by Mary Spiller

November 16, 2025

Philadelphia Drops Longstanding DEI Contracting Rules As Legal Pressures Mount

Mayor Cherelle Parker’s administration ends race- and gender-based contracting goals amid federal scrutiny, sparking backlash from city leaders and minority-owned businesses.

Philadelphia officials are dismantling long-established diversity, equity and inclusion benchmarks for city contracts, a dramatic policy shift that arrives as the Trump administration intensifies its campaign against DEI initiatives nationwide.

Mayor Cherelle Parker’s administration confirmed it will no longer enforce the goal that 35% of city contracts go to firms owned by women, minorities, or people with disabilities — a standard in place since 2016. Earlier versions of the policy date back to the 1980s, when the target was set at 25%. According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, the rollback could cost historically disadvantaged firms an estimated $370 million in annual opportunities.

The decision follows a similar move last fall, when the city discontinued DEI guidelines for publicly funded projects. Both changes have generated alarm in a city where the majority of residents are Black and Brown, and where business groups relied on these long-standing frameworks to maintain access to major public-sector contracts.

City Solicitor Renee Garcia told the Inquirer that the shift was driven by a “new federal legal precedent” restricting the use of race or gender in procurement decisions. She argued the city risked violating federal rules by using public dollars to “promote, reinforce or perpetuate discrimination.”

Her language closely echoes President Trump’s administration, which has threatened to withhold federal funding from governments and institutions that continue to rely on DEI-based standards.

Garcia said the revamped approach aims to create “an environment in which all businesses can thrive and contribute to the local economy,” with contracting priorities shifting toward supporting “small and local” firms rather than those tied to specific demographic groups.

According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, Parker has sought to avoid a direct clash with the Trump White House to prevent jeopardizing the hundreds of millions of federal dollars Philadelphia relies on to balance its budget. In October, the administration settled a lawsuit — filed by firms represented by America First Legal, an organization founded by Stephen Miller, Trump’s deputy chief of staff — which challenged the legality of the city’s previous workforce diversity contracts.

City Council Minority Leader Kendra Brooks condemned the rollback, saying she was “deeply troubled” by the administration’s decision. She argued the city should have explored alternatives, noting that “Chicago is looking at other ways. Baltimore is looking at other ways.”

Brooks added, “In Philly, we’re supposed to be a little grittier than that. I think constantly caving under the Trump administration’s thumb is definitely problematic, but I’m not the mayor.”

The changes leave many small and minority-owned businesses bracing for a more uncertain future — one shaped less by DEI mandates and more by shifting federal politics and legal constraints.

by Kandiss Edwards

November 16, 2025

Court Denies Paris Jackson Input In Michael Jackson Estate’s Deals

Paris Jackson argued that estate transactions need greater transparency.

Paris Jackson suffered a setback in her legal battle against the Michael Jackson estate.

On Nov. 10, a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge rejected portions of Paris Jackson’s petition to gain a larger role in the management of her father’s estate.

Paris Jackson’s current standing as a beneficiary limits her ability to challenge moves taken by the estate executors who have managed the estate since 2009. The decision follows months of legal back-and-forth over how the estate should operate. The estate, previously in financial distress, now has assets including major entertainment projects, licensing agreements, and ongoing catalog negotiations.

According to People, which reviewed the court’s ruling, Judge Mitchell Beckloff found that many of Paris Jackson’s requests are outside of the scope of law. Her insistence on insertion exceeds what California probate law allows for beneficiaries who are not co-trustees.

The ruling states that the court “cannot grant relief that would give a beneficiary powers equivalent to the trustees.”

Paris Jackson argued that certain estate transactions needed greater transparency. She raised concerns about the oversight of long-term business ventures as her father’s career continues to thrive posthumously. Michael Jackson’s middle child hopes to gather information about deals that, she believes, could affect the estate’s value.

The judge agreed to grant limited relief on procedural matters but upheld the estate’s legal authority to continue operating under its current structure. She will also be responsible for paying the estate a portion of its attorney’s fees.

