by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

June 25, 2025

Georgia Department Of Education To Reintroduce Cursive Writing Classes At Elementary Schools

The state's department of education opted to return this instruction amid its own rollback of other policies.

Georgia will bring back the long-lost art of cursive writing to its public elementary schools.

The Georgia Department of Education announced the news ahead of the 2025-2026 school year. Georgia elementary school students in grades third through fifth grade, will start learning the handwriting skill as early as July or August.

The lessons will return to the English Language Arts Standards curriculum. The department of education has already sent a guidance packet to families. “Handwriting, a basic tool for life, assists with the development of both fine motor skills and working memory skills; automatic handwriting skills facilitate active learning and efficient communications,” detailed the packet, according to WSB-TV.

“The goal is not perfect penmanship but to help students form letters and words automatically, allowing them to focus on organizing and expressing ideas clearly in writing,” the department said in the packet. “Cursive handwriting, being faster than print, enhances writing fluency, supports correct spelling, and frees up cognitive resources for higher-level writing tasks.”

For its entry-level lessons, designated for third-graders, students will learn to read and write in cursive. As they advance, they will practice their cursive writing to “build fluency and automaticity in handwriting to communicate effectively.”

The department suggested adopting one of two cursive writing styles that best match their school’s foundation handwriting teachings. It encourages schools to teach the Zaner-Bloser or D’Nealian styles for their instruction. The former method adopts an upright, print-style lettering for manuscript, while the latter uses slanted letters in both manuscript and cursive.

While Georgia has opted to bring back this practice, the state legislature has opted to remove diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs from its schools to comply with President Donald Trump’s executive order or risk federal funding.

The state’s department of education did not give further explanation as to why it is reintroducing cursive writing to its ELA curriculum, but it hopes the additional method for penmanship helps children in their communication and writing skills.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, governor endorsement

by Sharelle B. McNair

June 25, 2025

Mayor Ras Baraka’s Guaranteed Income Program Provides New Opportunities And Less Stress For Newark Residents

Recipients are less likely to be evicted from their home, being able to save more and children accelerating in school.

Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka is being celebrated for his Newark Movement for Economic Equity (NMEE) program that has provided a huge safety net for its participants since its 2021 establishment, NJ Spotlight News reports.

The two-year guaranteed income pilot program was launched to support residents making less than 200% of the federal poverty line due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Released data now shows how successful things have been. At random, 400 low-income families were divided into two groups — with one group receiving $250 twice a month and the other receiving $3,000 in lump sums twice a year. According to BET, a control group of 478 individuals did not receive any payments.

Data shows the outstanding benefits of the Newark program so far. Of the 400 recipients, those who received the modest checks benefited in more ways than one. Recipients are less likely to be evicted from their homes, can save more, and children are excelling in school. Data also highlighted a drop in participant homelessness, going from 3% to zero, in addition to food security improvement and mental health well-being on the up. Those in the program saw a reduction in stress and fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety for the first 18 months.

Baraka says the data proves that two years isn’t enough, and it’s time to discuss expansion. “I think it’s timely that we talk about this now and that we try to expand it now,” the mayor said.

“Especially in an environment where the richest people in the world are trying to take food out of the mouths of some of the most struggling in this country and the world, taking food and medicine from people.”

Programs such as the Movement for Economic Equity have been proving their worth in cities nationwide despite Republican lawmakers. Known as Universal Basic Income Programs, studies have shown that participants are in favor of the “flexibility and practicality of cash assistance.” However, Rep. John Gillette (R-AZ) feels such programs will make Americans lazy — something the “Founding Fathers” wouldn’t like. “Is money a birthright now? Do we just get born and get money from the government? Because I think the Founding Fathers would say that is very contrary to our capitalist system and encouraging people to work,” Gillette said.

“You get out, you get a job, you make money, you pay taxes, you live the American dream. We were never designed to have the federal government supply a salary.”

However, Baraka’s report shows programs aren’t about job security but about giving people room to improve. Recipient Jennymarie Idrobo, who receives biweekly checks for $250, says the funds helped her replace her boiler and pay down some student debt. “All of my money was invested into myself, and my future, and my family,” she said.

Echoing Green, Black-Led Women Groups, investors, social media, Fund, blog, network, Innovators, Black Founders, Black Businesses,Kathryn Finney'

by Stacy Jackson

June 25, 2025

Leadership Cleveland Selects Mayor Kim Thomas To Join 2026 Cohort

The Richmond Heights, Ohio, mayor will participate in the 10-month program to enhance her collaborative leadership abilities and civic understanding.

