Bipartisan Push Revives The Protect Black Women And Girls Act Examining Experiences Of Black Women And Girls In The U.S.
The legislation will be used to 'promote community-based methods for mitigating and addressing harm' on Black women and girls.
A group of bipartisan lawmakers are working to put a bill back in motion that explores the experiences of Black women and girls in America, The Hill reports.
Co-chairs of the Caucus on Black Women and Girls – Democrat representatives Robin Kelly (IL), Yvette Clarke (NY), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ) – reintroduced the Protect Black Women and Girls Act on Feb. 1, after its initial introduction in 2021. Supported by Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), the bill will create a task force to “examine the conditions and experiences of Black women and girls in education, economic development, healthcare, labor and employment, housing, justice and civil rights.”
The legislation will also be used to “promote community-based methods for mitigating and addressing harm and ensuring accountability, and to study societal effects on Black women and girls, and for other purposes.”
In a statement, Kelly said addressing the disparities faced by Black women and girls in this country isn’t enough. More needs to be done. “Simply acknowledging our country’s history of targeted discrimination, harassment and violence against Black women and girls will not correct years of systemic racism and sexism,” Kelly said.
“We must leverage the full weight of the federal government to seek justice for Black women and girls who deserve an equal opportunity for a full, happy, healthy life.”
I'm proud to introduce the Protect Black Women and Girls Act beside so many of my friends and colleagues. This legislation will ensure that Black women and girls have the opportunities they deserve to thrive. pic.twitter.com/0RNPmJ0dd1
The data and numbers don’t lie regarding how racial disparities disproportionately affect Black women and girls within a number of spaces. In Mississippi, Black women were found to be four times more likely to die due to pregnancy-related health issues and complications than white women in 2020. A few years prior to the act being introduced, Olympic gold medalist Allyson Felix, spoke out about the dangers of being Black and pregnant after being diagnosed with preeclampsia, resulting in an emergency c-section.
While the price of everything is going up, the salaries of Black women are not. Employee salaries are not keeping up with inflation in the U.S. In 2022, the cost of living was at a 40-year high. According to the National Women’s Law Center, Black women are paid 67 cents for every dollar a white man makes. White men like Fitzpatrick said these disparities have gone on for “far too long.” On Twitter, Watson Coleman said the bill is a “crucial step toward finding lasting solutions to issues impacting Black women and girls.”
If the bill passes, the task force will provide recommendations to Congress, the president and every state government on different incentives that can be implemented to improve outcomes.
Other lawmakers showed support of the movement like Rep. Gwen Moore (D-Wis.) She tweeted about the importance of providing Black women and girls with equal opportunities. “Black women have played a key role in ensuring liberty, equality, and opportunity for all,” Moore wrote.
“I’m proud to support the Protect Black Women and Girls Act to ensure Black women and girls have equal opportunities to get ahead and succeed.”
Black women have played a key role in ensuring liberty, equality, and opportunity for all. I’m proud to support the Protect Black Women and Girls Act to ensure Black women and girls have equal opportunities to get ahead and succeed. https://t.co/zVABN3uJDg
Lastly, the bill will receive backup support from data. The U.S. Commission on Civil Rights will conduct a study and collect data on the effects of specific economic, health, criminal justice and social service factors on Black women and girls.
One of the World’s Busiest Airports Plans To Stop Non-Flyers From Entering Terminals
Over 100 million passengers traveled through the airport in 2023 alone.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is making major changes to their busy terminals.
The Atlanta City Council transportation committee voted to change the loitering ordinance, stopping the non-flying general public from the terminals at all times, The Associated Pressreported. Airport officials are setting new rules to improve safety measures during overnight construction periods and provide access for maintenance and custodial teams to perform high-volume upkeep and cleaning duties.
After the start of ATLNext construction projects on the airport campus, terminal doors were closed between 11 p.m. and 4:30 a.m. to all but ticketed passengers and their parties, airport personnel, and construction crews in 2018. The secured timeslot prevented the homeless community from sleeping in the domestic terminal.
Although the policy was codified into law in 2021, officials are expanding restricted access to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. “We’re going to have 24/7 where we restrict access to the airport to ticketed passengers, those meeting or greeting passengers, those who are employed and those others having ability to do business at the airport,” Hartsfield-Jackson senior deputy general manager Michael Smith said.