Executors John Branca and John McClain have managed the estate since Michael Jackson’s death in 2009. Branca and McClain maintain that their stewardship has stabilized Jackson’s finances, settled debts, and expanded revenue streams.

The estate has earned more than $2 billion during its tenure. Two major scale productions have materialized under Branca and McClain’s leadership, MJ: The Musical, and the upcoming biographical film, Michael.

The court reiterated that only trustees may direct or halt business decisions unless they breach fiduciary duty, a threshold the judge said was not met.

Beneficiaries, including Paris Jackson and her brothers, Prince and Bigi, will continue to receive distributions from the trust. She did not publicly comment after the ruling.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

November 16, 2025

Stephen Curry and Under Armour Go Separate Ways

The Curry 13, which will be released in February 2026, will be the last product under the partnership.

The partnership between sneaker brand Under Armour (UA) and NBA champion Stephen Curry has officially come to an end after more than a decade.

The company announced the separation, stating that the Curry Brand, which was distributed by UA, would be maintained by Curry. The two were involved for over 12 years, after they successfully signed the Golden State Warriors’ player away from Nike.

“Under Armour believed in me early in my career and gave me the space to build something much bigger and more impactful than a shoe. I’ll always be grateful for that,” Curry said in a written statement. “Curry Brand was created to change the game for good, and over the past five years, we successfully changed the game for kids, for communities, and for basketball. What Curry Brand stands for, what I stand for, and my commitment to that mission will never change; it’s only growing stronger. I’m excited for a future that’s focused on aggressive growth with a continued commitment to keep showing up for the next generation.”

The Curry 13, scheduled to drop in February 2026, will be the last product released under the UA brand. More colorways and items from that collection will be made available through October 2026.

“It’s been an incredible privilege to work with Stephen, who as president of Curry Brand has been much more than an ambassador—he’s become a thoughtful and strategic business leader,” said Kevin Plank, founder and CEO of Under Armour. “Together with our teammates, he helped build something rare: a brand with credibility, community impact, and product that performs at the highest level. For Under Armour, this moment is about discipline and focus on the core UA brand during a critical stage of our turnaround. And for Stephen, it’s the right moment to let what we created evolve on his terms. We’ll always be grateful for what he’s brought to the UA team.”

Curry is now free to sign with another company.

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by Jameelah Mullen

November 16, 2025

Jumpstart Health Investors Elevates Black-Owned Healthcare Firms Amid DEI Backlash

In 2022, the healthcare venture capital firm secured $55 million to invest exclusively in Black-founded healthcare companies.

Jumpstart Health Investors, America’s first Black healthcare venture capital firm, continues to succeed despite anti-DEI initiatives that pressured it to cease exclusively supporting Black-owned businesses.

Founded in 2020 by Marcus Whitney and Kathryne Cooper, the company aimed to support Black-led health companies “in the wake of America’s racial reckoning.” The company’s original investment initiative, Jumpstart Nova Fund I, exceeded its $30 million target and ultimately built a portfolio of 11 companies and a database of roughly 400 Black founder-led projects.

Last year, the company found itself at a crossroads. The organization faced increasing political and legal pressure from conservative groups targeting DEI-focused programs, grants, and investment vehicles. Whitney said the company decided to move away from an explicit focus on DEI initiatives due to mounting political and legal pressure.

“Our goal is to build an institution, not to continually fend off lawsuits,” Whitney told Venture Nashville Connections.

In November 2024, the company launched Jumpstart Nova Fund II. Unlike its predecessor, it does not consider DEI outcomes in its investment decisions.

“With Jumpstart Nova Fund II, we build on our foundation and successful general partnership, now expanding our investment remit to all founders. Our performance has elevated us to now be the institutional, strategic seed fund of Jumpstart Health Investors,” the company says on its website.

However, despite its expansion, the company continues to support several Black-led organizations, including Therify, a mental health agency that mainly focuses on the Black community. Teamwork is a New York-based company that offers Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for children with autism. Time Study, founded by Kishau Rogers, conducts time studies in hospitals to help assess and improve hospital performance and patient care.

