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Lenacapavir: A Breakthrough HIV Prevention Tool Held Back by Global Funding Cuts

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Adapted from reporting by Rachel Schraer, The Independent (Rethinking Global Aid Project) The closest thing we have to an HIV vaccine has finally arrived. Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable medication that can prevent nearly 100% of HIV infections when administered twice yearly, is being hailed as revolutionary. Yet despite its promise, only a fraction of the people who need it will gain access. The Numbers Behind the Breakthrough The Cost and Access Challenge Why This Matters Globally Anne Aslett, CEO of the Elton John AIDS Foundation, called the rollout “unprecedented,” noting that doses are arriving in Eswatini at the same time as in the U.S., a sharp contrast to the early AIDS crisis, when African nations waited more than a decade for antiretroviral drugs. Still, she warns that funding gaps threaten progress. Vulnerable populations, young women, LGBTQ communities, sex workers, and people who use drugs, are often excluded from prevention services. Without reaching these groups, the epidemic cannot be contained. Innovation in Delivery 🇬🇧 The UK’s Role Mike Podmore, CEO of STOPAIDS, emphasizes that UK contributions are not just charity, they fuel domestic research and innovation. Agencies like Unitaid have invested £250m into UK universities over the past decade, strengthening both global and local HIV responses. The UK has set a goal to end new HIV transmissions by 2030, and expanding access to lenacapavir will be critical to achieving it. The Call to Action Ending HIV is within reach, but only if global leaders step up. Dr. Hill and advocates worldwide are urging wealthy nations to contribute to a proposed $400m fund to expand access without undermining existing HIV programs. This is a pivotal moment: decades of research and advocacy have brought us closer than ever to a cure. But without adequate funding, only 7% of those who need lenacapavir will receive it. What you can do: Together, we can ensure that this breakthrough doesn’t stall at the starting line. Let’s end HIV and make life better for all. Original reporting by Rachel Schraer, The Independent, as part of the “Rethinking Global Aid” project.

BLACK PEOPLE, BLACKLIVES, COMMUNITY, ECONOMICS, ENTERTAINMENT, HEALTH, JUSTICE, JUSTICE SYSTEM, MUSIC, NEWS, POLITICS, RACE, SPORTS

Seventh HIV Remission Sparks Hope, and Raises Questions About U.S. LeadershipOriginal reporting by Michelle Starr, Nature

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A German man known as “Berlin 2 (B2)” has remained in remission from HIV for six years after a stem cell transplant to treat leukemia. This marks the seventh known case of long-term HIV remission worldwide. Unlike earlier cases, B2’s donor carried only one copy of the CCR5 Δ32 mutation, previously thought insufficient for durable resistance. His remission challenges assumptions and opens new pathways for understanding how HIV reservoirs can be eliminated. Globally, 40.8 million people were living with HIV in 2024, with 1.3 million new infections and 630,000 AIDS-related deaths. In the U.S., 39,201 new diagnoses were reported in 2023, disproportionately impacting Black and Latino communities, especially in the South. These breakthroughs abroad raise urgent questions: For those living with HIV/AIDS, these questions are not abstract, they are about survival. If you are reading this and living with HIV, ask your doctor about the current status of cure research. Demand transparency. Stem cell transplants are not scalable cures, but they prove that reservoir reduction, graft-versus-reservoir responses, and partial CCR5 protection can lead to remission. The challenge now is whether America will invest in replicating these mechanisms through gene editing and pharmaceutical innovation or continue to let others lead while its citizens wait.

BLACK PEOPLE, BLACKLIVES, COMMUNITY, ECONOMICS, HEALTH, JUSTICE, JUSTICE SYSTEM, MUSIC, NEWS, RACE, SPORTS

World AIDS Day is more than a commemoration, it is a call to action, reflection, and hope. Observed every year on December 1, it reminds us of the lives lost, the progress made, and the work still ahead in ending HIV/AIDS.