Frequent flyers seem to be excited about the new changes and feel their concerns are finally being taken seriously. “It has some uncanny people, so when you’re a senior especially it makes you feel uncomfortable,” traveler Doretha Harris told WSB-TV. Other travelers say they have experienced some horrific things during their time at Hartsfield.
Passenger Tim Cole, who recently visited the airport to pick up his son, said he understands why the changes are being made. “I have been approached a few times for money. Very…kind of intimidating,” Cole admitted. He also said there was a time he witnessed a man in the restroom exposing himself. “He was naked, washing in the sink, just very loud.”
Over 100 million passengers traveled through the airport in 2023 alone. With a rise in the recent number of baggage thefts and attempted access to unauthorized areas, personnel feel the legislation will make more people feel safer and welcomed. “This legislation aims to clarify who is authorized to enter the airport, and enhance our safety and security protocols to maintain a secure environment for all,” an airport spokesperson said.
“I think that is a good idea because for women traveling alone or kids it is intimidating, make it a safer space I think at the airport would be a good start.”
Surveillance Leads Detectives To A Witness In Case Of Missing 25-Year-Old Marissa Carmichael
Greensboro police in North Carolina said surveillance footage shows the 25-year-old woman leaving the gas station in a vehicle.
Greensboro Police in North Carolina announced that detectives have identified an individual who is currently considered a witness in the disappearance of 25-year-old Marissa Carmichael.
According to the GPD, surveillance footage obtained by police showed the woman getting into a vehicle and leaving the gas station located in the 800 block of East Market Street. Detectives have already interviewed the driver of the vehicle, who remains unnamed.
Recent updates reported by WCYBinclude a timeline of events released by the Greensboro Police Department. The mother of five’s whereabouts on the night of Jan. 13 included a stop at One17 SofaBar & Lounge followed by an after-party hosted at an Airbnb. On Jan. 14, the woman was dropped off at an Exxon gas station, where she made a 911 call at 3:40 a.m. after being stranded at the location without her phone. “I don’t know where I’m at I’m in the middle of Greensboro; he took my phone, I don’t have my phone,” Carmichael told the dispatcher that morning.
GPD reported that an officer was dispatched at 4:19 a.m. and arrived at 4:21 a.m. As previously mentioned by BLACK ENTERPRISE, Carmichael was already gone from the scene by the time police arrived at the location.
According to WCYB, the missing woman’s mother, Sara Carmichael, stated that her daughter said “she wasn’t hurt, but she was clearly confused and disoriented and had expressed she needed help; she needed her phone. I’m disappointed that they would take so long to get there if they had gotten there, she maybe would have still been waiting for help and be home now.”
Carmichael is described as a 260-pound biracial female standing at five feet and four inches tall. She has long black and blonde braids, a heart tattoo on her face, and a butterfly tattoo near her eye.
As the investigation continues, authorities encourage anyone with information to contact Guilford Crime Stoppers at 336-373-1000.
Building Success Brick By Brick: The Inspiring Story Of Doug And Atiya Parson, Real Estate Power Couple
Insights from the the couple's new book, 'We Nailed It! The Blueprint for Relationships and Real Estate'
In the bustling real estate world, where deals go down and fortunes rise and fall, one couple stands out for their expertise in real estate, and their unwavering commitment to each other and their family. Today about 6% of real estate agents and brokers in the United States are Black, though 14% of Americans are Black.
White real estate agents make almost three times as much as their Black peers, according to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Doug “Bricks” Parson, renowned celebrity realtor and flipping expert, and his wife, Dr. Atiya “Blondie” Parson, Ph.D., a seasoned realtor and business partner, have forged a path to success through shared values, resilience, and a deep understanding of what it takes to build both successful relationships and thriving real estate ventures. In their new book, We Nailed It! The Blueprint for Relationships and Real Estate, they offer readers a unique blend of personal experiences, professional wisdom, and invaluable lessons learned along their journey.
BLACK ENTERPRISE had a candid conversation with Doug and Atiya Parson, exploring their book’s key themes paralleling home building and maintenance to marriage and uncovering the secrets to their success in love and business.
