, and we know the strength of Black economics.” Since the fast began, Target’s stock has plummeted from $138 to $94 per share, and in-store foot traffic is down by 7.9%. The boycott gained traction after Target announced it would wind down racial equity programs it introduced following the 2020 police killing of George Floyd. The company, which operates nearly 2,000 stores and employs over 400,000 people, said it had always planned to sunset the programs after three years. However, many saw the decision as a retreat from commitments made to Black communities. After meeting with Target executives, Bryant confirmed that the company agreed to just one of the boycott’s four major demands: fulfilling its $2 billion pledge to support Black businesses through product placement, services, and investments in Black-owned media. The company has yet to meet demands to deposit $250 million into Black-owned banks, reinstate DEI programs, or fund community pipeline centers at 10 HBCUs focused on teaching retail business. Bryant said Target’s response wasn’t enough. “Target cannot selectively decide which parts of our dignity they’re willing to honor,” he said. A growing coalition of African American leaders and organizations—including the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)—has continued meeting to strategize further action. At the center of the discussion is the role of the Black Press, which Target has yet to acknowledge in a meaningful way, despite more than a year of outreach by the NNPA under President Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., with assistance from former U.S. Sen. Laphonza Butler. Chavis stressed that any agreement with Target must include investment in Black-owned media, including outlets like BlackPressUSA.com, The Washington Informer, Philadelphia Tribune, and
Chicago Defender. “The dissemination of this message and narrative is only accurately done by the Black Press in 2025 and beyond,” Chavis said. For nearly 200 years, the Black Press has played a pivotal role in American life, particularly for African Americans. From its inception in 1827 with Freedom’s Journal, the Black Press has informed, educated, and empowered Black communities while countering the negative portrayals that dominate mainstream media. As documented by the Oxford Bibliographies, the Black Press has served as “agents of social change” and “defenders of shared values and interests.” During Reconstruction and Jim Crow, Black journalists like Ida B. Wells used the press to expose racial violence and injustice. Wells’ work documenting lynchings and countering white supremacist propaganda laid the foundation for the Black Press to serve as a vital corrective force in American media. That legacy remains just as urgent today. Modern studies show that negative portrayals of Black people in media lead to harmful outcomes, from over-criminalization and over-sexualization to negative health effects and social exclusion. The Black Press continues to challenge that narrative.
Cheryl Smith, publisher of Texas Metro News and Garland Journal, said the importance of the Black Press cannot be overstated. “If we look back at every period in our lives since its inception, we can see how significant the Black Press was,” Smith said. “We need to see it and believe it every day we get up, and I promise you, we will be stronger, more vibrant, and more powerful people.” The NNPA currently represents more than 200 Black-owned newspapers across the country, continuing a legacy that is nearly as old as the United States itself. As America nears its 249th birthday, the Black Press marks 198 years of continuous service. “The largest Black population in American history are now openly and unapologetically demanding freedom, justice, equality, democracy, and equity,” Chavis said. “And the only media institutions that have always stood with us are our own.” As Bryant calls for continued boycott efforts, he and Chavis are reminding Black America that real leverage comes not only from what it refuses to accept—but also from what it insists on valuing. “We’ve seen what happens when we stand together,” Bryant said. “Now we keep standing.”
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to review a Mississippi death row inmate’s convictions for the slayings of eight people, including his mother-inlaw and a deputy sheriff, over one night in 2017. Willie Cory Godbolt had filed a handwritten petition in August seeking the high court’s review of a decision by the Mississippi Supreme Court affirming his
violence began when Godbolt went to his in-laws’ house on May 27, 2017, and argued with his estranged wife about their children. The family called for help, and a Lincoln County deputy sheriff who responded was fatally shot in the face. Godbolt’s mother-in-law and
counts of murder, two counts of kidnapping, one count of attempted murder and one count of armed robbery. A jury sentenced Godbolt to death for each of the capital murders. For the other convictions, Godbolt was sentenced to six life sentences and two 20-year terms.
Godbolt, now 42, is on death row at the Mississippi State Penitentiary at Parchman. The Mississippi Supreme Court affirmed his convictions and death sentences in March 2024.
Santa Fe, NM: A Target employee pulls red shopping carts into the Santa Fe NM store.
Santa Fe’s Target is constructed in the Southwest Pueblo architectural style. (Photo by Jann Huizenga)
RAMGE joins 1st responders (Photo: LA RAMS)
Coach speaks with firefighters and Rams fans and families (Photo: LA RAMS)
Trump Signs New HBCU Executive Order
By April Ryan
A new executive order focuses on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), bringing the initiative back to the White House. During the first Trump administration, the HBCU Initiative was removed from the Department of Education and housed within the White House itself.This latest executive order from the Trump administration prioritizes private sector partnerships, institutional development, workforce preparation in technology, and more.By contrast, the Joe Biden administration had previously partnered federal government agencies with HBCUs, working through the Departments of Defense, Transportation, and Energy.Prior to this executive order, several HBCU presidents had already been developing proposals aimed at strengthening federal cooperation with their institutions.Now, Trump’s Executive Order aims to enhance the capabilities of HBCUs by supporting the implementation of the HBCU Partners Act and promoting research and program excellence. According to sources close to the HBCU
community, the Act could yield significant research grants and infrastructure funding for the hundredplus HBCUs across the country.Additionally, a portion of the order calls for building “pipelines” to help more students attend HBCUs.In his first term, President Trump had promised to increase funding for these predominantly Black institutions. However, then-senior advisor Steve Bannon told HBCU presidents it would be unconstitutional to allocate that funding directly. That year, Congress— holding the purse strings—ultimately increased HBCU funding.On Wednesday, President Trump also signed several other executive orders in the Oval Office addressing artificial intelligence and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).As he signed the DEIrelated order, a staffer presenting the document referred to DEI as a “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion cult.” Trump responded, “We are getting out of that, huh, after being in that jungle a long time.President Trump signed the orders in front of disabled veterans, who were the very definition of DEI when it existed.
Black Health Jeopardized as FDA Scraps Milk Oversight
By Stacy M. Brown BlackPressUSA.com Senior National Correspondent
The Food and Drug Administration has suspended a key quality-control program for testing milk and other dairy products, citing a diminished workforce and lab capacity following sweeping federal cuts under President Donald Trump’s initiative to slash the government payroll. An internal FDA email obtained by Reuters revealed that the agency has paused its proficiency testing program for “Grade A” milk—the highest sanitary standard for fluid milk products—effective immediately. The move comes on the heels of the shuttering of the FDA’s Moffett Center Proficiency Testing Laboratory, which had overseen food safety data analysis for dairy products nationwide. The suspension is the latest in a wave of disruptions to federal food safety systems, following the mass termination of 20,000 Department of Health and Human Services employees. It also includes shelving programs that monitor avian flu in dairy and pathogens like Cyclospora, which pose risks to public health. While an HHS spokesperson claimed the decommissioning of the lab had been planned before the Trump-imposed staffing cuts, the timing has raised red flags for food safety experts and civil rights advocates alike—particularly regarding the impact on Black communities, who already face elevated health risks and nutritional disparities.A 2024 review published in the Journal of the
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National Medical Association concluded that Black adults continue to carry a disproportionate burden of chronic illnesses like obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. The review noted that one of the most consistent modifiable risk factors for improving health outcomes is better dietary quality—including increased dairy consumption. Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt provide essential nutrients like calcium, potassium, vitamin D, and high-quality protein— nutrients that Black Americans are statistically less likely to consume in recommended amounts. Yet barriers like lactose intolerance, food insecurity, and deep-rooted mistrust of healthcare systems have kept dairy consumption below national averages among Black adults. In a 2024 brief titled “Fortifying Our Health: The Role of Dairy in Black Americans’ Diets,” the Student National Medical Association (SNMA) warned that long-standing myths about lactose intolerance and systemic misinformation have discouraged dairy intake in Black communities. The group emphasized that dairy—particularly fermented and lactose-free products like yogurt and hard cheese—can still be a viable option for many lactose-intolerant people. “Lactose intolerance does not require the complete elimination of dairy,” the SNMA wrote. “These foods provide essential nutrients and, when consumed appropriately, can play a crucial role in addressing health disparities, including those related to bone health, cardiovascular health, and diabetes prevention.”Now, with the FDA’s testing program suspended, food safety advocates fear that inconsistent testing across dairy producers could lead to contamination risks that hit vulnerable populations hardest. Accredited labs nationwide relied on the FDA’s proficiency tests to ensure accuracy and safety in the dairy supply chain—a breakdown in that system could disproportionately affect communities already burdened by inequities in healthcare and nutrition. In its communication to labs, the FDA said it is “actively evaluating alternative approaches” and would update participating laboratories “as new information becomes available.” Still, many in public health say any pause in testing is dangerous—especially given recent discoveries of avian influenza traces in milk and concerns about pathogen exposure in dairy products. Research cited by the NIH affirmed the connection between regular dairy intake and improved health outcomes, particularly when consumed in forms that mitigate intolerance symptoms. For African Americans, increasing dairy consumption—especially of fermented and vitamin D-fortified products—could lead to reduced rates of chronic disease and improved quality of life. With the FDA program shelved indefinitely, experts now fear a regression in progress made toward health equity, especially in communities that can least afford another setback. “Educating ourselves about the importance of dairy can empower us to make informed dietary choices and advocate for better health within our communities,” the SNMA concluded. “As future doctors, we have the power to drive change and promote a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that includes dairy, contributing to healthier, more vibrant communities.”