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The Meaning of World AIDS Day World AIDS Day was first established in 1988 by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNAIDS, making it the first-ever global health day Wikipedia Britannica. Its purpose is to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, show solidarity with people living with HIV, and honor the millions who have died from AIDS-related illnesses. The red ribbon, adopted in 1991, remains the universal symbol of support and remembrance Britannica. Each year, the day carries a theme. In 2025, the theme is “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response” — a reminder that funding cuts, stigma, and inequality threaten decades of progress Moneycontrol. Historical Context and Data Strides in Treatment and Prevention The fight against HIV/AIDS has seen remarkable progress: The Future Outlook While progress is undeniable, challenges remain: Closing Reflection World AIDS Day is not just about remembrance, it is about renewed commitment. We have turned HIV from a death sentence into a chronic condition, but stigma, inequity, and funding gaps still stand in the way of ending the epidemic. The future depends on global solidarity, scientific innovation, and community-led action. Ending AIDS is possible but only if we choose compassion, equity, and sustained investment. Sources: Wikipedia Britannica Business Standard Las Vegas Sun Smithsonian Magazine AIDS.ORG UNAIDS Moneycontrol

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The Empowerment and Resilience Framework: A New Era of Healing for Black Women

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Climbers, y’all know I love amplifying powerful Black women who are doing transformational work and today I’m honored to spotlight my colleague, friend, and fellow doctor, Dr. Lila Elliott. Her brand-new self-help journal, Unleashing Empowerment and Resilience, is officially OUT on Amazon and it is a must-have for anyone serious about healing, breaking cycles, and stepping into their birthright of strength. Dr. Elliott is more than an author, she’s a visionary. With 19 years of clinical practice, research, and her doctoral capstone, she created the Empowerment and Resilience Framework (ERF), a groundbreaking model that blends Black Feminist Theory, Trauma-Informed Care, and Academic Resilience into a practical blueprint for real life. This journal is not just for social workers or therapists. It’s for: Inside, you’ll find: Dr. Elliott recently joined me on America in Black and White, where she shared how her work is rooted in truth-telling, resilience, and the power of Black women’s voices. Her insights reminded us that healing is not just personal, it’s communal, and it’s historical. This book transforms you from the inside out. Imagine having a guide that teaches you to turn your pain into power, your voice into your weapon, and your story into a legacy. That’s exactly what Unleashing Empowerment and Resilience delivers. Grab your copy today: Amazon linkLearn more about Dr. Elliott’s work: Her website If you have a sister, coworker, friend, or colleague who needs a reminder of who she is, gift her this journal. Healing starts with one choice. One self-help journal. One moment. Let’s support this incredible Black woman author and help get this book into the hands of every person ready to rise. 

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Norovirus cases are surging across the U.S., with test positivity nearly doubling since late summer. States most impacted include Alabama, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, Wyoming, Louisiana, Michigan, and Indiana. The CDC stresses that prevention hinges on thorough handwashing with soap and water, safe food handling, and disinfecting contaminated surfaces. NBC News CBS News ABC News CDC

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Norovirus: America’s “Winter Vomiting Disease” on the Rise Norovirus, often called the “winter vomiting disease”, is once again sweeping across the country. Unlike other viruses with a fat-based envelope that alcohol sanitizers can break down, norovirus is encased in a rugged protein shell called a capsid, making it resistant to hand sanitizers. That means soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the most effective defense. Current Trends and Data CDC Recommendations for Prevention The CDC emphasizes several key steps to stop norovirus from spreading CDC CDC: Why This Matters Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S., responsible for 20 million infections annually, over 100,000 hospitalizations, and nearly 900 deaths each year CBS News. It spreads easily through contaminated food, water, surfaces, and person-to-person contact. Symptoms, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, can appear within 12–48 hours and last 1–3 days. Vulnerable groups include young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. Community Call to Action This surge is not just a public health issue, it’s a matter of community responsibility. By practicing rigorous hygiene, safe food handling, and responsible caregiving, we can protect ourselves and those most at risk. Norovirus thrives in close-contact environments, but prevention is in our hands, literally.

