Kamala Harris, day of unreasonable conversations, 107 Days, book tour, Trump adminsitration

by Sharelle B. McNair

November 26, 2024

What’s Next For VP Kamala Harris? Allies Are Pushing For Governor Or Another Presidential Bid

Don't leave us yet, VP Harris.....

After a devastating Election Day loss, Vice President Kamala Harris has told advisers that she is staying in the political world with a potential run for California governor or another run for the Oval Office.

Harris has been laying low as she prepares to end her vice presidential tenure but has secretly talked with top allies about running for president again in 2028 or governor of the Golden State in 2026. “I am staying in the fight,” she told advisers.

Considering what’s next for her and discussing it with family members is a priority during the holiday season. Her next decision comes after a groundbreaking campaign as the second Black woman to run for president after President Joe Biden suspended his re-election campaign, heightening the Democratic platform. Harris’s energy is crucial to keeping the power on the blue side of the aisle alive. “There will be a desire to hear her voice, and there won’t be a vacuum for long,” a person close to Harris said.

“The natural thing to do would be to set up some type of entity that would allow her to travel and give speeches and preserve her political relationships.”

Harris’s other priority is to decide where she and First Gentleman Doug Emhoff will establish a home base. Their home in Los Angeles is an option, but there are concerns about her safety, as her Secret Service protection expires six months after leaving the White House. It will be the first time in 20 years that the former senator and prosecutor will be out of the public eye — meaning she will be back at her office while maintaining her digital popularity.

Several Democratic strategists and allies support whatever Harris decides, whether taking a break from the political world or going another route. Pollster Paul Maslin feels that there aren’t many people who have experienced what Harris has done in the last four months, expressing that she should take the time to “figure it out.” “There is no one — no one — who actually can relate to what she’s been through these last four months. No one,” Maslin said.

“And I wouldn’t begrudge her at all to take some time and figure this out.”

Former Harris aide Brian Brokaw thinks that the sudden desire to run for state office isn’t coming from her but from those around her. “Could she run for governor? Yes. Do I think she wants to run for governor? Probably not,” he said, according to Axios.

“Could she win? Definitely. Would she like the job? I don’t know. Could she run for president again? Yes.”

In the meantime, some of the last tasks Harris will have before leaving Washington, D.C., are certifying the presidential election results and attending President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20.

University of Tennessee, board of directors

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

November 26, 2024

Tennessee State University Demands Student Return $5K Given In Excess Financial Aid Check

The story illustrates larger financial problems plaguing the HBCU.

A sophomore at Tennessee State University is facing a hold on his account after the HBCU issued him a $4,900 excess financial aid check a year ago and is now demanding repayment.

Chekesha Ibrahimzakaria said her son, who received a full-ride scholarship to TSU, is being prevented from registering for spring classes or obtaining a dorm assignment due to a hold on his account for an unpaid balance, which totals the same amount as the excess financial aid check he received over a year ago.

“In the fall of his first year, TSU sent an overpayment check of, I think, about $4,900 saying that he had excess financial aid,” Ibrahimzakaria told News Channel 5 Nashville.

Now, because of the school’s error, her son is forced to take out a student loan to cover the balance, even though he has a full scholarship. “Because they made a mistake, they want my son and others like him to make up for their mistake,” Ibrahimzakaria said.

The mother shares a long history with TSU.

“We have a family legacy of so many people in my family who have gone to TSU and graduated from TSU and are proud alumni of TSU,” Ibrahimzakaria said.

Amid growing concerns about the school, including the resignation of the financial aid director and other staff members in September, Ibrahimzakaria is deeply disappointed in an institution that has meant so much to her family. “It’s too stressful for the students,” she said.

Her son plans to transfer to another university to finish his degree and regrets going to the school.

The family’s financial aid issues with the school follow revelations from the Tennessee Senate Finance Chairman that Tennessee State University faced such severe financial difficulties that funds earmarked for 2025 had to be advanced to start the 2024 school year. This followed a state hearing in which lawmakers warned the university that continued financial support for payroll was unsustainable.

“The previous president, administration and trustees operated this university in such a way as literally you are out of money,” Jason Mumpower, the Tennessee Comptroller of the Treasury, said during the committee hearing earlier this month.

