TRI-STATE DEFENDER
Tennessee Senate passes resolution seeking investigation of three district attorneys
By James Coleman Special to The Tri-State Defender
Tennessee legislators approved a resolution asking the state Supreme Court to form a panel to investigate alleged misconduct by three district attorneys, including Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy.
changes led to a “revolving door” of repeat offenders quickly released after arrest.
The bail policy was enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic and amid shifting public attitudes toward the criminal justice system following the 2020 George Floyd protests.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Tri-State Defender, 1509 Madison Ave., Memphis, TN, 38104. GENERAL INFORMATION: Inquiries may be submitted in writing or by calling (901) 523-1818 or by email. TELEPHONE: (901) 523-1818.
The Tri-State Defender (USPS 780-220) is published weekly. The Tri-State Defender 1509 Madison Ave. Memphis, TN, 38104. Second-class postage paid in Memphis, TN.
The Tri-State Defender is a member of The National Newspaper Publishers Association and the Tennessee Press Association.
materials covered by copyright. No materials herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. (901) 523-1818 | 1509 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
The Senate passed the measure, Senate Resolution 120, in a 27–6 vote, Thursday, April 17. The resolution also names Davidson County District Attorney Glenn Funk and 31st Judicial District Attorney Chris Stanford, who serve Warren and Van Buren counties, respectively.
“After eight months of work to hold DA Mulroy accountable, the Tennessee Senate voted 27–6 to pass a resolution urging the state Supreme Court to investigate Shelby County DA Steve Mulroy, along with DAs Glenn Funk and Christopher Robert Stanford, over allegations of misconduct,” said state Sen. Brent Taylor (R-Memphis), who introduced the resolution, in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
The resolution calls on the court to appoint a three- to five-member panel to conduct a judicial review of the prosecutors. It also urges the creation of a formal code of conduct for district attorneys general, district public defenders and court clerks.
Mulroy has been the target of Taylor’s criticism since 2024, when the DA continued to support bail reform measures outlined in a 2022 standing order by Shelby County judges. That order, now rescinded, had established a process requiring individualized bail hearings, taking into account a defendant’s financial situation and reserving cash bail for last-resort cases.
The reforms were intended to reduce pretrial detention and promote fairness. As a result, many defendants spent less time in jail awaiting trial. However, critics argued that the
In January, Taylor attempted to launch a legislative committee to investigate Mulroy, but the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility dismissed a related complaint in February after review.
Mulroy is not the only official to come under scrutiny from Taylor. Former Shelby County Criminal Court Judge Bill Anderson, who faced criticism for his bail rulings, retired in January.
“After eight months of work to hold DA Mulroy accountable, the Tennessee Senate voted 27–6 to pass a resolution urging the state Supreme Court to investigate Shelby County DA Steve Mulroy, along with DAs Glenn Funk and Christopher Robert Stanford, over allegations of misconduct.” – Sen. Brent Taylor (R-Memphis). (TSD file photo)
President Calvin Anderson Editor Stephanie R. Jones
Memphis-Shelby County Schools takeover bill dies in senate after fierce backlash
Memphis
lawmakers, school officials call the legislation an overreach that ignores gains and disrespects voters
By Lee Eric Smith Special to The Tri-State Defender
A controversial bill aimed at placing Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) under heightened state control failed to pass the Tennessee Legislature this week, marking a victory for local advocates who called the proposal undemocratic and racially motivated.
Senate Bill 714, which would have established a powerful oversight board appointed by state and local leaders, was pulled from consideration Tuesday by its sponsor, Sen. Brent Taylor (R-Memphis), after he acknowledged a lack of consensus in the Senate.
“We’re not trying to dismantle local education,” Taylor insisted during debate. “But this is a system that’s been failing children for decades. Doing nothing isn’t an option.”
The bill’s House counterpart, HB 662, had already cleared that chamber, raising concerns that the legislation might be rushed through before session’s end. But stiff resistance from Memphis lawmakers and community stakeholders slowed its momentum.
