by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

March 26, 2025

Kendrick Lamar’s ‘GNX’ First Hip-Hop Album To Sell 1 Million Units In 2025

chart data says 'GNX' is the first hip-hop album to reach platinum status in 2025.

Kendrick Lamar is on quite the winning streak. He performed in the Super Bowl halftime show, lives in Drake’s mind rent-free, and has sold a million copies of his latest album in a shade under three months.

Lamar is the first hip-hop recording artist to sell over one million units of his album, GNX, in 2025, according to chart data.

The album was released on Nov. 22, 2024, on Lamar’s boutique label, PGLang, with distribution under the Interscope banner (parent company is Universal Music Group).

.@kendricklamar‘s ‘GNX’ becomes the first hip-hop album to sell over 1 million units in the US in 2025. pic.twitter.com/mRGuZNzFjP

— chart data (@chartdata) March 23, 2025

The Compton native has seen a resurgence in his hip-hop recording career after engaging in a highly-contested rap battle with his nemesis, Canadian rapper Drake.

After several back-and-forths between the two rappers, Lamar’s single, “Not Like Us,” set the bar so high that many rap aficionados consider it the best diss record ever. The knockout punch was so severe that not only did Drake suffer, perhaps the greatest loss in hip-hop history, he filed a lawsuit against the label, which both artists records for, that released the song, Universal Music Group (UMG).

UMG recently filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit that Drake. He alleges that the label, along with iHeartMedia, artificially inflated the numbers and participated in a pay-per-click scheme to help promote the single. After finding out that iHeartMedia proved it did nothing wrong, Drake agreed to drop them from the lawsuit.

However, UMG responded to the “Push Ups” rapper’s suit by calling him a sore loser in a “rap battle that he provoked” against Lamar. The label also claimed that Drake’s “unjustified claims against UMG are no more than Drake’s attempt to save face for his unsuccessful rap battle with Lamar.”

by Kandiss Edwards

March 26, 2025

Georgia One Step Closer To Banning Cellphones In K-8 Schools

The bill will now go to the governor's desk for approval.

Georgia is one step closer to passing legislation that would ban cellphones in schools, the Associated Press reports. On Tuesday, March 25, the state Senate approved House Bill 340 (the “Distraction-Free Education Act”) with a 54-2 vote.

If signed into law by Gov. Brian Kemp, cellphones would be banned in K-8 classrooms as well as any personal electronic devices capable of “transmitting, receiving, or accessing communications, data, or media.” So pretty much any device with wireless communication, internet access, messaging, video recording, gaming, social media access, or data transmission.

“This bill isn’t just about academics. It’s about students’ well-being,” said Sen. Jason Anavitarte (R), who introduced the bill, during its debate. “Studies link excessive phone use to mental health issues, decreasing social skills, and an increase in bullying. We want students engaged in school, socializing with friends during lunch, and focusing in the classroom.”

Currently, nine states have enacted cellphone bans in schools. Others are conducting pilot programs or proposing similar legislation. Georgia has not allocated any funding for the implementation of such programs. Some states, like New Mexico, have set $10 million in funding aside to help schools purchase secure phone pouches and other resources necessary to enforce phone bans.

Some parents are not in favor of such a ban, citing the need to contact their children during emergencies. School shootings are a significant concern. In 2024, there were 83 documented school shootings, averaging nearly two incidents per week during a standard 180-day school year.

“What if that phone could save lives in an active-shooter situation?” Senator Rasaan Kemp, who supports the ban, asked. “These are true concerns as a parent that all of us will typically think about. What if that phone is the last opportunity for my child to communicate with me?”

While the argument that limiting cellphone use could improve student educational opportunities is widely supported, other debates surrounding the issue are more contentious.

Recently, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. proposed a similar ban, but his reasoning has raised eyebrows. Kennedy, the Health and Human Services Secretary, in an interview on Fox & Friends, said that cellphone usage in children “produces electromagnetic radiation, which has been shown to do neurological damage to kids when it’s around them all day, and to cause cellular damage and even cancer.”