“They’re gone and they’ve left the situation where literally you were going to fail payroll on Nov. 29 if you had not had an infusion of cash from the state.”

This fall, TSU laid off staff to help alleviate its financial crisis. Contributing factors to the school’s money woes include monthly payroll costs ranging from $18 to $20 million, a surge in enrollment that led to a housing shortage, and difficulties in distributing scholarship funds, which hindered students’ ability to complete their semesters.

Mike Tyson, Jake Paul, Boxing, professional record, July 20, Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

November 26, 2024

Jake Paul’s Camp Denies Paul-Tyson Fight Was Fixed

'Both fighters in good faith performed to the best of their abilities with the goal of winning the fight. There were absolutely no restrictions— contractual or otherwise—around either fighter.'

More than two weeks after YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul beat former undisputed heavyweight champion Mike Tyson in a Netflix-streamed boxing match, many observers have accused the pair of fixing the fight.

The fight went the full eight rounds with Paul getting a unanimous win in the lackluster affair. With Tyson looking he was actually 58 years old and Paul looking to a dodge a potential knockout of the former champion, rumors started spreading of a fix.

Seemingly the only people happy were the fighters: Paul, 27, received $40 million and Tyson, 58, was paid $20 million.

The promotional arm behind the fight, Most Valuable Promotions (owned by Paul), denied that the fight was fixed in a statement.

“Rigging a professional boxing match is a federal crime in the United States of America. Paul vs. Tyson was a professional match sanctioned by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulations (TDLR). Both fighters, in good faith, performed to the best of their abilities with the goal of winning the fight,” There were absolutely no restrictions—contractual or otherwise—around either fighter. Each boxer was able to use his full arsenal to win the fight. Any agreement to the contrary would violate TDLR boxing rules.”

During Tyson’s career, there have never been, at least publicly, accusations of the former heavyweight champion being involved in fixing a fight. Yet, Paul has been questioned previously about his past fights.

“This is not the first time Jake Paul has faced unfounded skepticism or outright disbelief as a professional athlete, and frankly, the claim that his bout must have been rigged is just the latest backhanded compliment to come his way,” said Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions.

Official statement from MVP. #PaulTyson pic.twitter.com/KaaVRud9Gq

— Most Valuable Promotions (@MostVpromotions) November 25, 2024

Tyson reportedly landed less than 20 punches against his opponent.

Couple Arrested For Alleged $1M Lululemon Theft In Stores Across The Country

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

November 26, 2024

Couple Arrested For Alleged $1M Lululemon Theft In Stores Across The Country

A Connecticut couple has been accused of participating in a $1 million retail theft ring targeting Lululemon.

Jadion Richards, 44, and Akwele Lawes-Richards, 45, of Danbury, Connecticut, were arrested on Nov. 21 in Minnesota, KSTP reports. The couple faces one count on the recently introduced charge of organized retail theft, which could put them in prison for 15 years.

The arrests followed their involvement in an alleged theft at a Lululemon store in Rosedale Center the previous day. A Lululemon retail crime investigator alerted local authorities after the couple and a third individual allegedly stole nearly $5,000 worth of merchandise from the same store.

According to a criminal complaint, the couple was initially stopped when the security alarm sounded as they exited the Rosedale location. Richards accused the employees of racially profiling him and claimed they purposely triggered the alarm. The group was allowed to leave, and the alarm did not sound during their second exit.

Later, the Lululemon investigator located Richards and Lawes-Richards at the Woodbury store, where Woodbury police took them into custody. The couple denied being at the Rosedale location the previous day and claimed they were staying with an aunt. However, Richards, who declined to speak with authorities, was found carrying a key card for the JW Marriott Hotel in Bloomington.

Investigators confirmed that Richards had booked a room at the JW Marriott and secured a search warrant for the room registered in his name. Inside, they discovered 12 suitcases filled with Lululemon clothing, valued at approximately $50,000, all with the tags still attached. The Lululemon investigator alleged that the couple had made two prior trips to Minnesota in September, where they stole approximately $30,000 worth of merchandise. On Nov. 13 alone, the investigator tracked thefts at five different metro locations: two in Edina and one each in Minneapolis, Minnetonka, and Roseville.

