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The Valley’sNews Observer
As California Invests Billions in Cap-and-Trade Earnings,
Advocates Urge Better Public Awareness Impactful Spending
By Tanu Henry California Black Media
California officials say they are stepping up funding aimed at achieving its goal of netzero carbon pollution by 2045.According to a report released earlier this month by the by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the state has reinvested $33 billion earned from its cap-andtrade program into communities.But as the state spends millions on green projects in cities and towns across the state, some advocates say residents do not know enough about the program and how they can directly benefit from it. They also point out that most of the investments do not address the biggest challenges Black Californians and other underserved communities face.“California is earning billions from cap-and-trade, but we are still paying the highest price for fuel in the country. What is the return on investments in our disadvantaged communities?” said P. Anthony Thomas, managing partner of the Thomas Advocacy Group, a lobbying, public affairs and coalitionbuilding firm based in Sacramento.Thomas, who is also a member of the Black Environmental Justice Coalition, says cap-and-trade is a good thing, “a balancing act,” and, designed strategically, the program can serve the interests of businesses, the energy sector, government and all communities.On May 7, Gov. Gavin Newsom released a statement after the CARB report was released.“California is proving that cutting pollution creates jobs and boosts communities. By holding polluters accountable, we’re sending billions of dollars back to communities and back to people’s wallets through credits on utility bills,” Newsom said.According to CARB, the investments cover a range of priorities — from funding clean buses and other green mobility options and building greener housing to providing rebates for Zero Emissions Vehicles (ZEVs) and supporting tree planting and other renewable energy initiatives.“We’ve got the receipts: healthier and cleaner communities and thousands of good paying jobs,” added Newsom, who along with Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Hollister) and Senate Pro Tem Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg) are urging the state lawmakers to extend the cap-andtrade program, a market-based program designed to reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG).Every year, California sets an annual “cap” on about on about 80% of GHG generated by corporations considered “largest polluters in the state.” The state allocates no-cost allowances to some companies as
incentives every year. Those entities must, however, purchase the remainder of the allowances from the state at quarterly auctions if they exceed established limits.California’s announcement about investing billions in cap-and-trade proceeds comes as the federal government applies pressure on states to abandon climate programs it says prevent the U.S. energy industry from maximizing its output.In an April 8 White House executive order, President Trump directly referenced California’s cap-andtrade program.“California, for example, punishes carbon use by adopting impossible caps on the amount of carbon businesses may use, all but forcing businesses to pay large sums to “trade” carbon credits to meet California’s radical requirements,” the White House executive order reads.It continues, “these State laws and policies weaken our national security and devastate Americans by driving up energy costs for families coast-to-coast, despite some of these families not living or voting in States
with these crippling policies.”Liane M. Randolph, Chair of CARB, says as the federal government is “trying to tear down California’s authority to address harmful pollution,” the state is also facing budget constraints.Nonetheless, we can and must remain optimistic. The recent passage of the climate bond –Proposition 4 authorizes the state to use $10 billion to protect vulnerable communities and build climate resilience,” said Randolph, who pointed out that 90% of the projects impact vulnerable or “priority communities,” including Black Californians and others impacted disproportionately by pollution and other adverse environmental factors.On May 7, CARB organized a virtual news briefing with California media outlets to discuss the report and inform the public about the investments. On the panel, Randolph joined California Secretary of Transportation Toks Omishakin; Secretary Yana Garcia, California
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After a Week of Battling Health Care Cuts, Congressional Black Caucus Talks Strategy
By Lauren Burke
During a session with reporters on May 15, six members of the Congressional Black Caucus discussed their battle to push back on massive cuts to health care and messaging strategy.Chairwoman Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Rep. Troy Carter (D-LA), Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-WA), Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL), Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) and Rep. Jennifer McClellan (D-VA) attended the media session. The interviews took place a day before Republicans in the U.S. House on the Budget Committee failed to advance President Trump’s budget plan. Though the budget failed to advance, because GOP members want even deeper cuts to social programs, the committee will meet again late in the evening on Sunday, May 18. “We understood the assignment. We understood that the bulk of the cuts that were going to fund these tax cuts were
going to come from, you know, on the backs of people’s health care,” said Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (D-VA) after a question from Black Press USA. “Nationwide, they’re going to strip 13.7 million people off of health care, off their health insurance. In Virginia, that’s going to be a little over 200,000. And it’s going to blow a hole in our state budget,” Rep. McClellan added. The members were asked about why Democrats focused on Medicaid almost exclusively when the budget cuts millions in so many subjects — education being a second point of concern.Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) provided an answer on why health care has become a major point of focus for Democrats. “You see that people are upset, the country did not respond in the way that you would normally think they would respond to somebody being assassinated. And so, healthcare is a really big issue, but also we have the
numbers… House Dems on the Budget Committee have a website that they set up that literally lists how many people are impacted in each of the districts,” Rep. Crockett pointed out. Rep. Crockett was referring to the murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York City on December 4, 2024. He was allegedly killed by 26-year-old Luigi Mangione who posted online about an ongoing health problem with his lower back. The battle over health care has gone on since the Affordable Care Act passed in 2010 during the presidency of Barack Obama. Since then, Republicans have fought for more privatization of the health care system and Democrats have worked to implement policies that would cover more Americans — such as Medicaid expansion.
Black Women Decimated by Job Loss in Trump Economy
By Stacy M. Brown Black
The number of employed Black women dropped from 10.325 million in March to 10.219 million in April. Their unemployment rate jumped from 5.1% to 6.1%, the largest month-tomonth increase among all racial and gender groups. Among other findings, the labor force participation rate for Black women edged to 61.2%, indicating a loss in employment and a possible decline in overall workforce engagement. The unemployment rate for white women remained unchanged at 3.3%. Hispanic women’s unemployment also held at 4.6%. Women in other groups generally do not face the dual barriers of racial and gender discrimination that Black women contend with, a factor in the jobless rate gap.The overall Black unemployment rate rose to 6.3% in April, up from 6.2% in March, marking the third straight monthly increase and the highest
rate since January. In contrast, Black men saw a gain in employment, dropping their jobless rate from 6.1% to 5.6%. Asian Americans had the lowest unemployment rate in April at 3.0%, while the rate for Hispanic Americans was 5.2% and 3.8% for white Americans. HBCU Money reported that the number of Black women employed is now at a fivemonth low, while the number of unemployed Black women is at a five-month high. Economist William Michael Cunningham, owner of Creative Investment Research, told BLACK ENTERPRISE that the number of unemployed Black Americans increased
by 29,000 in April, reaching nearly 1.4 million. At the same time, the total Black labor force declined by 7,000. “The unusual nature of this increase in Black women’s unemployment is a testament to and a direct result of the anti-DEI and anti-Black focus of the new administration’s policies,” Cunningham said. “This is demonstrably damaging to the Black community, something we have not seen before.” Cunningham noted that many Black women are searching for jobs but not finding them. He said eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion roles and cuts in federal government jobs are key contributors. The BLS reported that federal government employment dropped by 9,000 in April and is down 26,000 since January. “For Black women, the numbers show that those seeking work are not finding jobs,” Cunningham said. “The jobs that have traditionally been a path to stability are disappearing.” Nationwide, job growth continued in health care, transportation and warehousing, financial activities, and social assistance. Average hourly earnings increased by six cents to $36.06. The Employment Situation for May is scheduled for release on Friday, June 6.
those who preach a “lotto gospel.” He also called out those who have invited him to speak at congregations and ask he avoid discussing politics and civil rights, before listing the Bible’s books that tell stories of power struggles and overcoming oppression.
He has been critical of companies who have abandoned diversity, equity, and inclusion due to pressure from President Donald Trump. Sharpton reminded those gathered that Trump was in charge in 2020 when DEI was the response to the George Floyd shooting and the president wasn’t as critical of these initiatives then.
“If you don’t have diversity in the C-suite, if you don’t have diversity in your boards, if you don’t have diversity in employment, then you shouldn’t have diversity with your consumers,” Sharpton said. “We’re not begging — we’re paying
Black women experienced a significant setback in the U.S. labor market, losing 106,000 jobs. This, according to the most recent jobs report released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, pushed their unemployment rate up to 6.1% from 5.1% in March. This decline occurred despite the overall national unemployment rate remaining at 4.2%, signaling a troubling disparity. The net job loss among Black women starkly contrasts with the broader economy, which added 175,000 jobs in the same period.
The job losses among Black women were notably higher compared to other demographic groups, highlighting systemic barriers that persist in the labor market. Economists have pointed to several contributing factors. One significant element is the reduction in federal jobs, historically providing stable employment opportunities for Black women. Additionally, the recent rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in major industries has led to decreased support and advancement opportunities for Black women in the workplace.
