Wisconsin Daycare, Cocaine, Drugs
by Jeroslyn JoVonn

May 30, 2024

Wisconsin Daycare Worker Charged After Cocaine Found In Baby Boy’s System

A Wisconsin daycare worker was criminally charged after authorities found cocaine in a 1-year-old boy's system.

A Wisconsin daycare worker was criminally charged after authorities found cocaine in a 1-year-old boy’s system.

Passion Watson, a daycare worker at KinderCare in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, was charged with possession of cocaine on or near certain places after a boy who attended the daycare was left with body bruises and cocaine in his system, Fox 6 Now reported. Now the boy’s mother, Kimberly Hopson, is calling for additional charges to be brought against Watson.

“My life is forever changed. How could you do that to an innocent baby?” Hopson said during a press conference on Wednesday, May, 29. “Every day, he is coming here thinking he’s safe. I can’t imagine how scared he was.”

Her suspicions grew after she discovered a bruised nose, a black eye, scratches, and marks on her son Prince when she picked him up from daycare on May 15. She took him to Children’s Wisconsin to be evaluated and a urine test found cocaine in the baby’s system.

Police arrived at Hopson’s home to search the place but found no evidence of drug possession.

“Can you imagine (Child Protective Services) coming to your house threatening to take your kids over cocaine?” she said. “That’s ridiculous.”

Authorities went on to search the daycare and a K-9 found cocaine inside Watson’s unzipped backpack, which was located inside an unlocked closet with a toddler’s jacket on top. It remains unclear how the baby ingested the cocaine but Hopson wants Watson, who posted a $1,500 bond last week, charged with child neglect in addition to the drug possession charges, due to bruises on her son’s body.

Since ingesting the cocaine, Hopson said her baby boy hasn’t been the same.

“He’s just reckless, he’s agitated – like he doesn’t play with his toys,” she said.

Hopson was joined at the press conference with with her lawyer, civil rights attorney B’Ivory LaMarr, who blasted the daycare for putting the baby’s health at risk.

“He was… poisoned by the same individuals who were supposed to safeguard his well-being,” LaMarr said.

Watson told authorities that she only does cocaine socially about two times a month and doesn’t know how the cocaine was found inside her bag or how the boy was exposed to the drugs. She was only given a misdemeanor drug possession, but LaMarr says it should be more.

“That is not enough. We are seeking neglect charges, which have been forwarded to the District Attorney’s office and we demand that these charges be pursued,” LaMarr said.

RELATED CONTENT: Outraged Mother Alleges Daycare Worker Had Inappropriate Relations With 10-Year-Old Son

Dwyane Wade, LaChina Robinson, Paris Olympics, Basketball, International, Global
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

May 30, 2024

Dwyane Wade And LaChina Robinson Announced As Basketball Analysts For Paris Olympics

'The Olympics are the world’s greatest sporting competition with elite athletes competing at the highest level on the world’s largest stage. I have tremendous pride when I look back at my time competing as an Olympic athlete.'

Former Miami Heat legend Dwyane Wade and former Wake Forest basketball player LaChina Robinson will join the NBC broadcasting team as analysts for the upcoming Paris Olympics this summer.

According to NBC Sports, Wade and Robinson will be alongside Noah Eagle to call Team USA Men’s and Women’s Basketball games. The news comes two months before the Opening Ceremony of the Paris Olympics on Friday, July 26, on NBC, Peacock, and Telemundo.

“I’m thrilled to join NBC Sports as a commentator for Team USA Men’s Basketball games,” said Wade in a written statement. “The Olympics are the world’s greatest sporting competition, with elite athletes competing at the highest level on the world’s largest stage. I have tremendous pride when I look back at my time competing as an Olympic athlete. I have the utmost respect for these players and their commitment to greatness. It will be an honor to witness their journey in person and share this special experience with viewers while we unite to celebrate their pursuit of the gold.”

Wade previously served as an NBA analyst on TNT (2019-22) and played on the USA BAsketball’s “Redeem Team,” which went on to win the gold medal by beating every team they faced at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Robinson, who previously was an analyst for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, and the 2022 Beijing Olympics has also served as an analyst for ESPN’s WNBA and NCAA women’s basketball coverage since 2009.