Civil Rights Groups to White House:
By
‘We
Stacy M. Brown BlackPressUSA.com
Senior National CorrespondentThe Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights has launched “The Pact: A Civil Rights Coalition Unity Commitment,” a declaration of mutual support among dozens of major nonprofit organizations representing millions of people nationwide. The coalition said it’s responding directly to escalating threats and retaliatory actions by the White House and federal agencies targeting groups engaged in public service, advocacy, and civil rights work. The Leadership Conference said that for 75 years, it has helped secure every major federal civil rights law enacted in the United States. It warned that the same government systems used to advance justice are being weaponized to suppress it. “Today we face a campaign by the government to interrupt and intimidate the ability of those who represent the vulnerable, ensure people know their rights, have a voice to make demands of their government, organize unions and speak freely and have their rights protected,” the Pact states. “We will not be silent, divided, or stop serving the public or allow the people we serve to be harmed.”The coalition cited
Won’t Back Down’
specific government actions that it says are designed to dismantle public services, eliminate oversight, and undermine nonprofit organizations. These actions include the termination of grants without cause, politically motivated investigations into climate and civil rights groups, threats to tax-exempt status, and a chilling effect on pro bono legal support out of fear of retribution. “The administration has made clear it will attack organizations that speak truth to power, defend the vulnerable, petition and sue the government, preserve and share knowledge, and fight for our freedoms,” the Pact continues. “They want us to fight alone, hoping we’ll stay silent as others are targeted. Not us.” The Pact outlines a series of commitments among the signatories. If any organization is unjustly targeted, the others have pledged to stand with it. They will share knowledge and resources, refuse to censor their missions, and continue advocating for the communities they serve—regardless of political pressure.The coalition includes organizations representing people who are Black, Latino, White, Asian, Indigenous, LGBTQ+, disabled, immigrant, working-class, and of all faiths and backgrounds. Together, they
reaffirm their support for basic rights and services, including access to healthcare, quality education, legal representation, clean air and water, the right to vote, and protection from discrimination.The Leadership Conference said the government’s current actions seek to isolate and silence advocates while concentrating wealth and power in the hands of a few. “We will not be divided,” the Pact declares. “We will not be intimidated into silence or abandoning our communities.” More than 70 civil rights, labor, faith-based, and public interest organizations signed the Pact. Among them are the ACLU, National Urban League, Asian Americans Advancing Justice, UnidosUS, National Organization for Women, People for the American Way, and the League of Women Voters. “We have the right to assemble—and we will continue to do just that, and we will encourage and support people and allied organizations to do the same, uniting across communities, sectors, issue areas, and identities,” the coalition said. “We will not be silenced. We will continue to do the work that puts people over power.”
Washington, D.C., USA- January 13, 2020: FDA headquarters in Washington DC. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or USFDA) is a federal agency of the USA.
Protesters during a demonstration in the street (Photo By FG Trade)
Jurors Can See Video of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs
Beating Cassie at Hotel in 2016, Judge Rules
By MICHAEL R. SISAK
Associated Press
NEW YORK (AP) — Prosecutors at Sean “Diddy” Combs ' upcoming federal sex trafficking trial can show jurors video of the hip-hop mogul hitting and kicking one of his accusers in a Los Angeles hotel hallway, a judge ruled at a hearing Friday.
U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian said Combs' lawyers failed to convince him that the explosive security camera footage should be excluded. Its relevance to the case outweighs any potential prejudice to the 55-year-old defendant, the judge said. Subramanian ruled on the video as he set ground rules for the May 5 trial in New York City. Combs sat between his lawyers in a yellow jail suit, his formerly jet black hair now almost fully gray because dye isn’t allowed at the Brooklyn federal lockup where he's been held since his arrest last September. Prosecutors disclosed that Combs was offered a plea deal, which he rejected.
The video shows Combs — wearing only a white towel — punching, shoving and dragging his former protege and girlfriend, R&B singer Cassie, and throwing a vase in her direction on March 5, 2016, at the InterContinental Hotel in Los Angeles’ Century City district.
The video wasn’t public until CNN obtained and aired it in May 2024. The network turned the footage over to prosecutors in response to a subpoena.
Prosecutors say it's “critical to the case.”
Combs' indictment alleges he tried to bribe a hotel security staffer to stay mum about the video. Cassie, in a since-settled November 2023 lawsuit alleging years of abuse, claimed he paid $50,000 for the footage.
silencing victims through blackmail and violence, including kidnapping, arson and physical beatings.
Federal prosecutors allege the Bad Boy Records founder used his “power and prestige” as a music star to induce female victims into drugged-up, elaborately produced sexual performances with male sex workers in events dubbed “freak offs.”
Earlier this month, prosecutors obtained a new indictment that added two charges to Combs’ case and accused him of using force, fraud or coercion to compel a woman to engage in commercial sex acts from at least 2021 to 2024.
Prosecutors say they expect four accusers to testify against Combs. They contend the assault on Cassie depicted in the 2016 video happened during a “freak off.” Combs' lawyers have argued that the footage was nothing more than a “glimpse into a complex but decade-long consensual relationship.”
Combs apologized after CNN aired the footage, saying in a social media video statement that he was “truly sorry” and that his actions were “inexcusable.”
“I take full responsibility for my actions," Combs said, adding that he “was disgusted then when I did it. I’m disgusted now.”
In seeking to exclude the video from the trial, Combs' lawyer Marc Agnifilo argued that the footage was “deceptive and not in accordance with the actions that took place.” Agnifilo said certain portions of the video were sped up by as much as 50% or taken out of order, making it a “misleading piece of evidence.”
Prosecutors told Subramanian that they were working with Combs' lawyers to come up with a suitable version that can be shown by jurors. They said that includes having a video expert review the footage and slow down the clips to reflect the speed at which the event shown actually transpired.
Tina Knowles is Tracing the Throughline of Beyoncé and Solange’s Success
By GARY GERARD HAMILTON
NEW YORK (AP) — Many of Tina Knowles’ fondest childhood memories are of sitting under a pecan tree as her mother recited the history of their family, stretching back generations. Now, the mother of Beyoncé and Solange has given her own story to the world with “Matriarch: A Memoir,” out this week.
“Beyoncé and Solange have been busy since they were little kids working, and Kelly (Rowland). … I’ve told them stories, but I don’t even know if they really listened,” said the 71-year-old Knowles. “When you’re young, it’s very few people that want to hear those stories about old times.”
At 59, Knowles began recording voice notes of that history — adding in her contributions — after contemplating her mortality following her divorce from Mathew Knowles after a three-decade marriage. The recordings were meant only for her grandkids and future great-grandchildren, before eventually becoming the book's foundation.
The 432-page Oprah’s Book Club selection explores a vast range of topics, including her enslaved great-grandmothers, her entrepreneurial spirit, the Houston childhoods of Beyoncé and Solange, her infidelity-plagued first marriage, Destiny’s Child's struggle to get a record deal, and the blatant racism her family experienced navigating a segregated United States. (She was once allowed to briefly sit in the front of a whites-only bus as a child, disguised by her fair skin tone.)
But you won’t find juicy details from the protective mother; there’s no mention of the infamous 2014 Met Gala elevator incident between Jay-Z and Solange, or of Kanye West taking the mic from Taylor Swift at the 2009 MTV VMAs in his attempted defense of Beyoncé. This is Celestine Beyoncé's story — not her children's — still
intriguing and very personal, revealing she was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer last year. She had initially left it out of the book.
“I just wanted to keep it to myself … as I went through that process of getting the surgery and all of that, there were things that I felt that I needed to share,” said Knowles, who is now cancer-free after surgery and treatment, and urges women to make mammogram appointments and get second opinions.
Knowles, who next month will launch a ninecity book tour that will include conversations with famous friends like former first lady Michelle Obama and Tyler Perry (she also hints at “family” joining her at some stops), spoke with The Associated Press about receiving due credit, regrets as a parent and finding happiness. Answers have been edited for clarity and brevity.
AP: Some may have thought of you as only Destiny’s Child's stylist or Beyoncé’s mom. Is there a desire to get due credit?
KNOWLES: I gave a lot of people credit for things — and I’m fine with that — but this is all about my truth.
I definitely feel like I was a driving force, and I can say that now without feeling like — I was taught as a kid to just be super humble and to not ever brag. … I think I’ve dimmed my light for so long, I don’t want to do it anymore. AP: There are events involving Beyoncé or Solange that you barely mentioned — if you mentioned them at all — like the reasons surrounding Destiny’s Child's breakup. Why exclude your perspective?
KNOWLES: I don’t think that’s important, because from that time, everyone has flourished and just moved on from that. And I just choose to focus on the positives in life. … I don’t feel like it’s a need to harp on those things. I don't want to talk about
them.
AP: In highlighting the differences between Solange and Beyoncé, you describe how Solange loved school and craved structure, and you weren't always able to provide that as Destiny's Child began to take off. Why be so vulnerable with your parenting mishaps? (Solange, not wanting to travel or leave friends, eventually stayed with a family friend for a period of time for consistency.)
KNOWLES: Solange has been a speaker of truth since she was little … she was the one that was in my case all the time. ’Cause she’s like, “Mom, you’re just so irresponsible when it comes to school.”
I just felt like that was healing for me to talk about it. Because people think ... you're trying to be the perfect mother, and definitely, I was screwing up just like everybody else. And so, I was really wanting to be honest about my shortcomings.
AP: Why did you mention the importance of teachers, negatively affecting your own confidence attending Catholic school, as well their impact on your daughters?