Building a Strong Foundation (Chapter 1)
Growing up in circumstances marred by absent fathers and personal struggles, Doug and Atiya Parson found themselves drawn together by a shared determination to carve out their path in life. “Our differences helped bring us together,” Doug reflected, his voice tinged with nostalgia and resilience. “We wanted to create our scenario, our own story,” Atiya added. Their upbringing, marked by challenges, instilled in them a deep-seated desire to create a different future for themselves and their family. Despite the hardships, they found solace in their shared values and aspirations, laying the foundation for a relationship built on mutual respect and understanding. “Our differences made us better,” Doug concluded, a hint of pride evident in his voice, “We set parameters on how to make a strong foundation for our kids and us.”
Protecting What Matters Most (Chapter 5)
In chapter five of their book, Doug and Atiya Parson delve into the concept of protection within a marriage, using the metaphor of a home’s roof to illustrate its importance. “You can’t have a relationship or marriage without that protection,” Doug asserted, his tone firm yet reassuring. The protective barrier they’ve erected around their relationship guards against the unpredictable storms of life, safeguarding their love from external threats. Atiya recalled a poignant incident, underscoring the necessity of clear communication and transparency in their real estate work to uphold this protective barrier. “It was a lesson in boundaries and transparency,” she shared, her eyes reflecting the wisdom gained from experience, “Communication is key to maintaining that roof over our marriage, keeping out anything that threatens its integrity.”
Adapting and Growing Together (Chapter 8)
Navigating through the ebbs and flows of life, Doug and Atiya emphasized the importance of adaptability and growth in their relationship. “You gotta take this stuff one step at a time,” Doug advised, carrying the weight of years of experience. “You learn through the stages, and you just get better.” Their journey, marked by various stages and challenges, has taught them the value of evolving together, of weathering life’s storms hand-in-hand. Atiya nodded in agreement, a soft smile gracing her lips as she reflects on their shared experiences. “Communication and shared experiences are essential,” she added, her gaze warm with affection, “We’ve learned to adapt and grow together in real estate and our relationship, finding strength in each other’s presence.”
Charting a Path Forward
As Doug and Atiya Parson continue to inspire others with their success in real estate and love, they remain committed to changing the narrative. “We showed you all that we can get money…but we thought it would be dope to marry them,” Doug enthused, his voice brimming with excitement at the prospect of empowering others. Their mission extends beyond real estate, and financial prosperity, encompassing relational fulfillment and personal growth. Through their book and personal experiences, they offer readers a roadmap for success, blending practical advice with heartfelt anecdotes. Their journey exemplifies resilience, love, and the transformative power of partnership, inspiring others to create success stories in real estate and life.
In a world where success is often measured in monetary terms, Doug and Atiya Parson remind us of the value of relationships and the importance of building a solid foundation, protecting what matters most, and adapting and growing together.
Brooklyn Tragedy: Elderly Woman Killed By Falling Bricks While Shoveling Snow
According to reports, the NYC Department of Buildings stated that after a full inspection of the building, forensic engineers issued a vacate order for the structure.
In Brooklyn, NY, bricks falling from a building killed an elderly woman while she was shoveling snow off the sidewalk.
According to The New York Daily News, 74-year-old Dale Singer died after bricks from her brownstone fell on her while she was outside clearing her sidewalk after a snowstorm hit the city. This accident occurred around 12:30 p.m. in the Sunset Park section of Brooklyn.
Singer was taken to a local hospital, Maimonides Medical Center, where she was initially listed in critical condition before succumbing to her injuries.
Her son, Wylie Singer, told the media outlet that he heard a sound and ran downstairs to see his mother unconscious.
“All I know is I heard a sound, the sound of the façade falling. I ran downstairs to see my mother at the bottom of the landing, unconscious, dead.”
People reported that the NYC Department of Buildings stated that forensic engineers issued a vacate order for the structure after a full inspection of the building. They gave the property owner a summons for failure to maintain the building and ordered them to hire a structural engineer and submit an engineer report to DOB on the status of the building.
A neighbor of the victim stated that she witnessed firefighters trying to save Singer.