Kim Thomas, the mayor of Richmond Heights, Ohio, is a member of the Leadership Cleveland Class of 2026.

Over the past 47 years, Leadership Cleveland has helped senior-level leaders explore collaborative leadership skills and enhance civic understanding to help their communities.

“Because of your demonstrated leadership and commitment to the community, thoughtful responses to the questions posed, and impressive credentials shared in your application, the Cleveland Leadership Center is confident you will be an important member of this year’s class,” Thomas’ acceptance letter stated, according to Cleveland.com.

Thomas received the good news on June 20. The mayor, who is now in her final year of her first term, will participate in the 10-month program to learn from community partners and local leaders.

“Being a part of the 2026 Leadership Cleveland is truly an honor,” said Thomas. “The program will help me better understand the challenges and opportunities facing the Greater Cleveland area and connect with like-minded leaders passionate about advocating for positive change.” She will exchange ideas and develop solutions, skills she says she’ll use to address the pressing issues in Greater Cleveland like economic disparities and public safety.

In her announcement to run for re-election in May, Thomas said, “Since taking office, our community has undergone a remarkable transformation.” Her commitment to upgrading infrastructure, leading innovative rebranding efforts, and advancing major capital improvement projects continues to move the residents of Richmond Heights toward a “higher quality of life and economic growth.”

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Leadership Cleveland’s Class of 2025 was comprised of 18 members. The entire class of 2026 members have not been revealed. Applications for the Leadership Cleveland Class 2027 will open February 1, 2026. More than 2,000 people have participated in the program since its start.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

June 24, 2025

Mitchelville Freedom Park Hosts Juneteenth Sleepover Honoring First Town Self-Governed By Freed Slaves

Mitchelville Freedom Park's Juneteenth sleepover invited a diverse group to immerse themselves in the nation's first self-governing town of formerly enslaved people.

The Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park in South Carolina, hosted a Juneteenth sleepover that allowed a multigenerational group to immerse themselves in the site of the first self-governing town of formerly enslaved people in the country.

Held on June 12, a week before Juneteenth, the event, led by park staff, invited guests to camp in the woods and reflect on what life may have been like during slavery, The Washington Post reports.

Activities included connecting with the natural surroundings, viewing the dark, salty waters of Port Royal Sound—where a replica boat represented the vessels once used by locals to reach a fort made of oyster shells—and visiting the silhouette of a praise house.

A highlight was hearing a reenactment of a Baptist minister reading the Emancipation Proclamation, as once happened on those very shores. Ahmad Ward, executive director of Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, led the group in listening to a recorded interview with Mother Ethel Rivers, a centenarian born in Mitchelville. Speaking in a lilting West African cadence, she described a Gullah Geechee rite of passage called “seeking,” where boys and girls spent the night outdoors to connect with their ancestors, and, at times, to encounter the divine.

The event’s intimate format contrasts sharply with the grand scale of National Mall museums or public school systems, which have come under fire from the Trump administration for teaching what it deems “racially divisive” content.

Kept alive through donations and state funding, Mitchelville reflects a growing interest in historic sites tied to slavery, similar to nearby Charleston, South Carolina, where more visitors are seeking out plantation museums for deeper insight into slavery’s legacy and a meaningful connection to their ancestors.

“When I see there are efforts to keep us from our history, I see there are other ways and other means,” said Deborah Douglas, an author who is working on the second edition of a traveler’s guide to the Civil Rights Trail.

“We’re only talking about it in our community,” said Cheria Hay, a speech language pathologist and seventh-generation Mitchelville descendant, who drove six hours from her home in North Carolina to attend the Juneteenth campout. “It has to be shared.”

Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park hosts its Juneteenth festivities each year, and registration continues to grow. Diverse groups take part in activities such as the overnight campout, nature talks, a family day, a drum circle and concert, a karaoke contest, and a fun run.

Oprah Winfrey, The Color Purple, cameo, employees

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

June 24, 2025

Oprah Winfrey And T.D. Jakes Shut Down Diddy Party Rumors, ‘Never Been Near A Puff Party’

Oprah Winfrey and T.D. Jakes addressed the Diddy rumors at the Good Soil forum.

Oprah Winfrey and T.D. Jakes are shutting down any speculation regarding their ties to Sean “Diddy” Combs and rumors of attending one of his “freak off” parties.