The couple is accused of orchestrating a sophisticated retail theft operation, stealing items from stores nationwide and returning them to East Coast locations to receive the value of the stolen goods as refunds on a credit or debit card. To pull off the scheme, Richards would typically purchase a few inexpensive items at the counter while Lawes-Richards and other accomplices secretly stuffed stolen merchandise into their clothing.

After cashiers removed the security tags from the legitimately purchased items, the group allegedly used a device to detach a sensor from one of the stolen goods and reattach it to one of Richards’ purchased items. When the group exited the store and triggered the alarm, Richards would stop and return to the counter while the others walked away. Store employees, believing it was a false alarm, would remove the reattached security tag.

Later, the group would return to the East Coast to allegedly carry out fraudulent exchanges, swapping the stolen goods for more expensive items and paying a small balance with a credit card to cover the price difference. Once the new items were linked to a receipt and credit card, they would return them for a full refund, which was credited back to the card, effectively laundering the value of the stolen merchandise.

Richards and Lawes-Richards are accused of returning nearly $500,000 worth of stolen merchandise, with the company estimating its total financial impact to be closer to $1 million. The couple had their first court appearances on Nov. 25, and their next hearing is set for Dec. 16.

Colorado, Black Health Resource Directory

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

November 26, 2024

‘Find A Black Doctor’ Online Directory Now Lists Health Professionals In All 50 States

It's a significant step toward reducing health disparities and improving access to quality healthcare for Black communities nationwide.

In a significant step toward reducing health disparities and improving access to quality healthcare for Black communities across the United States, Find a Black Doctor now boasts listings of board-certified health professionals in all 50 states. This expansion ensures that individuals seeking culturally competent care can easily find experienced and qualified Black doctors, dentists, psychologists, and other healthcare providers.

The expansion of the directory comes at a crucial time when health disparities continue to affect Black communities disproportionately. The platform addresses a critical need by providing a reliable and comprehensive directory of healthcare professionals who understand and are dedicated to addressing the unique healthcare needs of Black patients.

Founded with the mission to bridge the gap in healthcare access, the website offers a user-friendly interface that allows patients to search for providers based on their location and specific healthcare needs. The site includes detailed profiles of physicians, dentists, psychologists, and other specialists. Listings are free for the doctors. The site also contains content aimed at increasing health and healthcare literacy.

The expansion of the directory is also a response to the growing demand for Black healthcare providers who can address systemic biases and ensure equitable treatment. Studies have shown that patients often experience better health outcomes when treated by providers who share their racial or ethnic background. By connecting patients with Black healthcare professionals, be they in Atlanta or Alaska, the site is working to improve these outcomes and build trust within the Black community.

Founder Dr. Dina Strachan, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, notes, “Despite our technological advances, it can be harder now to find what one wants online. And having been to all 50 states myself, I’ve become even more aware of the varied challenges to access across our vast nation.”

The team encourages the community to submit suggestions of Black doctors they’d like included in the directory. They also encourage doctors to submit their own practices, or those of colleagues, for a free listing. There is a great interest in supporting doctors in independent practices.

As it continues to grow, the site remains committed to its mission of ensuring that every Black person in America has access to the best possible healthcare.

For more information or to find a Black healthcare provider in your area, visit FindABlackDoctor.com

This news was first reported on Blacknews.com

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

November 26, 2024

Singer And Rapper Kershey Brings ‘Ivy League Cred’ To The Urban Music Scene

In a music category where “street cred” has often preceded success, Brooklyn native Kershey is remixing the rules by introducing “Ivy League cred” into the mix. The singer, rapper, and songwriter is blending her artistry and intellect to carve out a unique space in hip-hop and R&B, challenging traditional expectations in the industry.

Kershey has already made waves on the local New York City music scene, opening for rap icon Trina in Brooklyn and earning accolades at prominent showcases like Hot 97 journalist Loreal Luchi’s all-female event and Major Stage’s “Women on the Rise” at SOB’s. As she works on her highly anticipated debut EP, she continues to captivate audiences with her commanding stage presence and catchy lyrics.