BLACK PEOPLE, BLACKLIVES, COMMUNITY, ECONOMICS, ENTERTAINMENT, NEWS, SPORTS

Jalen Hurts has become the face of the Philadelphia Eagles, but recent drama raises questions about the team’s unity. Is the organization truly behind its franchise quarterback, or are outside voices stirring unnecessary doubt?

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Jalen Hurts: The Relentless Leader Since arriving in Philadelphia in 2020, Jalen Hurts has never had the same offensive coordinator in back-to-back seasons, a challenge dating back to his college days at Alabama and Oklahoma. Yet, he has never complained. Instead, he has put in the work, adapted, and excelled. His leadership carried the Eagles to two Super Bowl appearances in five years, including a Super Bowl LIX victory in 2025, where he was named Super Bowl MVP media.nfl.com The Hilltop. AJ Brown vs. Team Unity Fresh off that championship, wide receiver A.J. Brown has publicly voiced frustration about being left out of the offensive game plan Sports Illustrated. His complaints echo the infamous Terrell Owens saga with Donovan McNabb after the Eagles’ 2005 Super Bowl loss. Owens’ selfishness fractured the team, leading to Andy Reid’s firing, McNabb’s trade, and Owens’ departure. Brown’s lack of effort on contested catches and his media outbursts have drawn criticism. Meanwhile, DeVonta Smith has emerged as a true WR1, battling for every ball and proving his reliability. The Eagles gambled by keeping Brown past the trade deadline, but his behavior continues to cast a shadow. Outside Voices: Seth Joyner & LeSean McCoy Former Eagles Seth Joyner and LeSean McCoy have suggested that some in the organization are unhappy with Hurts. But let’s be clear: letting Hurts walk would be unthinkable. Every other NFL team would break the bank to sign him. Joyner was a solid linebacker but never a game-changer, while McCoy’s career fizzled after early promise. Their critiques seem more rooted in bitterness than fact. Jalen Hurts Career Stats (NFL) ESPN NFL Pro-Football-Reference.com Season GP Comp% Pass Yards TD INT Rush Yards Rush TD 2020 15 52.0% 1,061 6 4 354 3 2021 15 61.3% 3,144 16 9 784 10 2022 15 66.5% 3,701 22 6 760 13 2023 17 65.4% 3,858 23 15 605 15 2024 15 68.7% 2,903 18 5 630 14 2025 10 66.9% 1,995 16 1 265 6 Career 87 64.7% 16,662 101 40 3,398 61 a chart comparing Jalen Hurts’ passing and rushing yards by season. This dual-axis chart highlights how Hurts has balanced his game since entering the NFL. His passing yards steadily climbed from 2020 to 2023, peaking at nearly 3,900, while his rushing yards consistently added another dimension to the Eagles’ offense. Even in seasons with coordinator changes, Hurts adapted and delivered. Jalen Hurts’ Accomplishments media.nfl.com Sportskeeda The Hilltop Final Thoughts The Eagles’ success is inseparable from Jalen Hurts. He has proven himself as a franchise leader, overcoming instability at coordinator, silencing critics, and delivering championships. The real question isn’t whether Hurts is the problem, it’s whether the organization can keep the locker room united and silence distractions. Readers, what do you think? Is Jalen Hurts the long-term answer for Philadelphia, or do the Eagles risk repeating history by letting drama overshadow their success? Comment below, subscribe, and join the conversation. Sources: Sports Illustrated media.nfl.com Sportskeeda The Hilltop ESPN NFL Pro-Football-Reference.com

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Jellybean Johnson, a Pioneer of the Minneapolis Sound, Remembered