“That big piece over the door was what hit her,” she said. “I feel so sorry for her. She was a lovely person. I don’t know how the face of the building came down like that.”
Dale’s husband also showed up at the scene after the incident and quickly left in a cab to be with his wife at the hospital.
It was not known if the heavy snow contributed to the falling of the façade or if it was an issue due to the structure of the building.
In a December 2023 New York Times article, Abi Aghayere, a civil engineering professor at Drexel University, stated that he felt the city’s oversight of buildings was insufficient. He believes that regulators typically pay more attention to the building before and during construction or when an owner seeks permits. Once the permits are granted and the buildings are completed, Aghayere said, the onus to identify and fix problems is almost always on the owner, and that should make many New Yorkers worried.
$50,000 Grants Available To Elevate Black Entrepreneurship In North Carolina
NC BEC's Funding Initiative aims to address racial inequities in business support and economic development in North Carolina.
The North Carolina Black Entrepreneurship Council (NC BEC) is launching new funding via grants to support the growth of local Black companies.
The council will begin taking applications on March 11 to help elevate Black entrepreneurship through the 2024 NC BEC Ecosystem Grant. Applicants can pursue grants up to $50,000 each out of a $300,000 budget. That means roughly six grants will be awarded. The application deadline is April 15, 5:00 p.m. EST. You must be a North Carolina-based organization to seek funding.
Qualified applicants can only include diverse types of non-profits, for-profits, HBCUs, entrepreneurial support organizations, and others that serve or host programs geared to support or help Black entrepreneurs.
The NC IDEA, a Durham, NC-based private foundation that backs entrepreneurial ambition and economic empowerment in the state, created the NC BEC in 2020. That council so far has awarded over $2 million in grants in North Carolina, including Black entrepreneurs ($525,000), entrepreneurial support organizations ($775,990), and Historically Black Colleges and Universities ($775,990).
NC Idea President and CEO Thom Ruhe stated, “Under the leadership of the NC BEC, our call to fund the entrepreneur aspirations of these organizations will provide the Black community with greater opportunities for access, exposure, and networks, thereby leveling the playing field and realizing the potential in everyone.”
The funding effort comes after corporate America reportedly failed to fulfill pledges to commit $50 billion to address racial inequities and empower Black individuals and businesses after the murder of George Floyd in 2020. Yet, some observers have contested how much in pledges have actually been made, as many firms have not publicly reported updates on their commitments. The announced pledges ranged from helping Black companies grow to assisting Black individuals in making big-ticket purchases, like buying homes.
Now NC Idea and NC BEC are stepping up to help fill that void in North Carolina.
The NC BEC’s work includes building the capacity of Black leaders, allowing them to be more supportive of Black proprietors on the capital funding and economic development front. It has grown from a small, accomplished group of Black professionals to over two dozen experts in various fields that serve on the BEC. It informs the funding and supports priorities for NC IDEA, which aims to become the nation’s best state for Black founders.
Desmond A. Wiggan, CEO & Founder of BatteryXchange, reflected on how gaining funding last year helped his Charlotte, N.C.-based company. “The $50,000 SEED grant from NC IDEA Foundation, along with the $75,000 GROWTH grant from The Black Entrepreneurship Council, proved instrumental in attracting multiple angel investors and propelling our business to new heights. Their commitment to fostering equitable entrepreneurship is truly elevating opportunities for all entrepreneurs in our state.”
Kansas City Chiefs Players Demand Gun Control Reform
After one person died and 22 people were injured in a shooting, several Kansas City players called for gun control reform.
The joy of winning this year’s Super Bowl was curtailed when a shooting took place at the celebration of Kansas City Chief’s victory rally in Missouri.
The shooting on Wednesday, Feb. 14, left one person dead and 22 injured. As a result, several members of the Chiefs took to social media to call for gun control reform.
The NFL team released a statement regarding the incident.
“We are truly saddened by the senseless act of violence that occurred outside of Union Station at the conclusion of today’s parade and rally.
“Our hearts go out to the victims, their families, and all of Kansas City.
“We are in close communication with the Mayor’s office as well as the Kansas City Police Department.