Also, part of the Jumpstart Nova group is Alerje, a Detroit-based startup that manages food allergies and aims to improve the quality of life for people with life-threatening allergies. Mae is a platform designed to meet the specific needs and cultural considerations of underserved expectant mothers.

Visit Jumpstart Health Investors’ website to learn more about Jumpstart Nova and its other initiatives.

Magic Johnson enterprises, Alexia Grevious Henderson

by Mary Spiller

November 15, 2025

Magic Johnson Enterprises Promotes Alexia Grevious Henderson To President

Alexia Grevious Henderson has been part of Magic Johnson Enterprises since 2017.

Magic Johnson Enterprises has appointed Alexia Grevious Henderson as its new president, marking a major leadership transition within the company’s top ranks. The promotion, effective immediately, positions Grevious Henderson at the helm of a growing portfolio of investments, partnerships, and community-focused initiatives guided by Earvin “Magic” Johnson’s longstanding vision.

As reported by Fox 59, Grevious Henderson has been with MJE since 2017, starting as a senior manager of marketing and communications before advancing through multiple leadership roles. Most recently, she served as vice president of strategic partnerships and marketing, overseeing relationships with corporate partners, fulfilling contract obligations, and leading brand-building efforts across the organization.

Magic Johnson praised her contributions, saying, “Alexia’s leadership, creativity, and strategic thinking have been instrumental in driving revenue and elevating our brand.” He added that “she is one of the brightest young minds in today’s business world” and credited her with consistently “overdelivering” to uphold MJE’s standards of excellence. Johnson described her ascent to president as a “well-deserved role.”

Before joining MJE, Grevious Henderson built experience in sports and communications at major institutions. She previously worked as corporate communications manager for the Washington Commanders — then known as the Washington Redskins — and began her career with the NCAA in Indianapolis. Her work in the industry has earned recognition in the Sports Business Journal’s “30 New Voices Under 30” and Diverse Representation’s “Top Ten to Watch in 2022.”

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Grevious Henderson dedicates time to community-focused efforts. She sits on the board of A.Bevy, a nonprofit that helps young adults explore their purpose through arts and education programs.

A South Carolina native, Grevious Henderson holds a bachelor’s degree from Clemson University and an MBA from Pepperdine University. She currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband, Aaron.

Founded by Magic Johnson, MJE has built a reputation for championing economic empowerment and community development, particularly in underserved communities. Its investments span entertainment, sports, real estate, and technology—sectors Grevious Henderson will now oversee as she leads the next phase of the company’s growth.

Her appointment reflects both continuity and the company’s ongoing commitment to developing young leadership within its ranks, a hallmark of Johnson’s approach to business and community advancement.

'Grey’s Anatomy’, James Pickens Jr.,Prostate Cancer

by Mary Spiller

November 15, 2025

‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Star James Pickens Jr. Reveals Prostate Cancer Diagnosis, Urges Men to Get Tested

The longtime actor says he is “living proof” that screening saves lives — especially for Black men facing higher risk.

“Grey’s Anatomy” veteran James Pickens Jr. is known to millions as Dr. Richard Webber — a character who spends his days saving lives. Now, the 73-year-old actor is sharing how early testing helped save his own.

Pickens appeared in an Instagram video on Nov. 14, telling viewers he is “living proof” that early detection for prostate cancer “works.” His message accompanied a candid conversation with Black Health Matters, during which he explained why he has always taken annual checkups seriously.

View this post on Instagram

“It’s not the kind of news anyone wants to hear,” he said, reflecting on his diagnosis to Black Health Matters. But given his family history, he added he “would have been surprised if I hadn’t gotten it.” Prostate cancer has touched multiple generations of his relatives — including his father, uncles, a 90-year-old cousin, and that cousin’s son. Remarkably, he said, “No one, as far as I know, has succumbed to it.”

Because of that history, Pickens began PSA testing earlier than most. In 2024, one of those routine tests raised concern. His primary care doctor referred him to a urologist, and a subsequent biopsy revealed a tumor. Fortunately, a PET scan confirmed the cancer had not spread. Pickens underwent a robotic procedure to remove part of his prostate.

