SB American News Week Ending 9/3

Administration Tries to Pretend SLAVERY Never Happened

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

The Trump White House has declared war on history itself. In an official article published Friday, Aug. 22, on the White House website, the administration blasted the Smithsonian Institution for telling the truth about slavery, systemic racism, and inequality in America. It was not just an attack on museums—it was an attack on memory, on facts, and on the lives of generations of Black Americans who endured the country’s greatest crimes.

The White House mocked exhibits at the National Museum of African American History and Culture for daring to explain that America privileges whiteness. It dismissed scholarship on the legacies of slavery in the Texas Revolution, ridiculed art that reckons with the Middle Passage, and condemned programs that document systemic exclusion in immigration and housing. It went further, painting the Smithsonian as “anti-American propaganda” for highlighting the ways colonization, racism, and oppression shaped the very foundations of the nation. What the administration is doing is clear: it is trying to erase the trail of oppression that runs like a scar through U.S. history—from

“California

the whip on enslaved backs, to Jim Crow segregation, to the discriminatory policies that persist today.

From Slavery to Jim Crow

Slavery was not just an economic system—it was a regime of terror. Families were ripped apart, women were violated, men were chained, and entire generations were forced

into labor that built the wealth of this nation. When emancipation finally came, Reconstruction briefly promised equality. Black men held office, built schools, and claimed rights once denied. But white supremacy roared back with violence and legal restrictions. Reconstruction collapsed, and Jim Crow rose in its place. For nearly a century, Jim Crow laws ensured Black Americans could not vote freely,

Must Lead With Courage”

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attend equal schools, or live without fear of lynching. The White House’s attempt to dismiss museums for teaching about this reality is nothing less than an attempt to silence that history.

Redlining and the War on Drugs

When Jim Crow ended, systemic racism mutated. The federal government

backed redlining policies that locked Black families out of home ownership, while white families accumulated wealth through suburban expansion.

Gentrification decades later uprooted Black communities in cities, pushing families out of neighborhoods they had called home for generations. Then came the war on drugs. Entire communities were criminalized.

Harsh sentencing laws and targeted policing filled prisons with Black and brown bodies, devastating families and stripping away economic and political power. The administration now attacking the Smithsonian is the same one that celebrates lawand-order policies that continue this cycle.

Civil Rights Gains Under Siege

The Civil Rights Movement forced America to confront its hypocrisy. Through marches, sitins, and court victories, Black Americans dismantled legal segregation. But every gain came with backlash. Today, voter suppression laws, redistricting schemes, and so-called “voter integrity measures” are dressedup attempts to return to the days when Black voices were excluded. The Smithsonian’s exhibits on democracy document this truth. The White House calls it subversive.

Erasing History to Protect Power

The Trump White House’s

NAACP Urges Legislature to Pass Stalling Reparations Bills

By Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, California-Hawaii State Conference (CA/HI NAACP), is urging the Legislature to pass two reparations bills authored by state Sen. Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego), chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC).

The bills — Senate Bill (SB) 518 and SB) 437 – were assigned to the “Suspense File” after review in the Assembly Appropriations Committee. In the California Legislature, any bill that would potentially cost the state more than $50,000 from the General Fund or $150,000 from special funds is automatically sent to the Suspense File for further consideration at a special hearing.

Rick L. Callender, President of the NAACP Cal-Hi State Conference, said the bills are critical for advancing racial and social justice in California and are a “moral and constitutional imperative.”

“For generations, Black Californians have carried the weight of systemic harm with no redress. These bills offer the state a chance to begin making that right,” Callender said.

“The NAACP has long demanded reparations for the descendants of slavery,” Callender continued. “California must lead with courage, not

April

caution, and move these bills forward without another delay.”

SB 518 proposes the establishment of an agency to implement state-level reparations for eligible descendants of enslaved individuals. SB 437 authorizes California State University (CSU) to use genealogical records to determine eligibility for initiatives benefiting descendants of enslaved persons.

From the NAACP’s perspective, keeping the bills in the suspense file would hamper progress on equity and fairness at a time when communities across the state cannot afford further delay.

“We call on the committee to advance both measures so that California can continue to lead

on justice, accountability, and equal opportunity,” the NAACP Cal-Hi State Conference stated in a Aug. 20 letter. Both bills are part of the CLBC’s “Road to Repair 2025 Priority Bill Package and are based on recommendations made by the California Reparations Task Force.

In July, both bills passed out of the Assembly Judiciary Committee, where they were re-referred to the Assembly Appropriations Committee. The committee is responsible for reviewing all bills that have a fiscal impact on the state. Supporters for SB 518 and SB 437 include the Alliance for Reparations, Reconciliation, and Truth; Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders for Civic

Empowerment; San Francisco Bay Area Black and Jewish Unity Coalition; the San Francisco Public Defender’s Office; the Western Center on Law and Poverty; Black Californians United for Early Care and Education; the Greater Sacramento Urban League, and the Black Equity Collective.

“It is crucial that California establish an administrative framework to implement reparative policies passed by the legislature,” said Oakland-based attorney Don Tamaki at SB 518’s Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on April 22. Tamaki, who appeared at several committee hearings to voice his support for SB 518, was the only non-Black member of California’s Reparations

Task Force, which examined the state’s history of injustices against Blacks. Tamaki’s appointment was based on his decades of experience fighting for Japanese American redress for over 120,000 people of Japanese descent who were removed from West Coast cities and incarcerated during World War II.

“I strongly oppose both bills,” said Darlene Crumedy, a member of American Redress Coalition of the California Bay Area. The CLBC has called upon Gov. Gavin Newsom, lawmakers, advocates, and the public to stand in solidarity and support their efforts to create a continuous change for Black communities across California.

Thanks to Newsom, in June 2024, his administration put aside $12 million to spend on the implementation of reparations legislation. The funds have been allocated in the state’s general fund.

SB 437 requires the Director of Finance to allocate half of the funding included in the California’s budget to support reparations initiatives to the California State University system for research.

The proposed CSU studies will determine methods to verify if an individual is a descendant of an enslaved person, which would qualify that individual to be eligible and potentially eligible for future reparations programs. If approved, CSU will begin developing the process no later than the start of the 2026-2027 academic year. After that, the university will be required to submit annual progress

Groups that have gone on the record in opposition to the bills are the American Redress Coalition of the California Bay Area; the American Redress Coalition of California Sacramento; the California Black Lineage Society; California Organizations for Reparations; Californians for Equal Rights Foundation; Emend the Mass Media Group; the Lineage Equity and Advancement Project; and the Pacific Legal Foundation.

On

22, CJEC member Chris Lodgson, in the foreground, debates Sen. Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego) during a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing about her bills, SB 518 and SB 437. CBM photo by Antonio Ray Harvey.

Students from UCLA visit the State Capitol on April 22 to show support for the reparative justice bills SB 518 and SB 437, authored by Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego). CBM photo by Antonio Ray Harvey.

The White House, Washington DC (Photo by Mesut Dogan)

Thursday, August 28, 2025

Erickson-Hall Celebrates the Completion of Eisenhower High School with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

Community/Education News

Rialto, CA – Erickson-Hall Construction Co., in partnership with Rialto Unified School District, is proud to celebrate the completion of two brand-new, two-story classroom buildings at Eisenhower High School. The state-of-the-art facilities will create transformative learning experiences and promote academic success for students.

“We are so excited to unveil this new facility that will signifi cantly enhance student learning environments and support the larger community,” said Angie Lopez, Director of Facilities Planning at Rialto Unified School District. “We are proud to provide students with collaborative, high-quality learning environments that allow them to grow and succeed. Partnering with Erickson-Hall on this project has brought this vision to life in a meaningful and lasting way.”

The project scope included the construction of two new twostory buildings, which total more than 45,000 square feet.

The facilities include more than 30 new classrooms, an e-sports lab, nursing lab, photography/ digital media labs, special education classrooms, patios, exterior collaboration spaces and landscaping and irrigation systems in the courtyard.

“This project has been a rewarding experience for our team, and we are honored to partner with Rialto Unified School District on this innovative renovation that will have a positive impact on the community,” said Mat Gates, President of EricksonHall Construction Co. “The completion of this project represents our commitment to building high-quality infrastructure that seamlessly supports students in reaching their full potential.” To learn more about this or other Erickson-Hall projects, visit EricksonHall.com.