“It’s surreal to think that I will be sitting in the analyst seat as our women’s national team competes for their unprecedented eighth consecutive gold medal,” said Robinson. “I am humbled by this opportunity to represent the rich history of women’s basketball on this monumental stage. Thank you to NBC Sports and all the remarkable women who have sat in this seat before me.”

This year’s summer Olympics will take place between July 26 and Aug. 11 and will be broadcast across NBC, Peacock, and Telemundo.

South Carolina's Supreme Court, White Judges
by Shanique Yates

May 30, 2024

South Carolina’s Supreme Court Joins 18 Other States With All-White Judges

For the first time in roughly 20 years, the Supreme Court in Columbia, South Carolina, will consist of only white judges.

For the first time in roughly 20 years, the Supreme Court in Columbia, South Carolina, will consist of only white judges. This move raises concerns as diversity on the bench continues to be a critical issue, especially in a state where Blacks and Hispanics make up a third of the population.

The selection of judges in each state lies in the hands of the General Assembly. The continued pattern of selecting predominantly white judges has not only raised eyebrows but also prompted Black lawmakers to walk out of judicial elections five years ago due to diversity concerns, according to AP News.

“It’s shameful,” said Democratic Rep. Gilda Cobb-Hunter. “Whether people like it or not, we have a diverse state. The people who appear before the bench are diverse. The judges they appear before should be diverse.”

Cobb-Hunter, a Black woman, has been South Carolina’s longest-serving representative with 32 years of service. She emphasized the importance of leadership from General Assembly leaders, business and community leaders, and the governor in bringing more diversity back to the court system.

Furthermore, she pointed out that only one Black judge sits on the nine-member Court of Appeals, which is often used as a stepping stone to the high court. She also highlighted that lawmakers chose a white man over a Black woman for the last open seat in April 2024 and that a Black woman has never served on the South Carolina Supreme Court.

“When they talk about women not being elected, I know nine times out of 10 they are talking about white women and not women of color,” said Cobb-Hunter.

This is not the first time South Carolina has faced criticism. Previously, the state had the nation’s only all-male high court. In 2023, the court ruled 4-1 to uphold the state’s strict abortion ban, which prohibits women from terminating a pregnancy around six weeks after conception, a timeframe that is usually before women are aware that they are pregnant.

The decision came shortly after the woman responsible for writing the majority opinion in a 3-2 ruling was due to retire because of her age. When lawmakers made final tweaks to the law, another high court review was prompted.

Following next week’s election in South Carolina, when a new justice is seated, South Carolina will join 18 states with all-white high courts. Of those states, 12 have minority populations of roughly 20%, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.

The vacant seat will replace Chief Justice Don Beatty, the only African American on the high court, who must retire now that he has reached the mandatory retirement age of 72. At one time, Circuit Judge Jocelyn Newman was the sole Black candidate running for the state Supreme Court seat; however, she dropped out of the race after candidates started asking lawmakers for support. Now, a white man and a white woman are the only candidates left to fill the position.

“We have a great system. But if it does not reflect the people of South Carolina, we are going to lose the respect and integrity of the public that we serve,” said John Kittredge, who will serve as Beatty’s replacement on the bench this summer.

DMX, Billboard, rligious
by Jeroslyn JoVonn

May 30, 2024

DMX Estate To ‘Ensure His Music Lives On’ By Partnering With Artist Legacy Group

DMX's estate is taking steps to preserve his legacy by appointing Artist Legacy Group as its exclusive representative.

DMX’s estate is taking steps to preserve his legacy by appointing Artist Legacy Group as its exclusive representative.

Ashley Austin, the CEO of the entertainment management and legacy preservation firm, announced on Wednesday, May 29, that a significant step in maintaining and promoting the late rapper’s musical legacy, Billboard reports. “Innovative projects” are in the pipeline as the “Party Up” rapper has his name, likenesses, and other intellectual property rights managed by ALG.

As part of the partnership, ALG will oversee DMX’s rights for film, TV, literary, and documentary projects, brand collaborations, and consumer products.

“A force of nature. That is how I would describe DMX,” ALG CEO Austin said.

“Rapper, poet, actor, preacher—the man’s talent was truly limitless. I am honored to work alongside [co-administrators of the estate] Desiree and Sasha as we maximize the estate’s potential. Together, we will ensure that his message and music lives on.”