Occupational segregation also plays a role. Black women are disproportionately represented in sectors like healthcare, education, and service industries—areas more vulnerable to economic fluctuations. When cuts occur in these fields, Black women are often the first to feel the impact, deepening the divide in employment security. Historically, Black women have faced higher unemployment rates compared to their white counterparts. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that since 1972, the unemployment rate for Black women has consistently exceeded that of white women, reflecting longstanding inequities in access to stable, high-paying jobs. According to the National Women’s Law Center, Black women are also more likely to be employed in low-wage jobs, with 26.5% earning less than $15 an hour, compared to 15.2% of white women. These statistics underscore a broader issue of economic vulnerability rooted in systemic inequality.
The loss of employment among Black women has profound implications for the Black community. As primary breadwinners in many households, their economic stability often dictates the well-being of entire families. Job losses reduce household income and limit access to critical resources like healthcare, education, and housing stability. This can have generational effects, widening the wealth gap and stunting economic mobility. According to the Economic Policy Institute, Black women face a median wealth of just $200 compared to $15,640 for white women. This disparity grows even larger for Black single mothers, whose median wealth is estimated at just $0. Job loss, especially on
by Brenda Sangi Arruda)
Press
Senior National Correspondent
GOP Medicaid Plans Would Slash Health Coverage for Millions, CBO Confirms
By Stacy M. Brown Black Press USA Senior National Correspondent
A newly released analysis by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has confirmed that proposals pushed by Republicans in Congress to slash Medicaid spending would result in millions of Americans losing health coverage. The analysis arrives just days before the House Energy and Commerce Committee is expected to vote on several of these drastic policy changes. The CBO report, addressed to Senate Finance Ranking Member Ron Wyden and House Energy and Commerce Ranking Member Frank Pallone Jr., outlines five Republican-backed Medicaid policy options that would significantly reduce federal spending. The agency estimates that under the proposed changes, as many as 8.6 million people could lose Medicaid coverage, and up to 3.9 million would become uninsured. “This CBO report further confirms what we already knew – that Republicans in Congress are willing to sell out millions of working families to give their billionaire friends another massive tax break,” said Kobie Christian, spokesperson for Unrig Our Economy. “Republicans in Congress have been gaslighting the American public by claiming to be against Medicaid cuts, while actively
trying to take away health care from millions of working-class Americans.”The proposals outlined in the CBO’s letter are capping federal contributions to Medicaid, reducing the matching rate for states that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, and repealing enrollment rules designed to streamline access to Medicaid and CHIP. Each of the first four policy options would force states to respond by cutting provider payments, reducing benefits, and slashing enrollment. The fifth option alone—repealing the Eligibility and Enrollment final rule—would eliminate coverage for 2.3 million people, most of whom are low-income seniors and people with disabilities. “Donald Trump and Rubber Stamp Republicans in Congress are lying to the American people about their plans to enact the largest cut to Medicaid in our nation’s history,” warned Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. The CBO analysis confirms House Democrats’ warnings that the GOP proposals would force states to raise taxes, cut education spending, or push people off health insurance,” Jeffries said. “Rather than working to improve the Medicaid program, congressional Republicans are continuing a 15-year-old fight to repeal the Affordable Care Act,” noted Andrea Ducas, vice president of Health Policy at the Center
for American Progress. “This new CBO report confirms that each of congressional Republicans’ latest proposals would kick millions of the most vulnerable Americans off their health care, all to pay for tax giveaways for the president’s billionaire donors.”The report also arrives as Senate Republicans voted 53–47 to confirm Frank Bisignano—former Wall Street executive and self-described “DOGE person”—as the new head of the Social Security Administration, drawing harsh criticism from Democrats and advocates. During his confirmation hearing, Bisignano dodged questions from Senators Bernie Sanders and Ron Wyden about the agency’s cuts and the use of cryptocurrency-related tools in sensitive federal databases. In recent months, under the Trump administration, the SSA has shuttered field offices, laid off 7,000 employees, and made it harder for Americans—especially seniors and rural residents—to access benefits. Reports from outlets including Axios, NPR, and the Washington Post highlight the collapse of customer service at the SSA, long wait times, and the inability of many Americans to apply for benefits online or by phone. “Republicans just handed over the future of Americans’ Social Security to Frank Bisignano, a Wall Street stooge,” said Ken Martin, Chair of
the Democratic National Committee. “Just like Trump and Musk, Bisignano will gladly put Social Security on the chopping block to line the pockets of billionaires and special interests.”Democrats argue the Republican strategy—cutting Medicaid and destabilizing Social Security—amounts to an all-out war on working-class Americans. The CBO report estimates the GOP’s Medicaid policy shifts would reduce the federal deficit by as much as $710 billion over the next decade, but at a devastating cost: loss of care, rising out-of-pocket expenses, and widening inequities in health access. “Crafting health care policy is not an academic exercise; for tens of thousands of Americans, it’s a matter of life or death,” Ducas noted.
Biden’s Diagnosis Renews Focus
on Prostate Cancer Risks
By Stacy M. Brown Black Press USA Senior National Correspondent
Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones, according to a statement released by his office on Sunday. The statement said Biden’s diagnosis was characterized by a Gleason score of 9 (Grade Group 5), indicating a highgrade cancer with bone metastasis. Physicians noted that while the disease is advanced, it is hormone-sensitive, which allows for treatment options that can help manage the cancer. Biden, 82, had undergone further medical evaluation after a small nodule was discovered on his prostate. His office said he and his family are currently reviewing treatment plans with his doctors. Prostate cancer remains one of the most common forms of cancer among men, second only to skin cancer, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 13 out of every 100 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime, with age being the primary
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risk factor.Cancer specialists say that despite the seriousness of Biden’s diagnosis, advancements in prostate cancer treatment have led to improved outcomes, even for those with advanced diseases.
“There are a number of highly effective treatments available,” said Dr. Tanya Dorff, an oncologist at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center in Los Angeles. “Even with aggressive or late-stage prostate cancer, patients can often live many years with good quality of life.” Biden’s diagnosis comes at a time when attention is increasingly focused on racial disparities in prostate cancer outcomes. According to ZERO Prostate Cancer, a national nonprofit dedicated to supporting patients and families, Black men in the United States are 1.7 times more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer and more than twice as likely to die from it compared to white men. One in six Black men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime—compared to one in eight men overall. They are also more likely to be diagnosed at an advanced stage of the disease.While no single explanation exists for these disparities, research has shown that systemic inequities contribute to poorer outcomes. Black men are less likely to be offered PSA (prostatespecific antigen) tests during routine screenings and, when diagnosed, less likely to receive timely or effective treatment. A recent study reported by ZERO Prostate Cancer revealed that Black men with early-stage prostate cancer are significantly less likely to receive any form of treatment compared to white men. Socioeconomic factors also play a role.
Racial inequality in the United States continues to affect access to care, insurance coverage, and overall health outcomes, particularly for Black and African American communities. Biden, who concluded his term in January, was the oldest person to serve as president. His successor, Donald Trump, assumed office at age 78. While the former president and his doctors continue to explore treatment
options, Biden’s diagnosis has cast a new spotlight on addressing both men’s health and the racial disparities that remain embedded in cancer care. “Too many Black men are dying from a disease that can be detected early and treated,” ZERO Prostate Cancer officials posted on its website. “We must ensure that awareness, access, and action reach every community.”
High Court Opens Door to Police Accountability
By Stacy M. Brown Black Press USA Senior National Correspondent
The U.S. Supreme Court unanimously rejected a judicial doctrine that for years shielded law enforcement officers from civil liability in police shooting cases by allowing courts to assess force based only on the final moments before an officer pulled the trigger. In Barnes v. Felix, the high court struck down the Fifth Circuit’s “moment-of-threat” rule, which had been used to justify the 2016 killing of Ashtian Barnes, a Black man shot during a traffic stop outside Houston. Officer Roberto Felix fired two shots into Barnes’s moving car after stepping onto the doorsill. The lower courts determined that only the two seconds before the shooting—when Felix was holding onto the vehicle—mattered in deciding whether the use of deadly force was reasonable. The Supreme Court disagreed. Writing for the unanimous Court, Justice Elena Kagan made clear that determining whether an officer’s use of force is reasonable under the Fourth Amendment requires an analysis of the totality of the circumstances, including all events leading up to the shooting. “A court deciding a use-of-force case cannot review the totality of the circumstances if it has put on chronological blinders,” the Court ruled.The victim’s mother, Janice Barnes, brought the case under Section 1983, alleging that Felix violated her son’s constitutional
rights. The ruling sends the case back to the lower courts for reconsideration under the broader standard set by the Supreme Court. According to the Constitutional Accountability Center (CAC), the Court’s ruling solidifies that police do not have special constitutional status and should be held to the same accountability standards. “The moment-of-threat rule is entirely unsupported by the Constitution’s text and history,” said Nargis Aslami, a fellow at CAC. Chief Counsel Brianne Gorod added, “The Court took a small but important step toward greater accountability for police officers who violate the Fourth Amendment by inflicting unnecessary violence during their encounters with the public.” The ruling comes as data continue to show disproportionate police encounters and violence against Black Americans.