About Erickson-Hall Construction Co. Celebrating 26 years of

excellence in the construction industry, Erickson-Hall is a recognized industry leader completing over $4.5 billion in successful construction projects, of which $3.5 billion has been for K-12 and higher education developments. The employeeowned company has been serving the Southern California markets of San Diego, Imperial, Orange, South Los Angeles and Riverside Counties since 1998. Services include preconstruction, general contracting, construction

management, design-build, design assist-build, leaseleaseback and program management for educational, fire, essential services, civic, parks, recreation, faith-based, office and healthcare facilities. The company has an awardwinning portfolio of completed projects and has received numerous awards for safety. For more information, visit www.ericksonhall.com. Find us on LinkedIn and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Stronger Jobs, Stronger Communities: Six Ways the EDD Can Help Job Seekers and Employers Succeed

Labor Day is more than a long weekend. The holiday honors the contributions of workers and the legacy of the American labor movement, while also offering a moment to reflect on the challenges and opportunities facing today’s workforce — particularly in California’s diverse communities.

As the world’s 4th largest economy, California is home to 4.2 million small businesses, and nearly 290,000 of those are Black or African American-owned businesses. These minorityowned small businesses play a vital role in local economies and community growth.

Small businesses in the Golden State employ 7 million people. However, in recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey, the California unemployment rate for Black and African Americans is 10.7% (June 2025) – significantly higher than the statewide rate (5.4%) at the same time. The disparity is often associated with barriers such as limited access to resources, support, or opportunity.

That’s where the EDD can help. As a leader in the state’s workforce development system, they provide free resources to help job seekers find meaningful employment, support businesses in hiring qualified employees, and deliver vital benefits to workers when they need them most.

your résumé to CalJOBS –California’s largest job search engine. It’s fast, free, and helps connect you to thousands of employers. Employers can post job openings, browse résumés, and find great candidates.

2. Ready to level up your skills or connect with employers? Explore job fairs, résumé workshops, and career coaching at one of 181 America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) locations.

3. Need help applying for unemployment benefits? EDD makes it easy. Apply for unemployment and manage your benefits anytime online through your myEDD account. No need to visit an office – it’s all at your fingertips.

4. Looking for new ways to find and keep qualified employees?

The America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) network offers free in-person and online resources to help employers across the state hire, train, and keep employees.

5. Are you a small business owner? Manage payroll taxes the smart way. With e-Services for Business, you can file, pay, and stay on top of payroll taxes online.

6. Questions about your unemployment claim? Real help is just a phone call away. Call 1-800-300-5616, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (excluding holidays). EDD representatives are here to help.

California Coastal Cleanup Day transforms into world’s largest scavenger hunt regulation of environmentally sustainable development, strong public participation, education and effective intergovernmental coordination. The Coastal

California Coastal Cleanup Day transforms into world’s largest scavenger hunt ...continued

Community /Education News

SAN FRANCISCO —

California Coastal Cleanup Day will celebrate its 41st year this September with its first ever “Trashure Hunt.” The state’s largest volunteer event is expected to draw more than 50,000 people at hundreds of locations across the state.

The California Coastal Commission organizes the annual cleanup, which this year promises to be the world’s largest scavenger hunt. Participants can win everything from hotel stays, tickets to theme and amusement parks, gift cards, tickets to a Giants baseball game, a ceremonial first pitch at an A’s game, an e-bike, and many more worthy prizes.

More details about the Trashure Hunt — which is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 20 — can be found here. https:// www.coastal.ca.gov/publiced/ ccd/trashurehunt.html

“We’re very excited about this year’s creative twist on Coastal Cleanup Day,” said Executive Director Kate Huckelbridge. “Californians have repeatedly shown up to protect the state’s iconic shoreline, and this is our way of celebrating that dedication.”

Past cleanup events have proven so successful that the Coastal Commission introduced a self-guided program in 2020 to allow participation across the entire month of September. Last year, more than 47,000 volunteers turned out, including at over 700 cleanup sites on Coastal Cleanup Day itself.

“Volunteers are already giving so much to help protect our precious natural resources,” said Jamie Barrett, chief creative officer with pro bono ad agency Barrett Hofherr, which helped design this year’s event. “We thought it was time to reward those efforts wherever we could and hopefully entice more people to come join in on the fun.”

Cleanup Day Program is part of its effort to raise public awareness of marine and coastal resources and promote coastal stewardship.

This Labor Day, the EDD is reminding Californians that whether you’re looking for work, building your career, or running a business, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Here are six key ways they can support you every step of the way.

1. Looking for a job? Your next opportunity might be one step away. Create a profile and upload

EDD is committed to ensuring Black and African American Californians have meaningful access to the support, resources, and tools that unlock opportunity and lasting success. This Labor Day and every day, EDD is here is here to help you succeed. For more information, visit edd. ca.gov/StrongerCA.

To find the closest cleanup event near you, visit coastalcleanupday. org. Publicity posters and t-shirts are also available at the website. Follow statewide efforts on social media at facebook.com/ CaliforniaCoast and instagram. com/thecaliforniacoast/. Please share your cleanup experience on social media using the hashtag #coastalcleanupday.

California Coastal Cleanup Day event is presented by the California Coastal Commission and Niagara Cares, with support from Oracle, Nordic Naturals, the Whale Tail© Specialty License Plate, the Protect our Coast and Oceans Fund, and GreenPolly. This year’s artwork was created and generously donated by Barrett Hofherr.

Trashure Hunt prizes were generously donated by Niagara Cares, Oracle, Nordic Naturals, Vinfast, California State Parks Foundation, Cuyama Buckhorn, the San Francisco Fairmont, the Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, San Francisco Giants, A’s, Boichik Bagels, Poppy Bagels, Salida River Adventures, Well Fargo Advisors, Habit Burger, Doordash, and Intex. The Coastal Commission is committed to protecting and enhancing California’s coast and ocean for present and future generations. It does so through careful planning and

The Coastal Commission organizes the event with help from hundreds of governments and nonprofit agencies throughout the state. About 1.8 million volunteers have helped remove more than 13,500 tons of trash since the event’s launch in 1985. The most common items include cigarette filters, food wrappers, plastic straws, and other utensils. Winter rains in California can flush trash and other debris through rivers, creeks and channels from inland areas across hundreds of miles to the ocean. That means that even volunteers participating in places such as Sacramento and Riverside can help protect the coast.

Riverside, CA, August 20th, 2025—Throughout history, people in America have united to drive change. This September, during Hunger Action Month, Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino (FARSB) is calling on the Inland Empire to come together once again to end hunger in this community.

“People across the country have demonstrated immense care for their neighbors in crisis time and time again, helping to build stronger, more resilient communities,” said Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America. “Ending the hunger crisis in America is no different. When we all work together, alongside our neighbors facing hunger, we can find solutions to ensure that everyone has the food they need to thrive. This Hunger Action Month, our hope for the nation is to start building this new reality together, through unified action toward a shared vision of a hunger-free America.”

Food insecurity in America has reached its highest rate in over a decade, reaching over 47 million people facing hunger, including 14 million children. Among the communities FARSB serves, food insecurity ranges from

12.4% in Riverside County to 14.7% in San Bernardino County. With the largest cuts to SNAP (CalFresh in CA) and Medicaid in history now signed into law, food and health care will soon be further out of reach for millions of people – including children. Hunger in America is a crisis –and together, we can meet this moment.

People can get involved locally by donating to FARSB or through the actions below:

Give Funds: Every $25 helps provide up to 125 meals.

Give Food: Host a food drive in your community.

Give Time: Volunteer at our food bank or client-choice pantry by contacting VolunteerTeam@ feedingamericaie.org

“With critical programs facing funding cuts, your support is needed now more than ever,” said Carolyn Fajardo, CEO of FARSB. “Join us in raising awareness and taking action this Hunger Action Month to ensure no neighbor goes without a meal,” Fajardo continued.

Learn more about how you can take action by visiting FeedingIE. org/hungeraction

Ontario International Airport and UCR Health Upgrade Nursing Stations to Better Support Breastfeeding Families

(Ontario, California –August 25, 2025) – In honor of National Breastfeeding Month, Ontario International Airport (ONT) is proud to announce a comprehensive upgrade to its nursing facilities, in partnership with UCR Health. Building upon the modernized nursing stations initially launched in 2022, the newly upgraded spaces now feature expanded interiors, refreshed furnishings, and enhanced amenities designed to elevate comfort and privacy for nursing parents.

“We are committed to ensuring that all travelers, especially mothers, are welcomed in a safe, accessible and nurturing environment,” said Atif Elkadi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ontario International Airport Authority. “These upgraded nursing stations reflect our continued dedication to familyfriendly travel, and there is no better time than National Breastfeeding Month to amplify our support for breastfeeding mothers.”

Breastfeeding is one of the most powerful early investments in a child’s health. These aren’t just numbers – they’re lifechanging outcomes. “Research shows that exclusively breastfed infants have a 36% lower risk of sudden infant death syndrome and mothers reduce their risk of breast cancer by up to 27%,” said Dr. Brenda Ross-Shelton, Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist at UCR Health. “This is why UCR Health is thrilled to be designated as the first milk depot of UC Health Milk Bank and proud sponsor of Ontario International Airport’s nursing rooms, providing ongoing education and awareness to

parents across the region.”