Taylor, whose district includes parts of Memphis, defended the bill as a necessary intervention to improve outcomes in a chronically underperforming school system. Speaking on the Senate floor, Taylor painted a stark picture of MSCS, describing the district as a “bad school system” and claiming that “trying to fix our school system down in Memphis is about like trying to baptize a house cat.”
Citing low proficiency rates, Taylor argued the measure was a necessary intervention, citing low academic performance and teacher shortages. “The state can’t keep funding failure.
Memphis isn’t just any city — it’s the biggest investment we make in public education. If this was a business, we’d demand a transformation plan,” he said.
“The Memphis-Shelby County School system gets $900 million annually from the state of Tennessee,” Taylor added. “And yet, despite that investment, we continue to see decades of underperformance.”
His bill would have defined a “challenged school district” and triggered escalating interventions, including the potential removal of superintendents and school board members. A state-appointed advisory board — with members named by the governor, legislative leaders and local mayors — would have gained the authority to review and comment on major contracts, property usage and policy decisions.
“This isn’t a takeover. This is a cascading set of interventions. We’re trying to empower the county commission and school board — not replace them — and guide them toward better decision-making for the students they serve,” Taylor said.
“We just need to quit passing this problem around more than a joint at a Willie Nelson concert and finally decide that we’re going to do something about education in Shelby County,” he said.
Sen. London Lamar (D-Memphis) called the bill “deeply insulting,” accusing the legislature of scapegoating poor Black children while ignoring structural issues such as poverty, housing insecurity and low wages.
“If you want better schools, then invest in our families,” Lamar said. “This bill doesn’t empower parents — it punishes poverty.”
She also took issue with the fiscal burden the legislation would have placed on local government, requiring the Shelby County Commission to fund an unelected oversight board with fulltime staff and stipends.
“We’re being asked to double the cost of decision-making,” Lamar said. “Meanwhile, the people who actually vote for school board members are being pushed to the sidelines.”
Sen. Raumesh Akbari (D-Memphis) pointed out that while MSCS isn’t without its problems, it has made significant progress — including a Level 5 TVAAS growth score and rising graduation rates.
“This bill pretends Memphis is broken beyond repair, but the data doesn’t support that,” Akbari said. “What we see here is state micromanagement cloaked as reform.”
She noted that more than 80 MSCS schools improved their state letter grades last year and that the district has had no recent audit findings — undermining arguments for a forensic audit or direct state supervision.
“Let us lead. We’ve earned that right,” she added.
Sen. Jeff Yarbro of Nashville took a broader view, arguing that Tennessee lawmakers were trying to fix a problem they helped create. He reminded the chamber of legislative changes a decade ago that allowed suburban districts to split from Memphis schools, effectively leaving MSCS with a greater concentration of poverty.
“We changed the law — not once, but twice — to let wealthier districts break away,” Yarbro said. “Now we’re changing the law again to punish the district we left behind.”
MSCS Board Chair Joyce
Dorse-Coleman responded to the bill’s withdrawal with cautious optimism, issuing a statement on behalf of the Shelby County School Board:
“This gives the board an opportunity to continue to work collaboratively with state and local legislators on solutions for student achievement while respecting the will of Shelby County voters,” the statement said. “This board would like to continue having dialogue with the state and commission about our district’s needs and ways legislators can support our path moving forward. We look forward to that dialogue and partnership.”
The bill’s proposed oversight board would have included nine members — three appointed by the governor, two by the House Speaker, two by the Senate Speaker, and one each from the Memphis and Shelby County mayors. The board would have reviewed school board agendas, commented on contracts over $50,000, and offered input on superintendent decisions.
Critics said the structure allowed state officials — most of whom do not represent Memphis — to override the voices of parents and educators on the ground.
“If we passed a bill like this for Nashville or Knoxville, there would be riots,” said one observer from the Save Our Schools coalition, which helped organize community opposition. “But somehow, Memphis is always fair game.”
Though the bill has been withdrawn for now, lawmakers indicated they may reintroduce it in 2026 — possibly with revisions.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
By James Coleman Special to The Tri-State Defender
The University of Memphis confirmed that visas for some international students on their campuses have been revoked.