DMX’s fiancée, Desiree Lindstrom, and daughter, Sasha Simmons, shared their support for the new venture and how it will continue to connect DMX to his fans after his death from a heart attack in 2021.

“Earl was devoted to his fans. He was grateful that they stayed by his side and walked with him through his ups and downs,” Lindstrom said.

“Sasha and I are confident that ALG is the right team to partner with to honor Earl’s music and legacy. For my son and all of Earl’s children and fans, we will keep Earl’s spirit alive.”

“My father, Earl, was more than an icon; he was my inspiration and guiding light,” Simmons added.

“His music touched countless lives, and his legacy will forever resonate in our hearts. With ALG by our side, Desiree and I are committed to preserving his spirit, ensuring that his art continues to inspire generations to come.”

DMX, born Earl Simmons in Mount Vernon, New York, in 1970, was a rap icon who rose to fame in the late 1990s with his 1998 debut album “It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot.” With his raw, in-your-face style of rapping “brutally honest” lyrics (via ALG), DMX quickly topped the charts and rose up the ranks as one of hip-hop’s greatest of all time.

His accolades include being the only rapper with five consecutive albums debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, an American Music Award, a Billboard Music Award, and four Grammy nominations. As an actor, DMX starred in cult-classic films like “Belly” (1998) and “Romeo Must Die”(2000).

ALG was established in 2013 to preserve and honor the legacies of iconic artists. Other iconic artists on its roster include Sam Cooke, The Blues Brothers, Iggy Pop, Ronnie Spector, Bootsy Collins, Mick Rock, McCoy Tyner, John Belushi, Bill Haley, and Dean Martin.

RELATED CONTENT: Otis Redding’s Estate Partners With Sony Music To Bring His Classics To New Audiences

sierra gates, gates, monster numb, love and hip hop atl, Atlanta, Entrepreneur
by Daron Pressley

May 30, 2024

Reality Star Sierra Gates Launches Monster Numb With Fiancé

One of her latest ventures is Monster Numb, a numbing cream developed with her fiancé, Xzavia Thomas.


Sierra Gates, an Atlanta-based beauty mogul and media personality, has significantly impacted the urban culture.

A leading cast member on VH1/MTV’s Love and Hip Hop Atlanta for the past seven years, Gates has used her platform to share her inspiring testimony. Beyond television, the recently engaged personality runs a thriving beauty bar in her hometown and tours the world with her glam class “Microblading the Sierra Way.”

With 2.4 million Instagram followers and thousands of daily views on her website, Gates continues to expand her brand. One of her latest ventures is Monster Numb, a groundbreaking numbing cream developed with her fiancé, Xzavia Thomas.

In April, Gates shared her experience on Instagram after getting a tattoo from her stomach down to her calf. The entrepreneur used her numbing cream product, Monster Numb, which worked so effectively that she felt no pain during the tattooing process. However, once the numbing effect wore off, she experienced intense pain and had to be hospitalized. This incident highlighted the potency of Monster Numb, which is now available for purchase.

“Oh my god, I’m just so excited about all the new things Monster Numb is set to do,” Gates says.

In an exclusive interview with BLACK ENTERPRISE, Gates candidly shared her motivations for success and her commitment to empowering young women. 

Gates’ Journey 

Gates became a young parent like her mother. “I had to decide between staying in school and struggling or getting a job to care for my daughter,” she says. So she hustled through multiple jobs at South DeKalb Mall, revealing an innate entrepreneurial spirit.

“I ended up working both jobs simultaneously until I got caught,” she laughs.

This relentless drive led her to establish her first business ventures, laying the groundwork for her future successes.

“My daughter finished high school and went to college, something I didn’t have the opportunity to do,” she says. This determination to create a better future for her daughter fueled Gates’ drive and ambition, propelling her forward despite numerous obstacles.

Developing Monster Numb

Bringing Monster Numb to market was a meticulous process that required extensive testing and refinement.

“We tested multiple products over six months,” she says. “We did a concentrated focus group, and after months of trial and error, we came up with the perfect combination and developed the most potent product on the market.”

The tattoo Numbing Cream Market is estimated to reach $2 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 11.6%. Beyond tattoos, tattoo-numbing creams can also be employed for various applications. They are also widely used for piercing, waxing, and other hair removal procedures

Gates’ tested the product during that marathon tattoo session.