KNOWLES: Some of them can be detrimental, and I go into detail about that because I realize that a teacher telling me that Beyoncé was slow in kindergarten and that she needs to repeat the grade and it’s December — that woman could have messed up my child’s life. We wouldn’t even have a Beyoncé today if I had listened to her. You gotta fight for your kids. I hope that lesson came through loud and clear. … That was important to me because I see a lot of parents that don’t, and my mom didn’t protect me.
AP: Have Beyoncé and Solange read the book yet?
KNOWLES: By the time I finished the book and I was ready to share it with them, both of them were on these really crazy schedules and I just didn’t want them to feel, “Oh, I got to stop and go read a
Tina Knowels
book.” So, I sent them all of their parts and they approved the parts.
AP: Did they asked you to cut anything after they read their parts?
KNOWLES: No. They were in agreement with everything.
AP: What do you hope readers will take away from “Matriarch”?
KNOWLES: Your life, whatever it is, cannot just center around everyone else but you. And it took me a long time — I had to be 59 years old before I realized I deserve to be happy. And I deserve to have the things that I deserve, and not feel bad about it, not feel guilty about it.
I’m going to live my life — live my best life, as the kids say.
Coco Jones is Fearless on Debut Album ‘Why Not More?’
By GARY GERARD HAMILTON Associated Press
NEW YORK (AP) — What music would you create if there weren’t any outside influences or selfimposed creative restraints? That’s what singer-actor Coco Jones contemplated.
“What would I do if I didn’t have any fear of comparing myself to ‘ICU’ and my EP? Or if I thought there was some formula that people wanted from me?” Jones wondered. “That was kind of the mood: just be fearless.” The R&B star attempted to answer herself on her debut album — “Why Not More?," — releasing Friday. It follows her 2022 breakout EP “What I Didn’t Tell You.”
“I’m just proud of every version of myself that I’ve been, and who I’ll become after this album,” said Jones, who took home her first Grammy earlier this year with “ICU” winning best R&B performance. “And really proud of putting together a project that I feel confident in.” The 14-track album from the “Bel-Air” actor traverses through a spectrum of R&B sonics and vibes, from introspective to seductive, Pop&B to Trap&B. Writing on every song, Jones secured production from StarGate, London on Da Track and Jasper Harris and features from Future and YG Marley.
One of the faces of the new generation of R&B, she doesn’t shy away from the pressure that can come with attempting to replicate the success of a song like “ICU.”
“There was a pressure to outdo myself. But I also have to remind myself that I wasn’t trying to win anything … I was just doing me,” explained Jones, who said for the first time, she was patient with herself during studio sessions for her debut, not focused on leaving with a completed song each time. “I was just doing what felt right. I was being honest, I was just being vulnerable.”
“Why Not More?” highlights Jones’ vast range of melodic styles. Four singles have been released including “Here We Go (Uh Oh),” which earned Jones her first No. 1 on Billboard’s Adult R&B
Airplay chart, and “Taste,” which contains an interpolation of Britney Spears’ hit song “Toxic” and is currently at No. 15. In the ballad “Other Side of Love,” Jones finds herself at a crossroads in a relationship, singing “I don’t know why I can’t get your love outta my mind / It’s like I try but you come back around every time.”
“It’s probably the oldest song on the album … It was always a song that I knew was on the back burner whenever I was ready, I had something right there ready for them. But it was kind of just not time yet,” said the 27-year-old Tennessee native. “I might drop a song like ‘Taste,’ but I’m always gonna have a song like ‘Other Side of Love’ because I can’t deny that version of myself either.”
Empowerment is also a theme, rejecting codependence and embracing self-love on “By Myself.”
“The song that defines me the most is ‘By Myself.’ I wrote that one literally because I was going through a situation verbatim, and I was like I don’t wanna feel like anybody else is so crucial for me to be the best version of me — I can’t live like that,” she said. “All of the answers can’t come from anyone else … I’m so big on the inner work and therapy and growing emotionally.”
Jones, who stars as Hilary Banks on the drama series “Bel-Air,” is prepping for the fourth and final season which hasn’t started production. She’ll balance filming with her upcoming tour, launching May 6 in Philadelphia. A self-described overachiever, the former Disney Channel actor says there are many goals she wants to reach, but she’s traveling in the right direction.
“My childhood dreams, I still have yet to fully achieve them all. I definitely see them materializing, but the way I thought of myself as a kid was huge, like larger than life,” said Jones, who first signed a record deal at 14. “I have a lot of ways to go to really be what childhood Coco saw for me. And I hope I do, because I was shooting for the galaxy.”
The Associated Press does not typically name people who say they have been sexually abused unless they come forward publicly, as Cassie, whose legal name is Casandra Ventura, did.
Combs has pleaded not guilty to racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking charges alleging he coerced and abused women for years with help from a network of associates and employees while
Associated Press
Black Think Tank Challenges
Big Tech’s Legal Armor
By Stacy M. Brown BlackPressUSA.com Senior National Correspondent
A new report from the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies urges lawmakers to put Black voices at the forefront of efforts to reform Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act—a law that has helped fuel online innovation but also allowed unchecked harm against Black communities. The report is the first in a three-part series and marks the first time Section 230 has been examined solely through a Black lens. It highlights how the same protections that allow Black communities to mobilize, build businesses, and express themselves online have also created a legal loophole that permits anti-Black harassment, white supremacist organizing, and digital discrimination in areas like housing, credit, and employment. Danielle A. Davis, Esq., director of technology policy at the Joint Center and author of the brief, said the law’s broad immunity
shields tech companies from accountability while exposing Black users to real-world harm. “For Black communities, [social media] has been a powerful tool — supporting entrepreneurship, amplifying activism, and fostering connection,” Davis said. “But the same legal protections that enable this empowerment can also shield platforms from accountability when discriminatory or harmful content is posted.” Section 230, enacted in 1996, includes two key provisions. The first subsection protects platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter) from being treated as publishers of user content. That means they can’t be held legally responsible for what users say or share. While this has helped nurture digital spaces where Black creators, small businesses, and activists thrive, the report shows how it also lets racism, extremism, and economic bias spread unchecked. Spencer Overton, former president of the Joint Center and co-author of the
underlying research with legal scholar Catherine Powell, said Black perspectives are routinely ignored in major tech policy debates. “The perspectives and concerns of Black social media users have been consistently overlooked and underrepresented within the tech policy space,” Overton said. “To address the harmful and discriminatory effects that disproportionately affect Black platform users, our voices and experiences must be amplified in reform discussions.” The brief points to real-world examples, including the Buffalo mass shooting in 2022, where an 18-year-old gunman radicalized online, targeted a Black neighborhood, and live-streamed his attack. Despite public pressure, footage of the massacre remained on mainstream platforms like Facebook and X for days. Section 230 protections shielded those platforms from liability.
The report also cites Vargas v. Facebook, where the Ninth Circuit ruled Meta could not rely on Section 230 to avoid accountability for designing
algorithms that allegedly discriminated against Black users. That ruling challenged the long-held assumption that platforms are mere bystanders when discrimination happens on their watch. Joint Center President Dedrick Asante-Muhammad said the report seeks to make the complex topic of Section 230 more accessible while making clear that Black communities must be protected as reforms move forward. The next brief will examine how platforms moderate content and whether automated systems unfairly silence Black users. The final report in the series will discuss proposed reforms to Section 230 and their potential consequences for Black communities. “These briefs explain, in accessible language, how Section 230 protects platforms that provide many benefits to Black communities but also perpetuate harms,” Asante-Muhammad said. “As reforms are debated, we must ensure they do not further negatively impact communities who are often ignored in policy spaces.”