However, neither the National Cancer Institute nor the World Health Organization has found credible evidence to support these claims, despite years of research, according to NBC News.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

March 26, 2025

Our Dollar Days Are Long Gone As Dollar Tree Sells Family Dollar To Offset Trump Tariffs

Dollar Tree anticipates raising prices to counter the impact of Trump's tariffs.

Dollar Tree is making some big changes, which include offshoring its Family Dollar chain to private equity firms and increasing prices to combat President Donald Trump’s imposed tariffs.

AP reports that Dollar Tree announced the sale of its struggling Family Dollar brand to Brigade Capital Management and Macellum Capital Management for $1 billion. The announcement, made during a March 26 analyst call, comes a year after the company revealed plans to close hundreds of the discount stores.

Family Dollar is known for its variety of household essentials, from groceries to laundry detergent, with many locations serving underserved urban communities. The store closures and potential closures under new ownership could significantly impact residents who rely on these stores for everyday necessities.

While Dollar Tree says the sale will allow it to focus on its core business, there’s a greater concern about how it will affect the communities the chain stores serve.

“The lower income consumer will be losing a critical place to be able to purchase value products,” said Marshal Cohen, chief industry advisor at marketing research firm Circana. “They’re losing the breadth of the assortment and the depth of the discount and the convenience.”

In addition to offloading Family Dollar, Dollar Tree reported an increase in higher-income customers amid inflation. As a result, the discount retailer anticipates raising prices in response to Trump’s tariffs.

Trump’s tariffs on certain goods from China, Mexico, and Canada and the possibility of higher duties on global trading partners have heightened concerns among retailers about strained household budgets. While Dollar Tree plans to counter the impact through supplier negotiations and shifting manufacturing, it may also raise prices on some items.

Dollar Tree has expanded its pricing model beyond the standard $1.25 it originated on. In recent years, the company has introduced higher-priced items at approximately 2,900 multi-price stores, with products ranging from $1.50 to $7.

miami, miami woman, animal cruelty, dog, cruelty

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

March 26, 2025

Ex-NFL Player Leshon Eugene Johnson Arrested For Alleged Dog Fighting Ring

If Johnson is convicted, he faces a maximum penalty on each count of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine

A former NFL player has been arrested and charged with violating the dog fighting prohibitions of the federal Animal Welfare Act.

The Department of Justice announced that Oklahoma resident Leshon Eugene Johnson was charged with possessing 190 pit bull-type dogs as federal authorities stated that this may be the largest amount of dogs taken from someone accused in a federal dog-fighting case. The animals were seized from Johnson in October 2024.

“Animal abuse is cruel, depraved, and deserves severe punishment,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi in a written statement.

“The Department of Justice will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law and will remain committed to protecting innocent animals from those who would do them harm.”

Johnson, who currently resides in Broken Arrow, appeared in court last week as he was charged with possessing the dogs for use in an animal fighting venture and for selling, transporting, and delivering a dog for use in an animal fighting venture.

Court papers revealed that Johnson ran an operation called “Mal Kant Kennels” in Broken Arrow and Haskell, Oklahoma. This was not his first time being arrested for running such an operation. In 2004, he ran “Krazyside Kennels” and pled guilty to state animal fighting charges after being busted.

Johnson allegedly picked “champion” and “grand champion” fighting dogs (meaning dogs that have won three or five fights) to produce offspring to create dogs with the traits of the winning canines so they can be used in the dog fights. He is also accused of marketing and selling stud rights and the offspring of winning fighting dogs. He is also suspected of trafficking dogs to other parts of the country for the purpose of dog fighting while profiting from the alleged crimes.

If Johnson is convicted, he faces a maximum penalty on each count of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

According to 2 News Oklahoma, Johnson played in the NFL as a running back and kick returner for six seasons. In the 1994 NFL Draft, the Green Bay Packers selected him in the third round. He also played with the Arizona Cardinals and the New York Giants.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

March 26, 2025

Rev. Al Sharpton To Cut Ribbon At 2025 National Action Network Convention Before Fireside Chat With Maryland Gov. Wes Moore

Sharpton will follow the ceremony with a fireside chat alongside Maryland Gov. Wes Moore.