“I decided to get a huge leg tattoo that took 12 hours in one setting. I felt no pain, thanks to Monster Numb. But within 48 hours, I was admitted to the hospital. My body went into shock, and I had to be hospitalized for nine days,” she reveals.

This period was a physical and emotional trial for Gates and a profound learning experience.

“It taught me that all the people you think will be there to help you might not show up,” she says. “So many people I thought would support me didn’t even send a flower or check on me.” This realization pushed Sierra to reevaluate her support system and reinforced her determination to be self-reliant. Despite the setbacks, she turned this crisis into a testament to her resilience, using her story to inspire others.

Gates, Sierra Gates, Monster Numb, Love and Hip Hop Atl, Entrepreneur
Source: Monster Numb, numbing cream. Photo Credit: Monster Numb

Ink Responsibly

Monster Numb distinguishes itself from other numbing creams with its powerful formula and rapid efficacy. “Monster Numb is extremely fast-acting, painless—you don’t feel anything,” Gates asserts. 

The cream’s potency is evident in its ingredients. “Monster Numb is 5% Lidocaine and 2% Epinephrine HCI. “Our Lidocaine is so powerful, our cream has the highest percentage of Lidocaine in a single dosage,” she notes. This high concentration ensures maximum pain relief, allowing users to endure tattoo sessions comfortably. 

While Monster Numb is designed for tattoo enthusiasts, its applications extend to various beauty and skincare procedures. “It’s essentially the ‘go-to’ product for body art, including tattoos and piercings!” Gates explains.

Gates’s motto for the product, “ink responsibly,” reflects its commitment to safe and effective usage. Purchases are limited to five products per checkout. In addition, it is always a best practice to consult a physician and adhere to FDA guidelines before using any topical numbing agent. 

Empowering and Uplifting

“I just want to, you know, always use my platform to encourage girls that look like me and speak the glory and the greatness of God—that’s first and foremost,” Gates emphasizes. Her dedication to inspiring others is intertwined with her faith and commitment to personal growth and community support.

“I made a promise to myself and God: if you get me there, I promise you I’ll never stop talking about you. So I want to continue to do that.”

Gates’ upcoming projects include expanding her “Get A Girl Seasoning” line and launching new products that, like “Monster Numb,” that showcase her excitement and relentless innovation.

Gabby Douglas, Gymnastics, Olympics, ankle injury, us championships
by Stacy Jackson

May 30, 2024

Ankle Injury Hurts Gabby Douglas’ Final Chance For A 2024 Olympic Trials Invite

The Olympic gold medalist plans to recover from her injury and focus on training for the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.

Olympic gold medalist Gabby Douglas’s path to the 2024 Paris Olympics has come to a halt. Due to an ankle injury, she has been forced to withdraw from the upcoming U.S. championships in Fort Worth, Texas.

The injury happened during a training session this week, setting back the 28-year-old’s ambitious comeback bid after an eight-year hiatus from the sport, which, according to ESPN, would have made her the oldest American woman Olympian to compete in gymnastics since 1952. Douglas exuded a sense of achievement even with the unexpected withdrawal. “I love this sport, and I love pushing my limits,” she said. “I hope I can inspire both my peers and the next generation of gymnasts that age is just a number, and you can accomplish anything you work hard for.”

As previously covered by BLACK ENTERPRISE, Douglas embarked on her return after an eight-year break from the sport after securing back-to-back team golds in London in 20212 and Rio in 2016. Douglas clarified to fans that she never announced an official retirement but “wanted to take a step back and work on myself and my mental state.”

According to ESPN, earlier this month, Douglas encountered challenges on the bars at the U.S. Classic in Hartford, Connecticut, ahead of withdrawing from the competition. The U.S. championships would have been the gymnast’s final opportunity to secure an invite to the Olympic trials in Minneapolis, scheduled in June. The trailblazer, who became the first Black woman to capture the Olympic all-around title in 2012, is set on recovering from her injury and preparing for the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.

“I proved to myself and to the sport that my skills remain at an elite level,” she said.

As Douglas gears up for the 2028 competition, preparing to take the mat at 32, she plans to reunite with Lowell Taub of Range Sports, her longtime representative.

RELATED CONTENT: The Olympics Selects Sculptor Alison Saar To Create 2024 Paris Artwork

Sen. Rev. Raphael Warnock, Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport
by Sharelle B. McNair

May 30, 2024

Sen. Rev. Raphael Warnock Protects Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport From State Legislature’s Control

Way to go, Sen. Warnock!

Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) secured a provision in the 2024 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill that will keep Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport under local control. 

The new provisions secured on May 24 come following an offer to amend it during the Commerce Committee’s FAA markup early 2024. It provides additional protections and clarity if the state legislature attempts to take over control.

“Hartsfield-Jackson is the busiest airport in the world, connecting tens of millions of travelers to the incredible history, culture, and businesses that make up ‘The A.’ It’s only right that the City of Atlanta continues to control this gateway to the city,” Warnock said. “My provision helps protect millions in revenue flowing from Hartsfield-Jackson to Atlanta and helps enable the city to continue supporting minority-owned small businesses. I was proud to secure these meaningful protections to guard against cynical state politicians trying to seize control of the airport.”

The first attempt from the Georgia State Legislature to take over Hartsfield-Jackson happened in 2019. New protections supported by the FAA make it much harder for a hostile takeover. It also helps protect revenue for the City of Atlanta and makes sure the airport can continue to promote contracts with minority-owned businesses and contractors.

In a statement, ATL’s Mayor Andre Dickens thanked Warnock for his continuous support of local economic security.

“Owning and operating the world’s busiest airport is something the City of Atlanta takes great pride in. ATL is the region’s premier economic generator, providing roughly 63,000 jobs with an annual $66 billion economic impact on the state of Georgia,” Dickens said. 

Warnock, alongside colleague Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-GA), has been working tirelessly to keep all airports in the Peachtree state safe. In early May 2024, it was announced Georgia would receive $120 million for airport infrastructure upgrades across the state thanks to the Airport Infrastructure Grant program funding, according to WRDW. Osoff said the law “will continue to deliver long-overdue upgrades to Georgia’s infrastructure for years to come.” 

Warnock, who described Georgia as “one of the nation’s most important aviation states,” said he’s excited to see “major funding awards to strengthen our airports and improve the flying experience for consumers and workers alike.”

Local airports are permitted to use the funding for runway upgrades, taxiways, airport safety, airport-transit connections, and roadways. Augusta Regional at Bush Field will receive $2,682,631, and Daniel Field will get $294,000. Smaller airports like Millen received $113,000 worth of funding, followed by Kaolin Field in Sandersville and East Georgia Regional in Swainsboro, receiving $144,000.

Shante Broadus, Snoop Dogg
by Jeroslyn JoVonn

May 30, 2024

Snoop Dogg’s Wife Opens ‘The Players Club’ In Downtown Los Angeles

Snoop Dogg's wife, Shante Broadus, has launched a real-life Players Club experience in Downtown Los Angeles.

Snoop Dogg’s wife, Shante Broadus, has launched a new adults-only business that brings a real-life “Players Club” experience to Downtown Los Angeles.

Named after the 1998 film created and directed by Snoop’s longtime West Coast rap comrade Ice Cube, the certified “Boss Lady” is introducing a new strip club to the City of Angels. Snoop and his wife announced the new venture on Instagram on Monday, May 27, in posts that collaborated with the strip joint.

“THE PLAYERS CLUB💰DTLA📍NOW OPEN: 5PM – 2AM 🍾✨ PROUDLY OWNED BY @bosslady_ent,” the strip club captioned its post.

It was appropriately accompanied by music from Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg’s 1992 hip-hop classic “Nuthin’ But A “G” Thang.”

Snoop followed up with a video post that included photos and video clips from what appeared to be an opening night event. Mrs. Broadus was seen hyping up her dancers and showering them with dollar bills. The “Gin and Juice” rapper posed alongside his wife and a few dancers, expressing his pride and support for her new business endeavor.

Sources say Shante’s Boss Lady Entertainment is hosting a private star-studded party at the club this week to celebrate further and market the new hot spot, TMZ reports. Attendees include Tiffany Haddish, Too $hort, Big Boy, and Cedric the Entertainer with DJ Drama and DJ Sky High Baby keeping the good vibes flowing.

The launch follows auditions for dancers that took place over the Memorial Day weekend. Broadus has plans for The Players Club to be a celebratory place for entrepreneurs, professionals, and beautiful people to come together for a good time.