Original Target Boycott Organizers Speak Out: ‘This Is Our Movement’
By Stacy M. Brown BlackPressUSA.com Senior National Correspondent
Three of the original organizers behind the national Target boycott say they won’t be sidelined, erased, or co-opted—especially not by corporate maneuvers or high-profile figures with no ties to their movement. On the Black Press of America’s Let It Be Known News show, Nekima Levy Armstrong, civil rights attorney and founder of the Racial Justice Network; Jaylani Hussein, executive director of CAIR-Minnesota; and Monique Cullars-Doty, co-founder of Black Lives Matter Minnesota, spoke candidly about how their effort to hold Target accountable has been misrepresented, overshadowed, and—most recently—dismissed by the very company they’re boycotting. “This movement started here, in the Twin Cities,” said Levy Armstrong. “We launched the boycott on February 1, the first day of Black History Month, after Target rolled back its diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. That announcement came just days after Donald Trump returned to power and launched his renewed attack on DEI.”According to Levy Armstrong, Target made a $2 billion pledge in 2021 to support Black-owned businesses, improve the Black shopper experience, and invest in Black employees. “They said it with their chest, and now they want to quietly walk it back? Not on our watch,” she said. “And then instead of speaking to us—the people who live and organize three miles from where George Floyd was murdered—they reached out to someone who admitted he wasn’t even participating in the boycott — Rev. Al Sharpton.” Sharpton has confirmed that he was not part of the boycott, yet Target reportedly initiated discussions with him, omitting the local leaders who originally launched and sustained the movement. “They made a Hail Mary pass,” said Cullars-Doty. “They were hoping Sharpton would catch it and run it into the end zone for them. But we’re the ones who’ve been doing the work, and they know it. That’s why this boycott was always meant to be indefinite—not 40 days, not a fast, but until Target makes good on its promises and accounts for its role in fueling systemic harm.”Hussein said the company’s move to engage Sharpton and ignore the grassroots leaders is a classic case of corporate divide and conquer. “They are trying to fracture our unity, plain and simple. But this boycott is working,” Hussein stated. “Foot traffic is down. Stock is down. And our community has proven that we don’t need to invest in companies that invest in our oppression.” Cullars-Doty and Levy Armstrong also pointed
to Target’s historical funding of the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office under Amy Klobuchar and Mike Freeman—an office that oversaw a 600% rise in Black male incarceration, they said, and worked together with law enforcement, often using surveillance technology supported by Target. “They didn’t just walk away from DEI,” Cullars-Doty said. “They’ve been fueling injustice from behind the scenes for years. Our community suffered the brunt of that. We lived through the uprising. We buried our people. We fought in the streets. And now they want to pretend this is just about shelf space? No, it’s about justice.”Levy Armstrong was firm, responding to Roland Martin of the Black Star Network’s warning that he would call out anyone “cutting side deals” with Target rather than working through a unified coalition. “I know he’s not talking about us,” she said. “We haven’t cut any side deals,
and we never will. We haven’t heard a word from Target. And if they did reach out, they know we’re not budging on our demands. Our community here in Minnesota—and our national allies—know who we are and what we stand for.” She declined a recent invitation to join a new “organizing committee” alongside Nina Turner, Tamika Mallory, and Pastor Jamal Bryant. “I’ve already been down that road,” Levy Armstrong said. “My trust was violated once. I’m not signing on to anything that sidelines the people who laid the foundation for this movement.” The trio said they’ve been working side-by-side with the Minnesota Spokesman Recorder newspaper, and attributed some of their early success to the newspaper’s publisher, Tracey Williams-Dillard, and the late journalist and activist Mel Reeves. Hussein said the controversy surrounding the boycott has only reinforced the importance of
staying the course. “Target is scared to engage us directly,” Hussein asserted. “They know we’ll hold them accountable to their own words. They want to rewrite history and paint this as a short-term PR issue. But we’re here for the long haul.” Cullars-Doty added that the boycott has revealed deeper, systemic truths that many in the public didn’t previously know. “This is bigger than DEI. It’s about criminal justice, mass incarceration, racial surveillance, and police partnerships. The boycott pulled back the curtain—and now Target’s trying to close it again,” she said. And the organizers made it clear: this fight is far from over. “We’ve been consistent. We’re grounded. And we’re not going anywhere,” said Levy Armstrong. “We’re doing this for our people. And we’re not letting anyone take that from us.”
Caregivers of Young Children Report Difficulty Accessing Essentials from Food Pantries
By RAPID Survey Project
The RAPID Survey Project, based in the Stanford Center on Early Childhood, is a program of ongoing national and place-based surveys designed to gather essential information on the needs, healthpromoting behaviors, and well-being of young children and their caregivers. Our objective is to make timely and actionable data on the experiences of parents, caregivers, and young children available in an ongoing manner to support parent- and data-informed decision-making. RAPID recently measured caregiver material hardship as difficulty in affording basic needs, such as food, housing, utilities, child care, healthcare, and activities that support well-being. Consistent access to basic needs is key to a stable home environment that supports healthy development of young children and their families. In December 2024, one in three (32%) families with young children experienced material hardship in one or more areas of basic need, and one in five (19%) families specifically had difficulty affording food. Food pantries are important community support that relies on donations and funding from individuals, businesses, and government agencies to distribute food to hungry families.One in four parents of children under age 6 look to food pantries for supportRAPID data show that many caregivers of young children count on food pantries to help feed their children and families. A quarter (24%) of families with children under age 6 used food pantries one or more times in the past year, with lower-income families (43%) significantly more likely to use food pantries than middle-income (19%) and higher-income families (7%). Of families who use food pantries, the largest proportion do so three or fewer times a year, and the smallest proportion is families who
use food pantries once a month or more. This shows that most caregivers who use food pantries do so intermittently when they are having trouble affording food. In caregivers’ responses to openended questions, they talk about how important food pantries are in helping them meet their families’ needs.In addition to food, families tell us they use food pantries to access things like soap, diapers, and wipes. This shows that there is a need for assistance in meeting the basic family and caregiver needs that support the health, well-being, and development of young children. We asked parents what specific things their family needed when they used food pantries, allowing them to select more than one thing from a list of options. Parents most frequently reported going to food pantries for fresh fruits and vegetables (62%), followed by proteins (49%), dairy (47%), whole grains (46%), canned goods (44%), personal care items (29%), diapers/ wipes (25%), and baby food/formula (6%).Types of things parents of young children need from food pantries, overallWe also asked childcare providers of children under age 6 about their experiences using food pantries for children in their care and found that one in two (48%) providers used a food pantry one or more times in the past year to access food or other items for children in their care. Providers told us which items children in their care needed from food pantries and were given the chance to select more than one type from a list of options. Providers most frequently looked for dairy (28%) and baby food/formula (28%) from food pantries, followed closely by whole grains (26%), fresh fruits and vegetables (25%), proteins (24%), diapers/wipes (22%), personal care items (18%), and canned goods (15%).Caregivers of young children express concerns about some of the offerings at food pantries.
Consistent access to nutritious food supports the healthy development of children and the positive well-being of families and caregivers. We asked parents about their experiences using food pantries to meet their families’ needs. One in three parents (29%) who used food pantries said food pantries did not improve their ability to provide nutritious meals for their family, and 15% of parents who used food pantries said food pantries did not help them meet their family’s needs. Caregivers’ responses to openended questions help make sense of these findings. Parents say they are worried about the quality of food pantry offerings, which may include nearly expired or expired foods. They also report that the lack of choice and limited variety of food available in food pantries do not meet their family’s dietary needs and restrictions. Some families report eating foods from food pantries that could be harmful to them, with implications for the health, well-being, and development of young children.Similarly, 44% of providers who used food pantries for children in their care said food pantries did not improve their ability to provide nutritious meals. In open-ended questions, providers also talked about the low quality of items they received from food pantries. Parents know best what their children and families need. While many families are seeking and relying on food pantry assistance to feed their children and families, we hear from parents that, along with more and higher quality options, it would be better if they were able to choose items directly from the food pantries, based on their families’ needs. Many food pantries distribute pre-filled bags of food to caregivers. Research shows that giving caregivers the choice to directly pick the items they need and will use is an effective approach for both families accessing food and food pantries providing support.
These data can inform policies and programs that support families with young children in accessing what they need from food pantries.Access to food pantries is a barrier for many caregivers of young children.To understand the challenges families face accessing food pantries, we asked parents of young children who considered using food pantries but didn’t, what prevented them from doing so. We gave the option to select more than one reason in their response. Responses from the survey show the top reasons families do not use food pantries, in order of frequency, are:
The belief that others need it more
Feeling embarrassed or ashamed
Lack of information about available food pantries
Concern about food quality or selection
Inconvenient hours of operation
Transportation issues
Additionally, as indicated by the quotes in this fact sheet, parents detailed specific challenges they experienced accessing food pantries, like inconvenient hours and locations, and suggested that expanded food pantry hours, different and additional locations, and information about food pantries in other community spaces could help. Among providers, the most frequent reason for not using food pantries was “lack of information about available food pantries.” In their open-ended responses, providers told us about challenges they experienced accessing food pantries, like hours that are hard to get to when providers are working and in locations that are hard for them to reach. These insights highlight the barriers caregivers face in meeting children’s needs and can guide policies and programs aimed at supporting children, caregivers, and families.
Houston, Texas, USA – March 13, 2022: A Target store in Houston, Texas, USA on March 13, 2022. Target Corporation is an Amer-
ican big box department store chain.
California Capitol News You Might Have Missed Political Playback
By Bo Tefu California Black Media
With Optimism and Gratitude, Sec. of State Weber Addressed Black Capitol Staffers
On April 23, California Secretary of State Shirley Weber addressed Black staffers during a reception at the State Capitol.
Weber joined leaders and members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) and the California Legislative Black Staff Association for the annual Black Staff Appreciation Event. Weber told guests that she is committed to uplifting Black professionals in government.
“During the conversation, Secretary Weber underscored the importance of creating space for Black staff to connect with elected leaders and ensure they are heard and seen at the highest levels,” Weber’s office posted on Facebook.
Weber also thanked the CLBC and CLBSA for providing her the opportunity to inspire others.
“Thank you for creating these platforms and uplifting the next generation of Black leaders in government,” she wrote.
Legislative Republicans: California’s Capitol
Makeover Has Cost
Taxpayers $1.1 Billion -- With Secrets and No Oversight
The costs of California’s Capitol makeover -pitched as a necessary infrastructure upgrade by supporters -- have ballooned into a billion-dollar controversy, drawing fire for its growing price tag, lack of transparency, and allegations of special treatment under state regulations.
Critics, led by Republicans in the California Assembly, say what began as a $543 million renovation has now exceeded $1.1 billion, which is more than double the cost of Sacramento’s Golden 1 Center. They also accuse state officials of providing
few public updates or justifications for the dramatic rise in spending.
Assemblymember Josh Hoover (R-Folsom) also criticized the project’s costs and secrecy around ongoing communication about it, emphasizing a lack of accountability in the renovation of a publicly funded government facility.
“I think this is the height of hypocrisy,” Hoover said. “You are using taxpayer dollars for a taxpayerfunded facility, and yet you are going to design it in a way that shields you from the public and shields you from accountability.”