Doctors told him the cancer was found unusually early. “It was rare enough that they wanted to make sure that they were crossing all the T’s and dotting all their I’s,” he said. “But they hadn’t seen one that was detected as early as mine.”

In an unexpected twist, Pickens’ diagnosis paralleled a storyline on “Grey’s Anatomy.” The show’s midseason finale — which aired Nov. 13 — revealed that his character, Webber, had also been diagnosed with cancer. Viewers will learn more when the series returns in January.

Pickens hopes that by speaking publicly, he can help break down long-standing fears that many men — especially Black men — have about medical testing.

“Where we are and how we view the medical community, especially as African American men,” he said, matters deeply. “We know the history of that…our trepidation about being tested, and getting something as simple as a physical.”

According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer affects 1 in 8 men. That number climbs significantly for Black men, who face a 1-in-6 risk and are more than twice as likely to die from the disease. The National Cancer Institute notes that prostate cancer is highly hereditary, with inherited factors accounting for up to 60% of cases.

Pickens’ message remains simple and urgent: early detection saves lives.

RELATED CONTENT: Backtalk with James Pickens Jr.

by Mary Spiller

November 15, 2025

SNAP Recipients Must Reapply Under Trump Plan

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins says millions will have to re-verify eligibility.

The Trump administration is preparing a major shift in how low-income Americans access food assistance, signaling plans to require millions of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients to reapply for their benefits. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins outlined the forthcoming efforts during an interview with Newsmax, framing the move as part of a broader attempt to curb what officials describe as widespread fraud within the program.

Rollins said the USDA intends to “have everyone reapply for their benefits, make sure that everyone that’s taking a taxpayer-funded benefit through … food stamps, that they literally are vulnerable and they can’t survive without it.” She did not offer specifics regarding when the reapplication process would begin or what additional steps households might be required to complete.

According to Politico, the announcement comes in the aftermath of a government shutdown that left the SNAP program temporarily without federal funding. This lapse fueled criticism from conservative commentators and President Donald Trump, who questioned the scale of federal food-assistance spending. SNAP, which serves nearly 42 million people, costs roughly $100 billion in fiscal year 2024.

While the administration has spotlighted the risk of fraudulent claims, anti-hunger organizations argue that the problem is being overstated. They note that most recipients receive modest support — roughly $6 a day on average — and that cases of deception, such as falsified income information or retailers illegally exchanging benefits for cash, represent a small fraction of total program activity.

Many states already require participants to recertify their income and household status at least every six months.

Families must also promptly report major changes in employment or earnings, meaning a federal reapplication mandate would add another layer to existing oversight.

The USDA has not clarified how Rollins’ proposed plan would diverge from current recertification policies. The secretary recently instructed states to submit detailed personal information on SNAP participants, including Social Security numbers — a directive now facing legal challenges.

Rollins also claimed that “186,000 deceased men and women and children” are “receiving a check” through SNAP, citing partial data provided by 29 states.

The initiative aligns with broader Republican efforts to demonstrate tighter fiscal control. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act, enacted in July, cut $186 billion from SNAP and introduced stricter work requirements, marking the program’s most significant restructuring to date.

Trump echoed those concerns this week, telling news outlets, “People keep talking about SNAP. But SNAP is supposed to be if you’re down and out. The number is many times what it should be.”

He added, “It really puts the country in jeopardy. People that need it have to get it. I’m all for it. But people who are able-bodied can do a job — they leave their job because they figure they can pick this up, it’s easier. That’s not the purpose of it.”

by Mary Spiller

November 15, 2025

Klay Thompson Blasts Ex-NBA Players Over Disrespectful Comments About Megan Thee Stallion

The Mavericks guard called out Patrick Beverley and Jason Williams after they used crude language while speculating about his on-court struggles.

Dallas Mavericks veteran Klay Thompson is pushing back after two former NBA players referenced his relationship with Megan Thee Stallion while critiquing his recent shooting slump — and used offensive language in the process.