Described as the “newest and most exclusive” gentleman’s club in the area, according to a press release, The Players Club “is poised to redefine luxury and liberation in the city’s nightlife scene.”

“I am thrilled to introduce The Players Club to Los Angeles,” Shante said. “This club is more than just a venue; it’s a celebration of empowerment, beauty, and entrepreneurship, providing a space where everyone can feel like a boss.”

The Boss Lady also plans to stay true to the essence Ice Cube brought to “The Players Club” movie 26 years ago.

RELATED CONTENT: Dr. Dre Feels Snoop Dogg ‘Does Too Much’

André 3000
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

May 30, 2024

André 3000 Closes Out Atlanta Jazz Festival Performing ‘New Blue Sun’

The former OutKast member performed at the free annual celebration which took place at Piedmont Park

Former OutKast member André “3000” Benjamin, who released an instrumental flute album last year, was the featured and closing act at this year’s 47th annual Atlanta Jazz Festival. Fans were gifted with the sounds of his flute as he performed songs off his solo offering, “New Blue Sun.”

According to Atlanta News First, André 3000 closed the festival, and fans gave their opinion of his set.

“I really liked it,” said Kimoni Jiggetts. “It’s good music to just kind of focus to, and so given this is my first time seeing him live, I’m excited to see him in any capacity.”

The festival was not only open to the public, there was no admission price, which wasn’t lost on this fan.

“Anytime you get a free André 3000 concert, you really just have to take advantage of that,” said Kenny Okafor, who regularly visits the Atlanta Jazz Festival.

The festival reportedly brought out approximately 150,000 attendees over the three-day event.

The free annual celebration of culture, community, and jazz took place at Piedmont Park from Saturday, May 25, through Monday, May 27. The festivities were open to the public daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Hip-hop fans were anxious upon hearing that Andre was finally releasing a solo album, something people have been yearning for since the duo (his rhyming partner, Big Boi, who has released several projects as a solo artist) stopped recording as a group. So, when fans got the news that he was releasing an album, the music world was happy, but he said he would not be rapping on the album.

In an interview with NPR, he expressed that he doesn’t have it in him to rap, but he still wants to record music.

Baltimore High School Students, National Debate Tournament
by Stacy Jackson

May 30, 2024

2 Baltimore High School Students Secure Historic Win At National Debate Tournament

Nevaeh Rita Sencion and Saidah Ervin emerged triumphant by a single vote over the country's top-ranked high school policy debate team.

Over Memorial Day weekend, high schoolers Nevaeh Rita Sencion and Saidah Ervin made history by becoming the first African American women’s debate team to clinch victory at the prestigious National Catholic Forensics League’s Grand National Tournament in Chicago.

The students, members of Baltimore City College High School’s policy debate team, engaged in a grueling competition, participating in five two-hour debates each day for two consecutive days, pitting their skills against some of the nation’s top debate teams.

According to WMAR-2 News, the dynamic duo emerged triumphant by a single vote over the country’s top-ranked high school policy debate team, arguing that the “United States federal government should substantially increase fiscal redistribution by providing a federal jobs guarantee, increasing Social Security, and/or providing a basic income.” Months of meticulous preparation, including crafting speeches imbued with poetic elements, paved the way for their success.

Ervin expressed her elation, stating, “…we knew we had it in us, but like being able to hear in front of a room that big and hearing all the cheers for us is a really, really big feeling.”

Sencion and Ervin’s achievement holds profound significance as they sought to represent inner-city students in Baltimore and Black women debaters. “We have the very unique responsibility –- and almost indebtedness -– to other Black debaters, other Black programs, the legacy of Black debate that’s come before us that has opened the doors for us to be able to continue to advocate for ourselves, for our communities,” Sencion said.

Under the guidance of BCC’s Speech and Debate Director Patrick Daniels, who has led the team for two decades, the duo ascended to the pinnacle of success, shattering traditional perceptions of debate as an exclusively white, male-dominated activity. Daniels envisions their triumph as a catalyst for change and an inspiration for future generations.

After graduation next week, Sencion and Ervin plan to continue their debate careers in college, with Sencion attending Wake Forest University on a debate scholarship and Ervin heading to the University of Kentucky as a leadership scholar. They also intend to return to their high school alma mater to coach and judge the next generation of debaters.

RELATED CONTENT: Georgia Teen Earns Associate’s Degree Before High School Diploma

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