A NAACP Criminal Justice Fact Sheet revealed that a Black person is five times more likely than a white person to be stopped without just cause. Black men are twice as likely to be stopped as Black women. Meanwhile, 65% of Black adults say they have felt targeted because of their race.Each year, between 900 and 1,100 people are shot and killed by police in the United States. Since 2005, at least 98 non-federal law enforcement officers have been arrested for fatal on-duty shootings. Still, only 35 have been convicted—and just three have been convicted of murder with the convictions upheld.
Recent data from the Prison Policy Initiative show that while white residents are most likely to initiate contact with police—for reasons like reporting crimes or seeking help—Black, Hispanic, and Asian individuals are more likely to be on the receiving end of police-initiated contact, including street stops, traffic stops, and arrests. Traffic stops, which remain the most common form of police-initiated contact, are also among the most lethal. According to Mapping Police Violence, over 100 police killings occurred during traffic stops in 2023. The Bureau of Justice Statistics reports that 62% of Black people whose most recent police contact in 2022 was initiated by officers were drivers in traffic stops. That compares to 56% to 59% among other racial groups. Black drivers were searched or arrested at a rate of 9%—more than double that of white drivers and significantly higher than Hispanic or Asian drivers. “The Supreme Court’s decision in Barnes v. Felix is crucial not only for police accountability but also for broader constitutional protections,” the North Star Law Group wrote in a post. “If the Court upholds the ‘moment of threat’ standard, it could make it even harder to hold officers accountable for excessive force. However, if it reinforces the ‘totality of circumstances’ standard or adopts a hybrid approach, it could create a fairer system that protects both civilians and responsible police officers.”
Joe Biden
GIRL YOU KNOW IT’S
Milli Vanilli Scores Several New Hits — With The Same Song —Thanks To Netflix
ByHugh McIntyre
Milli Vanilli hasn’t been together for several decades by this point. The pop duo scored a string of massive hits in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s, and then they vanished almost as quickly as they popped up, due to a lip-synching controversy that saw them stripped of their sole Grammy. Many years after they made unfortunate music industry history, they’re back on the charts, thanks to an unlikely promotion.
The pair—of which, only singer Fab Morvan is alive, as Rob Pilatus passed away years ago—scores several new hits on the U.K. charts this week. The band doesn’t have anything new out, but their catalog is surging, and that fact has helped some of
their most popular offerings surge in popularity and finally reach lists they’ve never appeared on before.
In an odd discrepancy, the band earns two different hits, appearing on several charts twice, but it appears that they do so with essentially the same song—with slightly altered titles. Their smash is named both “Girl I’m Gonna Miss You” and “I’m Gonna Miss You,” depending on which album it’s featured on, and where fans purchased the tune.
“I’m Gonna Miss You” is the bigger hit of the two, even though it’s not the original title of the cut. That song opens at No. 46 on the Official Singles Downloads chart and No. 48 on the Official Singles Sales list.
“Girl I’m Gonna Miss You,” which seems
to bear the first title, ranks lower on both tallies. The catchy tune hits No. 75 on the Official Singles Downloads chart and No. 78 on the Official Singles Sales roster.
These songs mark Milli Vanilli’s first career hits on the two sales-only rosters they arrive on this week. “Girl I’m Gonna Miss You” was a certified smash during its initial heyday, though, as it rose as high as No. 2 on the main ranking of the biggest songs in the U.K. back in 1989.
The song(s) debut on these purchase-focused rankings thanks to a recent high-profile sync. Milli Vanilli’s music was featured in Ryan Murphy’s new Netflix series Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, which was released on the platform just last month. The second season in the anthology show became a huge success immediately, and it led to the songs featured within it becoming massive as well.
“Girl I’m Gonna Miss You” was a sizable hit in the U.K. when it first dropped decades ago, but the sales charts didn’t exist back then in the same way they do these days. Occasionally, years-old tunes— those that arrived long before streaming sites and outlets like iTunes were introduced—are able to debut on these sales rankings when a special project in pop culture—such as a TV show, movie, or video game—reminds listeners of how much they loved the tune.
Inside the Diddy Trial: What Cassie’s Testimony Reveals
National
By Stacy M. Brown Black Press USA Senior
Correspondent
Cassie Ventura’s graphic and emotional testimony in the federal sex trafficking trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs has ignited headlines, debate, and controversy. As prosecutors build their case against the hip-hop mogul, accusing him of running a criminal enterprise that exploited women, attorney and media executive Faye McCray laid out why the legal stakes are far greater than a story of a toxic relationship. “This is not a domestic violence case—this is a sex trafficking and racketeering case,” McCray said during an appearance on Black Press USA’s Let It Be Known. “And we have to be clear about that. Cassie is not the one on trial.” McCray explained that the prosecution’s strategy centers on proving that Combs used power, coercion, and manipulation—not just physical force—to control women. The defense, however, is focusing on messages and behaviors they claim show the relationship was consensual. McCray warned against oversimplifying the issue of consent. “Sometimes we think of yes or no,” she said. “But we’re not thinking of the imbalance of power and what it looks like to manipulate someone psychologically.”Ventura’s testimony included descriptions of abuse, sexual coercion, and even returning to Combs after an alleged 2018 rape. For some watching, that raised questions about credibility. However, McCray rejected the idea that
a victim must be perfect to be believed. “There are no perfect victims,” she said. “We expect a straight line, but real life and trauma aren’t like that. Especially when we’re talking about someone as powerful and beloved as Sean Combs.” McCray said the defense is leaning into that public perception.
“They’ve admitted he was abusive, but they’re asking: does that rise to the level of sex trafficking and racketeering?” She noted that the prosecution appears to be laying the groundwork to show a larger system of exploitation. “We’re only scratching the surface of what could be a much bigger enterprise,” she said, adding that more charges against others could come depending on the outcome of this case. McCray also addressed the makeup of the jury— twelve highly educated individuals, including biochemists and scientists. “It raises the bar,” she said. “This jury isn’t going to be easily swayed by headlines or emotion. They’re going to want the details, the logic, the facts.”Ventura’s honesty about cheating, drug use, and returning to Combs— details the defense is expected to use against her—could benefit the prosecution, McCray said, because they were introduced with transparency.
“If the prosecution had hidden those things, the defense would’ve used that against them. But they didn’t. They’re showing the full complexity of her experience.” She also explained that Ventura’s $20 million civil settlement with Combs doesn’t prevent her testimony. “Two different cases,” McCray said.
“She settled a civil suit, but criminal charges are a different matter. The charges are serious enough that she couldn’t be barred from testifying, even if he wanted to.” Some have questioned whether Ventura’s testimony—while heavily pregnant and emotionally exposed—is helping or harming her. “It’s retraumatizing,” McCray said. “There’s no doubt. But there may also be catharsis in seeing someone who harmed you be held accountable.” Still, McCray said, Ventura is opening herself up to brutal judgment. “This is why so many victims stay silent.”Asked whether Combs might testify, McCray said it would be risky but powerful. “He’s a celebrity. He’s charming. If anyone can sell himself, it’s him. But it’s a gamble.” And while many are fixated on the salacious details—so-called “freakoffs,” escort services, and private humiliations— McCray cautioned that these allegations expose deeper questions about power in the entertainment industry. “We’ve heard for decades about how shady the music business can be,” she said. “But now we’re being forced to look at who’s been protected—and at whose expense.” McCray said the most important takeaway may be what happens next in the court of public opinion. “Viewers shape culture. How we talk about this, what we post, what we laugh at—it matters,” she said. “Survivors are watching. People in our lives who are quietly suffering are watching. And how we talk about them may decide if they ever speak.”