Key highlights of the upgrade include:

A new nursing station in Terminal 4 and better space utilization in Terminal 2, allowing for greater privacy and comfort. Modernized décor featuring softer lighting, ergonomic seating and calming design elements to create a serene environment. Functional enhancements, including TVs, internet connectivity, added charging outlets, improved changing surfaces and accessible shelving for breastfeeding essentials. Inclusive accessibility, with upgrades ensuring full compliance with ADA standards and California Building Code— making the rooms comfortable and easy to use for all families. These enhancements build upon the foundation laid in 2022, when ONT partnered with UCR Health to introduce modernized nursing stations that offered welcoming, private spaces for mothers to nurse or pump while traveling through ONT.

August’s designation as National Breastfeeding Month reminds us all of the critical importance of providing dedicated, safe spaces for breastfeeding in public settings. ONT’s upgraded nursing rooms stand as a testament to this mission – offering travelers enhanced dignity, convenience and comfort.

FARSB Harnesses Collective Action this Hunger Action Month

Photo Credits: Feeding America Riverside | San Bernardino

Thursday, August 28, 2025

CLBC-backed redistricting bill aims to add 5 Democratic seats in US House

By Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black

California Legislative Democrats – with the support of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) — are gearing up to add five additional Democratic U.S. House of Representatives.

That move, those leaders say, counters partisan redistricting efforts in Texas.

Last week, the state Legislature passed ACA 8 which will appear on the ballot as Proposition (prop) 50 – the “Election Rigging Response Act” – in a special election set for Nov. 4. The bill gives Californians the chance to adopt a temporary Congressional map favorable to Democrats.

CLBC chair Sen. Akilah Weber Pierson (D-San Diego) stated that “California’s response is not one I take lightly” and the redistricting measures are about “defending our right to fair representation.”

“Californians have for far too long felt the consequences of decisions made far from our state, and we are now bearing the brunt of the Trump administration’s policies,” Weber Pierson stated.

“Tariffs are driving up consumer prices, changes in healthcare policy are increasing costs and narrowing access, federal support for vital infrastructure is becoming increasingly unreliable, and cuts to our educational systems are limiting opportunities for some of our most vulnerable communities,” Weber Pierson continued.

According to the CLBC, Black communities in California and across the country have been disproportionately harmed by the

policies and funding reversals of the Trump administration.

Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom (D-Stockton), also a member of the CLBC, said during the floor debate on Aug. 21 that it was necessary to pass bills to place Prop 50 on the ballot to protect California.

“This is about citizens who are terrorized. With those being bullied, in need of someone to stand up, California is not going to sit down and be a bystander,” Ransom said. “The rules have been changed, and we have to act accordingly.”

All three Black members of California’s delegation to the U.S. House of Representatives – Congresswomen Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37), Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), and Maxine Waters (D-CA-43) are not likely to be affected by the proposed redrawn Congressional maps.

In Sacramento, the 12-member CLBC was deeply involved in promoting redistricting efforts leading up to the final votes. They stood alongside their legislative colleagues voicing their support during legislative hearings and news conferences held around the state last week.

The CLBC also declared in a letter that it stands in full solidarity with the redistricting effort after Newsom signed the bill last week.

“This is not simply about politics. It is about justice, fairness, and ensuring that the voices of Black Americans are not erased from the halls of power,” CLBC stated. “The California Legislative Black

VP Vance, Defense Secretary Hegseth Lie About DC Crime as Trump Targets Cities with Black Mayors

By Lauren Burke

Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller visited Washington, DC’s Union Station on August 20. They spoke with members of the National Guard during their visit. On August 11, President Trump ordered that the National Guard be deployed in Washington, DC under an emergency authority order to deal with crime. Washington, DC, has the lowest violent crime rate in 30 years, according to ongoing data from the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). During their visit to Union Station, there were many onlookers who were not happy with a visit from Trump Administration officials.

“We’re going to ignore these stupid white hippies who all need to go home and take a nap because they’re all over 90 years old, and we’re going to get back to the business of protecting the American people and the citizens,” Miller said, apparently

referring to the negative jeers heard in the background. Miller, Hegseth, and Vance stood in Union Station’s Shake Shack, where members of the guard had gathered. Miller, who is reportedly the lead architect in Trump’s White House of many of the policies being implemented related to diversity, mass deportation, and additional police-state related actions, and the Vice President were met with jeers and boos from onlookers, some of whom chanted “free DC” during their visit.

Both Vance and Miller greeted members of the guard and made brief remarks. As their strategy has been in the past, they referred to Washington, DC, as crimeridden even though crime stats show a drop in violent crime. “If you look at what has happened in Washington, DC, in just nine days, you’ve seen a 35% reduction in violent crime, we’ve seen a fifty percent reduction in robberies because these guys are here busting their ass,” Vance told reporters as he stood around a group of National Guard members. He did not refer to where his data came from. “We do not have to allow our cities to be taken over by violence and disorder and chaos,” Vance

Caucus will continue to fight to protect the vote, defend the dignity of our communities, and uphold the promise of equality under the law.”

The debate in both houses of the State Legislature lasted about a total of six hours before the measures passed with a super majority vote by the Democrats. Republican lawmakers, in the upper and lower houses, fought against Democrats’ plans, emphasizing that electoral maps had already been drawn by the public.

Some state Republican lawmakers, however, questioned President Donald Trump’s and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s intentions to add five seats in Texas before the 2026 midterm elections.

Assembly minority leader James Gallagher (R-East Nicholaus) said Trump was utterly mistaken to request partisan gerrymandering in Texas and other states.

“I have no problem saying that I think my president is wrong. I think he is wrong on this point,” Gallagher said.

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s legislative package includes three measures. Assembly Constitutional Amendment (ACA) 8, which was authored by Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas (D-Salinas) and Sen. pro temp Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg). That legislation allows state lawmakers to adopt a new congressional map.

Assemblymember Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D-Winters) and Sen. Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) authored Assembly

Bill (AB) 604. It specifies that temporary congressional district maps would take effect if ACA 8 is approved by voters

Senate Bill (SB) 280, authored by Sen. Sabrina Cervantes (D-Riverside), along with Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz), establishes the procedures and funding for the 20205 November special election.

Prop 50 would allow voters to temporarily approve the new maps drawn by the Legislature. It seeks to redraw the state’s congressional district maps for the 2026, 2028, and 2030 elections. The maps would be used to elect members of the U.S. House of Representatives from 2026 through 2030.

If Californians vote “no” on Prop 50, existing congressional districts maps will remain in place.

Prop 50 proposes that California’s 14-member Citizens Redistricting Commission (CRC) will redraw congressional districts in 2031.

The CRC adopted the current congressional districts map on Dec. 27, 2021, for use in elections from 2022 through 2030.

Weber Pierson emphasized that the temporary redistricting proposal is designed to combat what she deems as President Trump’s interference with the 2026 mid-term election.

“If the Trump administration and Texas leaders succeed in their plan, they will solidify their ability to govern without answering for the real-world consequences of their policies,” Weber Pierson stated.

VP Vance, Defense Secretary Hegseth Lie About DC Crime as Trump Targets Cities with Black Mayors... continued

added.

Vance’s remarks were similar to what President Trump stated on August 11 as he announced an unprecedented federal government takeover of Washington, DC. Trump mentioned six cities with Black Mayors during his remarks at the White House. They were: Oakland, Washington, DC, Baltimore, New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. “So many Americans live in cities. They occupy these spaces. They know how unsafe they are, and they would love to be able to just live their life in places like Union Station without violent

criminals making it impossible,” Vance also said.

What the Trump Administration continues to focus on is allocating billions into law enforcement-related parts of the government. Videos of what appear to be members of law enforcement and others, some of whom are masked and will not identify their agency or name, have been widely seen on social media. Several states with Republican Governors are sending their National Guard units to Washington, DC, including Ohio and West Virginia.

FTC Sues to Stop Air AI from Using Deceptive Claims about Business Growth, Earnings Potential, and Refund Guarantees to Bilk Millions from Small Businesses

Agency alleges Air AI’s false promises have left many entrepreneurs and small businesses in debt, with losses up to $250,000

FTC News

The Federal Trade Commission has asked a federal court to stop Air AI from using allegedly deceptive claims about business growth, earnings potential, and refund guarantees to fleece small businesses and entrepreneurs.

The FTC alleges consumers, many of whom are small

FTC Sues to Stop Air AI from Using Deceptive Claims about Business Growth, Earnings Potential, and Refund Guarantees to Bilk Millions from Small Businesses... continued

hardworking small business owners and undermine legitimate business’s adoption of AI,” said FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection Director Christopher Mufarrige. “The FTC is focused on ensuring the promise of new technology isn’t misused as a means to mislead consumers.”