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Garry George “Jellybean” Johnson, legendary drummer, guitarist, producer, and founding member of The Time, has passed away at the age of 69, just two days after celebrating his birthday. His sudden death marks the loss of one of the architects of the Minneapolis Sound, a genre-defining fusion of funk, rock, R&B, and new wave that continues to influence music today Rolling Stone FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul Wikipedia Bring Me The News. Honoring His Legacy Jellybean Johnson was born in Chicago in 1956 and moved to Minneapolis at age 13. It was there that he befriended future icons like Prince, Morris Day, Jimmy Jam, and Terry Lewis, forming the creative nucleus that would shape an entire era of music Rolling Stone FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul. Visual Timeline of His Career Here’s a timeline chart capturing his milestones from 1976 to 2025: Preserving the Minneapolis Sound Johnson’s vision extended beyond performance. In 2021, he co-founded the Minneapolis Sound Museum, dedicated to preserving the history and cultural impact of the genre he helped pioneer Bring Me The News. His final reflections on legacy emphasized community, mentorship, and ensuring future generations had access to creative spaces like those that shaped him North News Bring Me The News. Tributes Musicians and fans alike have poured out tributes. Morris Day called him “more like a brother than a bandmate,” while Sheila E. remembered him as “a kind human being, extremely talented and funny.” Susannah Melvoin described him as “the master of loving you like no brother could” Rolling Stone Yahoo International Business Times UK. Closing Thoughts Jellybean Johnson’s artistry was not confined to the stage—it was embedded in the DNA of modern pop and R&B. His drumming, guitar work, and production shaped hits across decades, while his mentorship and museum project ensured the Minneapolis Sound will live on. Credit: This blog post is based on reporting by Daniel Bird and expanded with details from Rolling Stone, Billboard, Fox9, and other sources Rolling Stone FOX 9 Minneapolis-St. Paul Yahoo Billboard Wikipedia Bring Me The News Discogs.

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A Sheriff with a Mission: The Story of Charlotte’s Unyielding Protector

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*This piece is inspired by the original reporting of Lauren Mascarenhas for CNN.* In a time when the debate over immigration and law enforcement remains as heated as ever, one figure stands out in the community of Charlotte, North Carolina. Sheriff Garry McFadden, a former homicide detective and a recognizable face from the television screen, is not just any sheriff; he is a guardian aiming to protect his citizens while navigating the complexities of immigration enforcement. A Robust Background Garry McFadden’s journey to becoming a sheriff is one marked by resilience and dedication. Before stepping into his role as the sheriff, McFadden served as a homicide detective for over 20 years. This experience armed him with a deep understanding of criminal justice, empathy for victims, and an eye for the broader implications of crime in society. His work in law enforcement was complemented by his appearances on the A&E network’s “The First 48,” where he showcased his investigative skills and humanity as he handled sensitive cases. This unique combination of experience behind the badge and in front of the camera has endeared McFadden to citizens and given him a platform to address issues affecting the community. His tenure in law enforcement has shaped his perspective, particularly towards the immigrant population. Standing Firm Against ICE Sheriff McFadden has made headlines for his staunch opposition to the practices of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). His approach centers around the belief that local law enforcement should not act as an extension of federal immigration authorities. This stance is not merely a political statement; it is a reflection of his commitment to protecting all citizens, regardless of their immigration status. He understands that fear of deportation can prevent crime victims and witnesses from coming forward, ultimately putting the entire community at risk. McFadden’s advocacy extends beyond rhetoric; he actively seeks to build bridges between the sheriff’s department and marginalized communities. He often emphasizes the importance of community trust in law enforcement. By not cooperating with ICE on low-level offenses, he aims to nurture an environment where all residents feel safe reporting crimes. A Community Focus The strength of Sheriff McFadden lies not only in his dedication to fair policing but also in his community involvement. He frequently attends local events, engages with residents, and tackles various issues affecting Charlotte’s neighborhoods. From youth mentorship programs to initiatives aimed at curbing domestic violence, McFadden’s leadership goes beyond traditional law enforcement. His command is marked by transparency, as he is unafraid to discuss the complexities of policing in public forums. He listens to constituents’ concerns, making residents feel heard and valued, thereby strengthening the ties between citizens and their sheriff’s office. Embracing A New Era of Leadership Sheriff Garry McFadden’s approach to leadership represents a new era in law enforcement where community protection and civil rights intersect. By standing firm against ICE, he not only protects vulnerable populations but also fosters a culture of inclusivity and trust. In a world often divided by policy and opinion, McFadden stands as an emblem of a law enforcement official who is not just about enforcing the law but about serving the community. With a commitment to transparency and community engagement, McFadden continues to impact Charlotte positively. His background as a detective, his experience in the spotlight, and his unwavering dedication to protecting all citizens have come together to form a sheriff who embodies strength, compassion, and resolve. As we witness the evolving landscape of immigration enforcement and community relations, Sheriff McFadden serves as an inspiring example of how one individual’s leadership can make a profound difference.

