by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

September 28, 2023

Dear NY Jets: J. Cole Posts Letter Colin Kaepernick Sent To New York Jets’ GM About Joining Practice Squad

It seems Colin Kaepernick is still trying to make his way into the NFL.

Rapper J. Cole recently released a letter that Kaepernick sent to New York Jets general manager Joe Douglas offering his quarterback services to the team’s practice squad.

The Jets have been struggling since Aaron Rodgers‘ season-ending injury four plays into his first game on September 11, forcing an overwhelmed Zach Wilson into the starting position.

“I asked Colin @kaepernick7 if I could share this letter with the world. He was reluctant. My argument was that I believe the people and all organizations should know the truth about how hard he works and how much he still wants to play. And always has. In the end, he agreed to let me,” wrote J. Cole.

Although Kaepernick has not played in an NFL game since he played for the San Francisco 49ers on Jan. 1, 2017, it’s obvious from this letter he still feels he’d be a good addition to any team.

“I’ve heard that the backup spot is likely to be filled by a veteran quarterback,” Kaepernick wrote. “As much as I would love the opportunity to fill that spot, I’m writing you in hopes that you can imagine a much different approach involving me; I would be honored and extremely grateful for the opportunity to come in and lead the practice squad. I would do this with the sole mission of getting your defense ready each week.”

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A post shared by Cole World (@realcoleworld)

The New York Post reported that the Jets ended up signing quarterback Trevor Siemian to their practice squad on Sept. 25. In his abbreviated NFL career, Kaepernick led the 49ers to a Super Bowl and was a dual threat with his arm and his legs.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

September 28, 2023

Boosie Badazz Turned Down $250K To Perform At LGBTQ Event

Hip-hop recording artist Boosie Badazz says he has a moral code that he strictly adheres to and no amount of money will change that. In a recent interview, the rapper said he turned down a quarter million dollars because it was an LGBTQ event.

During an appearance on The Danza Project, Boosie said he turned the gig down because “that’s not what I believe in.”

“Big money! I told them, I have nothing against it at all but that’s not what I push and that’s not what I believe in. Yeh, A quarter million. I’m good, bruh. That’s not what I believe in.”

Boosie claims he doesn’t hate the community, he just doesn’t agree with their values. He admitted that his delivery should have been better in the past and that he doesn’t have any problems with how people live their lives, but, he just doesn’t agree with it.

“They act like I hate them. My assistant is gay. This man deals with millions of dollars for me. I trust gay people more than I trust regular people. Real talk. A lot of them be genuine. It’s just, probably cause I’m so — when that stuff came out with uh, what I said about Dwayne Wade daughter, that kinda put me in a hole with that community. I shoulda said it in a better way or something like that. People started judging me on that, but nah man, I don’t have no problems with what nobody do. I just don’t agree with it.”

The rapper has made many statements in the past that have placed him in the crosshairs of the LGBTQ community, and caught a lot of heat when he spoke about Dwyane Wade‘s daughter, Zaya in the past. His comments toward gay rapper Lil Nas X also caused controversy.

Boosie has a daughter who recently came out as gay.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

September 28, 2023

Ja Morant Surprises Memphis Children With Ja 1 Nikes

Suspended Memphis Grizzlies star Ja Morant surprised a group of children a Nike-sponsored event in the city.

Morant showed up at what looked to be a basketball clinic for children, who looked thrilled to see the high-flying guard.

“Believe in yourself,” Morant said in a video posted by Nike. “You know, have confidence in yourself. There’s going to be a lot of outside stuff that can distract you from your ultimate goal. Just stay locked in, tune it out, and stay true to yourself.”

The kids were also rewarded with pairs of “Ja 1s,” Morant’s signature Nike shoe.

“Ja Morant pulled up in Memphis to surprise young athletes with gear and taught them that the game is about teamwork, joy, and passion. It’s a canvas for dreams and builds community. And when you’ve got star players like @jamorant leading the way, future hoopers are inspired to make an impact, driven by their love for the game.