Among the most controversial expenditures are $5.2 million spent on imported Italian granite and design elements like hidden hallways, allegedly intended to allow lawmakers to bypass public and media interaction. Despite these upgrades, plans for a public visitor center have reportedly been eliminated, even as the project’s budget continues to expand.
Hoover and other Legislative Republicans say over 2,000 nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) have been signed in connection with the project, raising questions about transparency and oversight. No formal updates have been provided by the oversight committee since April 2021, further fueling criticism that taxpayers have been deliberately kept in the dark.
Critics also point to an apparent double standard in environmental regulation. While most Californians must adhere strictly to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Capitol Annex Project was quietly granted an exemption, drawing further scrutiny from lawmakers and watchdog groups.
Gov Newsom: California Now Ranks 4th Largest Economy in the World
California’s economy has reached a historic milestone, officially becoming the fourth largest in the world. According to newly released data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), the Golden State’s nominal GDP rose to $4.1 trillion, positioning it just behind the United States, China, and Germany in global economic rankings.
“California isn’t just keeping pace with the world, we’re setting the pace,” Governor Gavin Newsom said. “Our economy is thriving because we
invest in people, prioritize sustainability, and believe in the power of innovation.”
In 2024, California outpaced the world’s top three economies in growth, posting a 6% GDP increase compared to the U.S. (5.3%), China (2.6%), and Germany (2.9%). The state’s economy has grown steadily over the past four years, averaging 7.5% annual growth although projections suggest that India may move ahead of California by 2026.
The news underscores California’s role as the economic engine of the United States. With leadership in sectors such as technology, agriculture, clean energy, and manufacturing, the state leads in new business formation and venture capital investment. Events like Coachella and Stagecoach continue to boost local economies, generating nearly $700 million annually.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass Proposes 1,600 City Worker Layoffs to Tackle $1 Billion Budget Deficit
Facing a nearly $1 billion budget shortfall, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has proposed laying off 1,600 city workers in the 2025–26 fiscal year, a move she described as a last resort during her State of the City address on Monday.
“You are the city’s greatest asset,” Bass told municipal employees last week. “But I want to be straight with you. My proposed budgetunfortunately - includes layoffs, which is a decision of absolute last resort.”
While police and fire departments will be shielded from the cuts, civilian positions across other departments are expected to be impacted.
The proposed $13.95 billion budget comes amid mounting fiscal pressures, including liability payouts, rising labor costs, and weaker-thanexpected tax revenues. The city’s general fund is projected at $8 billion, falling short of the $8.14 billion estimate. Liability settlements tripled to $300 million this year, while labor contract increases added $259 million to city expenses.
Bass’ proposal also calls for eliminating 1,074 vacant positions, deferring capital projects, consolidating four city departments, and reducing the mayor’s own office budget. Although slightly reduced, spending on homelessness remains a priority.
SEIU Local 721 President David Green, whose
union represents 10,000 city workers, pushed back strongly.
“Show us the money, we want to look at the numbers and look at every single dollar, this shouldn’t be the first-place people go, to lay off city workers, providing valuable city services,” he said. In response to the crisis, Bass plans to lobby the California Legislature in Sacramento for additional funding to help close the gap.
California Democrats
Introduce Bills to Address Renters’ Fees and High Energy Bills
California Senate Democrats have unveiled a new package of legislation aimed at reducing the financial strain on residents facing high rent
and rising
bills,
bills.
and
as part of a broader effort to tackle the state’s affordability crisis.
“Our plan delivers real, lasting solutions to make our state more affordable -- from housing and utility costs to expanding career opportunities across California,” McGuire said in a statement.
“These three impactful bills should be considered an opening salvo; we know there’s much more work to do.”
One of the bills, Senate Bill (SB) 681, authored by Wahab, seeks to reduce the financial burden on renters by restricting landlords from charging fees not explicitly outlined in lease agreements. It also prohibits landlords from imposing late payment fees until after a one-week grace period and bans additional charges for parking spaces. While the bill aims to protect tenants, it has drawn criticism from the California Apartment Association (CAA). Vice President of the CAA Debra Carlton argued that the measure could lead to higher rent prices for all tenants.
“These fees charged by landlords are not punitive, instead they illustrate the costs associated with operating rental housing and can give tenants the ability to manage and reduce certain expenses, such as utility and water costs,” Carlton stated in a letter. “Mandating that all fees be folded into rent will not reduce the overall cost of housing.”
Another key proposal, SB 254, authored by Becker, seeks to address the state’s high utility rates. California’s energy rates are among the highest in the nation, primarily due to wildfire mitigation costs and infrastructure improvements. Becker’s bill would provide ratepayers with financial relief by expanding subsidies for low-income residents, offering summer energy credits, and increasing oversight of utility companies. The bill aims to curb excessive rate hikes and improve transparency surrounding utility profits.
Four Black Caucus’ “Road to Repair” Bills Aim to Reduce Biases; Determine Reparations Eligibility
By Edward Henderson California Black Media
“Senate Bill (SB) 437 utilizes the California State University to explore options to determine how to confirm if an individual is a descendant of a person who was a victim of American chattel slavery,” said Sen. Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego).
“The bill seeks to determine a clear, concise and evidence-based process for individuals to verify genealogical ties and claims to potential benefits or rights associated with their ancestral heritage” continued Weber Pierson, who is also Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC).
Weber Pierson was speaking during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing for her bill, SB 437, which was held on April 22.
This article is the third in a series by California Black Media (CBM) providing details on the 16 bills in the Black Caucus’s 2025 “Road to Repair” package, including SB 437.
Each article focuses on four pieces of legislation. Here are summaries of this week’s four bills with information about their authors, and updates on where each one is in the legislative process.
SB 437
SB 437, introduced by Weber Pierson, would require the California State University to study and report on scientific methods for verifying whether someone is a descendant of an enslaved person in the U.S. In 2020, California enacted AB 3121, establishing the Reparations Task Force to study and develop proposals for addressing the lasting impacts of slavery and systemic discrimination against African Americans. The task force emphasized the need for improved documentation and recognition of genealogical and descendancy claims to ensure access to reparative programs.
“SB 437 builds on these findings by requiring
the CSU to develop an accurate and evidencebased eligibility standard for reparative claims,” said Weber Pierson. “By developing such standards, it aids AB 7 by providing a clear and concise process for determining who is a descendant of American chattel slavery.”
On April 22, the Senate Judiciary Committee voted 11-2 to advance the bill. It now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for review.
SB 503
SB 503, also introduced by Weber Pierson, seeks to regulate the use of artificial intelligence in critical healthcare applications to mitigate racial biases present in commercial algorithms or common in Large Language Model (LLM) data sets.
“As A.I. becomes more prevalent in healthcare, we must be vigilant about how biases in these technologies can perpetuate existing racial disparities,” said Weber Pierson. “If A.I. models are trained on biased data, it can lead to misdiagnoses of Black patients or provide inadequate treatment recommendations, which could ultimately deepen health inequalities.”
Weber Pierson believes that addressing A.I. bias is vital for creating a healthcare system that serves everyone equally, ensuring that Black patients and other minority groups are not left behind or harmed by technological advancements.
AB 935
AB 935, introduced by Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom (D-Stockton), would require the Civil Rights Department and the Department of Education to collect anonymized data including gender and marital status to determine how complaints are handled.
“This bill brings transparency, exposes patterns of injustice, and empowers California to take
meaningful action,” said Ransom. “For too long, systemic disparities have gone unaddressed and unchallenged. Without data, we cannot measure the full scope of discrimination or craft effective policies to combat it.”
Existing law prohibits the inclusion of any question relative to an applicant’s race in any application form required to be filled in and submitted by an applicant to any department, board, commission, officer, agent, or employee of this state.
Existing law also states that any person who violates this provision is guilty of a misdemeanor.
The Assembly Education Committee is currently reviewing AB 935 after the Judiciary Committee voted 9-1 on April 8 to move it forward.
AB 785
AB 785, introduced by Assemblymember LaShae Sharp-Collins (D-La Mesa) would create the Community Violence Interdiction Grant Program, which would fund community-driven solutions to
decrease violence in neighborhoods and schools.
“For too long we have been told that there is not enough money to fund programs that invest in youth and end the pipeline into incarceration,” said Sharp-Collins. “AB 785 rejects that and would allocate savings from prison closures to evidencebased programs like diversion and school-based health to reduce community violence.”
Applicants for grant funding must show how they will focus on students most affected by trauma, especially those who struggle to access traditional services, such as low-income or homeless students, those with PTSD or severe trauma, immigrant and refugee students, students with special needs, and those involved with child protective services or the juvenile justice system.