Angel Reese Targeted After Flagrant Foul; WNBA Launches Probe
By Stacy M. Brown Black Press
Senior
Correspondent
The WNBA has launched an investigation into what it called “hateful fan comments” directed at Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese during Saturday’s game against the Indiana Fever—an episode that reignited long-simmering racial tensions surrounding Reese and Fever second-year player Caitlin Clark. The two players, who entered the league together last year after a fiery college rivalry, have become emblematic of a racial divide that continues to shape how fans, media, and the public perceive Black and white women athletes. Reese, who is Black, has often been vilified for her outspoken confidence and physical play. Clark, who is white, has largely been celebrated, even while displaying similar traits on the court. “They both are excellent competitors,” ESPN broadcaster Monica McNutt said. “But if it had been the other way around [Reese shoving Clark], you could imagine how this conversation would go.” In the third quarter of Indiana’s 93-58 win, tensions boiled over when Clark slapped at the ball
after Reese secured an offensive rebound and had a clear path to the basket. Reese fell to the floor and quickly got up to confront Clark before Fever star Aliyah Boston intervened. Officials reviewed the play, upgraded Clark’s foul to a flagrant 1, and issued technical fouls to both Reese and Boston. As boos rang out from the largely non-AfricanAmerican crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Reese was targeted more aggressively—particularly during her free throws. The WNBA said it is investigating “allegations of hateful fan comments” directed at her during the game. “The WNBA strongly condemns racism, hate, and discrimination in all forms — they have no place in our league or in society,” the league said in a statement. “We are aware of the allegations and are looking into the matter.” Reese declined to speak to the media after the game and had no comment Sunday through a representative. The confrontation—and the crowd’s reaction— quickly spilled into online discourse, with some defending Reese while others amplified attacks. Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III, who is married to a white woman, drew fire for a post
accusing Reese of creating a hostile environment. “Angel Reese said she is the villain, refused to answer questions about Caitlin Clark, and has celebrated flagrant fouls on Caitlin Clark,” the ill-informed Griffin said. “I’m not helping create anything. Angel Reese has fed into this with her actions. She needs to do better.” Former Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant fired back at Griffin. “Both girls are good in their own right,” Bryant asserted. “Caitlin Clark is better than Angel Reese,
Cropped image of Angele Reese at an event celebrating the Louisiana State University Tigers women’s basketball team’s 2022-23 NCAA championship Friday, May 26, 2023, in the East Room of the White House. (Official White House Photo by Erin Scott)
Sean P. Diddy in 2013
and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal
they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.)
The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows:
Date: June 24, 2025
Time: 8:30 a.m. Dept: 62 Address of court: same as noted above IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.
IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court
State Capitol:
Stop the Hate Action Day
Advocates and Lawmakers Discuss Solutions to Growing
By Antonio Ray Harvey California Black Media
The Stop the Hate Program continues to raise awareness about the importance of people uniting to restore respect for each other, embrace the strength of diversity, and build safe and equitable communities in California. Over 200 community leaders from across California gathered at the State Capitol on May 13 to reaffirm that message at the first-ever “Stop the Hate Day of Action,” a coordinated effort to raise awareness about hate incidents and hate crimes.
Taneicia Herring, Government Relations Specialist for the NAACP California Hawaii State Conference (Cal-Hi NAACP), was one of the participants who educated policymakers about the increasing rates of hate incidents in California and the need for continued resources and support.
“Every community is affected by hate,” Herring said. “There’s no doubt in my mind that hate will continue to increase. So, we need as many resources as we can get to fight against it.”
The Stop the Hate program is a statewide initiative of 180 organizations dedicated to serving survivors of hate and fostering healthy neighborhoods. Funded by organizations like the California Department of Social Services, the program is designed to combat hate crimes and discrimination by providing direct services, prevention, and intervention to victims.
Herring said the Legislative Day event was
More than 200 community leaders from across the state visited the State Capitol for the first-ever “Stop the Hate Day of Action” to educate lawmakers on the increasing rates of hate incidents.
organized by the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Equity Alliance. The Alliance supports 42 organizations representing people living with disabilities as well as the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI), African American and Black, Latino, Indigenous and LGBTQ+ communities.
The event began with opening remarks and training at the UC Center. The program included remarks by Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra), Chair of the California Asian American and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus (AAPILC); Assemblymember Alex Lee (D-San Jose), Parliamentarian of the California AAPILC; Assemblymember Ash Kalra (D-San Jose); and former Assemblymember Phil Ting.
“Today is such a critical day for visibility at the Capitol,” said Fong. “Hate is not going away. With the rhetoric that’s out there now, Stop the Hate is more critical than ever. We must continue to invest in programs that serve all Californians, regardless of their race, religion, sexuality, or abilities.”
The participants met with lawmakers at the State Capitol, a first step in the process of requesting that the program be re-funded.
Stop the Hate was created in response to increased hate activity in California. In 2021, $110 million was allocated to community organizations providing services to individuals and communities frequently targeted by hate incidents.
the Stop the Hate network is supported by five regional leads. The regions are: the Bay Area, South Bay, Central Coast; Border Region: San Diego, Imperial County, Los Angeles County, Northern California / San Joaquin Valley, and Orange County/Inland Empire.
In April, the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) — in partnership with the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research’s California Health Interview Survey (CHIS) — presented the outcomes of a survey on the frequency of hate activity across the state.
Based on a series of questions sponsored by CRD, the new findings from CHIS show an estimated 2.6 million Californians directly experienced at least one act of hate over a year between 2022 and 2023.
“People across our state continue to experience hate and discrimination well beyond what is reported to law enforcement,” stated CRD Director Kevin Kish. “It takes all of us working together to live up to our values of respect and compassion for every Californian.”
Rosalyn Green, who founded the Monterey County Black Caucus (MCBC) in 2020, was another participant in the Stop the Hate Action Day event.
The organization, based in Seaside, received a Stop the Hate Grant and used the funding to organize a Juneteenth holiday event.
“I thought it was an amazing day,” Green told California Black Media (CBM). “For me, it was about making connections and strengthening the connections and relationships. It’s part of what is
Problem
needed to accomplish the mission, which is to stop the hate.”
The Black population in Monterey County is 3% — with 7.3% living in Seaside alone. Most of the city’s Black residents originally moved there as families of servicemembers assigned to Fort Ord, the former U.S. Army base that closed in 1994.
In 2023, the city of Monterey reported four hate crimes. including three vandalism incidents and one road rage incident. The annual “Juneteenth Jubilee” event helps promote Black businesses, organizations, and culture. At the same time, they share their culture and heritage with non-Black residents. “All people from all backgrounds attend the jubilee,” Green said. “When people know who
you are, they are able to accept you better. There are all types of stereotypes about Black folks. We don’t want people to dwell in a place of fear.” The program has touched more than two million people through prevention and intervention services. It served over 14,000 people through individual direct services, such as mental health, counseling, legal representation, and case management. The funding for the Stop the Hate program runs out in June 2026. Green said it is “critical” that the program stays intact.“We’re already struggling and preparing to work from a deficit,” Green said. “We need that investment back into our communities so that we can thrive and not just survive.”
* How To Report A Hate Crime: CA vs Hate is a non-emergency, multilingual hate crime and incident reporting hotline and online portal. Reports can be made anonymously by calling (833) 866-4283, or 833-8-NO-HATE, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT or online at any time. Hate acts can be reported in 15 different languages through the online portal and in over 200 languages when calling the hotline. For individuals who want to report a hate crime to law enforcement immediately or who are in imminent danger, please call 911. For more information on CA vs Hate, please visit CAvsHate.org.
The Power of Black Visionaries: Moving from Resistance to Reconstruction to Reimagining
By LaTosha Brown
“Our politics will not save us, but it will be our humanity. Our silence will not protect us, it will be our resistance. Our fears will never advance or evolve our nation, it will only keep us stuck and moving backwards.” In this moment of national reckoning, Black people must see ourselves not just as defenders of our humanity, but as the visionaries and architects of a world yet to be born. For too long, we have pleaded with a nation to recognize what should never have been in question – our fundamental humanity. Today, I am calling for a shift in consciousness that moves us from defense to creation, from resistance to reconstruction, from surviving to reimagining. We are witnessing an intense anti-Black campaign disguised as opposition to DEI, Critical Race Theory, and Black history. This is an attempt to erase us, our history, and our collective memory. But those who seek to silence us forget something fundamental – we have been meeting, gathering, strategizing, and convening for our freedom ever since we reached the shores of this nation. Make no mistake: We are the architects of democracy in America. From Black visionary W.E.B. Du Bois’s pioneering scholarship to Black visionary Ida B. Wells’s fearless anti-lynching crusade, we have always been at the forefront of expanding what democracy means. We pushed this nation to make what exists on paper real and sustainable. But it’s not paper that gives us our value. We have value just by our presence on this planet.
