Nikki Giovanni, the iconic poet and educator, passed away on December 9, 2024, leaving behind a powerful legacy that shaped both literature and activism. A prominent voice in the Black Arts Movement, her poems like Ego-Tripping and Nikki-Rosa boldly addressed racial identity and justice. Beyond her writing, Giovanni was an inspiring professor, advocating for empowerment and change. Known for her unapologetic spirit, Giovanni’s influence will continue to resonate, as her words remain a beacon of strength, resilience, and love for generations to come.
Jay-Z Diddy I do not own the rights to these images
In the latest chapter of what’s quickly becoming one of the most shocking scandals in entertainment, Sean “Diddy” Combs & Jay-Z is facing new legal trouble. A civil lawsuit filed under New York’s Adult Survivors Act alleges that Diddy & Jay-S raped a 13-year-old girl during a post-MTV Video Music Awards party in 2000.
The anonymous plaintiff, now 37, claims she was drugged at the party and later assaulted by Combs and another unidentified male celebrity. According to the suit, a well-known female celebrity allegedly stood by and watched the attack happen. These are serious allegations that have cast an even darker shadow over Diddy, who’s already been accused of sexual abuse in multiple other lawsuits over the past
This latest case isn’t an isolated incident, it’s one of several lawsuits filed against Diddy under New York’s Adult Survivors Act. The law, which temporarily extended the statute of limitations for survivors to bring forward cases of sexual abuse, has opened the floodgates for long-hidden accusations in the entertainment world.
Diddy is also grappling with federal sex trafficking charges and remains in custody after being denied bail twice. While his legal team continues to deny all allegations, the number of claims stacking up against him paints a troubling picture. The story is still unfolding.
What About Jay-Z?
Reports didn’t mention Jay-Z in connection with earlier filings on October 20, but the latest refiled lawsuit on December 8 naming Jay-Z, does directly implicate him in this case. This leaves questions hanging about whether other figures in the industry will be dragged into the legal drama.
His legal team released a statement via Roc Nation on X:
PR Team’s CommunicationsLawyer of Plaintiff ‘s Response via X.
Why This Matters
For years, the hip-hop industry (and many others) have been dogged by rumors of abuse, exploitation, and unchecked power. Now, with lawsuits like this coming to light, the culture and society are being forced to reckon with its darker side. The allegations against Diddy don’t just implicate him but they raise concerns about how power, wealth, and influence have shielded people from accountability for decades.
As this story develops, it’s clear that these accusations are bigger than Diddy & many in power, it’s a human rights issue.It’s about a systemic issue that has harmed too many people for far too long.
We’ll be watching as the court proceedings unfold. Justice, it seems, is finally knocking at the door of the elite but let’s hope it doesn’t just clean out the predators in Hip Hop only.
Chicago, IL-In a Garden across the street from the Puerto Rican Cultural Center, hosted by Zaire, we gathered in the name of love, culture, and therapy. As modern-day social workers, we must have our work-life balance because we’re out here during the year combating crisis in our communities’ culture and helping to shape the new world into a better place.
I received an invite from an associate who also happens to be a close friend of mine earlier this week, and I was happy to attend and network even though it was a brief session. That’s really all you need for painting or any form of therapy.
The setup for our art tables. Photo credit: ZaireFull view of setup in the garden space. Photo credit: ZairePainting with friends and family of The Puerto Rican Cultural Center Photo Credit: Zaire Friends and family of The Puerto Rican Cultural Center Photo Credit: Zaire
Art Therapy
Art therapy is significant for several reasons. It provides a creative outlet for individuals to express themselves, explore their emotions, and process trauma or stress in a non-verbal way. It can help improve mental health by fostering self-awareness, reducing anxiety, and enhancing overall well-being. Additionally, it can aid in communication, especially for those who find it challenging to express their feelings verbally. Overall, art therapy offers a unique approach to healing and self-discovery.
Healing Creativity and Working Through Emotions of Grief
Art therapy can be particularly beneficial for individuals who are grieving because it provides a safe space to express complex emotions that may be difficult to articulate verbally. Through various artistic mediums such as painting, drawing, or sculpture, individuals can externalize their feelings of loss, sadness, anger, or confusion.