Stay tuned to see what’s next! 👀 #OnlyBasketball“

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A post shared by Nike Basketball (@nikebasketball)

Memphis Commercial Appeal reported that the new Ja 1s will feature the phrase “We Ain’t Ducking No Smoke” on them.

That line comes from a comment Morant made in February 2022 during a post-game interview. “Ain’t no running in the M. We climb up the chimney. We ain’t ducking no smoke.”

Nike JA 1 “We Ain’t Ducking No Smoke” 💨 pic.twitter.com/lw8bohx2Od

— Sneaker News (@SneakerNews) September 25, 2023

According to Clutchpoints, the sneakers are slated to come out Oct. 6 and cost $130.

Morant will sit out the first 25 games of the upcoming NBA season after being suspended for conduct detrimental to the league. The NBA suspended him for eight games in March following an incident when he was seen holding a handgun in an Instagram Live video at a Denver nightclub. Then on May 14 another video went viral showing Morant again holding a firearm.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

September 28, 2023

Zeta Phi Beta Advocates For Black Maternal Health Act On Capitol Hill

Members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. are putting Black maternal health at the forefront of their activism. On Sept. 20, women organized an event on Capitol Hill to advocate for the passing of the “Momnibus Act,” championing the cause.

The “Momnibus Act” seeks to remedy the disparities in maternal health for Black women, as reported by Minority Reporter. The sorority hopes that persistent advocacy and engagement by women everywhere will bring the legislation to fruition, as Black women have the highest maternal mortality rate in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Black women are losing their lives due to a lack of serious consideration from medical professionals,” expressed Dottery Butler Washington, the service organization’s international co-director of Social Action. “As Black women, we are reclaiming our agency, educating ourselves, and guiding doctors in understanding how to appropriately treat our conditions and bodies.”

This day of action, deemed “Zeta Day,” was especially important to the sorority, as it was not only its first in-person event since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic but also its largest congregation of members in its history. Its values of global progress are being upheld through this service event for a social cause on behalf of Black women.

The maternal mortality rate for Black women within the United States is a growing epidemic, and one, given the country’s medical achievement, many feel should be prioritized and remedied. According to the CDC, Black women are three times more likely to die during childbirth, despite most causes of childbirth deaths being preventable.

However, the “Momnibus Act” will be an official policy catered to directly resolving the root issues causing the mortality rate to increase and other disparities plaguing Black maternal health.

In a continuation of this effort of advocating for reproductive rights, the sorority joined members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. in a panel titled “Politics, Policy and Reproductive Justice” at the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference on Sept. 21. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. hopes to continue on this mission to advocate for social causes deserving of legislative and societal upliftment.

Strike, writers, studios, pay, wages, deal, launch, writers guild

by Daniel Johnson

September 28, 2023

Hollywood Ending: Writers Reach Tentative Deal With Studios After Nearly 150-Day Strike

The Writers Guild of America and the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) have reached a deal.

The tentative three-year agreement, which took place Sept. 24, 2023 and still needs to be ratified, sets forth protections for television and film writers from AI, a gradual wage increase over the life of the contract, and a viewership-based residual model.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, one of the biggest improvements is the creation of minimum writers’ room size requirements and a guaranteed length of time that writers work on a show.

These specific gains do not take effect until Dec. 1, 2023, so anything written before that date is not bound by those terms. Originally, the WGA was looking to get a 16% increase in residuals but ended up getting 12.5%. Even if the agreement is not ratified, it can still go into effect if a majority of members vote to adopt it.

“What we have won in this contract—most particularly, everything we have gained since May 2nd—is due to the willingness of this membership to exercise its power, to demonstrate its solidarity, to walk side-by-side, to endure the pain and uncertainty of the past 146 days,” the WGA said in a statement.