“At this time, we have confirmed that all of our players, coaches, staff and their families are safe and accounted for.
“We thank the local law enforcement officers and first responders who were on-scene to assist.”
“Prayers for those affected at today’s parade. A time of celebration ends in tragedy. When are we going to fix these gun laws? How many more people have to die to say enough is enough? It’s too easy for the wrong people to obtain guns in America and that’s a FACT,” Defensive End Charles Omenihu wrote on his X account.
Prayers for those affected at today’s parade. A time of celebration ends in tragedy. When are we going to fix these gun laws ? How many more people have to die to say enough is enough ? It’s too easy for the wrong people to obtain guns in America and that’s a FACT.
Chiefs safety Justin Reid weighed in, demanding action from city leaders to eliminate tragedies like these.
“This is SAD man! Kids are being shot and somebody didn’t come home tonight. We cannot allow this to be normal. We cannot ourselves to become numb and chalk it up to “just another shooting in America” and reduce people in statistics and then move on tmrw. This is a SERIOUS PROBLEM!! I pray our leaders enact real solutions so our kids’ kids won’t know this violence.”
This 🤬 is SAD man! Kids are being shot and somebody didn’t come home tonight. We cannot allow this to be normal. We cannot ourselves to become numb and chalk it up to “just another shooting in America” and reduce people in statistics and then move on tmrw.
Police officials stated that none of the players, coaches, or staff members and their families from the Chiefs were harmed, but a local radio personality, Lisa Lopez-Galvan from KKFI 90.1, was killed.
NBC News reported that police officers detained three unidentified suspects allegedly responsible for the shooting.
It was also reported that eight victims had “immediately life-threatening” injuries, seven were labeled as having life-threatening injuries, and six had minor injuries after the incident, Kansas City Fire Chief Ross Grundyson said.
Miami Unveils The Source, A Black-Owned Tech Hub Uplifting The City’s Tech Landscape
Miami has a new addition to its tech ecosystem: The Source.
Downtown Miami welcomed a new addition to its tech ecosystem Feb. 15 with the grand opening of The Source, a Black-owned tech center, according to the Miami Herald.
The project was led by Miami Gardens native Ted Lucas, founder of Slip-N-Slide Records, and his business partner Hilmon Sorey, a seasoned venture capitalist with investments in over 100 companies, including Uber and Lyft.
“If you look like me, I want to see how you are going to help my community,” Lucas said. “That’s very important to me.”
The Source aims to foster local tech talent and support students, startups, and small businesses through accelerators, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Photo by Dracula X/The Source MiamiPhoto by The Source Miami
Lucas recognized Miami Mayor Francis Suarez’s efforts in attracting tech founders to Miami and engaged with him during the COVID-19 pandemic to explore ways for Black residents to actively participate in the burgeoning tech scene.
“It’s important to have a space like this because there are a lot of different organizations handling different aspects of the tech ecosystem,” said Stefan Owens, head of Growth and Investment at The Source. Miami-Dade Commissioner Oliver Gilbert III, who attended the grand opening, expressed confidence in The Source’s commitment to supporting startup founders and empowering others.
Through a partnership between Lucas’ Tech Knowledge organization and Florida Memorial University, The Source has supported tech boot camps, training local residents for future tech jobs. “Within the last two years, we’ve invested $500,000 in startup companies, and we’re just getting started,” Lucas said.
Desiray Malcolm, a single mother of two from Miami Gardens, who worked in warehousing, participated in a tech boot camp at Florida Memorial University. Later, she secured became an account manager at Kaseya.
“They say this is the beginning for The Source, but I feel like we’ve already taken off,” Malcolm said.
Usher Receives Atlanta’s Highest Honor After Taking ‘The World To The A’ At Super Bowl 2024
Usher "turned the world to the A" at Super Bowl LVIII. So it's only right Atlanta returned the favor by giving him the city's highest honor.
Usher “turned the world to the A” at Super Bowl LVIII. So it’s only right Atlanta returned the favor by giving him the city’s highest honor.
On Feb. 14, Usher was in Atlanta for a special ceremony. He was granted the Phoenix Award, a coveted honor recognizing an individual or group for their outstanding service to the city, WSB-TV reports. The ceremony was held at the Black Entertainment & Music Walk of Fame and Amazon Music outside Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where Usher was among the inaugural class of inductees in 2021.