The Commission filed a complaint against Delawarebased technology company Air AI Technologies (also doing business as Air AI, Air.AI, Scale 13) , its owners—Caleb Matthew Maddix, Ryan Paul O’Donnell, and Thomas Matthew Lancer— and five other companies for their misrepresentations to consumers.

The complaint alleges that, since at least February 2023, the company and its owners have deceptively marketed and sold business coaching materials and support, coupled with a suite of business support services called an “Air AI Access Card,” as well as licenses to resell their services.

According to the complaint, the company and its operators have advertised their flagship feature as “conversational AI,” claiming that their product can replace human customer service representatives and, in combination with other services, make business owners significant sums of money. For example, the FTC alleges Air AI and its owners make claims that consumers would earn back tens of thousands of dollars in a matter of days or months and that some consumers could make millions of dollars using these services.

The FTC alleges that, despite Air AI’s promises, consumers often do not earn the promised profits or even recoup the money paid to Air AI. The agency also alleges that Air AI and its owners deceived consumers by promising that Air AI would provide full refunds to customers who do not earn a certain amount—typically twice or three times their investment within a specified number of months—or are unsatisfied with the products for any other reason. In reality, when consumers ask for a refund, the defendants rarely honor their guarantee, often delaying and leaving consumers in the dark

before cutting off communication altogether.

The Commission alleges the defendants engaged in various illegal activities, including: making false or unsubstantiated claims that people who purchase their services will or are likely to make substantial earnings; falsely claiming that purchasers of the Air AI Access Card or licenses are protected by a refund or buy-back guarantee; misrepresenting the performance, efficacy, nature, or central characteristics of their services, their refund policies, or the risk, earnings potential, or profitability of its services, in violation of the Telemarketing Sales Rule; and failing to provide consumers with required disclosure documents and earnings claims statements, making false claims about the profitability of the investment and their refund and cancellation policies, and failing to provide refunds when consumers met the refund policy requirements, in violation of the Business Opportunity Rule. The Commission vote approving the filing of the complaint was 3-0. The FTC filed the complaint in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona against: Air AI Technologies, Inc. (also doing business as Air AI, Air.AI, Scale 13), Apex Holdings Group LLC, Apex Scaling LLC, Apex 4 Kids LLC, New Life Capital LLC, Onyx Capital LLC, and Caleb Matthew Maddix, Ryan Paul O’Donnell, and Thomas Matthew Lancer.

The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and protect and educate consumers. The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at consumer. ftc.gov, or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Follow the FTC on social media, read consumer alerts and the business blog, and sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts.

business owners, lose as much as $250,000 and are often left in debt after relying on Air AI’s false promises.

“Companies that market AIrelated tools with false promises of unrealistic investment returns and guaranteed refunds harm

Administration Tries to Pretend SLAVERY Never Happened...continued from page 1

attack on the Smithsonian is not accidental. By branding the truth as “anti-American,” the administration seeks to recast America as blameless.

The logic is simple: if slavery is just a footnote, if Jim Crow was just the past, if systemic racism never existed, then there is nothing to fix. There is no reason for reparations, no reason for equity, no reason to confront police violence, mass incarceration, or economic injustice. The administration even ridiculed the National Museum of African Art’s exhibit inspired by Drexciya, a myth of children born underwater from enslaved women who died in the Middle Passage. Instead of honoring the resilience behind that vision, the White House dismissed it as “fringe”.

The Fight for Memory

The attempt to rewrite history

is part of a wider campaign. This White House has moved to criminalize protest, weaken civil rights protections, and silence Black leaders. Attacking the Smithsonian is about controlling the narrative—deciding whose story matters and whose story gets erased. The truth is this: America’s history is not just one of freedom and triumph. It is also one of bondage, violence, exclusion, and systemic theft of opportunity. To erase that truth is to dishonor every enslaved man, every woman denied her humanity, every family displaced by redlining, every child funneled into mass incarceration. The Smithsonian was created to tell America’s story in full. Today, that mission is under direct assault from a White House that has chosen denial over truth. And if the nation accepts this whitewashing, the suffering of millions will not just be forgotten—it will be erased.

Assemblymember’s Rhodesia Ransom (D-Stockton) and Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood) speak on behalf of the California Legislative Black Caucus during the Assembly floor debate over redistricting maps.CBM photo by Antonio Ray Harvey.

Gov. Gavin Newsom signs ACA 8, adopting a temporary congressional map to counteract potential gerrymandering efforts in Texas. CBM photo by Antonio Ray Harvey.

Media

Thursday, August 28, 2025 THE SAN BERNARDINO AMERICAN NEWS-

Thousands of patients insured by UnitedHealthcare cut off from in-network care at Johns Hopkins Medicine

By Megan Sayles AFRO Staff Writer

Following eight months of failed negotiations, UnitedHealthcare (UHC) will no longer offer services through Johns Hopkins Medicine (JHM) as in-network care. The move impacts thousands of patients in the Maryland area who will now have to pay out-of-pocket if they wish to continue seeing JHM providers. The ongoing dispute between JHM and the insurance company was centered on how medical care is approved and reimbursed.

In a letter to patients on Aug. 25, Theodore L. DeWeese, CEO of Johns Hopkins Medicine, and Kevin W. Sowers, president of Johns Hopkins Health System and executive vice president of Johns Hopkins Medicine, characterized the split as a matter of patient protection.

“This is not about money or small administrative issues. We have been negotiating with United to protect you from practices that put insurance company profits ahead of patient health and well-being,” wrote DeWeese and Sowers in the letter to patients. “United’s frequent use of pre-authorizations and care denials delays critical treatments, takes away time that Johns Hopkins doctors and nurses should be spending on patient care and puts patients’ health at risk. We will not sign a contract that allows an insurance company to prioritize their profits over our patients’ health.”

Nearly 60,000 patients in the Mid-Atlantic region with insurance from UnitedHealthcare

(UHC) will now face out-ofnetwork costs if they want to continue care with doctors through Johns Hopkins Medicine.

UHC officially announced that the world-renowned institution was no longer in-network on Aug. 25 after months of failed negotiations and disputes over patient care approval and reimbursement. Pregnant women, people scheduled for organ transplants and those fighting cancer may be able to finish their treatment, if they receive approval from UHC..

(AP Photo/Patrick Sison, File)

Now that facilities and providers with Johns Hopkins Medicine are considered out-ofnetwork, UHC will cover less— or none— of the costs associated with care that patients receive.

This applies to employersponsored plans, individual and family plans, Medicare Advantage plans and Medicaid plans. Johns Hopkins’ exit front the network affects nearly 60,000 people in D.C., Maryland and Virginia.

Individuals who are undergoing active or ongoing treatments for a serious or complex condition as of Aug. 25, like pregnant women and people fighting cancer, may be eligible for continuity-of-care coverage, which allows them to continue receiving care from their current provider at in-network rates until their treatment concludes.

UHC members who’ve already scheduled transplants or are currently undergoing transplant treatment as of Aug. 25 will

President Trump is “Serious” About Wanting to Go to Heaven

Nationwide — President Donald Trump said that helping end the Russia-Ukraine war could be his way into heaven. He admitted he is “at the bottom of the totem pole” when it comes to his chances of getting there.

“I want to try and get to heaven, if possible,” Trump said during a Fox & Friends interview. “I hear I’m not doing well. I am really at the bottom of the totem pole.”

He laughed before adding that achieving peace in Ukraine might help him earn his place.

Trump tied the idea of diplomacy to divine reward, suggesting that saving lives through negotiations could strengthen his spiritual standing.

He presented his role as peacemaker as part of a higher purpose.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump was not joking about the remarks. She stated that “the president was serious” in connecting peace efforts with his hope of entering heaven, according to WBLS.

also continue receiving care at in-network rates.

Since negotiations started, UHC says it’s repeatedly compromised with Johns Hopkins. However, the insurance company asserted that it could not concede on contract terms that would have allowed JHM to refuse certain patients at its discretion and required UHC to pay for claims submitted in error, like when a patient switches insurance.

UHC also says Johns Hopkins’ allegations about how the insurance company handles its claims have been misleading and inaccurate. UHC reportedly approves and pays 90 percent of claims shortly after they’ve been submitted, while the other 10 percent undergo an additional review process.

Claims can be flagged for further examination for reasons, including eligibility concerns, duplicate submissions, documentation issues, coverage questions or clinical review. Once the additional review process is

complete, UHC’s approval rate sits at 98 percent.

“Johns Hopkins refused to move off contractual terms no other health system in our network requires, including language that would allow it to deny patient access at its discretion. Despite our repeated efforts to compromise and extend our contract to avoid disruption, Johns Hopkins refused,” said Joseph Ochipinti, CEO of UHC in the Mid-Atlantic region, in a statement sent to the AFRO.

“While we remain committed to continued negotiation, our top priority now is providing people with the care they need through continuity of care or a smooth transition to another provider as appropriate.”