“We have been informed that five current University of Memphis students have had their SEVIS record terminated as of Wednesday, April 16,” read a statement issued Wednesday. “Our Division of International Affairs is actively working with the impacted students in addition to advising all U of M international students on how to navigate and maintain their status.”
The university did not comment beyond the statement nor provide details about the students involved.
ICE also terminated Student Exchange Visa Information System
■■ NEWS
University of Memphis reports first cases of international students visas being revoked
records of the affected students. SEVIS allows Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials to cross-reference law enforcement databases to track infractions, from parking tickets to more significant crimes.
More than 1,750 international students from 93 countries are currently enrolled at U of M.
The data sharing system was set up by ICE following the Sept. 11 attacks. SEVIS also provides schools with the ability to follow the progress of international students, who are required to maintain a full course load while studying in the U.S. Unauthorized employment and other visa violations are also monitored. Schools must be certified by ICE before they can accept international students.
It is the first reported example in Shelby County of a recent crackdown by immigration agents on university
and college campuses across the nation.
More than 1,000 international students and recent graduates from more than 130 schools around the country have had visas or immigration statuses revoked during the sweep.
Reasons given for visa terminations run on a spectrum. Some are revoked over simple traffic violations. Other high-profile terminations have been linked to students speaking out or taking part in protests against the Israel-Palestinian conflict on campuses. Many of the latter have been accused of antisemitism.
Halfway across the state, six international students from Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro recently had their visas revoked too. They come from countries in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Nine students at the University of Tennessee also had their status terminated.
While the University of Memphis was the first school on ICE’s radar locally, other Memphis-based schools are also preparing for visits.
Rhodes College, which has 101 international students from 60 countries, recently issued an alert to students. The message stated that in the very unlikely event that ICE would attempt to enter the campus, they would be directed to the Campus Safety Office.
“We would immediately contact our legal counsel for assistance if ICE were to appear and would also contact the campus community if that were to happen,” read the alert.
ICE would be required to provide a warrant to enter the Rhodes College campus because it is a privately-funded school.
The University of Memphis is a publicly-funded institution.
Free in-home HIV testing for Shelby County residents now offered
By James Coleman Special to The Tri-State Defender
The Shelby County Health Department has started a pilot program that will provide free at-home HIV tests to residents 14-years-old and older.
A part of the department’s “Know Your Status” HIV awareness campaign, the tests can be ordered privately through a secure online portal. The goal of the program is to increase testing, while minimizing the stigma around the sexually transmitted disease.
“This new campaign and program will also open the door for conversation about sexual health education and the importance of a person knowing their status. Knowing your status starts with
testing and empowers you to take steps to protect your health,” said Shelby County Health Department Director Dr. Michelle Taylor.
The rapid result tests will be delivered
in 1–3 business days. A new test can be requested every six months.
Community partners will also be made available to residents who test positive. They will be provided with
Don’t stop exploring your home loan options.
treatment options by health care providers like Regional One Health and the Memphis Health Center Inc., along with nonprofit options like Friends for All and Christ Community Health Services.
New cases of infection in Shelby County are five times the national average. Tennessee Department of Health estimates reflect a 36% increase since 2018. The problem is particularly acute among teens and young adults in the Metro Memphis area, which has the second highest rates of new infections in the nation. New cases among the latter demographic rose by 40% over the same time span.
To order a free HIV test, visit https://901hivtesting.com/. English and Spanish language options are available.
■■ ENTERTAINMENT
Mary J. Blige’s ‘For My Fans Tour’ electrifies FedExForum
By Ancelious Meeks Special to The Tri-State Defender
The atmosphere was electric at FedExForum Saturday as fans welcomed Mary J. Blige to the stage for her highly awaited “For My Fans Tour.” Initially slated for Feb. 2, 2025, the performance was rescheduled, but the anticipation built over the delay only amplified the energy in the arena.
The evening kicked off at 7 p.m. sharp with special guest Mario, who captivated the crowd with a powerful solo performance. Dressed in all black, Mario delivered a stirring set that spanned approximately 30 minutes, performing eight of his most popular hits. With classics like “Let Me Love You” and “Crying Out for Me,” Mario set the stage ablaze, highlighting his iconic runs at the end of his songs, igniting cheers and singalongs from the enthusiastic audience.