Feeling joyful connection w fellow WGA writers on this strike victory

Weve shown the world where power is. We get our demands by withholding labor & shutting shit down

We were inspired by the strike wave happening b4 ours, & we r definitely inspiring others on strike lines now

— Boots Riley (@BootsRiley) September 27, 2023

According to Rolling Stone, had the strike lasted another week, it would have broken a record set in 1988 for the longest writers work stoppage in American history.

In August, the WGA received a counteroffer from the studios that it said was designed to get the writers to stop short of gains they desired. Because they did not take a deal that would have been friendly to the studios and streaming services, the writers secured an 18% increase in wages for shows and films that run at least 96 minutes, as well as a 26% increase in residuals for television and film projects that have reruns.

this is HUGEl! cliff notes: every writer in the room isn't guaranteed an episode BUT if you get one it's a big deal bc it's a credit AND an additional script fee on top of your weekly rate. but until now that didn't apply for staff aka the most junior writer #writersstrike https://t.co/zxIYlvHDxq

— Franchesca Ramsey (@chescaleigh) September 27, 2023

The writers strike may have concluded, but SAG-AFTRA is still on its work stoppage. Deadline reports that that strike could end as soon as next Friday if an expected meeting with the AMPTP goes well.

The actors union has been on strike since July 14 after joining the striking writers in solidarity, which created the nation’s first joint strike since President John F. Kennedy was in office.

SAG-AFTRA’s spokesperson released a statement on Sept. 26 that said, “We have no confirmed dates scheduled and there will not be meetings with the AMPTP this week. When we do have dates confirmed, we will inform our members. No one should rely on speculation.”

As the dust on this strike settles one thing has become clear.

The deal took roughly 10 days.

10 days. That’s it. The studio CEOs got serious and we had a deal in 10 days.

When those 10 days happened was not the decision of the writers. It was the decision of the AMPTP.

— Daniel Kunka (@unikunka) September 27, 2023

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

September 27, 2023

Meet the Black Female Architect Behind Nigeria’s Multi-Million Dollar Real Estate Projects

Meet Olajumoke Adenowo, the remarkable Black female architect who is responsible for some of Nigeria’s top real estate projects. In a field traditionally dominated by men, she has defied the odds and achieved great success throughout her career.

Black women have made significant contributions to the field of architecture throughout history despite facing systemic barriers and discrimination. Despite their challenges, black women in architecture continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations, demonstrating the importance of diversity in shaping the built environment.

Adenowo was first inspired to pursue a career in architecture after a visit to Paris, where she was captivated by the magnificent structures she encountered. Determined to bring the same architectural excellence to Africa, she embarked on her journey in the field.

She started her career at Femi Majekodunmi Associates architectural firm and quickly rose, proving her passion and dedication. She shared that while others enjoyed their leisure time, she would be found at the office, even late at night.

“I think my boss saw my passion and he gave me a chance. If we had more mentors like that in Africa, I believe the younger generation would blossom faster,” Adenowo told Wakanda Africa News.

At age 25, she established her own company, which has since become a world-class organization known for its excellence in architecture.

Throughout her career, Adenowo has built an impressive portfolio, working on notable projects that have garnered local and international attention. Her noteworthy works include the Nigerian Stock Exchange building, the Heritage Bank Headquarters, and the Ekiti State Liaison Office in Lagos.

Her exceptional performance has earned her prestigious accolades, including the International Alliance for Women World of Difference 100 Award, the Rare Gems Award, the New African Business Woman of the Year Award, and the International Property Awards.

Be sure to follow her on Instagram @JumokeAdenowo

This article first appeared on blackbusiness.com

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

September 27, 2023

Myles Rowe Becomes First Black Driver to Win An Indycar Championship

On September 2, 2023, Myles Rowe, #99 Pabst Racing with Force Indy, became the first Black driver to win an INDYCAR-sanctioned championship. After starting the final race with a 64-point series lead, 23-year-old Rowe clinched the 2023 Cooper Tires USF PRO 2000 title at the Portland International Raceway in Portland, Oregon. With this USF Pro 2000 championship, Rowe will advance to the INDY NXT by Firestone series in 2024.