Both institutions have vowed to continue negotiations amid the split, while patients navigate continuity-of-care options or find alternate providers. UHC members can visit https://www. uhc.com/hopkins/faqs for more information.

The All-Natural Ingredient to Ease All Digestive Issues

Health News

Honey: The Ultimate Gut Healer

Alright, picture this: you're relaxing at home after a night of indulgence, maybe one too many tacos or slices of pizza. Suddenly, your gut starts staging a full-on rebellion. Bloating, cramping, and all-around discomfort become your new best friends. Do not stress, because there's a sweet solution hiding in your pantry – honey.

Now, I know what you're thinking. Honey? Isn't that just something you drizzle on your morning toast or stir into your tea? Well actually, honey is more than just a sweet treat. It's the secret weapon against digestive drama, the unsung hero of gut health in the concrete jungle. So, why exactly is honey the MVP of digestive wellness? Let me break it down.

First off, honey is nature's nectar of anti-inflammatory goodness. You know that fiery feeling you get in your gut when things aren't quite right? Yeah, honey's got your back. Its anti-inflammatory

The remarks quickly drew attention. Critics, former aides, and political observers questioned whether the comments signaled deeper concerns, citing Trump’s recent public appearances, energy levels, and overall health.

Groups such as the Lincoln Project and American Bridge 21st Century highlighted his “bottom of the totem pole” remark, linking it to speculation about his mental sharpness and stamina.

In recent months, Trump has leaned more on religious language. After surviving an assassination attempt last year, he said he was “saved by God” and often invokes divine guidance when discussing global conflicts. He continues to present himself as a “mediator-in-chief,” citing his involvement in conflicts in the Middle East and South Asia, though many of those claims remain disputed. He also ties his pursuit of recognition, such as the Nobel Peace Prize, to his hope for spiritual validation.

properties work wonders for calming down the raging flames of indigestion and soothing irritated stomach linings. No more feeling like your insides are staging a protest – honey swoops in like a superhero to save the day.

But wait, there's more! Honey isn't just anti-inflammatory – it's also a crazy bacteria buster. Ever heard of the phrase "bad bacteria, be gone"? Well, that's honey's mantra.

Its antimicrobial properties help clear out the nasties lurking in your gut, from pesky pathogens to unwanted guests causing chaos in your digestive system. Say goodbye to stomach bugs and hello to smooth sailing in your belly.

Now, let's talk about honey's magical ability to support your gut buddies – the good bacteria. You see, your gut is home to a whole ecosystem of microorganisms that play a crucial role in your overall health.

And guess what? Honey is like a VIP pass for these friendly bacteria. Its prebiotic properties provide them with the nourishment they need to thrive, keeping your gut flora happy, balanced, and ready to tackle whatever you throw at them.

But here's the kicker – honey isn't just a one-trick pony when it comes to digestive relief. It's

continued on page 6

Former AME Zion Bishop Pleads Guilty in Widespread Church Fraud Case

By Tashi McQueen

Staccato Powell, a former bishop of the African Methodist Episocopal (AME) Zion Church, has pleaded guilty to wire and mail fraud and conspiracy to commit fraudulent activity. The crimes were connected to an extensive scheme to gain control of properties belonging

Former AME Zion Bishop Pleads Guilty in Widespread Church Fraud Case...continued

the guilty plea on July 15. Powell, 65, was officially disrobed by the AME Zion Church in 2021. The denomination, with approximately 1.4 million members worldwide, remains a pillar of the African-American community.

Powell was indicted on Jan. 25, 2022, by a federal jury, alongside Sheila Quintana, a former church lay leader. Quintana, 71, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud on April 22.

Court documents say Powell and Quintana were chief executive officer and chief financial officer, respectively, of Western Episcopal District, Inc., (WED) an entity that Powell established in 2016 after he was chosen as bishop of the AME Zion Church’s Western Episcopal District.

In 2016, Powell directed pastors of AME Zion churches in the Western Episcopal District, which consists of churches in several states throughout the western region of the U.S., to sign deeds granting WED title to their congregation’s property – such as the church building, lots and residences used by the pastors. At Powell’s instruction, Quintana and other WED officers worked to complete the transfer of the titles via grant deeds.

From early 2017, Powell directed Quintana and other officers to secure loans using the properties of local AME Zion churches as collateral.To comply

with what lenders wanted, Powell arranged for the creation of false church resolution documents to support WED’s loan applications. He told Quintana to create and sign these documents on behalf of local church officers.

Powell pleaded guilty to fraudulently gaining control of mortgages on the following church properties: Kyles Temple in Vallejo, Calif.; First AME Zion Church in San Jose, Calif.; Greater Cooper AME Zion Church in Oakland, Calif.; University AME Zion Church of Palo Alto, Calif.; and First AME Zion Church in Los Angeles. As part of his guilty plea, Powell agreed to pay restitution of no less than $3 million and no greater than $12.5 million. He also agreed to surrender any claim, right or interest in the properties of AME Zion Church. Powell is currently out on bond, according to prosecutors. Powell’s sentencing hearing is set for Sept. 23. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years and a $250,000 fine for each count. At the time of publication, the Board of Bishops of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church had not released a statement regarding the announcement. The post Former AME Zion bishop pleads guilty in widespread church fraud case appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

WITNESS FOR JUSTICE Issue #1270

Naming Distraction

Cheryl Lindsay

In recent weeks, I have noted the increasing tendency of political pundits and media personalities to refer to certain actions from the federal government as “distractions.” They point to one issue that seems to be their only concern while discounting the impact of other actions as trivial attempts at attentiongetting that don’t warrant much concern. The seemingly neverending waves of executive action and chaotic communication strategy can be overwhelming and lead to wide-scale apathy or resignation. Yet, the idea that the federal government, especially the military, overriding local government only results in a distraction seems absurd and myopic.

Media personalities have compared the deployment of the National Guard in Washington, DC to similar efforts in Los Angeles. Both are major US cities led by women of African descent. Ironically, LA and DC currently enjoy record low crime rates despite the baseless rationale given for the deployment. The major difference between the two cities is that one, in the District of Columbia, lacks a state government and has been forced to rely on the federal government for functions that Los Angeles can turn to California’s state legislative and executive branches to perform. Interestingly, the Attorney General of the District of Columbia does not share the “distraction” viewpoint and has sued the federal government.

Yes, there have been reports of the remnant of the National Guard and military in California sitting around with nothing to do. Yet, that only partially describes the impact of these deployments.

to the church in California. Powell was responsible for forged documents, deception and false statements, according to the United States Attorney’s Office of the Northern District of California, which announced

Members of marginalized communities experience the brunt of these so-called efforts at distraction. Reports of harassment of Black and Brown people can be found from media who take government overreach seriously regardless of motives or tangential impact. Just this

week, the governor of my state has responded affirmatively to the administration's request to send 150 members of the Ohio National Guard to Washington. I’m sure those individuals, who will need to leave their families, homes, and livelihoods for an indeterminate amount of time would not consider this a distraction. I have attempted to call the governor’s office to no avail as no one answers and the voicemail is full—of messages from Ohioans who do not consider this action a distraction, I am sure. Perhaps the most insidious aspect of these deployments is the normalization of the United States military being deployed internally in a move far too similar to a foreign nation attempting to overcome a sovereign government. For all their faults and deep failings, the authors of the Constitution structured a divided system of government both functionally (legislative, judicial, and executive) and geographically (local, state, and federal). Local and state governments can request federal assistance but the federal government cannot lawfully override their sovereignty.

There has been no indication that the local law enforcement, who are trained for public safety in a way that National Guard and military members are not, are understaffed or failing their assignment. Again, crime rates have reached historic lows. Further, when the mayor sought the assistance of neighboring National Guards on January 6, 2021, they waited in vain for an order from the federal government when both local and federal police were overwhelmed with an insurrectionist mob besieging the Capitol. The selective use of executive power is not a distraction but a consistent characteristic of an administration using its power for political purposes. From that, in whatever form, we the people cannot afford to be distracted.

Lifestyle News

White Woman Rants to Store Manager: “Your Employees Act Like Brown People”

in a New York grocery store going on a racist rant against Black and Muslim people before being escorted out by staff and security. The clip has sparked outrage online.

According to Atlanta Black Star, the incident happened inside a PriceRite store, where the woman loudly hurled insults at employees and shoppers. Witnesses filmed her as she shouted offensive remarks, drawing shocked reactions from those nearby.

“California

Must Lead With Courage” — NAACP Urges Legislature to Pass Stalling Reparations Bills...continued from page 1 reports to the Legislature and the Governor’s office until all funding is spent, and the necessary information or evidence is fully collected.

The Legislature has not publicly explained how the remaining $6 million will be used.

According to the California Department of Justice (DOJ), SB 518 will cost approximately $11.3 million in fiscal year (FY) 2025-26, and 18 million each year thereafter.