Next up was Ne-Yo, who took the stage at 7:45 p.m. accompanied by eight dynamic backup dancers he calls “The Miss Rights.” Over the next 50 minutes, Ne-Yo showcased his incredible vocal prowess, performing a total of 23 songs that included chart-toppers like “So Sick,” “Tonight” and “Closer.” His engaging stage presence and choreography only added to the excitement, cementing his status as a consummate entertainer.
Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived when Mary J. Blige entered just after 9:25 p.m. The excitement in the air was evident as an opening video played, featuring nostalgic images and clips from the early days of her career. Fans reminisced about her iconic journey to become the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul.
Blige ascended above the crowd in a gold cage-like platform adorned with an abstract tiara fit for a queen. She landed on a small stage before the carriage whisked her over to the main stage.
As Blige stepped onto the stage in her trademark thigh-high gold boots paired with a glittery yellow-gold unitard and floor-length yellow fur, the crowd erupted into cheers, celebrating the arrival of their musical icon.
Blige treated the audience to an impressive setlist that included timeless hits like “Not Gon’ Cry,” “Everything,” “Real Love,” and the empowering anthem “Just Fine.”
Between songs, she stayed connected with her fans by sharing anecdotes and reflections brought to life by additional behind-the-scenes video clips.
One attendee, Gwen Clayton, said she had read comments on social media before the show contending that Blige’s performances on the tour weren’t as energetic as in the past years.
“Somebody said she was moving slow, and her show was boring,” Clayton stated. “They told an entire lie! MJB owes Memphis nothing.”
On the upbeat tempo songs, Blige’s energy was toe-to-toe with her backup dancers – four men and two women. And even with her costume changes from gold to red to silvery gray, the heels were always at least four inches or higher.
Others in the crowd seemed to have felt the same energy and passion from the performance as Clayton.
“Wow, what a night! Mary was so amazing,” said Brad McDonald. “I enjoyed every second of her performance. My girl showed up in Memphis and absolutely showed out! She left it all out there on the stage, and I couldn’t be any happier. Thank you MJB.”
Blige’s performance highlighted her appreciation for her loyal supporters who have been with her through the highs and lows of her illustrious career. The culmination of her set left concertgoers on a high note, feeling not just entertained but part of a communal celebration of love, perseverance and music.
The “For My Fans Tour” stop in Memphis will undoubtedly be remembered as a night of unforgettable performances, raw emotion and a testament to the enduring legacy of Mary J. Blige, Mario and Ne-Yo, who continue to touch hearts through their artistry.
As the evening wrapped up, the crowd poured out of the arena, humming tunes and sharing smiles, bonding over the shared experience of witnessing musical excellence.
Mary J. Blige, the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul,” shines during her “For My Fans Tour” Saturday at FedExForum. (Photos: Ancelious Meeks/The Tri-State Defender)
Ne-Yo performs with his backup dancers “The Miss Rights.”
Trevia Chatman President, Bank of America Memphis
■■ COMMUNITY
Yvonne (above) and David Acey (below), founders of the Africa in April festival.
The Tennessee Mass Choir provided gospel inspiration all three days of Africa in April.
A model is styling during the Africa in April fashion show.
Recording artist and singer Garry Goin serenades front row festivalgoers.
■■ COMMUNITY
Africa in April highlights culture, heritage
By Liaudwin Seaberry Special to The Tri-State Defender
The38th annual Africa in April festival returned to Memphis over the weekend to promote awareness and appreciation of history and cultures of the continent’s countries.
The three-day festival kicked off Friday with a parade on Beale Street featuring local school bands, organizations and entertainers. A fashion show of outfits that melded African and American cultures took place Saturday at Robert R. Church Park, where the rest of the festival took place Saturday.
Each day featured various musical entertainment, with the Tennessee Mass Choir performing all three days through Sunday. Food vendors ran the gambit from the local Crumpy’s Hot Wings to those serving traditional African dishes.
Founder David Acey said approximately 75 to 100 vendors participated this year.