The tension surfaced following an episode of the “Hoopin’ N Hollerin’” podcast that was posted on Nov. 4, where former sports players Patrick Beverley and Jason Williams discussed Thompson’s reduced production this season. The Mavericks recently shifted the 35-year-old to a bench role, prompting commentary about what might be behind his dip in performance.

While reviewing Thompson’s numbers, Williams — a 12-year NBA veteran known for his stints with the Kings, Grizzlies, and the Heat — pivoted to Thompson’s personal life. He used a vulgar term referring to the female anatomy while mentioning the All-Star’s romantic relationship with Megan Thee Stallion, even questioning whether it was affecting Thompson’s play. The remark quickly drew backlash once the clip circulated on social media.

Thompson himself stepped into the conversation when the segment went viral on Instagram. Thompson took to social media himself, tagging Beverley, as he condemned the wording used to describe Megan.

In a sharp response posted in the comments, Thompson wrote, “Referring to my GF as a (expletive) is so disgusting and disturbing. Especially from someone who played in the NBA.”

He continued, “How would yall feel if I referred to your wives in such a way? @patbev21 Do better fellas. Very disappointing.”

View this post on Instagram

Thompson and Megan Thee Stallion made their relationship public this past July after months of speculation.

On the court, Thompson is in the midst of a challenging season statistically. He is averaging a career-low 8.5 points on 32% shooting overall, including 28.9% from beyond the arc. This is his second year in Dallas after signing a three-year, $50 million deal that ended his long tenure with the Golden State Warriors before the 2024–25 season.

The University of the District of Columbia (UDC)|Dr. Edwin Bancroft Henderson

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

November 15, 2025

University Of District Columbia’s Rank Reflects Renewed Focus On Equity And Excellence

The University of the District of Columbia soars in HBCU rankings, redefining access.

Written by Sean Mitchell

The University of the District of Columbia (UDC), Washington, D.C.’s only public university and the nation’s only urban land-grant HBCU, has achieved a major milestone — ranking No. 18 among all historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and No. 9 among public HBCUs in the U.S. News & World Report 2025 rankings.

The leap marks UDC’s highest placement to date, reflecting significant gains in student success, research innovation, and affordability. The university credits its focused strategy on expanding access and aligning programs with the workforce needs of Washington, D.C.

“This recognition reflects the incredible progress we’ve made toward delivering a high-quality, affordable education that empowers our students and serves our city,” said UDC President Maurice D. Edington in a university statement. “We’re proud to represent what an urban, public HBCU can achieve when given the opportunity to grow.”

The university’s rise is no small feat. Just five years ago, the university ranked in the lower third of the U.S. News HBCU list. Since then, new academic programs, increased research funding, and targeted investments in student support have driven improvement.

Key initiatives include the launch of UDC’s new Workforce Development and Lifelong Learning (WDLL) division, which has trained more than 20,000 D.C. residents in high-demand fields such as cybersecurity, green infrastructure, and healthcare. The expansion of undergraduate research through the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences also positioned UDC as a hub for applied innovation.

In interviews with local media, Edington emphasized the university’s mission-driven approach: “We are an anchor for Washington, D.C.—a place where education, equity, and community meet.”

Students say the university’s culture and affordability are key to its success. “I could’ve gone out of state, but UDC offered me the same quality of education for a fraction of the cost,” said senior biology major Aaliyah Green. “It feels good knowing my school is finally getting the recognition it deserves.”

The average in-state tuition at UDC is under $7,000, making it one of the most affordable four-year institutions in the region. Combined with a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio and robust internship pipelines with local agencies, the university’s offerings are increasingly competitive. Experts say UDC’s rise also signals a shift in how urban HBCUs are perceived.

“UDC’s progress shows that public investment and visionary leadership can transform outcomes for historically underfunded institutions,” said Dr. Crystal Moore, a higher education policy analyst at the Brookings Institution.

“It’s not just about rankings — it’s about access and impact.”