It was a special moment for Usher as he officially unveiled his spot on the Walk of Fame while receiving the city’s highest honor just days after headlining the Super Bowl halftime show and marrying Jennifer Goicoechea, who was there to support him.
“I’m hoping the rest of the world is feeling the love that has come from this city. Atlanta is a city of belief. Atlanta is a city that allowed me to be that Phoenix to rise,” he said at the ceremony.
“It is a city that has allowed me to have the tenacity to go out and share this culture that I found when I was here. The culture that informed who and what I am as an entertainment.”
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, media mogul L.A. Reid, former Ambassador Andrew Young, and other dignitaries were in attendance. Dickens noted Usher’s roots in his birthplace of Chattanooga, Tennessee, but says Atlanta was the city that adopted the superstar as its own.
“The whole world got to see that Usher brought the world to the A,” Dickens said.
“I will always represent the A,” Usher said.
While closing out his high-energy, star-studded halftime show on Sunday night, Usher told the crowd that he “turned the world to the A.”
In the days leading up to his performance, Usher dropped hints about how the city of Atlanta would significantly influence the aesthetics of the Super Bowl halftime show.
“That was the influence that Atlanta has had on me,” Usher shared during a press conference, as captured by the Chicago Defender. “So much so that I collected everything that I experienced and I’ve benefited from in Atlanta. And I brought that culture to Las Vegas. And now to the rest of the world with the Super Bowl Halftime Show.”
Halle Bailey, Erica Campbell, George Clinton, And More Celebrate Black Music During Grammy Week
The Recording Academy celebrated Black artists, creators, and executives in a series of events leading up to music’s biggest night
The culture showed up and showed out at the 66th Grammy Awards earlier this month.
Held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, on Feb. 4, the annual award show featured captivating performances from legendary singer-songwriter Tracy Chapman, R&B singer SZA, who walked away with two Grammy wins, and singer and actress Fantasia Barrino, who paid tribute to rock icon Tina Turner.
Another highlight of the night was Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter’s acceptance speech for the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award when he unabashedly called out the Recording Academy for snubbing his wife, Beyonce Knowles Carter, for album of the year.
However, in anticipation of music’s biggest night, The Recording Academy, the institution that produces the Grammy Awards, held a series of events that celebrated Black artists and music executives throughout Los Angeles. Here’s a roundup of some Grammy Week events.
Masterclass with Halle Bailey
Source: (L-R) Muni Long and Halle Bailey speak during the GRAMMY U Masterclass presented by Mastercard (Photo by Anna Webber/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)
GRAMMY U® partnered with MasterCard to present a masterclass featuring six-time Grammy nominee Halle Bailey in an insightful conversation moderated by singer and songwriter Muni Long. During the hourlong discussion, Bailey opened up about her creative intuition and the versatility of her artistry, from starring in blockbuster movies to earning her first solo Grammy nomination. She also talked about becoming a new mother.
“I feel like I’ve reached this new level of maturity,” said the 23-year-old singer and actress. “Especially being a mother now, which is so crazy to say! But I feel like I’ve learned how to balance it by shutting the world out. That’s the first thing. I have to shut out the opinions of other people when it comes to social media, Twitter, Instagram. I just have to not read anything. I have to turn it off.”
“I feel like I have such a greater purpose and so much more to do for him, and so much more that I want him to be able to experience,” she said during the masterclass. “It gives me a new motivation and drive and passion for myself, for my family, for my life, for everything.”
Bailey and her older sister, Chloe, were signed to Beyonce’s Parkwood Entertainment record label in 2016 when they were 15 and 17, respectively. Since then, the Bailey sisters have released two albums while Halle made history as the first Black woman to star as Ariel in the live-action version of Disney’s The Little Mermaid. She also played Nettie Harris in the 2023 remake of The Color Purple. Yet, despite her success, the actress told BLACK ENTERPRISE that she was nervous about performing “Angel,” her debut single as a solo artist, for the first time at a public event.