We are builders of a dream that has yet to be realized. We believed in this nation when she was unable to believe in herself. There is no America without the 14th Amendment. There is no justice when racism shapes public policy.
As we embark on what Rev. Dr. William Barber calls “America’s third reconstruction,” we must ground ourselves in five essential pillars: Vision, Voice, Values, Victory, and Vote.Vision: Black people have always been the visionaries, seeing beyond systems designed to limit us. From Black visionary Sojourner Truth speaking truth to power to the Black visionaries of the Movement for Black Lives reimagining public safety, we have consistently imagined societies more just and inclusive than what existed.
Voice: Once we have vision, we must speak it into existence with authenticity and the full authority of our lived experience. Too many of us have been told our voices don’t matter. This moment requires our full-throated truth-telling.
Values: Values are our compass when the path is unclear. Do we value people over profit? Community over competition? Justice over convenience? When our actions align with our values, we become unstoppable.
Victory: We must claim victories along the journey. Victory is when a first-time voter casts their ballot, when a community stops environmental racism, when a young Black girl finds her voice.
Vote: Look to the 1963 Freedom Vote in Mississippi, when over 80,000 Black Mississippians participated in a mock election in response to their disenfranchisement. This powerful act laid the groundwork for the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, led by Fannie Lou Hamer. They didn’t wait for permission to claim their democratic power; they asserted it.Some suggest we are tired of protesting, marching, and fighting. Let me be clear: We aren’t tired of action—we’re tired of insufficient progress. We’re exhausted by trying to reform systems deliberately designed to create
inequality, rooted in racism and white supremacy. We’re exhausted by constantly having to prove our humanity or justify our worthiness of equity and justice.
We never tire of taking care of our families, creating lives of safety, security, and joy. What we are tired of is systems that extract our brilliance while marginalizing us, institutions that proclaim justice while implementing barriers to advancement.
The real question isn’t whether to continue struggling—it’s how to transform our struggle from defense to innovation and creation. Black people must be visionaries, not just survivors. We must unapologetically stand in the fullness of our humanity, citizenship, and power.
We must be institution builders like Black visionary Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, who founded a college with $1.50 and faith. We must be healers like Black visionary Fannie Lou Hamer, who established the Freedom Farm Cooperative. We must think differently about harm reduction like Black visionary Alicia Garza and the founders of Black Lives Matter. We must be the first line of defense for each other, like the Black visionaries of the Black Panther Party with their community programs.We can no longer think just as citizens of a nation that we’ve pleaded with for 400 years to recognize our humanity. Instead, we must see ourselves as founders of a new nation yet unborn –one that understands that diversity is our strength, inclusion is our goal, and justice is our birthright. This is not separatism but transformation. We are not leaving America; we are becoming the America that has always existed in our freedom dreams – the America that Black visionary Marcus Garvey envisioned through Black ownership, that Black visionary Ella Baker glimpsed when she
empowered ordinary people to lead themselves. The time has come to move beyond defending what should never have needed defense. On the dawn of America’s sesquicentennial (250th birthday), we will not accept anything less than what we deserve. We must build new systems and explore new ways of thinking, not just reform those designed to oppress us. The real opportunity is to assert our power and build something better for all of humanity.
LaTosha Brown is the co-founder of Black Voters Matter, which is dedicated to expanding Black voter engagement and increasing progressive power through grassroots movement-building.
Taneicia Herring – NAACP: Taneicia Herring, Government Relations Specialist at the NAACP California Hawaii State Conference (Cal-Hi NAACP), was one of 200 participants who attended the Stop the Hate Advocacy Day at the State Capitol. CBM photo
by Antonio Ray Harvey.
Rosalyn Green and Shante Mitchell: Members of the Monterey County Black Caucus, Rosalyn Green, left, and Shante Mitchell, right, attended a series of meetings to discuss the Stop the Hate Program. CBM photo by Antonio Ray Harvey.
California Capitol News You Might Have Missed Political Playback
By Bo Tefu California Black Media Black Media Leaders
Respond to Newsom’s Plan to Cut Journalism Fund by $20 Million
Last week, California Gov. Gavin Newsom proposed cutting $20 million from a landmark state initiative supporting local journalism, citing intensified financial pressures stemming from a projected $11.9 billion budget shortfall.
Called the Transformation Fund, launched in partnership with Google, the program was expected to provide $30 million in state funding to community media outlets for 2025-26. That figure has now been reduced to $10 million, the Department of Finance confirmed Wednesday.
“The sole reason for the reduction is more limited/fewer resources than projected in the January budget,” said Finance Department spokesperson H.D. Palmer.
The funding was part of a broader $250 million, five-year agreement between Google and the state, forged in response to the California Journalism Preservation Act proposed by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland). The original legislation would have required Google to pay into a fund supporting news outlets based on journalist employment numbers. While the law was not enacted, the deal led to joint state and private support for local newsrooms and included a controversial $68 million AI initiative.
Rebuild Local News President Steven Waldman criticized the proposed cut: “Cutting it by twothirds moves California in the wrong direction at a time when local journalism is collapsing across the state.”
Black Media leaders, however, said Newsom’s downsized $10 million investment –made at a time the state faces numerous uncertainties and constraints — is a notable first step to addressing the ongoing crisis in American journalism.
“While the Governor and Legislature face the very real challenge of closing a significant budget deficit, I deeply appreciate the state’s initial investment and Assemblymember Wicks’ continued leadership,” said Regina Wilson, Executive Director of California Black Media (CBM).
“This moment calls for bold thinking to protect one of the foundational pillars of our democracy — independent journalism. A well-informed public is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. It’s how people hold power to account, engage with their government, and shape the rules that govern their lives,” Wilson added. The journalism funding rollback follows broader state cost-cutting efforts and the Governor warning of strained public resources as economic challenges mount.
The journalism fund was intended to help struggling newsrooms that have faced financial hardship, leading to fewer reporters covering vital civic issues. As budget negotiations begin, advocates are urging lawmakers to reassess the media funding cut, warning it could deepen the information gap in underserved communities.
Newsom Announces $3.3B for Prop 1 Behavioral Health
Facilities
On May 14, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced the release of $3.3 billion in grants to significantly expand the state’s behavioral health infrastructure, aiming to combat homelessness and mental illness with thousands of new treatment opportunities.
The funding, made possible through Proposition 1, will help create over 5,000 residential treatment beds and more than 21,800 outpatient treatment slots for individuals struggling with mental health and substance use disorder (SUD). These investments are part of the Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program (BHCIP)
Round 1: Launch Ready, administered by the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS).
“Californians demanded swift action to address our state’s behavioral health crisis when they voted for Prop 1 in March 2024. Today, we’re delivering our biggest win yet,” said Newsom. “These launchready projects will build and expand residential beds and treatment slots for those who need help.”
The funding represents the first of two rounds under BHCIP’s bond program. A second round, totaling over $800 million, will focus on unmet needs and is expected to open for applications later this month.
Michelle Baass, DHCS Director, called the funding “a generational investment in California’s behavioral health future,” adding, “We are building hope, dignity, and pathways to healing for thousands of Californians.”
The initiative is part of the broader “Mental Health for All” strategy to modernize the state’s behavioral health system and address a projected shortfall of over 7,000 treatment beds. The effort includes investments in mobile crisis infrastructure and permanent supportive housing, with up to $2 billion managed by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).
“These projects are a reflection of our values and vision for a healthier, more compassionate California,” said Kim Johnson, Secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency.
Atty. Gen Bonta and Asm. Mike Gipson Condemn Federal Cuts to Violence Prevention Programs
California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson) are speaking out against the Trump Administration’s decision to cut over $800 million in federal grants supporting community violence intervention (CVI) programs nationwide.
The state officials say the move, led by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, threatens public safety and disrupts efforts to prevent gun violence and support victims.
In a strongly worded statement, Bonta criticized the cuts, calling them “dangerous” and “irresponsible.”
“The Trump Administration is recklessly disregarding the safety of the people it is sworn to serve,” Bonta said. He added that eliminating these programs, which help victims heal and reduce violence, undermines both California’s and the nation’s progress. “If the Administration truly cared about public safety, it wouldn’t cut programs that are saving lives today,” Bonta said.
Gipson echoed Bonta’s concerns.
“This move undermines years of progress and puts lives at risk,” he said, emphasizing that many California CVI organizations now face difficult decisions, such as scaling back or shutting down entirely. “Cutting millions for California alone sends a clear message: that community safety is not a priority for this administration.”