“My music tells the story of balancing two worlds—Brooklyn and the Ivy League,” Kershey shares. “It’s about celebrating where I’ve been and where I’m going and inspiring others to push past the limits society places on them.”

As a graduate of NYU and a current graduate student at Columbia University, she uses her education as a platform for advocacy. “Hip-hop has always been a voice for the voiceless,” she says. “I want to amplify that message—on stage and off.” She is partnering with organizations like Seeds to Flowers in East New York to reach out to and uplift youth and families.

Her passion for empowerment extends into entrepreneurship. In 2015, Kershey launched Kaché Beauty, a brand endorsed by influencers and celebrities like shoe designer Jessica Rich. She later founded Kaché Creative Group, an agency specializing in high-end branding and web design. Even during the pandemic, she collaborated with her mother, Andrea Alexander, to create Express White Smiles, a quick and affordable teeth-whitening option.

But music remains her deepest passion. Her debut EP promises a dynamic mix of tracks. “Some songs will make you dance, while others encourage deeper reflection,” she says. Kershey’s sound reflects her journey, fusing the raw authenticity of her Brooklyn upbringing with the intellectual depth of her Ivy League education. She’s proving that success in urban music is about more than where you’re from—it’s about what you represent.

With her music, advocacy, and entrepreneurial spirit, Kershey is setting a new standard for what it means to thrive as an artist.

For media inquiries or more information, contact kersheybookings@gmail.com.

This story was first reported by Blacknews.com.

Registered Nurse, 69-Year-Old Grandmother , Career, Hospital, Doctor

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

November 26, 2024

Meet The Woman Building A Network Of Black Nurses Revolutionizing Business And Healthcare

Black Nurse Entrepreneurs (BNE), founded by visionary nurse entrepreneur Alvionna Brewster, MSN-Ed, RN, in 2015, has recently grown its dynamic community to more than 23,000 African American nurses while providing a safe space for innovation, collaboration, and the pursuit of business success.

Black Nurse Entrepreneurs (BNE), founded by visionary nurse entrepreneur Alvionna Brewster, MSN-Ed, RN, in 2015, has recently grown its dynamic community to more than 23,000 African American nurses while providing a safe space for innovation, collaboration, and the pursuit of business success. This vibrant network continues to stand as a testament to the power of collective ambition and impact within the Black community.

“BNE is more than a community—it’s a transformative experience,” said Brewster. Over the past nine years, Black Nurse Entrepreneurs have redefined what it means to be a nurse, empowering professionals to achieve financial freedom, transform healthcare delivery, and build generational wealth. Some of our proudest moments happened during the pandemic. Our nurses built businesses that dramatically expanded access to critical services, leading to a significant reduction in mortality rates.”

Transformational Impact on the Black Community

Through its initiatives, BNE has unlocked professional autonomy and financial independence for thousands of Black nurses, resulting in a lasting impact on families and communities. By fostering entrepreneurship, BNE enables members to create affordable solutions, deliver better culturally competent care, and improve health outcomes worldwide.

Key accomplishments include helping members launch 6-, 7-, and even 8-figure businesses that challenge traditional healthcare delivery models. This has led to better access to healthcare and decreased morbidity and mortality rates, particularly among underserved populations.

Upcoming Events and Initiatives

As BNE continues to expand its reach, it is set to relaunch in-person events to foster deeper connections within the community. Additionally, the organization recently rolled out a robust coaching program to equip Black nurses with the tools and strategies to succeed in their entrepreneurial endeavors.

“These milestones are just the beginning,” Brewster added. “We are determined to continue pushing boundaries, building wealth, challenging paradigms, and creating opportunities that reflect our values, protect our communities, and inspire the next generation of leaders.”

For more information about Black Nurse Entrepreneurs, visit BlackNurseEntrepreneurs.org.

This news was first reported by Blacknews.com.

by Kandiss Edwards

November 26, 2024

10 Tech Gifts That Make Great Stocking Stuffers

In the words of Mariah Carey 'It's time!'

Black Friday is a great day to start the hunt for Christmas gifts. While some will choose to break out the most elaborate decorations and Christmas trees, others might opt for a low-key Christmas. Either way, stocking stuffers are always a hit. At least one item in a recipient’s stocking is sure to bring a smile to their face.