“These costs are largely for staffing; the department estimates it will need about 85 new staff positions spread across DOJ’s existing legal, information services, and research divisions to handle the workload required of the bureau,” the DOJ bill analysis reads.

Her anger grew as she shouted, “Nobody would let her kid date a Brown dude! No self-respecting white man would let their kid date a Brown man!” Shoppers looked on as she continued her tirade.

A security guard, who is Black, eventually stepped in, gathered her belongings, and directed her toward the exit. She resisted at first but was escorted out. Even as she left, she shouted more insults at Black, Brown, and Muslim communities.

“We all know the crime stats! Black women are more likely to murder than white men! F*** Brown people! F*** Black people! F*** Muslims! You guys suck a**!” she said.

She first mocked Muslim people, saying, “Yeah, the Muslims are really gonna take good care of you.” A man, believed to be the store manager, quickly stepped in and told her to stop. She then mocked a customer’s Black relative, yelling, “Oh, he’s your brother cause he ain’t white! He ain’t got no white skin!” The confrontation escalated when the manager asked her to leave. Instead of backing down, the woman accused staff of mistreating her. “Can your employees stop heckling me and act more professionally and not like Brown people?” she said. The manager, who is white, responded that he was personally offended, revealing his daughter was dating a Muslim man.

Gladys Knight’s Son Says His Mom Has Early Dementia, Accuses Her Husband of Elder Abuse

Nationwide — Gladys Knight’s son, Shanga Hankerson, says his mother has early dementia and has accused her husband, William McDowell, of elder abuse. He claims McDowell is making her continue touring despite her declining health.

Hankerson filed a complaint with the North Carolina Department of Human Services, saying his mother’s ongoing performances on “The Queen’s Tour” are taking a toll. He believes McDowell is downplaying her struggles while she shares the stage with Patti LaBelle, Chaka Khan, and Stephanie Mills.

He pointed to a concert last summer when Knight allegedly zoned out and forgot to sing her part. He also said her personality has shifted over the past few years, changing from calm and gentle to more aggressive, especially when confused about her location or her husband’s whereabouts.

“She’s being made to think that she needs to work, and what that means is that he’s not going to be present with her,” Hankerson said, according to The Root.

Hankerson recalled an incident last year when Knight wandered from her hotel and ended up

across town. Staff recognized her but noticed she couldn’t clearly explain why she was there. They contacted her daughter, who reached out to longtime road manager Larry Ward for help.

Since filing the complaint, Hankerson says he has received several text messages from McDowell. In one, McDowell insisted Knight is “happy and loved” and asked for peace. In another, he warned that involving police or social services could harm what Knight is “trying to maintain.”

McDowell also allegedly told Hankerson that Knight has “Sundowner’s Syndrome,” which can cause confusion in the evenings. But Hankerson claims the family has been kept in the dark about her medical visits and overall condition.

Hankerson insists he isn’t trying to sabotage the tour. He says he simply doesn’t want his mother traveling and performing in her state.

“That’s my mom, I truly love her. And don’t care about her ever working a second longer while she’s alive. The direction that she’s going in is pushing her to her departure, and I don’t want to see that,” he said.

In February, California Black Media (CBM) asked Weber Pierson about the allocation of the other $6 million.

“We’re still in communications about that one,” Weber Pierson said.

Last year, lawmakers did not bring two key reparations bills to a vote. One was SB 1403, which would have created an agency to oversee reparations-related work. The other, SB 1331, sought to establish a fund for future reparations payments.

Both bills were authored by then-CLBC member and former State Sen. Steven Bradford, who represented a Los Angeles district that included Gardena and Inglewood.

A year later, SB 518 and SB 437 have been advancing through the Legislature with the full support of the CLBC.

“Holding these bills in suspense would stall progress on equity and fairness at a time when our communities cannot afford delay,” the NAACP CAHi State Conference letter stated.

“We call on the committee to advance both measures so that California can continue to lead on justice, accountability, and equal opportunity.”

The All-Natural Ingredient to Ease All Digestive Issues...continued from page 4

also a soothing elixir for your troubled tummy. Its smooth texture coats the lining of your digestive tract like a warm hug, easing the passage of food and calming any irritation along the way. No more feeling like you've swallowed a fireball – honey turns down the heat and brings on the comfort.

And let's not forget about honey's sweet side – its natural sugars provide a gentle source of energy to fuel your digestive system and keep things moving smoothly. No more sluggishness or bloating – honey gives your gut the boost it needs to keep on truckin' through the day.

But hey, don't just take my word for it – honey has been a go-to remedy for digestive issues since ancient times. From

the Egyptians to the Greeks, cultures around the world have long recognized honey's healing powers when it comes to taming tummy troubles.

And in today's fast-paced urban jungle, where stress and processed foods reign supreme, honey is more relevant than ever as a natural antidote to digestive distress.

So, next time your gut starts throwing a tantrum, don't reach for the antacids or prescription meds. Reach for the honey jar instead and let nature work its magic. Your gut will thank you, and you'll be back to living your best urban life in no time – one sweet spoonful at a time.

By Deja Washington |

Published March 26, 2024

Black Patient May Become First Person in Louisiana to Be Cured of Sickle Cell Disease

National News

Nationwide — Daniel Cressy, a 22-year-old African American man from New Orleans, Louisiana, is hoping to make history as the first person in the state to be cured of sickle cell disease using a groundbreaking new gene therapy.

Daniel, who dreams of one day becoming a pilot, has been told he can only obtain a pilot’s license if he is fully cured of the disease. On Wednesday, he began the first step toward that goal at Manning Family Children’s Hospital, where he underwent the first of two six-hour sessions to collect his stem cells.

According to WWLTV, those cells will be sent overseas for genetic editing, designed to correct the defect that causes his body to produce misshapen, sickle-shaped red blood cells. The edited cells will then be reintroduced into his body,

with the goal of allowing him to produce healthy, normally shaped red blood cells.

“Honestly, it’s a relief,” said Daniel. “It’s been a long time coming, and this is such a big step. We’re just hoping they collect enough cells so the process can move forward quickly.”

Until now, the only longterm treatment for sickle cell disease has been a bone marrow transplant, which requires a close genetic match—something not all patients have. This new therapy offers an alternative for many who have had few options.

Manning Family Children’s is currently the only hospital in the entire state of Louisiana offering both bone marrow transplants and gene therapy treatments for children and young adults in their late teens and early 20s.

S S I F I E D S G O H E R E

Thursday, August 28, 2025

How arti fi cial intelligence furthers environmental racism in Black America

By Rev. Dr. Heber Brown

When one of my best friends (who is also a pastor) encouraged me to look into utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) tools for ministry purposes, I was exhilarated. It seemed like a game-changer at my fingertips. I used it to make presentations and outline Bible studies, saving time on the tasks that often fill my days. The opportunities seemed endless, and the convenience was remarkable. Regular projects and tasks that I had poured effort into before could now be completed in mere seconds. Not only did I start utilizing it, but I started singing its praises as well to all who would listen.

Then, earlier this summer, I was invited to teach a class entitled “The Integration of Land, Food and Faith Formation in Ministry” at Memphis Theological Seminary. In an effort to utilize the city of Memphis as part of learning opportunities for my class, I began studying the local environmental justice scene. It was then that I learned things about AI that shifted my perspective and put a damper on my enthusiasm. While teaching my class, I learned that what is touted as the largest supercomputer in the world resides in Memphis. This massive facility was established by Elon Musk to support his artificial intelligence company

called xAI.

Musk’s supercomputer facility is near a community called Boxtown, a neighborhood in South Memphis where over 90 percent of the residents are African American. Boxtown was established in 1863 by formerly enslaved Black families shortly after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. It has long been a site of political and economic neglect as well as a desired location for environmentally harmful corporations.

Now, Boxtown is an immediate neighbor of Elon Musk’s supercomputer facility, which is located just three miles away. Residents of Boxtown are alleging that xAI is polluting the air, the water and affecting the physical health of people in their community.

This xAI facility is filling the surrounding area — including Boxtown — with smog and harmful chemicals. Its gas turbines are releasing so much pollution that residents are saying that they can barely breathe. It has added significantly to the pollution produced by the 17 or some-odd industrial facilities in the same block of real estate.

The more I pulled back the curtain, the more I saw the ethical and environmental issues lurking behind artificial intelligence (AI).

From Musk’s supercomputers to Mark Zuckerberg’s (cofounder of Facebook) massive data centers and the countless AI facilities being quickly built by billionaires in communities around the country.

Each and every search on an AI platform expends enormous amounts of energy. Each task that we complete on these platforms pumps pollution into the air we breathe, the water we drink and the soil we eat from.

AI, as currently engineered, is an environmental disaster and a threat to all who live, work, worship or play near its facilities.