The two powerhouses sat down for a fireside chat at Jakes’ recent Good Soil Forum in Dallas, where Winfrey took it upon herself to disassociate herself with anything Diddy party-related.

“I have never been near a party, never been near it,” Winfrey said in a clip shared by The Art of Dialogue. “And anybody who knows me knows if there is a party, I’m the first one out. I’m the first one out.”

Oprah and T.D. Jake publicly denies going to Diddy's parties.

“I have never been near a Puff party.” pic.twitter.com/L2u5mBAiTQ
— The Art Of Dialogue (@ArtOfDialogue_) June 21, 2025

Jakes chimed in to address rumors sparked by a photo of him with Combs at one of the embattled music mogul’s birthday parties. The image drew backlash amid intense online scrutiny following Cassie Ventura’s explosive lawsuit, which first revealed disturbing details about Combs’ so-called “Freak Off” parties.

“I stopped by Puff’s house for 30 minutes to say Happy Birthday to him during the day at 2 o’clock with staff,” Jakes shared. “And out of that came a love affair and all kinds of stuff.”

“You too?” Winfrey jokingly asked.

“I’m almost 70 years old, what does that look like?” Jakes quipped. “And I am a grandpa. What do I look like at this late day?”

Jakes faced backlash in late 2023 amid rumors about his ties to Combs. He addressed the speculation during a sermon at his Potter’s House church, but his comments only fueled further scrutiny.

“I didn’t come to convince you or nobody, because I know who I am,” he said at the time. “That is not what this is about; you can think about whatever you want to think. I came to do my job, I came to prophesize as I was commanded. I came to hear the master say, ‘Well done, thou good and faithful servant.’”

by Sharelle B. McNair

June 24, 2025

East Harlem Set To Get Busy As Mayor Eric Adams Signs Legislation For New Business Improvement District

With more than 85 commercial tenants already included, Adams says this is a way to continue seeing businesses thrive in a community with such legacy.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams signed legislation that will bring a new advocacy organization to the Harlem community and give businesses the opportunity to grow.

Standing in front of Sisters Caribbean Cuisine, Adams signed the necessary paperwork to create the East Harlem 125th Street Business Improvement District (BID) to advocate and coordinate with the community’s businesses and organizations.

With more than 85 commercial tenants already included, Adams, who is running for reelection, says this is a way to continue seeing businesses thrive in a community with such a legacy. “From its parks and playgrounds to its storefronts and small businesses, East Harlem is a place of rich history, extraordinary culture, and incredible food. Families, businesses, and residents deserve an East Harlem that is safe, clean, and thriving — and that is what this BID is all about,” Adams said.

“But we’re not only bolstering businesses here in East Harlem; we’re doing it all across our city. We cut red tape, invested in working people, and helped shatter the record for the most jobs and small businesses in city history. We’re focused every day on creating good-paying jobs and making sure that East Harlem and all of New York City are the best places to raise a family.”

According to Patch, thoughts for the BID first came about following a unanimous City Council vote in May 2025. By January 2026, the organization will be fully functional with an annual budget of $750,000. With the support of a board vote, the budget could go up to $1 million after three successful years.

Adams’ legislation will also bring sanitation and beautification efforts to East Harlem, which business owners are ecstatic about. Carey King, executive director of Uptown Grand Central, a nonprofit that provides additional sidewalk and street-cleaning services, feels the BID will make a big difference within the new district’s boundaries, consisting of 14 blocks riddled with pollution and crime. “Often, people have negative things to say when they walk through this district, and how chaotic it is, and how it scares people off sometimes,” King said.

“We’re really excited that we’re starting to build consensus and support to be stronger going forward, to make the street a better place.”

The announcement checks off Adams’ “Rebuild, Renew, Reinvent: Blueprint for New York City’s Economic Recovery” plan commitment made during his first mayoral campaign. The East Harlem 125th Street Business Improvement District brings the number of NYC supporting BIDs to 77. The plan was established to create new BIDs throughout the Big Apple and invest directly into targeted neighborhood development.

In addition to the latest established BID, Adams and Small Business Services Commissioner Dynishal Gross announced $4.4 million in new grants from the city will be awarded to some of Harlem’s community organizations and other neighborhoods in efforts to support small businesses, improve public morale, and give a push to nonprofits.

by Sharelle B. McNair

June 24, 2025

Sibling Rivalry: Brother and Sister Battle Each Other In Florida Primary

Their mom has already made an endorsement.

Randolph Bracy and LaVon Bracy Davis have two things in common: they are siblings, and both have their eyes on the vacant state senate seat in Florida, the Associated Press reports.