“This is my first song that I put out on my own. And so, I was really nervous going into it, but I love this song. It’s always been so close to my heart,” she told BLACK ENTERPRISE exclusively before taking the stage.
She said she wrote the ballad while she was struggling with the public scrutiny that comes with growing up in the limelight.
“I had just come home from filming “Mermaid,” and I remember there was a lot of chatter around my casting and a lot of chatter about my personal life,” she told BE. “I had never felt like there were so many eyes on me before. I was always used to being in it with my sister,” she continued. “This was my first time I was hearing critique about myself on my own.”
Yet, she leaned on her faith for hope and strength.
“I felt like God was truly with me throughout my journey of learning who I am and going on this journey of independence. And so, the song really became that love letter to myself to my younger self, to my future self to motivate me to keep going.”
Source: Halle Bailey attends the GRAMMY U Masterclass presented by Mastercard (Photo by Anna Webber/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)
She added that transitioning into a solo artist has made her stronger and more confident.
“The best part of being on this new journey of mine, I think, is surprising myself every day. I think that I did not realize what I can do, how much strength I do have,” she said. “I didn’t know I had it in me.”
The Recording Academy Honors Presented by The Black Music Collective
Source: Lenny Kravitz accepts the Global Impact Award onstage during the Recording Academy Honors presented by The Black Music Collective during the 66th GRAMMY Awards on February 01, 2024 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Leon Bennett/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)
The Recording Academy honored Mariah Carey and Lenny Kravitz at the annual Black Music Collective Ceremony, one of the most anticipated events of Grammy Week.
“To be here to celebrate with my peers, my friends, people that I’ve seen from afar, it’s always cool,” Grammy Award-winning Gospel artist Erica Campbell told BE on the red carpet of the event. “Sometimes we only see each other in these environments, but it’s always love and connection. So, I’m really honored to be here tonight…to celebrate those that have persevered all the challenges [in the] music industry.”
Both Carey and Kravitz shared heartfelt stories about their journeys while accepting the Global Impact Award in recognition of their exemplary careers in the music industry. They were also honored by musical tributes performed by legendary singers like Stevie Wonder, George Clinton, H.E.R., Quavo, Busta Rhymes, Babyface, Erica Campbell, and Yolanda Adams.
“So many geniuses in so many genres informed my spirit,” said Kravitz while accepting the award. He went on to reminisce about being inspired by a Jackson 5 concert at Madison Square Garden when he was six years old. “My head exploded,” said the four-time Grammy winner. “I fantasized that I was their long lost brother and turned the Jackson 5 into the Jackson 6.”
The legendary rock singer was also honored by a performance of his 1998 classic “Fly Away” featuring Clinton, Quavo, and Earth, Wind & Fire’s Verdine White.
Source: Mariah Carey attends the Recording Academy Honors presented by The Black Music Collective during the 66th GRAMMY Awards. (Photo by Leon Bennett/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)
Meanwhile, Carey was serenaded by Wonder and BabyFace who each delivered memorable speeches and impromptu performances. “I thank you for your heart [and] consistent spirit of love that you show. I’m here because I do love you, forever, and I just want to say this to you,” said Wonder about Carey before singing “Knocks Me Off My Feet.”
The Clive Davis Pre-Grammy Awards
Source: (L-R) Dionne Warwick and Gladys Knight perform onstage during the Pre-GRAMMY Gala & GRAMMY Salute to Industry Icons Honoring Jon Platt at The Beverly Hilton (Photo by Leon Bennett/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)
Carey, Kravitz, Megan Thee Stallion, Chloe x Halle, and a host of A-list stars flocked to Clive Davis’ annual Pre-GRAMMY Gala on the night before the big award show.
“This is one of the most legendary nights in all of music and I’m so over the moon. I’m so excited. There are so many incredible people here,” belted 23-year-old up-and-coming British singer Aiyana-Lee enthusiastically on the red carpet. “There’s a different energy in the room.”
For nearly 50 years, Clive Davis’s Pre-GRAMMY Salute to Industry Icons has been a star-studded celebration for music industry giants at the iconic Beverly Hilton Hotel.
“We’re glad to be here at Clive’s party,” legendary singer and funk pioneer George Clinton told BE before heading into the event. “He always has a hell of a party.”