“From crafts and sculpture to food, there are some vendors who come every year, but they may bring a different menu than the previous year,” he said. Ken Lewis, a first-time attendee, said he was impressed by the amount of history on display.
“If you don’t know where you come from, it’s a problem,” said Lewis. “A lot of the younger generation does not understand their roots and background, and they need to understand so they know how to move forward.”
Memphian Gabrielle Williams said she has attended the festival for more than 15 years.
“The reason I come back every year
is because I really enjoy being around African culture and tradition,” Williams said. “From the praise music to the different kinds of foods that are served and distributed, I just have always been supportive of events such as this because they are reminders of our heritage, which I am very proud of.”
Some tents displayed brightly colored African-styled garments and accessories such as hats, purses, bags, and shoes. Others showcased hair and beauty products, crafts or food items.
Vendor Cassandra Williams, who is Nigerian-American, brought body products from her company Burinyuy, based in Baltimore, Maryland.
“Everything I make is in honor of God, it’s all natural and it’s from the Earth,” Williams said.
She said her once small business now distributes products across the United States.
“That’s something I take pride in. Everything started in Baltimore, but we were blessed to be able to spread our wings to other US cities such as Atlanta, Georgia and Columbia, South Carolina,” she stated.
Williams said she has been attending African festivals for years, and she particularly enjoys the Memphis festival because of the amount of culture that’s displayed.
“With everyone displaying their
products and foods and what not, it’s very exciting to be around people who are so prideful of their heritage and aren’t afraid to show it at all,” she said.
“While I enjoy all of the festivals that I attend, there’s something unique about the Memphis one that makes it distinguishable.”
Melrose High School marching band. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The Tri-State Defender)
Vendors, many with items from Africa, line Robert R. Church Park.
■■ NEWS
Links presents annual Groovin’ fundraiser
TSD Newsroom
The River City (TN) Chapter of The Links Inc. is preparing for its annual Groovin’ with River City dinner and entertainment Sunday at The Great Hall in Germantown.
This year’s musical lineup includes headliner Case, a grammy-nominated R&B singer, songwriter, record producer and actor; Memphis native Larry Springfield, singer, musician and winner of Star Search 1992; the Grammy-nominated Kurt “KC” Clayton Band of Memphis. Manning the turntable will be Ashley Windbush, aka DeeJay Alpha Whiskey, who is also an air traffic controller.
“Groovin’ with River City,” is the organization’s premiere fundraiser, offering lots of fun yet dedicated to supporting community service programs in Memphis and Shelby County. With a mission centered on “friends transforming communities through service,” The Links, founded in 1993, is dedicated to enriching, sustaining and ensuring the cultural and economic survival of African Americans and individuals of African ancestry, said Patrice B. Myers, president of the River City chapter.
“As you step into the lively atmosphere of Groovin’ with River City, prepare to be entertained by an array of live music performances that will keep your spirits high,” Myers added. “The event promises a delightful culinary experience, featuring delicious food that caters to a variety of tastes. Whether you are a fan of savory dishes or sweet treats, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.”
Beyond fundraising, she described Groovin’ as “a celebration of community, resilience, and the collective effort to create a brighter future for all.”
Myers says in today’s fast-paced
“The event promises a delightful culinary experience, featuring delicious food that caters to a variety of tastes. Whether you are a fan of savory dishes or sweet treats, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.”
— Patrice B. Myers
world, it is easy to overlook the power of community engagement. Events such as Groovin’ that bring people together are a vital catalyst for positive change.
“By participating in community events, individuals have the unique opportunity to contribute to initiatives that uplift and empower those around them.”
Grooving’ is not merely a night filled with activities; it is a chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of many, she stated.
A portion of funds raised through ticket sales, sponsorships and advertisements will directly support The Links’ various community initiatives, designed to address pressing issues, from education and health to social justice and economic empowerment.
Groovin’ tickets start at $100 and can be purchased on Eventbrite. The single VIP ticket includes a reserved seat, two drink tickets, and priority access to the hors d’oeuvres station. The VIP Table of 10 includes two drink tickets per guest, individual charcuterie box, and priority access to hors d’oeuvres station.