The funding cuts affect several organizations across California. Programs like Advance Peace in Fresno, Youth ALIVE! in Oakland, and Urban Peace Institute in Los Angeles are among those losing millions in support. Advocates say these groups have played a key role in providing trauma recovery, preventing retaliation, and helping atrisk individuals avoid gun violence and gang involvement.
Bonta has held roundtables with CVI leaders to highlight their successes. He stressed the need for stable funding to support these efforts. “We urge the Administration to reinstate these vital grants and for lawmakers to continue to invest in lifesaving violence prevention and victim care,” Bonta said.
Community leaders warn the cuts will dismantle years of progress and put more lives at risk. Gipson, Bonta, and their partners are calling on the federal government to reverse course immediately.
Several community violence intervention programs in California lost federal funding without warning include:
• Advance Peace in Fresno lost a $2 million grant, leading to staff reductions.
• Youth ALIVE! in Oakland had its $2 million grant revoked, impacting the nation’s first hospital-based violence intervention program.
• Urban Peace Institute in Los Angeles lost $1.5 million in funding for training and certifying street outreach workers.
• Centro Cha Inc in Los Angeles was stripped of $1.5 million in federal support.
• Fresno County Economic Opportunities Commission lost $2 million in funding.
The Reverence Project in Los Angeles had its $2 million grant terminated.
• Providence Health System in Southern California lost nearly $2 million in funding.
California Bill to Strengthen Small Business Support Gains Bipartisan Support
A bill authored by Sen. Eloise Gómez Reyes (D-Grand Terrace) to support small businesses in California has moved one step closer to becoming law. Senate Bill (SB) 781 passed the Senate Committee on Local Government with unanimous support from Democrats and Republicans.
“The Inland Empire is ripe with talent and opportunity, but the economic environment makes it difficult for small businesses to survive,” said Reyes. “SB 781 provides community-driven strategies and support to cut red tape and foster an environment that allows small businesses to breathe and thrive.”
If passed, SB 781 would help local governments create plans that make it easier for small businesses to win contracts and grow. These plans would include goals for hiring small businesses. They would also offer training for government staff and give local businesses more chances to compete for public work.
The bill also allows the California Office of the Small Business Advocate to guide cities and counties in helping small companies, especially those in areas that have fewer resources or slower economic growth.
Julian Canete, President and CEO of the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, said the bill would “support small businesses, expand their operations, create jobs and strengthen local economies.”
The bill would also let the state fund small business programs without depending on matching money from the federal government. This change would help local communities continue programs even if federal support changes.
More than half of California’s private-sector jobs come from small businesses. However, in areas like the Inland Empire, many small business owners still face challenges like lower sales and limited access to loans.
Recently, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s announced May 2025 as Small Business Month.
“California’s more than 4.2 million small businesses… embody the entrepreneurial spirit that drives the economy of the Golden State,” Newsom stated.
The Senate Appropriations Committee is currently reviewing SB 781. Committee members are expected to vote on it by May 23.
California Assembly Unanimously Passes Bill Strengthening Penalties for Soliciting Teens
The California Assembly unanimously approved a bill on Thursday that increases criminal penalties for soliciting sex from 16- and 17-yearolds. The measure aims to protect vulnerable teens and hold offenders accountable.
Assemblymember Nick Schultz (D-Burbank), chair of the Assembly Public Safety Committee, acknowledged the bill faced a “messy” process but said it is an important step forward.
“This is our solution to one of the most prevalent problems in the state of California, the exploitation and the trafficking of children,” Schultz said before the vote.
Originally, the bill’s author, Assemblymember Maggy Krell (D-Sacramento) wanted to treat solicitation of older teens as either a felony or misdemeanor to better target offenders and support victims. However, controversy arose when the felony provision was removed for cases involving 16- and 17-year-olds. After public pressure, Democrats agreed to apply stronger penalties only when offenders are more than three years older than the victim.
Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo (D-Chatsworth) spoke in support of the bill, sharing her own experience as a child sexual abuse victim. In an emotional statement, she described testifying against her abuser in court and living next door to him afterward.
“This experience continues to shape my views and actions when it comes to protecting children and victims of crime,” said Schiavo. “It’s one of the reasons I will always stand on the side of creating more support for victims and creating accountability for predators.”
“When laws are vague, they are ripe for profiling,” said Sharp-Collins. She warned that such provisions could disproportionately affect minorities and the poor, including Black, brown and the LGBTQIA+ individuals being overly policed and targeted for their mere presence in an area without them actually doing anything criminal. The bill now moves to the state Senate for consideration.
A Victory in Voting Rights
By April Ryan A Supreme Court win over the discriminatory redistributing in AlabamaThe NAACP Legal Defense Fund is taking a victory lap for a Supreme Court win against Alabama’s discriminatory redistricting practices that targeted Black voters there. Attorney Deuel Ross for the Legal Defense Fund says, “The Supreme Court ruled that Alabama had violated the Voting Rights Act by chopping up that Black population and declining to create two majority Black Districts.” Ross emphasized to BlackPressUSA that Alabama’s Black Belt is hundreds of years old with a “very large Black population.” Ross, who argued the case in the trial court and the United States Supreme Court, successfully proved that “Alabama had both intentionally discriminated against Black voters” by chopping up the Black Belt, a majority Black population that “runs straight
through Alabama.”This victory comes after recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions have undermined voting rights laws. “If any case was going to show that the Voting Rights Act was still needed, it was our case,” offered Ross. One of the first major blows to the 1965 Voting Rights Act was in 2013. The Supreme Court decision then gutted the pre-clearance portion of the act. The ruling was made in the Shelby V. Holder case, throwing out the preclearance portions of the law. That law section was created to prevent discriminatory election practices in “certain southern states” like Alabama. Within that law was a portion called pre-clearance, where the southern states that were found to be practicing discriminatory election practices against Black voters had to get clearance from the Justice Department before they made any changes to the election process or rules.
Asm. Isaac Bryan (D-Ladera Heights), left, and Asm. Maggy Krell (D-Sacramento) on the floor of the State Assembly during debate on AB 379, May 1, 2025. The bill, authored by Krell, would make it a felony to buy sex from 16- and 17-yearold trafficking victims. CBM photo by Antonio Ray Harvey.
While the bill was broadly supported, Assemblymember LaShae Sharp-Collins (D-La Mesa), a member of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) expressed concerns about parts of the law that criminalize loitering with intent to buy sex.
(Photo by Drazen Zigic)
Ohtani Still Setting Records, Raising the Bar for Greatness
Dodgers superstar makes more MLB history with hot start to 2025Earl HeathContributing Sports WriterLOS ANGELES — Shohei Ohtani isn’t slowing down—he’s rewriting the record books again.In the first month of the 2025 MLB season, Ohtani became the first player in league history to record double-digit home runs and stolen bases by May 6. The two-way superstar’s early-season surge is already placing him among the most dominant players in the game—again.This historic pace follows his unprecedented 50-50 season in 2024, when he clubbed 50 home runs and swiped 50 bases, becoming the first player in major league history to reach both marks in a single season. Now, less than two months into the 2025 campaign, Ohtani looks poised for another extraordinary year.As of May 19, the Dodgers slugger is batting .312 with 17 home runs—his most recent coming against the Arizona Diamondbacks, which solidified his position as the league leader in long balls. He has also tallied 31 RBIs and boasts a 1.078 OPS.According to ESPN stats, Ohtani ranks first in home runs, third in OPS, tied for eighth in batting average, and 19th in RBIs across the league.While much of the attention has always centered on his two-way ability, this season marks his continued evolution as a pure offensive force. Though he has yet to pitch in 2025 while recovering from elbow surgery, his impact in the Dodgers’ lineup is undeniable.“He’s doing things we’ve never seen before,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said earlier this month. “Every time he steps on the field, he’s rewriting what’s possible in this game.”As the Dodgers push through the season, Ohtani’s performance remains a driving force behind the team’s success—and a constant reminder that fans are witnessing a once-in-a-generation talent at the peak of his powers.