The Democratic siblings are battling in a special primary in Senate District 15 that opened after Geraldine Thompson died earlier this year from complications from knee-replacement surgery. The siblings aren’t new to politics: Bracy Davis is a state representative; Bracy was a state senator.

The family is deeply rooted in advocacy for Black people. Their mother, Lavon Wright Bracy, is a civil rights activist. Their father, Randolph Bracy Jr., was a local NAACP president. He founded a Baptist church in Orlando and was the director of the religion department at Bethune-Cookman University.

Lavon Wright Bracy has endorsed her daughter for the seat.

Other candidates in the primary include lawyer Coretta Anthony-Smith and former U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson, according to Florida Politics. The winner of the Democratic-dominant district, with Black voters comprising over half of the registered Democrats in the district, will face Republican Willie Montague in September 2’s Special Election.

Bracy Davis’ campaign has been met with some scrutiny. Her campaign brought in a surge of cash a week before the primary. Still, fundraising efforts that unexpectedly dragged on to the end of an extended session were said to have impacted her messaging. Bracy Davis’ campaign raised more than $60,000 over the course of the race, but through the reporting deadline, the campaign spent over $19,000 and still had more than $41,000 in cash.

However, the seasoned lawmaker says she isn’t worried about the financial part as she feels her record will speak for itself. “In the State House, I’ve worked to build up my community by expanding opportunities and delivering on every promise I’ve made. I’m proud of the positive campaign I’ve run—one rooted in respect, results, and real connection,” she said.

“While not every campaign has taken that approach, I’ve stayed focused on uplifting our community rather than tearing others down. The overwhelming support I’ve received — from doors knocked, to personal encouragement, to last-minute financial contributions — confirms that voters value leadership that leads with integrity.”

Bracy, once a contender for governor, failed to file a timely fundraising report for June 2025, raising just under $3,000 in outside contributions and contributing $6,000 from his own funds. But he isn’t letting that get him down. Campaigning as “The People’s Champ,” he attended Juneteenth events to garner support. “

We are in a time where effective, strategic leadership is crucial. I am the only candidate for Senate District 15 that has a proven record,” he said in a Facebook post.

This isn’t the first time the brother-sister duo went up against each other. Both were inserted in the Democratic primary for state senate in 2024, which the former professional basketball player called “disappointing and hurtful.” Bracy Davis endorsed Thompson over her brother for that race.

Wu-Tang Clan’s Masta Killa Connects With PETA To Encourage Vegan Lifestyle

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

June 24, 2025

Wu-Tang Clan’s Masta Killa Connects With PETA To Encourage Vegan Lifestyle

PETA has been steadfast in its message

As the legendary hip-hop collective, Wu-Tang Clan, is on the road for their last tour, one of its members, Masta Killa, has partnered with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, PETA, to help champion the vegan lifestyle.

The Brooklyn-bred, Staten Island-connected recording artist appears in the organization’s latest campaign to encourage people to join a lifestyle that does not involve eating flesh. He appears in a camouflage outfit, showcasing lettuce instead of the customary leaves on traditional uniforms from the armed services.

“Take care of your body and your body will take care of you,” says Masta Killa. “Your body is a living organism—you’re supposed to feed it life. Plants, vegetables, fruits, all of those things are still living, so you’re putting life into life.”

The emcee is seen in a video walking through the streets of New York City, carrying a head of lettuce and some cabbage, while posing in front of a vegetable and fruit stand. He mentions that several of the group members are also vegan, including RZA and Mathematics.

Masta Killa is just the latest celebrity to help PETA tout the benefits of living a vegan lifestyle. He joins RZA, Travis Barker, P!nk, Jhené Aiko, Jermaine Dupri, Noah Cyrus, T-Pain, and Paul McCartney. They have all gotten on board to encourage others to be kind to animals. PETA has been steadfast in its message to others that states “animals are not ours to eat.”

Masta Killa, who released a solo project, Balance, in May, has stated that vegan meals are now readily available everywhere and that people should have easier options for maintaining a lifestyle free from flesh.

“Everywhere I go now, there’s a good vegan meal somewhere—and it’s more healthy, so there’s really no excuse,” Masta Killa cited.

PETA also champions the vegan lifestyle by saying that those who become vegan will do wonders for their health. Vegans are less likely to suffer from various deadly diseases and ailments like cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

June 24, 2025

HBCU Week Foundation Awards Gala Brings Out A-List Ambassadors Anthony Anderson And Stephen A. Smith

The Awards Gala announced the new Arts and Entertainment scholarship.