For more details about Links activities, events, and how to get involved, visit at rivercitylinks.org
PUBLIC NOTICES / CLASSIFIEDS
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Shelby County Government has issued RFQ number 25-003-32, Right-of-Way Negotiation Services for Purchasing of Right-of-Way (Roads, Bridges & Engineering Department). Information regarding this RFQ is located on the County’s website at www.shelbycountytn.gov . At the top of the home page, click on the dropdown box under “Business”, Click on “Purchasing” and “Bids” to locate the name of the above-described RFQ.
RFQ 25-003-32 DUE DATE THURSDAY, MAY 29, 2025 AT 4:00 PM CDT
Right-of-Way Negotiation Services for Purchasing of Right-of-Way (Roads, Bridges & Engineering Department)
Shelby County is an equal opportunity affirmative action employer, drug-free with policies of non-discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability or military service.
By order of LEE HARRIS, MAYOR SHELBY COUNTY GOVERNMENT
TSD CLASSIFIEDS
1509 Madison Ave.
Memphis, TN 38104
PH (901) 523-1818
HOURS: Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
DEADLINES:
Display ads Friday 5 p.m. Classifieds ads Monday 5 p.m.
STANDARD RATES:
$8.00 per line for 1 column ad.
Rates are non-commissionable and are quoted at the net rate. No refund for early cancellation. For additional information contact Sales Dept. at (901) 746-5201 or email: advertising@tsdmemphis.com.
THE TRI-STATE DEFENDER assumes no financial responsibility for errors nor for copy omission. Direct any classified billing inquires to (901) 523-1818.
Thunder roll past Grizzlies 118-99 to take 2-0 series lead
By Cliff Brunt Associated Press
OKLAHOMA CITY — Shai
Gilgeous-Alexander scored 27 points, and the Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the Memphis Grizzlies 118-99 on Tuesday night to take a 2-0 lead in their first-round playoff series.
Oklahoma City delivered a strong follow-up to its record-setting 131-80 win on Sunday in the series opener. Though Memphis was the team with something to prove, the Thunder came out with the energy. Oklahoma City opened with a 9-0 run and held Memphis scoreless for the first 3½ minutes as the Grizzlies missed their first 10 shots.
The Thunder led 32-17 at the end of the first quarter and never trailed.
“We never underestimate our opponent, no matter what,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “Obviously they’re a very good team. They wouldn’t be here if they weren’t. And we just wanted to make an emphasis to come out and win that first quarter, set the tone for the night.”
Jalen Williams added 24 points and Chet Holmgren had 20 points, 11 rebounds and five blocks for the top-seeded Thunder.
Oklahoma City’s offense produced, despite Gilgeous-Alexander making just 10 of 29 shots.
“Everybody that touched the court played with confidence, played the right way, and we’re going to need that,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said. “You know, in all these games, it’s going to be different guys on different nights.”
The Thunder have won all six games against the Grizzlies this season by double digits.
Jaren Jackson Jr. scored 26 points
“We never underestimate our opponent, no matter what. Obviously they’re a very good team. They wouldn’t be here if they weren’t.”
— Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
and Ja Morant added 23 for Memphis, which will host Game 3 on Thursday. Gilgeous-Alexander, who had been off for the first five quarters of the series, found his shot in the second quarter. He hit two 3-pointers 55 seconds apart to put Oklahoma City up 55-38. Oklahoma City led 70-52 at the break after setting a team playoff record with 12 3-pointers in the first half.
Memphis started hot in the third and cut its deficit to single digits, but the Thunder took a 90-79 lead into the fourth.
“The difference was that we started seriously competing in the third quarter and basically played them to a tie after that,” Memphis interim coach Tuomas Iisalo said. “But it’s against a team of this caliber, we need that for the whole 48 minutes right from the get go. And we’ve got to have an attack mindset right from the start and not take any steps back.”
Oklahoma City’s Cason Wallace faked out Zach Edey, then went baseline for a one-handed jam that put the Thunder up 97-79 and brought the crowd to its feet.
The Thunder held Memphis scoreless for nearly four minutes to start the fourth. It was the second straight game that Memphis failed to score at least 100 points.
Early Bird Prize