On April 23, the Assembly Committee on Health voted 13-0 in favor of AB 785. It is currently under review by the Senate Appropriations Committee.
costs
energy
The package includes three
spearheaded by Senate President Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg), Sen. Aisha Wahab. (D-Hayward),
Sen. Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park),
Sen. Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego), chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus, talks about the “Road to Repair 2025,” a package of priority bills the caucus introduced on Feb. 20 at the State Capitol. CBM photo by Antonio Ray Harvey
Young Americans Losing Faith in the System
By Stacy M. Brown BlackPressUSA.com Senior National Correspondent
A new national survey from the Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School finds young Americans facing financial uncertainty, deteriorating mental health, and a growing lack of trust in institutions. The 50th edition of the Harvard Youth Poll offers a comprehensive look at the attitudes of Americans aged 18 to 29—particularly young Black individuals—who feel increasingly left out of national conversations and underserved by political leadership. Conducted March 14–25, 2025, the poll surveyed 2,096 respondents across the country. More than four in 10 say they are “barely getting by” financially. Young Black Americans continue to face deep financial stress, with 45% reporting hardship. Many express concern about limited opportunities, stagnant wages, and the rising cost of education and housing. Among those struggling, 51% believe President Trump’s policies will worsen their finances in the coming years.Only 15% of all respondents say the country is headed in the right direction. Just 16% report doing well financially, while economic hardship is more severe for women, young Hispanics, and those without a college degree. Nearly half of young women (47%) report limited financial security, while 52% of young Hispanics say they are struggling or just getting by. Half of respondents without a degree report hardship, compared to 29% of college graduates. Approval ratings among young Americans continue to decline. President Trump’s approval stands at 31%, virtually unchanged from earlier years. Approval of Democrats in Congress has dropped to 23%, down from 42% in 2017. Congressional Republicans remain essentially unchanged at 29%. Among young Black Americans, Trump’s approval has risen to 16%—up from just 6% in 2017—but a strong majority still disapprove. Social connection has also weakened. Only 17% of young people report feeling deeply connected to any community, and 18% say they feel no strong sense of belonging. For Black youth, the sense of isolation intersects with political disengagement and mental health struggles. Those without strong community ties are more likely to report symptoms of depression, with 59% saying
they felt down or hopeless for several days in the past two weeks.The long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic remain evident. Isolation during formative years—especially among those who were entering high school or college in 2020—continues to shape mental health outcomes. Individuals aged 19 and 23 report the highest levels of lasting social isolation, with 38% and 40%, respectively, saying they lost connection with friends and have not reestablished those relationships. Among those who lost friendships and failed to reconnect, 55% reported depressive symptoms. Views on traditional life milestones are shifting. Just 48% say having children is important, and 57% say the same about getting married. While 86% say financial security is a top goal, only 56% are confident they’ll achieve it. Confidence in reaching life goals is higher among Republicans, who are more likely than Democrats to say marriage, children, and homeownership are important—and achievable. Distrust in major
institutions is widespread. Only 19% of young Americans trust the federal government to do the right thing most or all of the time. Trust in Congress stands at 18%, the presidency at 23%, and the Supreme Court at 29%. The survey also found that young Black Americans are more likely to say they feel excluded from decisions that affect their lives and communities.The debate over Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) remains divisive. Just 9% of young Americans say DEI initiatives have helped them personally, while 11% say they have been harmed. Among Democrats, 22% report positive experiences with DEI, compared to only 3% of Republicans. Conversely, 21% of young Republicans believe DEI harmed them. Young people of color are more likely than white youth to view DEI as promoting fairness. Foreign policy views also reveal generational differences. Young Republicans are less likely to support global alliances than Democrats. Only 13% of young Republicans say the U.S. should
maintain current NATO obligations, compared to 46% of Democrats. When asked about reasons for U.S. involvement abroad, respondents most often cited protecting allies, defending national security, and addressing human rights violations—but fewer than one in five supported interventions to promote democracy or counter foreign influence. Concerns about immigration have shifted over the past year. Forty-two percent of young Americans now say there is a crisis at the Southern border—down from 53% in 2024. Among Democrats, belief in a border crisis dropped 17 points, from 43% to 26%. Democratic respondents are also more likely to say that recent immigration has done more good than harm.President Trump’s policy proposals continue to meet resistance among young Americans. None of the eight tested initiatives—ranging from tariffs to eliminating federal departments—received majority support. Tariffs were backed by just 19% overall, and only 5% of Democrats. A proposal to create a Department of Government Efficiency received 35% support, the highest among those tested. One of the least supported policies—redeveloping Gaza by displacing Palestinians—was opposed by a majority, including 77% of Democrats. “These findings are a stark reality check,” said Setti Warren, director of the Institute of Politics. “And leaders across the country would be wise to pay close attention.” “This is a generation that’s weathered pandemic isolation during formative years, entered an unstable economy, and faced skyrocketing housing and education costs—all while being told they’re not resilient enough,” said John Della Volpe, director of polling at the Institute of Politics. “What Gen Z needs isn’t another lecture, but genuine recognition of their struggles and leaders willing to listen before they speak.”“Amid financial hardship and a devastating crisis of community, young Americans are increasingly disillusioned with the world as they struggle to find their place in it,” said Jordan Schwartz, student chair of the Harvard Public Opinion Project. “This generation doesn’t expect politics to solve their problems, but as young Americans continue to lose faith in government institutions, the need for politicians to listen to and learn from young people has never been greater.”
California’s “War on Energy Producers”
Sector Leaders, Mineral Owners and Policymakers Blast State Policies
By McKenzie Jackson
California Black Media
A growing number of mineral owners in California, investors with oil interests in the state, and their advocates in the Legislature are warning that state government in Sacramento is creating an economic climate that is inconducive for their businesses.
Government overregulation is ripping into earnings and making it hard to do business in the state, they say. And many of the high costs being imposed on them by the state’s Democratic leadership are being passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices at the gas pump.
Republican Assembly Minority Leader James Gallagher (R-East Nicolaus) cited the possible closure of two major refineries in California owned by Chevron, Valero, and Philips 66.
“The real-world consequences of Gavin Newsom’s war on California energy producers are becoming clearer by the day, with today’s announcement that Valero intends to shut down its Benicia refinery within a year. The closure will reduce California’s gasoline production capacity by nearly 9% and cost more than 400 jobs,” read a press release issued by California State Assembly Republicans on April 16.
Similarly, Chevron announced last year that it has plans to relocate its headquarters from San Ramon to Texas. Phillips 66 also announced that it will close its Los Angeles area refinery by the end of 2025.
In another statement Gallagher released on April 23, he predicted the crisis will “only get worse” if California’s energy policies stay the same.
“Our millionaire governor might not worry about gas prices while he’s chauffeured from his mansion in Marin to his podcast studio, but working people are getting crushed by the cost of his outof-touch agenda,” Gallagher said, citing two laws passed by Democrats that he says are contributing to the higher cost of gas: SB X1-2 and AB X2-1, anti-price-gouging laws that took effect in 2023.
“Once again, Californians are paying the price for Newsom’s incompetence and self-serving attacks on energy producers. As fuel producers shut down and flee the state, California drivers are left to foot the bill - with gas prices an astounding $1.70 higher than the national average,” he added.
Last week, Newsom wrote a letter to California Energy Commission Vice Chair Siva Gunda instructing him to intervene to ensure that oil producers not leave the state.
In the letter, the Governor asked Gunda “to reinforce the State’s openness to a collaborative relationship and our firm belief that Californians can be protected from price spikes and refiners can profitably operate in California -- a market where demand for gasoline will still exist for years to come.”
Smaller mineral owners in the state are also fed up with California’s environmental policies that they say have no scientific justification.
A pair of Southern California mineral owners hit the California state government with a lawsuit on April 16 challenging the constitutionality of a law that bans new drilling and well maintenance within 3,200 feet of sensitive sites such as hospitals, homes, parks, and schools.
Siblings Monte Beard Sr. and Merry Vanderwaal, the property rights owners of
subsurface oil and gas hydrocarbon reserves in Long Beach, allege in their 22-page lawsuit that Senate Bill 1137, which took effect in June 2024, threatens the livelihoods of royalty and mineral rights owners throughout the Golden State, lowers property values, and pushes the state toward more reliance on oil from foreign countries, where there are sometimes substandard environmental and labor protections and well-known human rights abuses.
Beard said in a statement that his family has owned mineral rights since 1929, and the royalties he receives helped him pay for his kids’ college education.
“I’d like them to be around as a legacy for my grandchildren,” Beard said of the royalties. “State officials can’t simply take those royalties away from people at their political whim.”
The lawsuit was filed in Los Angeles Superior Court by attorney John Fogarty of the Los Angeles firm Maynard Nexsen LLP. The respondents and defendants in the claim are the State of California, California Department of Conservation, and Geologic Energy Management Division.
When California Black Media contacted the California Department of Conservation, the agency’s Assistant Director of Communications Jacob Roper said the state does not comment on pending litigation.
According to court records, there is a trial setting conference scheduled for July 24.
SB 1137, signed into law in 2022, also stops maintenance and redrilling at mineral sites, keeping old wells closed. The legislation was championed by environmental advocates, who said the law is needed to phase out planet-warming fossil fuels and protect residents who live near the toxic fumes dispersed by drill sites. California has over 100,000 unplugged oil and gas wells and close to one-third are within 3,200 feet of sensitive areas. That proximity exposes millions to cancer-causing pollutants, according to opponents of the legislation. The U.S.’s largest urban oilfield, the Inglewood oilfield, is located close to Baldwin Hills, Culver City, Inglewood, and Ladera Heights – L.A. County neighborhoods with significant Black populations. “Among other things, SB 1137 includes a wholly arbitrary 3,200-foot setback, which effectively eliminates the possibility that any oil well can be utilized to its full potential because it is within 3,200
Networking, tablet and business people with a handshake at a seminar, meeting and discussion. Smile, office and employees shaking hands with technology and speaking while waiting for an interview (Photo by Jacob Wackerhausen)
Chargers Focus on Offensive Firepower in 2025 NFL Draft
By Earl Heath
Contributing Sports Writer
With new head coach Jim Harbaugh at the helm, the Los Angeles Chargers leaned into offensive reinforcements in this year’s NFL Draft—much like they did in 2024.