Rev. Al Sharpton will begin the 2025 National Action Network Convention in New York City with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

A slew of government officials, including Mayor Eric Adams, will take part in the event on April 2. Sharpton, president and founder of the network, will continue the convention’s programming through a fireside chat with Maryland Gov. Wes Moore.

According to The Tennessee Tribune, the duo will discuss the state of the nation amid a rise in policies against Black America. Moore has become a leading voice for the Democratic Party and will speak with Sharpton about overcoming these new and ongoing challenges for the Black community.

NAN previously recognized Moore during its MLK Day Legislative Breakfast in Washington, D.C. His upcoming speaking engagement at its national convention will lead four days of programming and panels on Black Americans’ current condition and plight.

From April 1 to April 5, the NAN convention will conduct wide-ranging sessions on affordable housing to workers’ rights. Following the fireside chat, Sharpton will lead a discussion on expanding healthcare access to those throughout the Black community. Attorney Benjamin Crump will immediately moderate a panel on the fight for social justice. He will join activists and family members of slain Black men such as Eric Garner, George Floyd, and Trayvon Martin.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rev. Al Sharpton (@real_sharpton)

The next day, Don Lemon will moderate a session on discerning media in the age of misinformation. The day will also hold a women’s empowerment luncheon honoring advocates such as Tatyana Ali and restauranteur Melba Wilson. Conversations on LGBTQ+ rights and mental health are additionally scheduled, and a plenary discussion with Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood, will also take place.

On Friday, April 4, it will host a highly-anticipated session on the anti-DEI push and how Black Americans can combat this growing movement. NAN will also release an official list of companies to boycott over their anti-DEI stances during the convention. Several state attorney generals will also come together for their own discussion, with additional conversations on gun violence, Black women’s maternal health, the “global challenge” of race, and more. A presentation of the civil rights film, “Storm Over Brooklyn,” will end the evening with a subsequent talkback.

The convention will conclude on April 5 with a Youth and College Day. Beginning with an action rally, the day includes a youth awards ceremony highlighting young entrepreneurs through a pitch contest. After more sessions on restorative justice and the state of Black men in the nation, the night will commence with an “Artivism” fashion and talent showcase sponsored by Sharpton Entertainment.

With an expansive list of featured guests and acclaimed panelists, this year’s NAN convention hopes to build upon results-oriented strategies within the Black community for generations of change-makers. Registration remains available on NAN’s website.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

March 26, 2025

Dwight Howard Inducted Into Orlando Magic Hall Of Fame

Howard starred for the team from 2004 to 2012.

Dwight Howard is the 13th member of the Orlando Magic Hall of Fame. The ceremony took place March 24, when the Magic played the Los Angeles Lakers.

Howard joined Magic co-founder Pat Williams (2014), Nick Anderson (2014), Shaquille O’Neal (2015), Rich DeVos (2016), Anfernee “Penny” Hardaway (2017), Jimmy Hewitt (2017), Tracy McGrady (2018), David Steele (2019), Darrell Armstrong (2020), John Gabriel (2022), Brian Hill (2022), and Dennis Scott (2023).

the newest member of the Orlando Magic Hall of Fame 💙 pic.twitter.com/F8HG42uYBB

— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) March 24, 2025

During the induction ceremony at the Magic’s home, the Kia Center, Howard showed his love for the Florida city.

“God likes to play baseball,” Howard said to the crowd, according to the Orlando Sentinel. “You see, I started out at home plate here in Orlando, hit a couple of balls out of the park and started running around the bases of life. I got to first base, second base, third base, but God had to bring me back home, so He brought me back to Orlando. This is my home. It will always and forever be my home.”

Howard, the first pick in the 2004 NBA Draft, was a fixture for the Magic 2004 to 2012. His averaged 18.4 points, 13 rebounds, 2.16 blocks, 1.5 assists, and 1.01 steals in 36.2 minutes a game. He lead the Magic to the 2009 NBA Finals and the Eastern Conference Finals in 2010.