Engaging in the creative process allows them to explore and make sense of their grief journey at their own pace. Creating art can also serve as a distraction from overwhelming emotions and provide a sense of control during a time of upheaval.
Furthermore, art therapy encourages reflection and introspection, helping individuals gain insight into their grief experiences and find meaning in their loss. Group art therapy sessions can also offer a supportive environment where participants can connect with others who are going through similar experiences, fostering a sense of community and validation.
Overall, art therapy can facilitate the grieving process by promoting emotional expression, coping skills, and a sense of healing and renewal.
Photojournalist: TSA Media @ Tim Streetz Winter Solstice Release Party
Dear School District 163 Community,
I am thrilled to embark on a new chapter of my professional journey as the Communications Specialist for School District 163 handling all your public relations & communications needs. From the moment I stepped foot into our vibrant community, I knew that I was stepping into a world of boundless possibilities, where every interaction, every conversation, and every connection has the power to make a difference.
Joining School District 163 fills me with an overwhelming sense of excitement and purpose. As someone deeply passionate about effective communication and community engagement as a social scientist, engineer, and entrepreneur, I am eager to leverage my skills and experience to serve our district and support its mission of academic excellence and student success.
Communication is at the heart of everything we do, and I am committed to ensuring that our voices are heard, our stories are shared, and our community is united. Whether it’s through crafting engaging content, managing our digital platforms, or collaborating with stakeholders, I am dedicated to fostering open, transparent, and meaningful communication across all levels of our organization.
But beyond the day-to-day tasks and responsibilities, what truly excites me is the opportunity to be of service to each and every member of our district. Whether you’re a teacher, a parent, a student, or a community member, know that my door is always open, and my ears are always ready to listen. Your ideas, your feedback, and your concerns matter, and I am here to support you in any way I can.
As we embark on this journey together, I am filled with hope, optimism, and a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to serve such a dynamic and diverse community. Together, let us embrace the challenges, celebrate the successes, and continue to build a brighter future for School District 163.
I look forward to getting to know each of you, learning from your experiences, and working together to make our district the best it can be. Together, we are stronger, together, we can achieve greatness.
Below is some general information on my system and ways that we can collaborate.
Thank you for welcoming me with open arms, and I am honored to be a part of this incredible community.
Chicago, IL — Feb. 20, 2024— Get ready to indulge in a culinary and cultural extravaganza like no other with the launch of the “Secret Sundaze Social Brunch” in Chicago. This exclusive event series, the first installment presented by I Vibe Hard LLC in partnership with Feed The Hood NFP, invites guests to savor gourmet cuisine, enjoy live entertainment, and support a worthy cause on a Sunday afternoon.
Event Details
Secret Sundaze Social Brunch
A secret location in the Chicagoland area (secretly revealed to confirmed guests)
The “Secret Sundaze SocialBrunch” promises to be a celebration of food, music, and community spirit. Guests will be treated to a curated menu featuring brunch favorites and delectable appetizers, prepared by local chefs and artisans. Sip on complimentary drinks while enjoying live performances by talented musicians and artists or entertainment professionals, creating a vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding and socializing with friends and fellow brunch enthusiasts.
Supporting a Worthy Cause:
In partnership with Feed The Hood NFP, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting socioeconomic insecurity in the Chicagoland area, a portion of the proceeds from each event will directly support their mission. By attending the “Secret Sundaze Social Brunch,” guests not only indulge in a luxurious brunch experience but also contribute to making a positive impact in the community.
Tickets and Pricing:
Standard Ticket: $25 per person (includes entry and one complimentary drink)
Deluxe Ticket: $45 per person (includes entry, one complimentary drink, and a selection of appetizers)
Executive Partners for this Installment:
I Vibe Hard LLC, a leading events and entertainment company known for their innovative and immersive urban experiences, joins as executive partners for the “Secret Sundaze Social Brunch.” With their expertise and passion for creating unforgettable moments, I Vibe Hard LLC adds an extra layer of excitement and creativity to the event, ensuring guests have an unforgettable experience from start to finish.
Join Us at the Table:
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exclusive culinary journey and support a meaningful cause. Tickets are limited, so secure your spot today by visiting our page.