Last year, the Bolts went offense-heavy early, selecting offensive lineman Joe Alt with the 5th overall pick and wide receiver Ladd McConkey at No. 34. Both players impressed as rookies, though the team still finished 20th in total offense.
Ground Game Gets a Bruiser
This year, the Chargers used their first-round pick (No. 22 overall) to select Omarion Hampton, a powerful running back out of North Carolina. Hampton rushed for more than 1,500 yards in each of the past two seasons and tallied 15 touchdowns in 2024 alone. He also proved reliable as a receiver, hauling in 38 passes for 373 yards and two scores.
At 6 feet, 221 pounds, with 4.4 speed, Hampton adds both size and burst to the backfield. He’ll join newly signed free agent Najee Harris, creating a formidable one-two punch.
“You learn from the best,” said Hampton during an appearance on The Petros and Money Show. “The coaches here helped me land in Los Angeles.” Chargers running backs coach Natrone Means, a former NFL standout himself, will guide the rookie’s transition.
Adding More Weapons for Herbert
In the second round, the Chargers selected Tre Harris, a wide receiver from Ole Miss, with the 34th overall pick. Harris (6-2, 205) is a consistent playmaker who averaged nearly 60 receptions and 1,000 yards over the past two seasons. He’ll complement a receiving corps that already
includes McConkey, Mike Williams, and Quentin Johnston—though Harris primarily lined up outside rather than in the slot. Balanced Approach, Offensive Lean
Chargers General Manager Joe Hortiz expressed confidence in the draft’s outcome, noting that the team prioritized the best player available at each selection—even if the overall haul skewed toward offense.
“We’re always trying to bolster everything, improve everything,” said Hortiz. “We felt like we helped our team in free agency, really improved depth, and could go out to play a game. So let’s just pick the best players available. When you’re in there making the selections, you want to keep it balanced—but you’ve got to follow the board.”
Full 2025 Draft Class
• Round 1 (No. 22): Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina • Round 2 (No. 34): Tre Harris, WR, Ole Miss • Round 3 (No. 86): Jamaree Caldwell, DT, Oregon • Round 4 (No. 125): Kyle Kennard, EDGE, South Carolina • Round 5 (No. 158): KeAndre LambertSmith, WR, Auburn • Round 5 (No. 165): Oronde Gadsden II, TE, Syracuse • Round 6 (No. 199): Branson Taylor, OT/G, Pittsburgh • Round 6 (No. 214): R.J. Mickens, S, Clemson
• Round 7 (No. 256): Trikweze Bridges, CB, Florida
Early Draft Grades
NFL.com analyst Chad Reuter offered praise for the Chargers’ top picks.
“Jim Harbaugh’s run game got a boost from Hampton in Round 1,” Reuter noted, “and Tre Harris—a strong downfield playmaker when healthy—did the same for the receiving corps in Round 2.” He added that Caldwell fills a need on the defensive line, though the team might have benefited from adding a young edge rusher earlier.
Clippers on the Brink After Game 5 Loss to Nuggets
By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer
The Los Angeles Clippers find themselves in must-win territory after falling 131–115 to the Denver Nuggets in Game 5 of their opening-round NBA playoff series. The defending champion Nuggets now hold a 3–2 lead, with the series returning to the newly opened Intuit Dome for a pivotal Game 6.
Statistically, the odds aren’t in the Clippers’ favor. According to TNT, teams that win Game 5 of a best-of-seven series after a 2–2 tie go on to win the series 81% of the time (191–44).
Murray Heats Up, Clips Cool Off Denver guard Jamal Murray exploded for 43 points in Game 5, shooting 17-of-26 from the field and a blistering 8-of-14 from beyond the arc. His performance handed the Clippers their first backto-back losses since early March and propelled the Nuggets one win away from a Round 2 matchup with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
“Tonight, he played great,” said Kawhi Leonard. “He came out, made shots, got hot, found his teammates, and we pretty much couldn’t stop him. He played amazing.”
The bright spot for L.A. was Russell Westbrook, who returned from a foot injury to score 21 points, including 16 in just 12 first-half minutes. Despite the spark, the Clippers trailed wire-to-wire.
Historic Buzzer-Beater Still Lingers Game 4 at Crypto.com Arena was equally painful for Clippers fans. Despite a comeback to
tie the game, Aaron Gordon’s buzzer-beating dunk sealed a 101–99 Denver win—the first walk-off dunk in NBA playoff history.
Ivica Zubac had a playoff career-high 27 points in that game, while Leonard added 20 and Bogdan Bogdanovic chipped in 18. The Clippers’ top scorers have carried the load, but turnovers remain a lingering issue for the squad.
Silver Lining: Slowing Jokic
One reason for hope? The Clippers may have cracked the code on reigning MVP Nikola Jokic. The Nuggets’ star center struggled in Game 5, finishing with just 13 points on 4-of-13 shooting— his lowest scoring average in a playoff series since Denver’s 2021 sweep by Phoenix.
L.A. head coach Tyronn Lue credited a defensive adjustment for the success.
“We blitzed a little bit more,” Lue said postgame. “It helped Zubac stay more connected and let us push Jokic away from the post.”
Still, the Nuggets won by 16 points—despite Jokic’s quiet night.
“Holding Joker to 13 points and losing the game,” Lue said with a faint smile, “is tough.” Do-or-Die at the Intuit Dome Game 6 will be a test of resilience. With the season on the line, the Clippers will need everything—from lockdown defense to clutch shooting—to extend the series to seven games.
Tip-off is set for later this week at the Intuit Dome, and fans are hoping for one more fight from a team that’s come too far to bow out quietly.
Rams Honor First Responders, Add Firepower in 2025 NFL Draft
Sean McVay, Rams
By Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer
The Los Angeles Rams brought more than just draft picks to the table this year—they brought appreciation, celebration, and a show of unity.
At a special draft-day event held at the Los Angeles Fire Department Air Operations facility in Van Nuys, the Rams honored the city’s first responders. Surrounded by the families of firefighters, city officials, team mascot Rampage, and Rams cheerleaders, the franchise took time to recognize the ongoing service and sacrifice of LAFD personnel.
Draft Day Moves
While honoring the city’s heroes, the Rams were also busy shaping the team’s future.
In a move that signaled their strategic approach, the Rams traded their first-round pick to the Atlanta Falcons and moved down to select Terrance Ferguson, a 6-foot-5 tight end from Oregon, with the 46th overall pick in the second round.
Analysis: Ferguson brings athleticism and passcatching potential to the tight end group. Though he has room to grow as a blocker and in physical matchups, his skill set fits well with the Rams’ passheavy offense. “He’s not going to be asked to do a lot of blocking early on,” one scout noted.
Defense Gets a Boost
In the third round (No. 90 overall), the Rams selected Josaiah Stewart, an EDGE rusher from Michigan. Known for his relentless motor and flexibility despite being slightly undersized, Stewart offers strong value as a rotational pass rusher.
Instant grade: B-plus. He’ll add depth and energy to the Rams’ defensive line, especially on passing downs. Offensive Firepower from the SEC
With the 117th pick in the fourth round (via Indianapolis), the Rams turned to the Southeastern Conference, drafting Jarquez Hunter, a running back out of Auburn. Hunter rushed for more than 1,200 yards last season, averaging 6.4 yards per carry with eight touchdowns.
“I think when you really look at it—and Les being an Auburn alum—you see how this guy plays the game at a high level in an incredibly competitive conference,” said Rams head coach Sean McVay. “He’s got the ability to go through you or run away from you.” Hunter’s SEC pedigree and big-game performances, including a 278-yard outing against Kentucky, made him an attractive pick.
Filling Out the Roster The Rams continued to look for value in later rounds: 5th Round, No. 172 overall (compensatory pick via Seattle and Minnesota): Pooh Paul, linebacker, Ole Miss. Paul led his team with 88 tackles, including 11 for loss, and added four pass breakups. He opted out of the Gator Bowl to prepare for the draft. 7th Round: Konata Mumpfield, wide receiver, Pittsburgh. Mumpfield adds depth to the Rams’ receiving corps and could find a role on special teams or as a developmental slot option.
A Consistent Draft Philosophy Once again, the Rams leaned on their proven ability to find late-round talent. Past picks like Puka Nacua, Kyren Williams, and Cooper Kupp prove the team’s knack for unearthing future stars beyond the first round. The 2025 draft class reflects a mix of athletic potential and proven production—exactly the formula the Rams have relied on in recent years.
Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh, left, and general manager Joe Hortiz introduce running back Omarion Hampton during a news conference in El Segundo on Friday. ((Damian Dovarganes / Associated Press))© (Damian Dovarganes / Associated Press)
Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) moves to the basket against Los Angeles Clippers center Ivica Zubac (40) during the first half of game three in the first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Intuit Dome. (Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images / Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images)
A Joyous Day for the Dymally International Jazz Day
By Ricky Richardson
Contributing Writer
(Carson, CA) Saturday morning didn’t look too promising for music aficionados who were planning to attend the 6th Annual Dymally International Jazz Festival. The festival was scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, rain or shine.
Thankfully, the rain cleared out so the show could proceed. The festival was delayed for safety reasons. Festivalgoers enjoyed cooler temperatures, clear skies, some sun, and occasional gray skies.
Tens of thousands of festivalgoers, affectionally known as Jazz Heads were in attendance for the 6th Annual Dymally International Jazz Festival presented by Mervyn Dymally African American Political & Economic Institute and Rainbow Promotions. The festival was held at the Dignity Health Sports Park Tennis Stadium, on the campus of Cal State Dominquez Hills in Carson, California.