He is the Magic’s all-time leader in points scored (11,435), rebounds (8,072), blocked shots (1,344), free throws made (3,366), free throws attempted (5,727), and minutes played (22,471). He also leads the franchise in all-time playoff points (1,133), rebounds (818), blocks (158), field goals (393), free throws made (347), free throws attempted (590), and games played (57).

Howard, a likely NBA hall of famer, was named to the All-NBA First Team for five straight seasons and won the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year award for three consecutive seasons (2008-2011), the first to accomplish that feat. The center was also named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team for four straight years (2008-2012). He made the NBA All-Star team from 2007 to 2012.

He also received the Rich and Helen DeVos Community Enrichment Award (given to the player who gives back to the community outside of the basketball court) a team-record six times.

Boosie, Boosie Bash, Calib Wilson, Southern University

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

March 26, 2025

Boosie Goes On Social Media Rant Asking To Speak With Caleb Wilson Family Over Scholarship Confusion

Boosie said the threat of legal action was a "slap in the face" given his intentions.

Boosie has responded to the confusion and backlash over his Boosie Bash announcement of a scholarship honoring deceased college student Caleb Wilson.

After Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill threatened legal action against Boosie, alleging Wilson’s parents did not know about the scholarship promotion, the rapper took to social media in an apparent rant over the issue. In the March 25 post to X, he argued that Murrill has a “grudge against rappers” despite all the benefits his event brings to Baton Rouge.

CAN SOMEONE FROM THAT FAMILY CALL ME 2052157895 NO ONE IS TRYING TO GET US ON THE LINE .IVE BEEN TRYIN TO GET YALL 20k SINCE IT WAS BROUGHT TO MY ATTENTION ‼️THE UNIVERSITY , NOONE WANTS TO PUT US CONTACT‼️THIS IS A FUCKING SHAME HOW THEY DOING ME 💯 ATTORNEY GENERAL LIZ MURRAL U…
— Boosie BadAzz (@BOOSIEOFFICIAL) March 25, 2025

“Can someone from that family call me at 205-215-7895? No one is trying to get us on the line. I’ve been trying to get you all $20,000 since it was brought to my attention!! The university, no one wants to put us in contact!! This is a f–king shame how they doing me. Attorney General Liz Murral, you can call me too,” wrote Boosie.

“The revenue I bring to the capitol city is unmatched!! The fun n excitement is unmatched. No violence 6 years n a row at my events!! Not even a fight n a city that murders every weekend. Instead of trying to bring me down n take from me maybe yall should allow me to be put n positions to make a change n the city.”

He added, “I’ve heard that this attorney general has a grudge against rappers. If that is the case, u need to sit down with me n talk. I’m not just a rapper, I’m a rapper, I’m a daddy, filmmaker, entrepreneur n philanthropist !! This the reason I left this dam state “ yall won’t let me be great “ smh its all good I will forever be #mrlouisiana.”

Murrill condemned using Wilson’s name and image to promote for-profit ventures, such as Boosie Bash. She claims that Boosie took advantage of an emotionally vulnerable time and used Wilson to promote his own agenda. The Southern University student died in February after an alleged hazing ritual while pledging Omega Psi Phi.

Although Boosie originally claimed that he received the blessing of Wilson’s parents to launch the scholarship, Murrill denied this ever occurred.

“All of this apparently came together in a very short order, and I think the promoters saw an opportunity to promote the event on the backs of people who just suffered an unimaginable loss,” Murrill said, according to WBRZ.

“It is just disgusting, they owe the family an apology. If they wanted to do this, the first people they should have asked was the family. Nobody has made any effort to put money in the scholarship, Boosie hasn’t even funded any of it.”

However, Boosie pushed back against the accusation. He argued that he postponed his concert from its original date due to Wilson’s death. Instead, he wanted to turn the tragedy into something positive when Boosie Bash finally went on.

“It’s sad for this lawyer n family to say I promoted my event off someone’s passing?? My event was promoted on Eventbrite since Nov 14,” asserted the rapper.