About Feed The Hood NFP:
Feed The Hood NFP is a grassroots organization committed to addressing socioeconomic insecurity and promoting community empowerment in Chicago’s underserved neighborhoods. Through innovative programs and partnerships, Feed The Hood NFP strives to create sustainable solutions and foster a more social equitable system for all.
NEW YORK, July 13– A complaint has been filed, on July 11, by Krista Perry, Larissa Martinez, and Jay Baron against Shein Distribution Corporation and its collective business associates (Roadget Business Pte. Ltd, Zoetop Business Company, Limited, and et.al) for racketeering and corrupt business practices as an organization. David Erickson is an Interested Party in the suit. They have been accused of infringing on the designs and artwork of creators to produce, distribute, sell, and copy the works of the plaintiffs. They allege that it is part of the organization’s DNA and process to algorithmically use designs in their corrupt business practices on a large and systematic scale, according to The Fashion Law.
When Shein copies a small or independent designer, the most likely outcome (without brand protection specialists and specialized software on the lookout) is that the infringement will go unnoticed
Barron’s “Make It Fun” artwork (left) & a Shein print (right)Source: The Fashion Law
“Under those circumstances, Shein reaps all the benefits of stealing and featuring the design that its technology had identified as valuable enough to take: it makes sales and keeps it customers’ eyes glued to the Shein site and app for that much longer. And if customer demand justifies it, the item is reordered, and more are sold (now that the coast has been determined to be clear).”
Plaintiffs
Source: The Fashion Law
They also made a claim that the distribution organization is made up of a multiplicity of entities with an outwardly decentralized structure which helps them in avoiding liability for intellectual infringement by placing the blame on an independent company unrelated to them when in reality they are connected to Shein.
Chicago-March 23 at The Promontory with Covert Operations and their sponsors, Griselda Records ⚖️ (Belaire and Moors Beer), a dope concert of real hip hop with quality was live. I enjoyed every artist not even knowing who one of them was. I was delighted to purchase one of those dope ass t-shirts from Rome Streetz, and have my poster signed by him.
It was great discovering a new female artist Chyna Streetz, who actually has some substance and a relatable personality with her music. That Stove God Cooks, my my my was the storytelling, lyricism, and d-boy style authentically giving. Every artist seemingly complimented each other but they each brought something different. I look forward to learning more about each artist as I follow their journeys, seeing what I can dig up from recent and old projects.
My shirt 👚 , Poster, CD 💿 (found it walking 🚶🏽♀️ out the joint), Kiss 💋 the Ring 💍 Jar 🫙 of 💨 🍃
Them gift 🎁 bags 💼 was clutch. Great marketing and advertising, keeps me going in the direction of keeping a beat on for the streets to know the next time any one of the honorable mentions are live or pushing P.
Chicago– Sunday, February 26 at NYCH Gallery located 2025 S. Laflin Street for an intimate evening for several honorees who are creating their own legacy as creatives, leaders, and entrepreneurs all while being black. The event was presented by Black Bourbon Society and Salonx7 while sponsored by Jack Daniel’s.
From left to right: Jonathan Swain, Josh Davis, Yasmin Curtis, Lenise S. Lee, Danielle Mullen, Perteet & Fred Spencer
This was my first time attending an event like this and I was very grateful to be in the room. I credit my attendance to my peer, Quiana Green, owner and founder of Brown Liquor Babe. She’s always on top of special events surrounding food, culture, and liquor. I highly recommend following her for more details on special events.
I learned so much from the honorees about business as it relates to funding, never giving up, starting up, and structuring; made some good connections too. It was shared that Phillip Scott Sinclair, owner and operator of NYCH Gallery, was vandalized the day before the ceremony and hours before the event he had to work his magic 🪄 to host us. That’s a true honor and barrier beat by excellence.
Gallery photos are courtesy of Gamal Hakim of My Leafy Drinks, my honorary Photojournalist on the assignment.
See my reel on IG to see a clip of some of the conversations until they upload the recap from Chicago. Look 👀 forward to follow up interviews of the honorees and presenters.
Chicago-We gathered to celebrate The 6th Annual L.E.G.A.C.Y. Awards Gala this past weekend, where black professionals, businesses, and entrepreneurs connected through their impactful works in leadership, education, growth, advocacy, community, and youth at the Marriot Marquis and Soldier Field’s United Club.
We in here but they ain’t want us here,
James Wheeler
Things you do for others remain your legacy.