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7 Smart Holiday Spending Tips for Uncertain Times

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By Charles Zackary King – America in Black and White / AMIBW The Magazine The holidays are a time of joy, connection, and celebration. But for many in underserved, marginalized, and LGBTQ communities, they can also bring financial stress. Rising costs, economic uncertainty, and the pressure to “keep up” can make this season feel overwhelming. The truth is: prosperity isn’t about how much you spend, it’s about how wisely you manage what you have. Here are 7 smart holiday spending tips to help you celebrate without financial regret: 1️⃣ Set a Holiday Budget, and Stick to It 2️⃣ Prioritize Meaning Over Money 3️⃣ Avoid Credit Card Traps 4️⃣ Shop Smart and Early 5️⃣ Protect Your Future Goals 6️⃣ Build Community Wealth 7️⃣ Plan for the New Year Closing Thought This season, let’s choose prosperity over pressure. Being smart with your money is not just about surviving uncertain times, it’s about building a future where our communities thrive. Joy doesn’t come from overspending; it comes from knowing we are protecting our legacy, our families, and our futures. Celebrate wisely. Spend intentionally. Prosper together.

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When Does It Stop? Black Women Deserve Dignity, Not Discrimination

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Credit: Original reporting by Jeroslyn JoVonn On November 6th, nine Black women gathered at the Cork and Bull Chophouse in Chesapeake, Virginia for what was meant to be a joyful Friendsgiving celebration. Instead, their evening turned into humiliation and pain. According to reporting by Jeroslyn JoVonn, a fight broke out between two women who were not part of their group. Yet, despite having no involvement, the nine friends were told to leave. When one of them asked why, a manager allegedly responded: “Because you all like to fight.” The women, who had simply come together for fellowship, were forced to stand up in front of other patrons and exit the restaurant, while the actual individuals involved in the altercation had already left. As one of the women, Shakoya Holt, explained, “We were all put in a negative spotlight in that moment. It was all eyes on us, very embarrassing.” Now, the group has hired attorney Joyvan Malbon-Griffin, who has stated that this treatment was discriminatory and violated their rights. “All nine of these women were treated more harshly than the two people who were actually engaged in the misdemeanor action,” Malbon-Griffin said. The women are seeking accountability and justice. The Bigger Picture This incident is not isolated. It reflects a broader pattern of how Black people, especially Black women, continue to be disrespected, stereotyped, and discriminated against in public spaces. To assume guilt based on race, and to punish those who were minding their own business, is not only unjust but deeply harmful. How do you justify removing nine women who were not involved, while excusing the actual participants in the fight? How do you justify humiliating them in front of an entire restaurant? This is not just bad judgment, it is systemic bias. And when establishments act this way, they are not only violating the dignity of their customers, but also potentially violating constitutional protections and the Commerce Clause, which ensures equal access and fair treatment in public accommodations. The Questions We Must Ask A Call for Accountability The women involved have said “enough is enough.” And they are right. We must demand accountability from businesses that perpetuate discrimination. We must call out injustice when we see it. And we must remind every establishment: Black women, and all marginalized communities, deserve respect, safety, and dignity. Until accountability is enforced, these incidents will continue. But by shining a light on them, by refusing to stay silent, and by demanding justice, we can push for change. Closing Thought This is about more than one restaurant. It is about a culture that too often stereotypes and mistreats Black people. It is about ensuring that our communities are not humiliated, dismissed, or denied their rights. Treat your customers with dignity and respect. Period.

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