“This incident happened a week before my event was to take place?? How the f*ck can I capitalize off someone’s death for a concert. That ain’t me. A death of a student won’t help a concert, it would hurt a concert??”

Furthermore, he claimed he was asked to help the situation that had shaken the Baton Rouge community. At the proposed legal action, Boosie called it a “slap in the face,” emphasizing his pure intentions.

“I was asked to help the situation n that’s what I was doing once I made it home,” continued Boosie. “But for yall to say that yall are taking legal action against someone who is trying to help yall is a slap n my face n completely wrong ?? When keeping it real goes wrong smh. BR I’m done. Another money grab ?? This is the ultimate betrayal smh.”

While unclear if Boosie has been hit with any legal papers yet, the Louisiana native appears shaken up from the proposition that the scholarship idea was a “money grab.”

Where Are The Black Rodeos? 5 Places To Enjoy Cowboy Culture

by Ahsan Washington

March 26, 2025

Where Are The Black Rodeos? 5 Places To Enjoy Cowboy Culture

Black cowboys and cowgirls are very much a part of American culture and history.

Black cowboys and cowgirls are very much a part of American culture and history. In mainstream narratives, their contribution is an aside, as if Black cowboy life is a subgenre to white country culture.

To preserve and celebrate this rich heritage, BLACK ENTERPRISE has highlighted a few Black rodeos that celebrate the existence of the Black riders and their legacy, talent, and resilience. These events are not only a revival of the past but also educate and inspire future generations about the deep-rooted connection between the Black culture and cowboy traditions.

Bill Pickett Rodeo

Bill Pickett Rodeo was founded by Lu Vason in 1984. Named after the Iconic Black cowboy and rodeo performer known for inventing “bulldogging,” the rodeo features Black cowgirls and cowboys competing in events like calf roping, bull riding, steer wrestling, and barrel racing. This rodeo travels the United States and promotes rodeo culture as well as honors and educates audiences about African American contributors in the Old West.

Black Rodeo USA

This organization is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the legacy of African American cowboys and cowgirls. Founded by Lanette Campbell in 2011, Black Rodeo USA hosts events in Las Vegas; Scottsdale, Arizona; Jacksonville, Florida; and Shelbyville, Tennessee. Black Rodeo USA not only showcases traditional rodeo skills and competition, it is a cultural and educational experiences for guests.

8 Seconds Rodeo

In 2023, Ivan McClellan founded 8 Seconds Rodeo, the first Black rodeo in the Pacific Northwest. The Portland, Oregon-based event offers an immersive experience into the world of professional rodeo with competitions like mutton busting and bareback, bronco riding, alongside delicious food, music, and family fun. 8 Seconds Rodeo also offers an opportunity for today’s cowboys and cowgirls to compete for $60,000 in prize money. 8 Seconds Rodeo plans to expand to Philadelphia.

The Black Cowboy Festival & Rodeo

This annual event at Greenfield Farm in Rembert, South Carolina, founded by Mark and Sandra Myers, honors the legacy of African American cowboys. The rodeo features competitions, horsemanship shows, live music, historical presentations, horseback and wagon rides, line dancing and vendors. The next one will be held from May 22 to May 25.

Okmulgee Roy LeBlanc Invitational Rodeo

Started in 1956, this is the oldest African American rodeo still running in the United States. Kenneth LeBlanc is a third generation cowboy and rodeo promoter. His grandfather Charles LeBlanc was one of the founders of a Black rodeo in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. The newest rodeo features bull riding, calf roping and barrel racing in addition to live entertainment. Organized by the Okmulgee County Roundup Club, the 2025 rodeo will be held August 8 and 9 at the Bob Arrington Arena.

RELATED CONTENT: 6 Line Dances That Serve Black Joy

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

March 26, 2025

New Report Finds Disparities In C-Sections Among Black Patients

A new report confirms the increased likelihood of a Black woman undergoing C-section during childbirth.

A new report confirms recent findings that Black women face an increased likelihood of undergoing C-sections during childbirth.