Keena Barber
Keena Barber, CEO, and James Wheeler, COO, are always representing and celebrating black excellence, and this weekend was nothing short of amazing. It’s clear globally the impact of black entrepreneurs from diverse nationalities and ethnicities when you look at the current media flow. We have impacted linguistics, economics, the culture of dance, music, art, education, and community development. It seems like the current situation is socioeconomics and the impact it will have on our future as a nation of people.
Legacy Weekend was powerful, and a standard of what we need in urban culture and affairs. Black entrepreneurs, professionals, and enterprises deserve to have a high-end space to connect and build; WDB is leading us in the new school on what these spaces will be. This event was majorly sponsored by WDB Marketing, WDB Cares, Discover, BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois, Marianos, Wintrust Community Banks, Amazon Black Business Acceleration, The Insurance Exchange, World Business Chicago; minor sponsors also were Girls Like Me, Chicago Urban League, HCD International, A Progeny Global, Burks Heating and Cooling, CIBC Bank, Sterling Bay, Mercer Uplifters, and In His Hands Resource Center.
Virtual Conference Recap
Press Credits: WDB Marketing (Press Lead and Subject), BK (Executive Journalist and Editor), Isaiah J. Evans (Photojournalist)
It’s day 2 of Kwanzaa and we’re moving in a better direction for Umoja (Unity) and Kujichagulia (Self-Determinatiton). I know I am. Since the new moon in Capricorn I’ve just been on some new news. I respect the perspectives and opinions of others but they do not have to define who I am nor do their realization or acceptance of the meaning of a word or how they think a story should be told. I’ve learned to save space to share their ideas too. It doesn’t make anything right or wrong but the main goal is, to tell the truth. All people can live by the principles of Kwanzaa which is what I love ❤️ and we can build on this foundation to create a better condition because life isn’t a joke right now, and we need to consider building community as serious business. We can’t talk about reparations without repatriation and building for ourselves. I’m not failing to tell the story the way it should be. I honor my ancestors and want to create relationships that represent the truth of power and true power. We will unite politically, culturally, and economically.
We are celebrating the present, our future, and the past in merriment. We’re on the road to decolonization and self-determination as a family, nation, and people. It’s a great time to be living and practicing Sankofa. The path to self-determination has to be a true, consistent, and persistent one. It can’t just be doing festive times or when one is being killed in the streets or harassed by the police or even lied to by politicians and the governments. It must be and will be a way of life and come about during reflection of who we, who’s we are, and where we are to know what our path to development looks like. We’re more than entertainers, athletes, influencers, workers, and blacks or whatever you subscribe to. We are living beings having a human experience and we’re here to develop humanity’s consciousness.
We’re Growing Through Genocide
Credit: Cecile Johnson
Fetch What is at Risk of Being Left Behind
Sankofa is learning from the past, not forgetting our history and heritage. We have to communicate with each other what we know, our perspectives, and our insights. To inform the present and the future we must know the past truths, lies, and reality. My history and heritage has a large chunk of slavery, war, and people being misnomered. I will not turn the cheek to that nor act like it’s not part of what I have inherited as a descendant of my ancestors and elders. It will not be lost nor forgotten but used to determine solutions to problems and evolve our way of life. We are aborigines and we need to determine our status and stand on our rights. We must fetch what is at risk of being lost and asking questions not only to get answers but to remedy them. There’s always new learning as we move and discover what was left behind.
My Stance
I’m riding with mine, my people, and urbanely correcting what is wrong or misunderstood. I am not asking for permission to support anyone who may be taking their stance when it relates to who we are as a people that seem to be nationless when we are not. I am claiming my identity and inserting it. It’s not up for debate or to be questioned. I am lessening distractions and moving in truth while I’m here on earth.
I’m working on a level of diplomacy where I can accept the perspectives, opinions, and insights of others without allowing them to change who I am, how I’ve chosen to self-identify and determine how I express myself, I will not come off my throne to please others nor demean them for how they choose to see things. That is the true power of self-determination when acting based on ethics, ethnicity, and value.
Same time this shit is bigger than me. It’s bigger than you, it’s bigger than us but it’s us against everybody if I choose. And I choose.
Communications Generalist | Cultural Strategist | Data & Business Analyst 