As the founder of The Black Church Food Security Network, I focus primarily on organizing African-American congregations to grow food on their land and develop mutually beneficial partnerships with Black farmers in an effort to cultivate the development of Black-owned food ecosystems across the country. However, I do not have the luxury of separating issues here. Environmental racism, such as what is occurring in Boxtown, is inherently connected to the health, food justice needs and overall well-being of Black communities.

AI supercomputers negatively impact the environment, agriculture and food. Black communities are among those being disproportionately affected. Residents of Boxtown are being hit with increased rates of asthma and heart disease and a cancer risk more than four times the national average.

It is no coincidence that xAI, or any of the other industrial facilities, chose to develop in this neighborhood. The decision to develop in Memphis, in Boxtown, is the result of a long legacy of environmental racism. Black communities have been victimized over and over again in the name of science, development and job creation.

This is not just about Boxtown or Memphis. It’s about Black communities everywhere.

Black people have a right to health. We have a right to breathe clean air. We have a right to leave our homes without fear of pollutants entering our bodies at

8 Diseases Doctors Often Misdiagnose

“Oh, you just have anxiety or panic attacks,” is what one doctor told his patient. Little did he know she was suffering from something much more complex and detrimental to her body than what he diagnosed. While we don’t know the nature of the doctor’s diagnosis or what underlying bias or thought patterns that would lead him to the lesser diagnosis, we do know that anxiety gets diagnosed much too often. It aslo gets confused with other diseases.

So today, we want to arm you with the knowledge and tools to be the best patient advocate you can be for yourself and your family to speak up if something doesn’t feel right when you get diagnosed with anxiety.

What Really Is Anxiety, Anyway?

Anxiety is a common mental health condition characterized by excessive and persistent worry, fear, and unease. It can manifest in various ways, including:

Emotional symptoms: Feeling overwhelmed, restless, irritable, and constantly on edge. Physical symptoms: Rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, and difficulty sleeping.

Cognitive symptoms: Difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and intrusive

thoughts.

Anxiety can be triggered by a wide range of factors, such as stressful life events, genetics, and underlying medical conditions. While occasional anxiety is normal, persistent and severe anxiety can significantly interfere with daily life and well-being.

Why Some Doctors Make the Mistake of Diagnosing Anxiety

Anxiety symptoms overlap with those of other medical issues, which makes it easy for both patients and clinicians to mistake a physical condition for one related to mental health And if a patient has a history of anxiety, their provider will typically be even quicker to assume that physical symptoms are a recurrence, rather than a sign of something new.

Other research has found that clinicians’ lack of knowledge is partly to blame. Limited time with patients also plays a role.

1. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) PCOS is a hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges.

Anxiety disorders are also commonTrusted Source among people with PCOS.

disproportionate levels.

I am clear. Increasing our capacity to grow our own food and establish our own food ecosystems is necessary to satisfy our basic needs and decrease our dependence on corporations and the government to feed us. However, African Americans must not stop there. Food sovereignty and nutrition must work hand-in-hand with the proper stewardship of the natural environment; one without the other will continue to create lingering problems.

Since my time in Memphis, I have pulled back from AI. My ability to perform any of the tasks I once delegated to AI has not diminished. AI may work faster, but becoming knowledgeable of its harms to my people put a stop to the excitement for me. Until this technology and the industries surrounding it are better informed by ethics, concern for the poor and racial and environmental justice, I will not be able to, in good conscience, promote it or participate uncritically on its platforms.

While it may be impossible to stop this new technology in its tracks altogether, our use of AI must be selective and measured. We must reasonably weigh its values against its harms. We cannot compromise our ethics in the name of “convenience” or rushing to get a seat at the table as the industry takes off.

The “convenience” that AI provides will never be worth the havoc it wreaks on the environment and our health. Protecting the profits of the richest White men in the world will never be worth more than a single human life, let alone entire Black communities.

I will do my level best to use technology responsibly, ethically and undergirded by my allegiance to the God of my understanding who wishes above all that we prosper and be in health, even as our souls prosper.

This commentary was originally published by Word in Black.The opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the AFRO.

as Anxiety

Why PCOS mimics anxiety: Hormonal imbalances can lead to mood changes, fatigue, and irritability, which are common in anxiety disorders.

Why it is Different: An important characteristic of PCOS is higher-than-usual testosterone levels, which can be determined via a blood test. Other PCOS symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth, acne, and weight gain.

2. Overactive Thyroid Anxiety can trigger sweating and flushing, especially during panic attacks. But conditions like an overactive thyroid, menopause, or early onset of a serious infection can, too. The overlapping symptoms can lead to misdiagnosis and improper treatment. Blood work can help doctors figure out the best course of action. So can active listening. Your communication skills are can be critical in helping you get the right diagnosis.

Experts recommend doctors should ask open-ended questions and make it clear that they’re hearing what patients say while remaining nonjudgmental. That can encourage people to share not only the details of their current illness, but also their social history, family history, and past medical history, he says—all of

8 Diseases Doctors Often Misdiagnose as Anxiety...continued

a healthcare professional may order a colonoscopy and imaging studies.

4. Asthma

Asthma and anxiety are two common conditions that often coexist. Anxiety can worsen asthma symptoms, while asthma can also trigger anxiety.

Both it and anxiety can cause shortness of breath, chest pain, and lightheadedness. And both can be triggered by stressors like relationship or financial problems. Many people with asthma also have panic attacks. You may think it’s anxiety if you start to have these symptoms as an adult, but you could be dealing with adult-onset asthma. Red flags include wheezing, coughing, and symptoms that change day by day.

Why it is Different:

Fear of attacks: People with asthma may experience fear and anxiety about having an asthma attack, which can lead to increased vigilance and tension.

Social stigma: Asthma can sometimes be stigmatized, which can lead to feelings of shame and anxiety.

Sleep disturbances: Asthma attacks can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and anxiety.

Chronic illness: Living with a chronic condition like asthma can be stressful, which can increase the risk of developing anxiety.

5. Congestive Heart Failure Anxiety is common in people with congestive heart failure and can worsen the condition. Anxiety can also contribute to the development of heart failure.

Anxiety disorders are associated with an increased incidence of cardiovascular disease, frequent panic attacks, and worse cardiac outcomes. PTSD is linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, increased rates of re-hospitalization, and decreased adherence to treatment regimens. Cardiac illnesses such as angina, arrhythmias, cardiac tamponade, congestive heart failure (left sided), myocardial infarction, or valvular disease may present as anxiety.

A natural reaction to a sudden heart attack can be similar to

which can be illuminating.

Yes, hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, can cause anxiety. Other symptoms include nervousness, irritability, and mood swings.

Why it is Different: Hyperthyroidism can cause anxiety-like symptoms that mimic other psychiatric disorders. The more severe the thyroid disease, the more severe the mood changes. Differences can be found in the testing. Blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels and a thyroid ultrasound to check for nodules can absolutely help.

3. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) IBD is a group of conditions that involve chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. It includes conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Why IBD mimics anxiety: Symptoms, like abdominal pain, cramping, and fatigue, can lead to significant stress and anxiety. Stomach pain can also be a symptom of anxiety.

Why it is Different: IBD symptoms often include chronic diarrhea, blood in the stool, and weight loss. To diagnose IBD,

post-traumatic stress disorder like:

You’re likely to be shocked by your near-death experience and extremely hesitant to do the things you used to do. You might constantly relive the life-threatening event, and avoid the activity or place associated with the heart attack. Recurring anxious thoughts may impede your ability to get regular sleep. Your thoughts about what lies ahead may be extremely negative and cause a drastically foreshortened outlook of the future.

Why it is Different:

According to the National Institutes of Health, panic attacks and heart attacks can share similar if not identical symptoms. Anyone suffering from sudden and severe chest pain—whether being treated for anxiety disorder or not— should go to the emergency room. The physician will test the patient’s blood for specific heart muscle enzymes. If none are found, it’s usually not a heart attack.

A cardiologist sensitive to the issues of anxiety and depression will know how to sort out panic attack symptoms from heart attack symptoms, and will be able to refer the patient for treatment for panic disorder or any other type of anxiety.

6. Diabetes

People with diabetes are 20% more likely than those without diabetes to have anxiety. With uncontrolled diabetes, sugar rushes and dips can lead to trembling, sweating, and a fast heart rate. It can cause headaches and nausea, too. These symptoms are sometimes confused with anxiety. Talk to your doctor if you’re often very hungry, thirsty, tired, or peeing a lot. Or if you’re losing weight, have blurry vision, dry skin, or sores that heal slowly. You may need your blood sugar tested.