Leapfrog Group released its 2025 Maternity Care Report, which, for the first time, highlights racial disparities in C-section rates across individual hospitals. According to the report, in 1 out of 5 hospitals Black patients are significantly more likely to undergo a C-section than white patients, even when treated at the same facility.

The report used data from over 2,400 hospitals participating in the Leapfrog Hospital Survey, representing 80% of U.S. hospital beds. Of those, 1,700 provide and report on maternity care.

“We applaud the hospitals that voluntarily make this data available to the public through Leapfrog. Transparency takes courage, and it is the critical first step on the path to real change,” said Leah Binder, Leapfrog’s president and CEO.

The report also showed that while the national NTSV (Nulliparous, Term, Singleton, Vertex) C-section rate remains high at 25.3%, episiotomy rates have significantly decreased, dropping by 73% since Leapfrog began tracking this measure in 2012. Currently, the average episiotomy rate is 3.4%.

Leapfrog evaluated crucial aspects of maternity care, including C-sections, episiotomies, early elective deliveries, and the availability of patient-requested services like doula support and certified midwives.

The states with the highest NTSV C-section rates, according to Leapfrog’s report: Mississippi (28.9%), New York (28.3%), and Massachusetts (27.8%); the lowest rates are found in Nebraska (18.8%), Utah (19.7%), and Idaho (20%).

The report also found that the majority of hospitals provide evidence-based maternity care services, including:

96.1% offer lactation consultants
89.7% allow doulas in labor and delivery
84.1% permit vaginal birth after a C-section (VBAC)
81.6% offer postpartum tubal ligation
61% provide certified midwives in labor and delivery

“We congratulate hospitals on reducing episiotomy rates, which has made a difference for thousands of women and babies,” Binder said. “However, we urge renewed efforts to lower C-section rates and continue improving maternity care for all patients.”

RELATED CONTENT: Move Over Juneteenth! The Black Delegation Commemorates Aug. 5 ‘#FadeInTheWater’ The New-Era Day Of Revolt

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

March 26, 2025

Louisiana’s New Congressional Map—With More Black Districts—Considered by U.S. Supreme Court

The U.S. Supreme Court will determine whether the new map will be officially implemented.

The U.S. Supreme Court is weighing whether to uphold Louisiana’s congressional map, which was used in the 2024 elections and features two majority-Black districts.

Reuters reports that the court heard arguments March 24 from Louisiana officials and civil rights groups following an appeal of a 2024 lower court ruling, which found that the map outlining Louisiana’s six U.S. House districts violated the 14th Amendment’s equal protection clause. The dispute centers on the balance between protecting minority voting rights and upholding the principle of equal protection, which restricts the use of race in redistricting.

Black people comprise nearly a third of Louisiana’s population and generally support Democratic candidates. During the hearing, Louisiana officials argued that the state’s Republican-controlled legislature did not draw the map with race as the primary factor. The state said the map was also designed to protect Republican incumbents who represent Louisiana districts, such as House Speaker Mike Johnson and No. 2 House Republican Steve Scalise.

“In an election year, we faced the prospect of a federal court-drawn map that placed in jeopardy the speaker of the House, the House majority leader, and our representative on the Appropriations Committee,” Benjamin Aguinaga, solicitor general of Louisiana, told the justices. “And so in light of those facts, we made the politically rational decision. We drew our own map to protect them.”

The dispute is the latest in a series of cases in the high court involving claims of racial gerrymandering and the drawing of political districts after redrawing voting boundaries following the census. In January 2024, the state legislature approved a new map that included two Black-majority districts.

Later that month, 12 Louisiana voters identifying themselves as “non-African American” filed a lawsuit to block the redrawn map, arguing that the state placed too much emphasis on race when creating a second majority-Black district in the congressional map.

In April 2024, a three-judge panel ruled 2-1 to block the map, stating that the legislature had relied too heavily on race in its design, violating the Constitution’s equal protection clause. The Supreme Court allowed the map to be used in the 2024 election. A ruling is expected on the matter by the end of June.