Bruins Blast Their Way Into Super Regionals
UCLA softball team dominates Regionals with record-setting run-rule performances
By
LOS ANGELES — The No. 9-seeded UCLA softball team flexed its offensive and defensive muscle once again, defeating San Diego State 10-0 in six innings Saturday afternoon at Easton Stadium. It marked the Bruins’ second consecutive mercy-rule win and capped off a dominant NCAA Regional performance.With the victory, UCLA advances to its 15th Super Regional in program history.“I’m going to credit [associate head coach] Lisa Fernandez in recruiting,” said head coach Kelly Inouye-Perez. “We get the right athletes to play at UCLA. They’re selfless. They’re fierce. They play for each other. There’s a work ethic about them. They’re playing for something bigger than all of us, which is UCLA.”Woolery and Clements Lead the Charge Junior third baseman Jordan Woolery powered the Bruins’ offense with a 2-for-2 performance, including a home run, a triple, and five RBIs. Graduate center fielder Jessica Clements added to the onslaught by going 3-for-3 with a double, a walk, and three runs scored.UCLA, playing as the designated visitors, wasted no time getting on the scoreboard. Just eight pitches into the game, they were up 3-0. Clements led off with a double, followed by a bunt single from Savannah Pola. Woolery then launched her 21st home run of the season to left-
UCLA Bruins infielder Jordan Woolery (15) celebrates after getting on base Friday, May 9, 2025, during the Big Ten softball tournament game against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at Purdue University’s Bittinger Stadium in West Lafayette, Indiana. | Alex Martin/Journal and Courier / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
center, continuing her tear as the team’s RBI leader. Woolery’s five-RBI day brought her season total to 81—second-most in UCLA single-season history, trailing only Stacey Nuveman’s 91 RBIs in 1999. Terry Shuts the Door Sophomore two-way standout Kaitlyn Terry
pitched a gem, earning her fourth complete-game shutout of the season. She allowed just two hits and one walk while striking out five, improving her record to 18-4.“Kaitlyn continues to give us confidence in the circle,” Inouye-Perez said. “She controls the game, and that allows our offense to settle in and do what it does best.”Regional Domination
The Bruins (52-10) totaled 13 hits against the Aztecs, marking the third straight game in which they recorded double-digit hits in the Regional round. Junior catcher Alexis Ramirez went 3-for4, matching her career high in hits and driving in five runs with three separate RBI singles.Woolery, Megan Grant, and Clements all homered in the contest.“Every year is different,” Inouye-Perez added. “The bottom line is that we had so many people step up. What’s different this year is that [Woolery and Grant] are the leadership group. They’ve taken care of the program and are leading by example. Getting to the Super Regional never gets old—that’s always the goal.”For the first time in program history, UCLA opened the NCAA Tournament with three straight run-rule victories. The Bruins also set a new program best for run differential in a Regional during the Super Regional era (since 2005), outscoring opponents 31-2 (+29). Super Regional Bound
UCLA now heads east for a Super Regional clash in Columbia, South Carolina, where they’ll face the Gamecocks (43-15). South Carolina also impressed in their Regional, going undefeated and allowing just two runs in three games—defeating Elon 5-2 and shutting out North Florida twice, 3-0 and 8-0.
Kershaw the Warrior Returns, But Dodgers Fall Short
By Earl Heath
LOS ANGELES — Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw was all smiles before taking the mound for his long-awaited return, telling reporters he was “up for the challenge.” But that optimism was tested early, as the veteran left-hander labored through a rocky first inning. After striking out the leadoff hitter, Kershaw allowed a single and two walks to load the bases. Angels catcher Logan O’Hoppe followed with a two-run single, and Matthew Lugo added an RBI double to give the Halos an early 3-0 lead. The future Hall of Famer bounced back with a quick second inning, but Angels outfielder Taylor Ward tagged him for a solo home run in the third. The struggles continued into the fourth, where a walk, double, and sacrifice fly pushed the Angels’ lead to 5-3.
Kershaw’s night ended after four innings. He allowed five runs on five hits, struck out two, and walked three. His command was inconsistent throughout, with several pitches missing the zone.
“I think there’s more gratitude, honestly,” Kershaw said postgame. “When you haven’t done something for a long time and realize that you miss being part of a team and contributing, I think there’s a lot of gratitude.”
Despite the rough outing, the Dodgers’ offense tried to pick him up. Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman each singled in the first, setting the stage for Andy Pages, who tied the game with his ninth home run of the season—a three-run shot that brought the crowd to its feet. After the Angels regained the lead 5-3 in the fourth, Kiké Hernández answered with a solo homer in the bottom half of the inning to bring the Dodgers within one.
that was as close as they’d get.
Dodgers news: Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts go back-to-back with HRs vs. Diamondbacks
Graduate student outfielder Jessica Clements holds her bat. Clements recorded three hits on three at-bats, in addition to a walk, and scored three runs on the day. (Nicolas Greamo/Daily Bruin senior staff)
Earl Heath Contributing Sports Writer
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw (22).Owen Ziliak/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK
Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Malcolm X with FA-MLI in Los Angeles
By Ricky Richardson
Contributing
Writer
(Los Angeles, CA) Monday, May 19, 2025, would have been the 100th birthday of Malcolm X. Celebrations were held across the nation to honor the tireless civil rights activist.
Locally, the City of Los Angeles teamed up with the Foundation for Arts, Mentorship, Leadership, and Innovation (FA-MLI) to celebrate the 100th birthday of Malcolm X, born Malcolm Little, on Saturday, May 17, 2025. The event, Malcolm X Street Dedication, is followed by the 33rd Annual Malcolm X Legacy Festival and Centennial Celebration of a Legend.
The Malcolm X Street Dedication began with a Press Conference and Malcolm X Street Sign unveiling. The sign unveilings were held to complete the 5-mile-long Malcolm X Route along Crenshaw Boulevard. The first one was unveiled at the intersection of Crenshaw Boulevard and Obama Boulevard. The second unveiling occurred at the corner of Crenshaw Boulevard and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Los Angeles City Councilwoman Heather Hutt, Council District 10, Assembly member Sade Elhawary, Assembly District 57, and Torrence Brannon-Reese, founder and CEO of FAMLI, Inc., spoke during the street sign unveiling at the second location. The final unveiling took place on the corner of Crenshaw Boulevard and Florence. This final dedication completes the vision of the newly established Malcolm X Corridor. You should start seeing Malcolm X Street signage as you drive up and down “The Shaw.”
The street sign unveiling at Crenshaw Boulevard and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard also connects with Freedom Square, the site of a bust of Celes King III, another prominent civil rights activist. May gray, nor intermittent sprinkles, couldn’t dampen the resolve or spirit of guests in attendance for the three-part celebration.
The Malcolm X Street Dedication & 33rd Annual Malcolm X Legacy Festival and Centennial
Celebration of a Legend shined the spotlight on ElHajj Malik El-Shabazz, human rights activist. This was a historic day of culture, activism, education, and celebration in the City of Angels.
Several years ago, a street sign was unveiled at
Crenshaw Boulevard and Vernon, right in the middle of the African American cultural hub. Malcolm X joins an impressive group of African Americans in Los Angeles who have streets or highways named in their honor: Rosa Parks Freeway, Obama Boulevard, MLK Boulevard and Nipsey Hussle Square.
Guests gathered inside the Leimert Plaza Park for the 33rd Annual Malcolm X Legacy Festival and Centennial Celebration. This year’s theme: Human Rights by Any Means Necessary!
The program got underway with remarks by Torrence Brannon-Reese, founder and CEO of FAMLI, Inc. Dwight Trible, vocalist extraordinaire shook things up with “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the Black National Anthem. Brother Akile performed libation to honor and call on the ancestors.
Lorenzo Frank and Laneay London (Laneay London Illuminating Minds) served as emcees for this remarkable program on this remarkable, historic, and memorable day in the City of Angels.
The stellar lineup of artists, spoken word artists, and speakers consisted of Akanke performed an original selection accompanied by Ronda Mosley, poet and fantastic dancer, to the delight of the crowd. Yvonne Farrow, City of Los Angeles, Department of Cultural Affairs, Program Manager, gave an update on the status of the Vision Theater and shared with the crowd the exciting partnership of the very prestigious WACO Theater Center. You have probably read in a local newspaper about the famous lady who will bring world-class programming to Leimert Park! The famous lady is coming on board to co-host the iconic Vision Theater once it opens in 2026??? Larry Love and Friends, spoken word artists, dropped some deep thoughts for the audience to ponder. Larry Love recited “It Needs to be a Revolution in the Home.” Jenari recited “Letter to the Phoenix” and “fire.” Professor X also recited an original piece.
Cedric Ingram, aka Clay Luv, educator, singer, and artist, performed “It’s Already on Its Way” and “It Keeps Going.” Congresswoman Maxine Waters, aka Auntie Maxine, dropped by to share updates about what’s happening in the political arena and to share a Certificate of Recognition to FA-MLI, Inc. for its
contribution to the community.
Queen Nzingha Ejukwa entertained guests with “Black Power.” Queen Nzingha narrated the vibrant Fashion Show of Majestic Kings and Queens.