In the 2023 USF Pro 2000 series, Rowe accumulated more wins (five), pole positions (four), fastest laps (three), and podium finishes (seven) than any of his rivals. During last year’s USF 2000 Series Championship, Rowe placed runner-up, finishing within six points of the winner. Since age four, Atlanta native Myles Rowe has been fascinated with all things racing. He’s a past 2018 Lucas Oil Formula Car Race Series winner.

“This year was a test to see what I’ve got,” said Myles Rowe. “And luckily, I was able to pull it off.”

On December 3, 2020, Black Indianapolis business leader and team co-owner Rod Reid and Roger Penske, the owner of the most successful racing organization in history, announced the formation of the USF2000 race team at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, as part of the Race for Equality & Change diversity initiative. On August 29, 2021, Rowe became the Black driver to win an INDYCAR-sanctioned race at New Jersey Motorsports Park in the Cooper Tires USF2000 Championship.

“When I first envisioned the Force Indy team, I saw it as a pipeline to create opportunities for black and brown talent. An opportunity to change the face of motorsports,” said Force Indy Team Principal and Co-owner Rod Reid. “I never imagined winning a championship nearly two years before we won our first race.”

Force Indy celebrates this historic moment by focusing on establishing a program that fuels opportunities for people of color – including drivers, crew members, and more – across the INDYCAR paddock. The goal for Force Indy is to open as many doors as possible for diverse representation and leadership in the motorsports world. Force Indy was founded as part of Penske Entertainment’s Race for Equality & Change initiative, launched in July 2020 to create fundamental change in the motorsports industry.

This championship win in the #99 continues Force Indy’s tribute to Dewey “Rajo Jack” Gatson, the Black racer denied entry in the Indy 500 in the 1930s and 40s. Rowe drove the red rear-winged USFPro2000 car to victory in honor of the Red-Tailed 99th Squadron of the Tuskegee Airman.

Learn more at ForceIndy.com

This news first appeared on blacknews.com

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

September 27, 2023

Nick Cannon Reveals Mariah Carey’s Lifesaving Role Amid Lupus Diagnosis

In a candid interview with Diary of a CEO, Nick Cannon shared a deeply personal and life-altering experience, shedding light on how his ex-wife, Mariah Carey, played a pivotal role in saving his life when he was diagnosed with lupus.

Cannon described the diagnosis as “life-changing,” recounting the moment he realized something was amiss. He experienced an unusual and uncomfortable pain in his side, which he initially thought could be jogged away. However, after returning home, he unexpectedly lost consciousness, prompting Carey to take immediate action.

“Mariah came in and found me,” said the father of 12, “and they rushed me to the ER in Aspen… I didn’t think it was that bad because I had just returned from jogging in Aspen. So they’re like, he probably has altitude sickness. I was just dehydrated, so that was the narrative we were going with. But the longer I was in the hospital [the doctors] were like, ‘Oh, maybe he has a kidney stone because there’s something going on back there.’ And I was like, ‘No, it wasn’t a kidney stone.'”

Subsequent tests revealed that his immune system was attacking his kidneys, leading to the lupus diagnosis. Cannon praised Carey’s unwavering support in his journey to remain healthy and alive.

“And then they wanted to do a biopsy, and then through the biopsy, I think it was like acute kidney failure. It wasn’t full. I had caught it early enough to where my kidneys didn’t completely fail, and then they found out the reason why is that my immune system was attacking my kidneys… A lot of times it’s not hereditary. They don’t know what the cause of it is. It’s related to stress, which I didn’t think I was stressed out, but there are various types of stress, physical stress, and emotional stress, [that] can send your immune system out of whack, and therefore your immune system then starts to self-destroy,” Cannon explained.

He expressed his gratitude toward Carey during his health struggles, acknowledging that while her dual role as global superstar and caregiver took a toll on their relationship, ultimately it was through these challenges that they grew closer.