Stocking stuffing for a friend, family member, or coworker is not the same. Different levels of familiarity dictate different gifts unless you’re giving the gift of technology. Tech gifts appeal to the masses and can be useful—a great gift for anyone. Don’t know where to start? BLACK ENTERPRISE is helping to narrow the search. BE presents: 10 Tech Gifts That Make Great Stocking Stuffers.

Kindle Remote

@terreeannreads
we love a good reason to click add to cart 🤪👏🏾 Kindle page turner flash sale deal
♬ original sound – terreeannreads

Laying down with a Kindle is a great way to decompress, but constantly stirring to tap the screen is not. The Kindle Clicker allows readers to prop up their Kindle wherever they choose and, without moving, turn pages with the click of a finger. It will make a great gift for the reader in your life.

Hootie Alarm

@morgankaprice Please stay safe ladies 💝#morgankaprice #TikTokShopCyberMonday #tiktokshopholidayhaul #TikTokShopBlackFriday #personalsafety #ttslevelup #womensselfdefense #womensafety #selfdefensetool #birdie #personalalarm #staysafe #safetyessentials ♬ original sound – Morgan Kaprice| Creator

This key chain alarm emits a 130-decibel screech when activated. It also has an LED strobe light to help draw attention to a potentially dangerous situation. If your loved ones enjoy being outside, night or day, safety is always a top priority. The alarm can be attached to belt loops or purse straps for easy access.

PureWine Wine Wands Purifier

@drinkpurewine It’s like a Brita filter, but for wine! Genius 🤯 The Wand removes histamines & sulfites from your glass of wine, purifying it & even enhancing the natural flavor. It really is like a magic wand 🍷🪄Cheers to being able to enjoy wine again without headaches, congestion, redness and all those other pesky side effects. #drinkpurewine #redwineheadaches #wine #bacheloretteparty ♬ original sound – DrinkPureWine

Settling down at the end of the night with a glass of wine is one of life’s pleasures for those who indulge. The PureWine Wand claims to eliminate harmful antioxidants from wine, limiting the risks of a next morning headache. PureWine also claims to be able to restore an open bottle to its first-day freshness, eliminating the need to throw away your favorite bottle of Merlot.

Aqua-Pure

@cutthecakeco Thank you AquaPure! Your pesticide purifier is 👌🏾! #washyourproduce #aquapure #pesticidepurifier #aquapurepartner #howtocleanfruits #foodprep #weeklyfoodprep #foodtok #fyp #shopsmall ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

In 2024, safety recalls are abundant. The latest recall for organic carrots is alarming, to say the least. The Aqua-Pure filter eliminates hazardous bacteria and mold from fruits and vegetables. Submerge the filter into water with your fruits and veggies and turn on the disinfectant blue light. Your fruits will be disinfected in five minutes and have an extended shelf life.

FIXD Car Scanner

@thescituation The FIXD Sensor is a life changer! It is a must have for all car owners #fixd #fixdautomotive #fixdsensor #obd2 #obd2scanner #thescituation #cartalk ♬ Pieces (Solo Piano Version) – Danilo Stankovic

Stay on top of your car’s maintenance with the FIXD scanner. The device connects to your vehicle and sends messages to your phone through an app, alerting you of any potential problems. FIXD sends notifications for maintenance services like oil changes and tire rotations. The slightest noise can be diagnosed at your fingertips.

Riddia Press

@kayladelight Loving the mini portable iron #iron #portableiron #miniiron #handheldiron #tiktokshop #tiktokshopfinds #Tiktokshopblackfriday #tiktokshopcybermonday #falldealsforyou #tiktokshopholidayhaul #shophalloween ♬ original sound – Kayla

The pocket-sized iron allows anyone to keep it cute when out and about. If you want to save space in your luggage, the Riddia Press is the iron for you. A rechargeable battery powers the gadget and heats up in 60 seconds. Packing the Riddia can save the day if your travel location offers the amenity.