Pat Prescott served as emcee for the first part of the afternoon. The Pavilion Stage, the second emerging artist’s stage got underway with The Groove Makers. The Pavilion Stage featured outstanding sets by emerging artists in between shows on the Main Stage.
There were many dignitaries on site enjoying this beautiful day and some wonderful music in a relaxing atmosphere. Thomas A.Parham, Ph.D., President, University California State University, Dominquez Hills, Carson Mayor Lula DavisHolmes, Carson Councilwomen Arleen B. Rojas, Senator Steven Bradford (Retired), Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell and Cynthia Mitchell-Heard, President and CEO, Los Angeles Urban League and former Senator Roderick Wright to name a few.
Organizers of the Dymally International Jazz Festival had some other very important guests in attendance on Saturday. California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH), and the Mervyn M. Dymally African American Political and Economic Institute invited those affected by the Palisades and Eaton Canyon fires to a day of joy and celebration at the Dymally International Jazz and Arts Festival on April 26. The institutions have distributed 300 tickets to Palisades’s fire victims (100), Altadena fire victims (100) and 100 first responders.
“On behalf of President Parham and First Lady Parham, as well as the director and staff of the Dymally Institute, this donation was made to bring a moment of peace and comfort to our fellow residents following this harrowing experience,” said Dymally Institute Director Dr. Anthony Asadullah Samad.
“In past years, the festival has donated tickets to local churches and community groups. But 2025 has shown that we needed to extend love to these communities in particular, as well as the first
I arrived minutes before Tito Puente Jr., was scheduled to perform. You are probably wondering why the name sounds so familiar. Tito Puente Jr. is the son of the late great Tito Puente. I’m confident that you are your parents have danced to his music in the past. The late Tito Puente would have been 102 years young. Tito Puente Jr. honored his dad’s life and musical legacy during his set. Their set features Caribbean styles made famous by Tito Puente--mambo, cha-cha-cha, salsa, and Afro-Cuban jazz. Tito Puente Jr. provided the perfect soundtrack for salseros in the house. “Mambo Gozón,” “Juventud del Presente,” “El Cayuco,” “Oye Me Guaguanco,” and “Complicación,” by the late great conqueror Francisco Aquabella. He continued with “Ran Kan Kan,” and closed with the encore track “Oye Como Va.”
responders that came to their aid.
“We join hands with others in the region who have put their arms around friends and loved ones in this period of trial and displacement. It’s the least that we could do as part of the CSUDH family.”
The Pavilion Stage featured performances from Sharp Eleven Society, The Wylde Bunch, Soultyde, and Tatiana Tate. Festivalgoers, aka, Jazz Heads were rocking and vibing while enjoying their respective sets.
Jazz Funk Soul- festivalgoers, Jazz Heads, were in for a triple treat. Jeff Lorber (keyboards), Everette Harp (saxophones), and Paul Jackson Jr., (Guitar), are leaders in their own right. The crowd and I were thoroughly entertained as they performed selections from their latest release Simpatico as well as tracks from their respective catalogs.
Maysa had the crowd vibing with her throughout her entertaining set of “Music for Your Soul.” Maysa immediately connected with the audience with her humorous remarks in between songs. She performed “Closer and Closer,” and “Have Sweet Dreams,” written by Stevie Wonder for President Barack and Michelle Obama. Maysa continued
with “I Don’t Mind.” Maysa seamlessly transformed the festival into an Old School Party at this institute of higher learning. Maysa concluded her set with “Deep Waters” to the delight of the crowd.
Will Downing known as “The Prince of Sophisticated Soul” as he performed a set dedicated to lovers. He opened with “Angel in Disguise,” followed by “A Million Ways,” “Wishing On a Star,” “Sorry I,” “I Try,” and “I Go Crazy,” to name a few.
Unfortunately, I left before PJ Morton could perform. His set was delayed by technical issues.
April 30, 2025- International Jazz Day- In November 2011 the UNESCO General Conference proclaimed 30 April as “International Jazz Day.” This International Day brings together communities, schools, artists, historians, academics, and jazz
enthusiasts all over the world to celebrate and learn about the art of jazz, its roots, its future, and its impact. This important international art form is celebrated for promoting peace, dialogue among cultures, diversity, and respect for human rights and human dignity, eradicating discrimination, promoting freedom of expression, fostering gender equity, and reinforcing the role of youth for social change.
About California State University, Dominguez Hills California State University, Dominguez Hills cultivates an academic community committed to justice, equity, and inclusion—one that fosters a sense of belonging and advances social mobility for our graduates. For more than five decades, we have provided knowledge, talent, and leadership to Southern California and beyond. Strategically located to bring educational pathways to underserved communities in the aftermath of the 1965 Watts Rebellion, we proudly educate many first-generation college students. Ranked first in the nation for expanding college access and increasing economic opportunities, CSUDH delivers a transformative education that is grounded in culturally sustaining practices, innovative research, creativity, and community engagement. We are dedicated to fostering students’ critical inquiry, career readiness, and passion for lifelong learning—ensuring that upon graduation, students are equipped to lead and thrive in the industries shaping the future. For more information, visit csudh.edu.
Breaking the Cycle: My Journey to Freedom from Nicotine Addiction
By Keenan Abercrombia
I was 10 years old when I first snuck one of my mom’s cigarettes. By 15, I was smoking regularly. Where I grew up in Compton, smoking wasn’t just a habit—it was a way of life. My mom smoked. My family smoked. Everyone I saw hanging out around the neighborhood and at the corner stores smoked. It was normal. Cool, even. My mom used to send me to the store with a
note pinned to my coat, and the workers—who all knew me—would let me buy her cigarettes. They never pushed back and I never thought anything of it because my reward was extra cash for candy. Looking back, I realize how much I was shaped by the world around me. Nicotine was everywhere, woven into the fabric of my life, and before I even understood addiction, I was hooked.
After years of smoking, my addiction only worsened when I became a culinary chef. Kitchens are high-stress environments, and for a long time, smoking felt like the only way to take the edge off. The vast majority of chefs smoke—it’s part of the culture. I fell right into it, using cigarettes to push through the pressure, to keep up with the
chaos. And as my smoking increased, my mom and I became two peas in a pod, enabling each other without thinking twice about the consequences.
At one point, I was smoking two packs a day, often smoking back-to-back cigarettes during my breaks. I tried quitting a few times. I even started vaping thinking it would help me cut back, but the flavors didn’t do it for me, and the headaches only made it worse. Clearly, I wasn’t ready to quit because I went right back to smoking cigarettes.
Then life started hitting me in ways I couldn’t ignore. I started losing family members to illnesses caused by smoking. My mom developed Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a progressive lung disease that makes it hard to breathe, requiring her to rely on oxygen. I could feel my own lungs struggling at times. But the biggest wake-up call was my three kids. I grew up without a father, and I refused to let them experience that same absence. I had to stop making excuses. I had to face my addiction head-on.
When I finally quit, I did it cold turkey. No patches, no vapes, no crutches—just pure willpower and the realization that I wanted better for myself and my family. Shortly after I quit, my mom passed away. It was a devastating loss, but it pushed me to stay strong. Instead of turning back to cigarettes, I threw myself into my work as a private chef and focused on raising my kids.
I also immersed myself in my roots with the Compton Cowboys, caring for horses and mentoring youth. Horses have a way of grounding you, teaching patience and discipline. Now, I use that platform to show young people there’s more to
Rep. Maxine Waters Leads “Truth Over Trump” Townhall in South Los Angeles
Congresswoman and community members rally against disinformation, push for civic action ahead of November election
Center from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Waters delivered a fiery rebuke of former President Donald Trump and his ongoing influence over American politics.
“Donald Trump represents a real threat to our democracy, and we must not sit idly by,” Waters declared. “We have
speakers emphasized the importance of critical thinking and verifying information — especially as disinformation campaigns increasingly target communities of color.
“We are not going to be fooled by lies and conspiracy theories,” Waters said. “Our ancestors fought too hard for us to have the right to vote, and we’re going to honor them by staying informed and participating.”
Several community leaders, faith organizers, and youth advocates joined Waters onstage, each echoing the need for vigilance and unity.
Rev. Lisa Johnson of the South LA Faith Collective urged attendees to be “truth tellers” in their own families and circles.
“If you hear someone spreading falsehoods, correct them with love but with firmness,” Johnson said.
Calls to Action The event concluded with a strong call to action: register to vote, check on neighbors, and stay politically engaged through November and beyond.
Volunteers distributed voter registration forms and shared information on local initiatives, ensuring that attendees left with resources to take immediate action.
“Don’t let anyone tell you your voice doesn’t matter,” Waters reminded the crowd. “The truth is powerful, and when we speak together, we are unstoppable.”
As residents exited the center, many expressed renewed motivation to organize within their neighborhoods.
“It’s bigger than Trump — it’s about protecting our future,” said Darnell Reed, a local high school teacher. “Today made me believe we can still turn things around.”
Kim Benoit, Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, and Dr. Anthony Samad, (Photo by Ricky Richardson)
Jay Lamont, (Photo by Ricky Richardson)
Maysa, (Photo by Ricky Richardson)
Will Downing, (Photo by Ricky Richardson)
Rep. Maxine Waters addresses community members during the “Truth Over Trump” Townhall in
25, 2025. (Photo by OGNSC Staff)
Speakers from LA Care, Housing Rights Center, HUD, Social Security Works, CFPB, CTA, and
(Photo by OGNSC Staff)