“[Mariah] was my rock, man. She went hard, [I] probably wouldn’t even, I’ll be honest, probably wouldn’t be alive if it wasn’t for how hard she went with the doctors, with me, my stubbornness. She was the perfect helpmate, the perfect matriarch, the perfect mom, the perfect wife in those scenarios.”

Cannon’s revelation not only underscores the importance of having a solid support system during health crises but also reveals how personal struggles can fortify and deepen meaningful relationships.

This article was written by Black Enterprise contributor Rafael Pena.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

September 27, 2023

Homecoming Queen Punished For Allegedly Wearing Mexican Sash At Graduation

A homecoming queen in San Antonio, TX, is advocating for her right to display her heritage at graduation. Kayleigh Craddock claims she is being punished unjustly for not taking off her Mexican cultural sash at her high school commencement in May.

The school district stated that Craddock’s lack of compliance with the school dress code led to her no longer being invited to crown the next homecoming queen on Sept. 29. However, according to Kens5, Craddock believes that her actions were not worthy of any punishment, and was told by the administration that the display of her identity on the graduation stage was permissible.

When the issue first gained notoriety, the school district issued a statement saying that her “unapproved” accessory to the cap and gown was an infringement on the dress code.

“Graduation dress guidelines are communicated to all graduates. The school policy addresses the wearing of unauthorized sashes or accessories. Unfortunately, a student wore an unapproved sash that was not in the guidelines for graduation dress. The student was asked to comply with the dress guidelines and refused.”

Craddock’s “insubordination” from her refusal to remove the sash has led to her being ostracized by the school; however, the recent graduate stands firm that she was never told to remove it.

“I was never told to take it off. It’s on video. They have video. The whole thing is recorded. There’s pictures, everything,” shared the homecoming queen. “There’s a teacher at each row, he never told me anything.”

However, the punishment for showcasing pride in her identity at the commencement ceremony is of additional concern, as the school insisted that the sash violated the dress code.

Ultimately, Craddock wants the school district to understand her right to display her identity and allow her to be part of this year’s homecoming festivities.

mugshot, Trump mug shot, Trump arrest, politics, RICO

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

September 27, 2023

Manhattan Prosecutors Explain Trump’s ‘Corporate Death Penalty’

Trump has more legal issues to face beyond his recent RICO indictment. On Sept. 22, a Manhattan judge found the former U.S. President liable for fraud at his organization.

The decision alleged that Trump inflated his worth to banks and insurers by over 3.6 billion in one year, in a case that could result in the rare “corporate death penalty,” so rare that the only time its been attempted previously was shut down. However, if established, it could lead to the Trump organization’s downfall, according to Business Insider.

The details of Trump’s fraud were displayed in 35 pages of the filing by New York Supreme Court Justice Arthur Engoron, resulting in the immediate dissolution of his corporate charter. Any corporate licenses under Trump’s domain, including the Trump organization, his two sons, and any subsidiary LLCs, are canceled, immediately, according to the document.

In addition to the cancellation, Trump and his affiliates overseeing the companies must recommend “potential independent receivers to manage the dissolution of the canceled LLCs.”

“It’s comparable to once a person dies. A dead person can’t sell property. Only the executor of the estate can do that — or in this case, the receiver,” former financial-crimes prosecutor on behalf of Manhattan, Diana Florence, told Business Insider.

However, what is actually happening to Trump and the numerous businesses under his belt remains unknown, given the lack of precedent. The final charges will most likely be delayed. In the meantime, Trump’s corporations cannot operate under regular provisions; the stripping of their charter prohibits them from receiving loans or working on government contracts.

According to Florence, this type of dissolution typically occurs only when a business goes bankrupt. However, the difference stems from this process being court-mandated.

“This is the same thing, but it’s called a judicial dissolution,” she said. “It’s something that is almost never done. It’s a big mess, actually.”

The receiver appointed to the position will facilitate all rents, salaries, and taxes until the assets are sold off to fulfill all debts, including a hefty $250 million that the New York attorney general is asking for in the October trial.