Sprig Infusion Starter Kit

@dwellaware I’ve partnered with Sprig by Kohler to share how you can transform your daily routines into wellbeing rituals! As a mom of 3, DIYer and small business owner, life can get very busy and I can struggle to keep up with self-care. The Sprig Shower Infusion Device gives an amazing aromatherapy experience! Sprig also has awesome body & linen mists, candles and bath bombs. They have natural blends and premium ingredients, to help you step into a moment of deeper relaxation. You deserve it. 🧖🏾‍♀️🌿 Use code DWELLAWARE20 for 20% off your order! #stepintosprig #sprig #sprigbykohler #ad @Sprig ♬ original sound – Amanda

Give the gift of peaceful spa-like showers. The Sprig shower starter kit is promoted as a skincare must-have and the perfect stocking stuffer. The shower head releases a “water stream with clean aromatherapy and skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid and sodium PCA.” Though it’s on the pricier side, the “rest,” “refresh,” and “breathe” pod inserts are promoted as stress relievers.

Mechen M3 Touchscreen MP3 Player

@curiositec Lossless mp3 player, alta definição, portátil, hi-fi, áudio digital, música, cartão de memória de 64gb, suporta até 256gb #playerb #tecnologia #tecnologia ♬ GASLIGHT – INJI

If phone storage is an issue, this MP3 player is a godsend. Paying for monthly streaming services can get expensive. Downloading albums to your phone can also take up space that could be used for holiday pictures, social media apps, and more. The Mechen MP3 includes 138GB, FM Radio, and high-quality digital sound. Talk on the phone without disrupting your playlist.

Hatch Restore Alarm Clock

@erinrbates 10/10 would recommend for better sleep & a peaceful morning!💤🌙✨ @Hatch for Sleep #ad #hatchforsleep #hatchalarm #hatchrestore ♬ original sound – erin bates

This is more than an alarm to jolt you out of your slumber. The Hatch Restore offers white noise settings to help you sleep well at night. Connected to an app on your phone, you can download sleep stories, meditation routines, and various sounds. It features a dimmable light that gently brightens at its designated alert time. The gift of a peaceful night’s rest is priceless.

PhoneSoap UV Sanitizer

@isadoes_ This is called the #phonesoap for good reason #isadoestech ♬ CRAFT – OFEKNIV

Here’s a stocking stuffer to help keep the germs away during flu season. The PhoneSoap UV sanitizer is a lightweight case with UV light to disinfect and charge your phone. The case is perfect for anyone in constant contact with the public.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

November 25, 2024

Fashion Lovers Don’t Bag It, Wait Hours for Telfar NYC Flagship Store Grand Opening

Fans waited hours to experience the grand opening of Telfar's flagship location.

Around 300 fashion enthusiasts waited in line for hours to be among the first to experience the grand opening of Telfar’s flagship store in New York City’s trendy SoHo neighborhood, The New York Post.

The line stretched down Broadway and into a nearby alley before the 11 a.m. ribbon-cutting.

The crowd came dressed to impress, excited over the rare chance to grab one of Telfar’s highly coveted bags, lovingly dubbed the “Bushwick Birkin.” For years, fans relied on sheer luck to score the bags online, where they often sold out within minutes, forcing many to turn to resale apps and other platforms to secure one.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @telfarglobal

A 14-year-old who arrived at 8 a.m. was the first in line, purchasing a bag and meeting Telfar Clemens.

Skai Karim, 20, a Fashion Institute of Technology student, was fifth in line to purchase a black shopper bag. She also met the “icon” and noted how much of a big deal the entire experience was “if you’re a big fan.”

“Why not experience the first time going to the grand opening of the first flagship store? That’s a memory to be created,” Karim said.

The new store, spanning 10,000 square feet, features a striking news desk at the entrance, racks of apparel suspended from the ceiling, and a stunning bag bar stretching the entire length of the space.

Customers had the chance to peruse every purse Telfar has ever produced, receiving “bag menus” or QR codes to scan and browse the purse selection to make their selection at the bar.

“It screams New York,” Karim said of the store’s layout. “It screams Telfar.”

Telfar expressed his pride in opening the store that comes after two decades of online drops and pop-up shops that fans and hungry resellers would mob.

“The store tells the whole story,” Clemens said of the store’s opening. “It’s not just bags—it’s a cultural phenomenon and it’s a total look—20 years in the making.”