The HBCU Week Foundation brought out its A-List supporters for its sixth annual Awards Gala.

Stephen A. Smith and Anthony Anderson made their way to the Hotel DuPont in Delaware as ambassadors of the foundation’s mission to uplift HBCU scholars. The June 20 event celebrated the launch of HBCU Week’s Arts and Entertainment Scholarship Program.

The Awards Gala also bestowed Anderson with the Trailblazer Award. The Howard University alum has emerged as an Emmy-nominated actor and HBCU advocate, whose growing legacy extends to this ambassadorship for Black academia. Other honorees include media personality Loren Lorosa, granted the Rising Star Award, and talent manager Ebonie Ward, who received the Leadership Award. Smith also appeared at the event as a long-time supporter and advocate for the organization.

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Together, the three honorees are part of the inaugural Arts and Entertainment Brand Ambassador Program for the scholarship. They were officially inducted at the elegant ceremony, while representing Black excellence and communal support in education.

“Our new ambassadors are cultural powerhouses who embody the vision, values, and voice of HBCU excellence,” said Ashley Christopher, CEO and Founder of the Foundation, in a press release shared with BLACK ENTERPRISE. “With their platforms and passion, we will expand access to opportunities in arts and entertainment for future HBCU students across the country.”

Their work as ambassadors, also joined by 2021 Honoree Heather Lowrey, aims to increase enrollment and matriculation through HBCUs. Their work will ensure that these institutions continue to educate Black youth to become future leaders.

However, the festivities continued with another announcement benefiting Black students. HBCU Week Foundation also unveiled a partnership with the United States Tennis Association to launch the Althea Gibson Scholarship. Honoring the acclaimed tennis legend and HBCU alumna, the scholarship will support student-athletes as they champion their institutions and academic ambitions.

In a night filled with entertainment powerhouses and educational achievement, the HBCU Week Foundation Awards Gala continues to prove its work while amplifying the importance of HBCUs.

by Stacy Jackson

June 24, 2025

The Academy To Present Honorary Governors Award To Debbie Allen

Later this year, Allen will receive an Oscar statuette from the Academy alongside honorees Tom Cruise and Wynn Thomas.

Debbie Allen has been selected by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to receive an Honorary Oscar at the 16th Annual Governors Awards.

She’s legendary and the exact type of trailblazer the Governors Awards celebrates! According to the Academy Press Office, the Board of Governors will present this year’s Academy Honorary Awards to “legendary individuals whose extraordinary careers and commitment to our filmmaking community continue to leave a lasting impact.” Academy President Janet Yang stated, “The Academy’s Board of Governors is honored to recognize these brilliant artists. Debbie Allen is a trailblazing choreographer and actor whose work has captivated generations and crossed genres.”

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Allen’s nearly five decades-long career spans roles as a choreographer, actor, and producer; her work is not unfamiliar to the Academy. In addition to choreographing for the Academy Awards ceremony seven times, the acclaimed dancer created spectacular choreographic sequences for films like “Forget Paris,” “A Jazzman’s Blues,” and “The Six Triple Eight.” As a producer, Allen’s credits include “Amistad” and “A Star for Rose.” Her credentials include acting appearances in “Fame,” “Ragtime,” and “Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life is Calling.”

The Houston, Texas, native received an Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts from Yale in 2025 in honor of her inspirational leadership. The university highlighted her for the indelible mark she’s left on stage and on screen. As previously mentioned by BLACK ENTERPRISE, the renowned director received a Governor’s Award at the 2021 Emmys. She was honored by the Television Academy for her achievements on screen and her commitment to inspiring and engaging marginalized youth through dance, theater arts, and mentorship.

Allen’s passion for dance began at the early age of five. She was the only Black student at the Houston Ballet Academy when she enrolled at 14. In her journey as a dancer, she faced several obstacles, like segregation and body standards in ballet. The Howard University alum later danced under the mentorship of choreographer Mike Malone. She graduated from the HBCU with a B.F.A. in theater and classical Greek studies.

Allen will receive an Oscar statuette in November alongside actor Tom Cruise and production designer Wynn Thomas, and Dolly Parton. The award is presented to individuals for their “extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences in any discipline, or for outstanding service to the Academy.”

The 16th Annual Governors Awards, presented in partnership with Rolex, will take place in Los Angeles on Nov. 16.