Why it is Different:

Doctors may ask people with diabetes to remain mindful of their blood sugar levels and to engage in routine behaviors, such as:

Rev. Dr. Heber Brown, III is an author, pastor and founder of The Black Church Food Security Network. This week, he discusses the impact of artificial intelligence on the Black community. (Photo courtesy of Word in Black)

By Derrick Lane | Published February 3, 2025

Thursday, August 28, 2025

Tariffs Are Freezing the US Economy, Warns Stanford Economist

By Sunita Sohrabji

“Much of this is self-inflicted. If we turn the page on tariffs by locking them in or by rolling them back, I think the economy would slowly start to recover. But there's been no signals of Trump changing his tune.” — Stanford economist Dr. Neale Mahoney.

American consumers are feeling the burden of President Donald Trump’s global tariffs plan, both at the checkout counter and in the labor market.

“Tariffs are a tax on consumer goods, and in particular for goods like clothing, electronics, coffee, furniture, and toys,” said Dr. Neale Mahoney, Director of the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research.

“As we head into the Christmas shopping season, we expect to see fairly large price increases,” said the Stanford professor of economics, while speaking at an Aug. 15 news briefing hosted by American Community Media.

Trump’s sweeping plan — which he is still negotiating with several countries after announcing the initiative April 2 — imposes an average 15.8% tariff across the board. Some countries, such as China, Brazil, Canada, and India, face far higher tariffs. India and Brazil currently have been slapped with 50% levies, largely punitive, while China faces a 145% tariff on goods — except certain high-end electronics — unless

it can successfully negotiate with Trump before November. The president has also increased tariffs on Canada, an ally, from 25% to 35%.

Price Increases Mahoney noted that the US imports about 10% of its consumer goods. He predicted that consumers would overall see a 1.5% rise in prices. “The effects are meaningful, but not catastrophic. But prices overall are moving in the wrong direction.”

The economist noted that Trump had inherited an economy that was “the envy of the world.”

But the uncertainty of not knowing where tariffs are going to spike next has squandered that advantage, he added.

“In 2024, the economy grew at 2.5%. This year, it’s growing at 1.2%, half that amount. Last year, consumer spending was driving the economy growing at 3%.

This year, consumer spending is flatlined as consumers are sitting on the sideline. Inflation was decreasing last year. Now it’s picking up. We haven’t seen a

large increase in unemployment, but we could be heading in that direction,” said Mahoney.

Labor Market Cooling

Employers are holding back and not replacing employees as they leave. Firms are holding back on new hiring. “While we’ve seen pockets of layoffs, we haven’t seen widespread layoffs yet. I hope we avoid them. But the sequence we’ve seen in the past is first firms hold back on hiring, and then there’s layoffs next,” said Mahoney.

“The strength in the economy right now — to the extent there is — is the stock market, in particular, people who are

8 Diseases Doctors Often Misdiagnose as Anxiety...continued from page 7

invested in these ‘magnificent seven’ AI-focused stocks. For many other Americans, I think we’re already seeing warning signs. Prices are increasing. It’s harder to find jobs.”

“The bill that was passed this summer looks to make massive cuts in Medicaid and in food stamps. The Affordable Care Act exchanges that many small business owners and other working and middle-class people

rely on for coverage are facing huge premium increases, which are going to squeeze budgets further. So this is a very difficult time, with higher prices, worse labor market prospects, and a social safety net that is being frankly shredded by Republicans in Congress and the Trump administration,” said Mahoney.

Rolling Back Tariffs

“The good news is that much of this is self-inflicted. If we turn the page on tariffs by locking them in or by rolling them back, I think the economy would slowly start to recover. I think the bad news is there’s been no signals of Trump changing his tune.”

paying particular attention to food ingredients avoiding certain foods tracking blood sugar levels regularly throughout the day timing insulin doses Planning, checking, and being prepared for a wide range of challenges are all important for effective diabetes management. However, some people may worry excessively about their blood sugar levels or how their disease may progress. These concerns may trigger episodes of anxiety.

According to the National Library of Medicine, anxiety is “excessive worry or fear at real or imagined situations.” The emotional challenges of living with diabetes can also trigger anxiety.

7. Hypoglycemia

Metabolic issues might include hyperkalemia, hyperthermia, hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, hypoxia, porphyria, or substance ingestion/overdose. Biologically, acute anxiety may be the first sign of exacerbation of an underlying illness, an undiagnosed medical condition, or substance intoxication or withdrawal.

Why it is Different:

”Instead, the strategy seems to be just to distract from the economy with the stunts we’re seeing in Washington, D.C., and to bury some of the less flattering data,” said Mahoney.

“This environment we’re in, where tariffs are on again, off again… I understand that the administration frames this as the art of negotiation, but it’s really freezing the economy in troubling ways.”

There are a number of ways hypoglycemia can trigger xnxiety:

Physiological changes: When blood sugar levels drop, the body releases hormones like

adrenaline and cortisol, which can increase heart rate, sweating, and tremors. These physical symptoms can be similar to those experienced during anxiety.

Cognitive impairment: Hypoglycemia can impair cognitive function, making it difficult to concentrate, make decisions, and control emotions. This can lead to feelings of panic and fear. Fear of hypoglycemia: People with diabetes or other conditions that predispose them to hypoglycemia may develop a fear of experiencing it. This fear can manifest as anxiety when blood sugar levels drop.

8. Fibromyalgia

Because the symptoms are vague, this pain disorder that can go on for decades is hard to diagnose. It often causes sleep trouble, fatigue, memory and concentration problems, headaches, and emotional and mental distress. Doctors may assume you have anxiety, which can also involve general aches and pains. If that doesn’t sound right, see a rheumatologist. Some people also have jaw pain, digestive problems, and tingling or numbness in their hands and feet.

To aid in diagnosis, the patient examination includes a detailed history; focused physical examination; complete review of medications; collateral information; and diagnostic testing, such as toxicology screens.

You Can View The Thursday E-Edition of The San Bernardino AMERICAN NEWS Weekly on our website: sb-american.com

Experts: It Will Take Trust – The Benefits to Including Black Californians in Clinical Trials

By Edward Henderson | California Black Caucus

Doctors have earned a reputation of being the worst patients.

Dr. Jeffery Wayne, a Sacramento internal medicine specialist, played into this stereotype in 2016 after refusing to go to the hospital despite experiencing chest pains. Once the symptoms reached a point where he could barely walk due to the pain, he finally agreed to visit the emergency room.

Wayne found out he was experiencing a heart attack.

“I share this because maybe it’s relatable,” said Wayne at a California Black Health Network (CBHN) webinar held last week.

“This isn’t just a white doctor speaking to Black Americans — it’s one human being to another,” he said. “It was a wake-up call. Along with the heart attack, I was diagnosed with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and pre-diabetes.”

The diagnosis and subsequent treatment drove Wayne’s interest in researching clinical trials and new medications. To date he has conducted over 300 clinical trials.

“Many people don’t know much about clinical trials, or they’re skeptical; fearing the unknown side effects or feeling like a ‘guinea pig.’ The benefits of participating include access to new treatments, enhanced medical care, and contributing to medical advancements. For many, it also provides a sense of purpose and greater involvement in their own healthcare,” Wayne stated.

African Americans have been historically underrepresented in clinical trials. According to a 2020 FDA report, 8% of research participants were Black while 75% were white.

Rhonda Smith, CEO of CBHN, attributes this lack of participation to individual, community, and systematic

factors.

“At the individual level, our community often holds onto a mindset of mistrust — and rightly so. If you think about the Tuskegee Syphilis Study or the story of Henrietta Lacks, there’s a long history of reasons not to trust the healthcare system or providers,” Smith said during the webinar.

“At the community level,” she continued, “many clinical trials simply aren’t located where Black people live. At the system level, White providers don’t always present clinical trials as an option to patients of color, even in critical moments such as a stage four cancer diagnosis.”

California has taken measures to increase protections for research participants under the Clinical Trial Bill of Rights. The legislation guarantees their right to voluntary, informed consent and providing specific information about studies they participate in, ensuring access to care and respectful treatment, protecting their privacy and confidentiality, and upholding their right to withdraw from the study at any time without penalty.

California is the only state in the country with this specific type of legislation.

Not only does participating in clinical trials present benefits for individuals, the information gathered from participants of color can also impact how

communities are accounted for in groundbreaking medicine, public health experts say.

George Clayton, a pharmaceutical expert for over 20 years, is a staunch advocate for inclusive medical research.

“The life sciences industry needs to know: ‘Does this medicine work in all the populations affected by the disease?’ If African Americans make up a significant percentage of people with hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease, then studies must reflect that,” said Clayton.” Otherwise, when the medicine comes to market, we won’t know if it’s truly safe and effective for those populations. This is why representation should be a requirement.”

For those interested in learning more about what clinical trials are available and how to participate, the most common first step would be starting with your doctor and telling them you’re interested in participating in a trial.

Another resource is clinicaltrials.gov, which lists every trial in the U.S. You can search by condition and Zip Code.

The panelists agreed that building a relationship with a clinical site location beyond just one study increases trust and provides insight on new studies that are on the horizon.

Jason Leung photo via Unsplash (copyright free image)