“This is our flagship store in NYC—we want to spread that energy over the other 365 days of the year,” added Clemens. “That’s why the store is so central—you are never going to understand Telfar by walking into an existing store.”

by Daniel Johnson

November 25, 2024

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry Pushes For Homeless Encampment Removal Ahead Of Thanksgiving

Jim Knickles, a homeless man who lives in the Calliope encampment off and on, said that the plan is to round up the homeless and drop them off at various shelters, but he expressed some resistance to this plan.

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry claimed in a statement released during the week of Nov. 18 that a homeless encampment in New Orleans would receive resources from the State of Louisiana to comply with an agreement between the City of New Orleans and the state.

Gov. Landry stated, “The city agreed to have these encampments moved by Thanksgiving. This was an important deadline with the holidays and Bayou Classic coming up. Last week, they announced they could not meet their deadline. If the city is unable to do their part to clean New Orleans up, we will.”

As WDSU reported, the governor’s actions follow his October action to clear homeless encampments near downtown New Orleans ahead of a Taylor Swift concert.

That set of actions, which saw Gov. Landry send state troopers to clear those encampments, sparked protests from leaders in New Orleans who accused Landry of overstepping his boundaries.

According to a lengthy statement from Louisiana’s Republican Rep. Alonzo Knox: “In the days leading up to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour—a three-day sold-out event that brought an estimated $200 million economic boost to our city—Louisiana State Police and agents from the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries relocated a large homeless encampment near Calliope Street.”

Knox continued, “This area is just blocks from a major downtown entry point, had become overwhelmed with trash, debris, human waste, open drug dealings and use, violence, needles, crack pipes, and other drug and sex paraphernalia, posing significant public health and safety risks. Unfortunately, prior to the state’s involvement, no portable toilets or trash services or regular cleanup sweeps were provided at this or other encampments, highlighting a longstanding failure to address basic needs.”

Knox also acknowledged the problems of the sweeps, “Reports from the Calliope sweep revealed both progress and challenges. A significant number of unhoused individuals reported they had neither seen nor heard from a case worker in months. While some unhoused individuals were connected to housing services—26 (almost half) were reportedly offered housing—on the day of relocating the Calliope encampment about three blocks north of its original site. The city officials have reported others have since become scattered, with limited follow-up support due to chronic understaffing among social workers.”

Knox also said that the concerns of those who have raised issues with how the unhoused are treated deserve to be heard.

“Homelessness is a profound and complex challenge that requires collaboration, empathy, and action. It is literally an all-hands-on-deck approach. To the people of New Orleans, I say thank you for your patience, compassion, and insistence to seeking better outcomes for everyone in our city. Your voices matter, your concerns are valid, and your rights to a welcoming city—with safety and a decent quality of life are equally important.”

However, New Orleans Councilwoman Lesli Harris indicated in her own statement on Nov. 22 that the sweep ordered by the governor was a contradiction of the City of New Orleans’ plans to deal with the homeless encampment.

“These are people, many of whom had vouchers in hand, who were ready to be moved to housing, and now the state has come down and moved them farther down the street without a plan in place to get them housed,” Harris said.

Harris also told Fox 8 that the governor initiated a public health issue by uprooting more than 75 people with no plans to accommodate them in place.

“You think about the Taylor Swift concert that happened a month ago; folks have been living without hand-washing stations and port-a-potties until right now,” Harris told the outlet.

Jim Knickles, a homeless man who lives in the Calliope encampment off and on, said that the plan is to round up the unhoused and drop them off at various shelters, but he expressed some level of resistance to this plan.

According to Knickles, on Nov. 25, ”They’re going to come and pick everybody up and drop them off at different shelters. They ain’t dropping me off.”

Although Knickles doesn’t necessarily disagree that something should be done, he believes the money needs to be utilized to help people like himself find stable housing.

“I think he’s trying to set precedent for the city,” Knickles told the outlet. “Use the money and find these people a place to live.”

Knickles also pointed out that those who are homeless also engender concern from their family members, telling Fox 8, “It’s not just about me. It’s about them (his children) being able to put their head on the pillow every night without having to worry about their dad being on the street.”