As D.C. continues to evolve economically and demographically, UDC’s growth represents more than academic success — it’s a story of resilience and reinvention.

“When our students succeed, the city succeeds,” said Edington. “We’re building the next generation of leaders right here in the nation’s capital.”

by Janee Bolden

November 15, 2025

Chris Paul Says His Parents Made His Money Mindset

In a recent episode of Chime’s 'Ball on a Budget' series, Chris Paul reveals his family played a huge role in his financial discipline.

Chris Paul got his CP3 moniker when he became the third in his family to bear the initials, and in a recent episode of Chime’s new “Ball on a Budget” series, the future Hall of Famer reveals his family also played a huge role in his financial discipline.

The series is a partnership between Chime and Complex. The episode, which was posted Oct. 29, pairs Paul with Complex’s Ashley Nicole Moss as he takes on a $300 style challenge to find an entire outfit for a team dinner without going over budget. For Paul, it’s a chance to show how much he’s learned since the days when he was a broke college kid praying his debit card wouldn’t decline.

“I was in college. I had $151 in my bank account,” Paul recalls. “I declared for the draft, and my agents asked if I wanted $100,000 of upfront money. I was 19. I said, ‘Yeah, run that.’ But my parents said $25,000 would be enough.” The moment stuck with him: “I went to the bank, put my card in, and it said $25,151 just like that.”

It’s a perfect snapshot of how Paul learned to move smart, treating budgeting, investing, and financial literacy like a team sport. With nearly $400 million earned across his 21-year NBA career, according to Forbes, stakes in 29 companies, and the launch of the Chris Paul Collective, he’s built a business empire without losing his grounding. Even with all of that success, he doesn’t equate wealth with wisdom — or style.

“You do not have to have money to have style,” he tells Moss during the episode. “Sometimes when you got money, it can absolutely show that you don’t have any style. You got to wear the clothes and not let the clothes wear you.”

Such is the mission of “Ball on a Budget,” which has also featured Teyana Taylor, Joey Bada$$, and celebrity jeweler Greg Yuna in previous episodes.

For Paul, authenticity has always been non-negotiable. Even as his portfolio and tailored wardrobe have grown, his love for Jordans hasn’t wavered.

“My shoes have stayed consistent,” he says. “I’ll walk into rooms with very high-up people, and they’re dressed to the nines, and I’ve got on 1’s. A lot of times, they say they wish they could wear ’em. Ultimately, people want you to show up as who you are.”

The conversation also opens a window into Paul’s money mindset. When Moss probes Paul about his impressive business portfolio, asking what’s next in his financial progress journey, the Point God reveals he plans to continue seeking greater knowledge.

“Keep learning. You don’t know what you don’t know,” he says. “The biggest thing is to keep passing along the knowledge to younger players, but also my family. A lot of people in my support system never had an opportunity to learn about investments or budgets.”

For Paul, building wealth has never been just about him. It’s about bringing the information back home, just like his parents did for him.

The episode also taps into Paul’s sentimental side. When Moss asks what he splurges on, he doesn’t hesitate: “Watches.” Forever a family man, he reveals that his late grandfather wore a gold wristwatch every day. “When I saw this Vacheron,” he says, pointing to the timepiece on his wrist, “it keeps me connected to my grandfather.”

Even in the fun moments, like when Paul reveals how NBA vets rig credit card roulette to make sure rookies pay the team dinner bill, he finds a way to bring the lesson back to finances. “No one wants to have to budget,” he says. “But it’s part of life.”

And when he and Moss hit the racks to assemble his under-$300 outfit—a clean Canadian-tuxedo-inspired look — he nails the assignment with money left over.

At this stage in his life and career, Paul says every decision is about alignment and intention, especially when it comes to family and time. “I’ve been blessed to play 21 years,” he says. “But time is the most valuable thing. That’s the one thing you can’t budget with.”

Chime’s “Ball on a Budget” spot shows Paul in his element: part athlete, part businessman, and still very much the kid from North Carolina who remembers exactly what it felt like to see his balance jump from $151 to $25,151.