Anthony Snead performed a tribute to The Whispers: “I Want to Make It With You,” “Chocolate Girl,” and “You Are Number One.”
Roots and Thunder is a popular local reggae band that performed a wonderful tribute to the late great Bob Marley: “Redemption Song,” “Crazy Baldheads,” “Roots, Rock, Reggae,” “War,” “Get Up, Stand Up,” and “No More Trouble.”
Several awards were presented to individuals for their contributions to the betterment of the community.
Roman Combs-Emerging Young Leader Award
Sabir Majeed- Lifetime Achievement Award
Msonga Mbele Andre Parvenu- Lifetime Achievement Award
This concluded my enjoyment of the 33rd
Annual Malcolm X Legacy Festival and Centennial Celebration of a Legend.
Several books were recently published about Malcolm X. Malcolm X Legacy will continue to stay relevant and be involved in impactful conversations
Trump’s DOJ Accuses Medicare Advantage Insurers of Paying ‘Kickbacks’ for Primo Customers
By Julie Appleby
When people call large insurance brokerages seeking free assistance in choosing Medicare Advantage plans, they’re often offered assurances such as this one from eHealth: “Your benefit advisors will find plans that match your needs — no matter the carrier.”
About a third of enrollees do seek help in making complex decisions about whether to enroll in original Medicare or select among private-sector alternatives, called Medicare Advantage.
Now a blockbuster lawsuit filed May 1 by the federal Department of Justice alleges that insurers Aetna, Elevance Health (formerly Anthem), and Humana paid “hundreds of millions of dollars in kickbacks” to large insurance brokerages — eHealth, GoHealth, and SelectQuote. The payments, made from 2016 to at least 2021, were incentives to steer patients into the insurer’s Medicare Advantage plans, the lawsuit alleges, while also discouraging enrollment of potentially more costly disabled beneficiaries.
Policy experts say the lawsuit will add fuel to long-running concerns about whether Medicare enrollees are being encouraged to select the coverage that is best for them — or the one that makes the most money for the broker.
Medicare Advantage plans, which may include benefits not covered by the original government program, such as vision care or fitness club memberships, already cover more than half of those enrolled in the federal health insurance program for seniors and people with disabilities. The private plans have strong support among Republican lawmakers, but some research shows they cost taxpayers more than traditional Medicare per enrollee.
The plans have also drawn attention for requiring patients to get prior authorization, a process that involves gaining approval for highercost care, such as elective surgeries, nursing home stays, or chemotherapy, something rarely required in original Medicare. Medicare Advantage plans are under the microscope for aggressive marketing and sales efforts, as outlined in a recent report from Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.). During the last year of the Biden administration, regulators put in place a rule that reined in some broker payments, although parts of that rule are on hold pending a separate court case filed in Texas by regulation opponents.
The May DOJ case filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts alleges insurers labeled payments as “marketing” or “sponsorship” fees to get around rules that set caps on broker commissions. These payments from insurers, according to the lawsuit, added incentives — often more than $200 per enrollee — for brokers to direct Medicare beneficiaries toward their coverage “regardless of the quality or suitability of the insurers’ plans.” The case joins the DOJ in a previously filed whistleblower lawsuit brought by a then-employee of eHealth.
“In order to influence the market, the Defendant Insurers understood that they needed to make greater, illicit payments in addition to the permitted (but capped) commissions,” the lawsuit alleges.
In one example cited, the lawsuit says insurer Anthem paid broker GoHealth “more than $230 million in kickbacks” from 2017 to at least 2021 in exchange for the brokerage to hit specified sales targets in payments often referred to as “marketing development funds.”
Insurers and brokers named in the case pushed back. Aetna, Humana, Elevance, eHealth, and SelectQuote each sent emailed statements to KFF Health News disputing the allegations and saying they would fight them in court. EHealth spokesperson Will Shanley, for example, wrote that the brokerage “strongly believes the claims are meritless and remains committed to vigorously defending itself.” GoHealth posted online a response denying the allegations.
The DOJ lawsuit is likely to add to the debate over the role of the private sector in Medicare with vivid details often drawn from internal emails among key insurance and brokerage employees. The case alleges that brokers knew that Aetna, for example, saw the payments as a “shortcut” to increase sales, “instead of attracting beneficiaries through policy improvements or other legitimate avenues,” the lawsuit said.
One eHealth executive in a 2021 instant message exchange with a colleague that is cited in the lawsuit allegedly said incentives were needed because the plans themselves fell short: “More money will drive more sales [be]cause your product is dog sh[*]t.”
The DOJ case focuses on large insurance
brokerages, which often rely on national marketing efforts to gain customers, rather than mom-andpop insurance offices.
The filing, which alleges violations under the federal False Claims Act, outlines some of the problems consumers could face because of those payments, including being enrolled or switched into plans without their express permission, and getting coverage that didn’t meet their needs.
A cancer patient, for example, was switched from the original Medicare program into a privatesector managed-care plan by a large brokerage firm, according to the lawsuit, only to get hit with $17,000 in ongoing treatment costs that would have been covered without the change. Another person calling for free advice later discovered she had been enrolled without permission into a plan with a different insurer than she had previously chosen.
Meanwhile, people with disabilities looking to enroll in private-sector Medicare Advantage plans had their calls ignored or rerouted by systems designed to weed out disabled people, especially if they were under age 65, the lawsuit alleges. That’s because the insurers knew that disabled beneficiaries usually cost more to cover than those without medical problems, the case alleges. Medicare plans are not allowed to discriminate against people with disabilities.
Still, private insurers are allowed to offer commissions to brokers — or not.
Congress and regulators, however, concerned about insurers’ potential financial influence over beneficiaries’ choice of plans, set maximum commissions and limited payments for other things, such as administrative costs, to a vaguer standard: their fair market value. (Under the Biden-era rule that’s on hold, administrative fees would have been capped at $100 per enrollment.) On commissions, the national cap in 2021 — the final year cited in the lawsuit — was $539 per enrollment for the initial year, with higher amounts in some states, including California and New Jersey, the lawsuit said. The allowed commission rates have risen to a maximum in the low $600s per person in most states this year. Those amounts are higher than what brokers earn if a client enrolls in original Medicare and buys a supplemental drug plan, for which the commission is capped at $109 for the initial year.
Some policy experts say that pay structure alone — aside from any of the allegations in the lawsuit — creates an uneven playing field between the private-sector plans and the original program.
“It’s not my intent to paint all agents and brokers with the same brushstroke, but there are significant financial incentives to steer people toward Medicare Advantage in general,” said David Lipschutz, co-director of law and policy at the Center for Medicare Advocacy.
While brokers can be helpful in sorting out complexities, other options are available. Lipschutz suggested that consumers seek information from their federally funded State Health Insurance Assistance Program, which can advise beneficiaries about Medicare options, are not affiliated with insurers, and don’t receive commissions.
While encouraged that the Trump administration filed the case under investigations that began under the Biden administration, policy experts say Congress and insurers need to do more.
“What we see in this lawsuit highlights the terrible incentives that desperately need Congress to reform,” said Brian Connell, a vice president at the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, an advocacy group.Right now, however, Congress is embroiled in budget battles amid calls by the Trump administration to drastically cut federal spending.
“It doesn’t seem like it’s high in the queue,” said Zachary Baron, director of the Center for Health Policy and the Law at Georgetown University’s O’Neill Institute. Some members of Congress may push for more changes to Medicare Advantage, Baron said, “but the real question is whether there will be bipartisan interest.”
The large amounts of money that the lawsuit alleges were involved, though, might add legislative momentum.
“This is money not being spent on care, money not going to providers of health care services,” Lipschutz said. “In my mind, it’s a lot of wasted payment. It’s pretty staggering.”
This article was produced by KFF
Malcolm X Street Sign Unveiling, (Photo by Ricky Richardson)
Congresswoman Waters and FA-MLI, Inc. (Photo by Ricky Richardson)
Fashion Show of Majestic Kings and Queens, (Photo by Ricky Richardson)
Roots and Thunder, (Photo by Ricky Richardson)
Business Card-Reach out to this lady about possible advertisement. Tell her she spoke with Ricky during the Malcolm X Festival!!!
well into the future.
Malcolm Lives: The Official Biography of Malcolm X for Young Readers, by Ibram X. Kendi The Dead Are Rising: The Life of Malcolm X, by Les and Tamara Payne Malcolm X: A Life of Reinvention, by Manning Marable The Afterlife of Malcolm X: An Outcast Turned
Icon’s Enduring Impact on America, by Mark Whitaker