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BLACK PEOPLE, BLACKLIVES, COMMUNITY, ECONOMICS, FINANCE, NEWS, POLITICS, RACE

The Power of Intentional Networking: Building Relationships That Build Legacy

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Networking is more than exchanging business cards or adding new connections online. At its core, networking is about building authentic relationships, relationships that open doors, share knowledge, and create opportunities that might otherwise remain out of reach. For Black professionals, networking has always been more than a career tool. It’s a strategy for breaking barriers, amplifying voices, and strengthening community. When done intentionally, networking becomes a catalyst for influence, mobility, and long-term success. Why Intentional Networking Matters Intentional networking goes beyond showing up at events or collecting contacts. It requires clarity, purpose, and a commitment to mutual growth. When we build relationships rooted in authenticity and shared value, we create ecosystems, not just networks, where everyone can thrive. Historically, Black excellence in business has been propelled by strong, interconnected communities. From the entrepreneurial hubs of Black Wall Street to today’s digital professional networks, progress has always been accelerated by collaboration, mentorship, and collective advancement. Strategies for Expanding Your Network Across Industries Here are a few ways Black professionals can cultivate meaningful, cross-industry connections: A Legacy of Collective Advancement Our history shows that when Black professionals unite, we create pathways that uplift entire communities. Whether through mentorship, advocacy, or shared resources, networks have always been a driving force behind our progress. Today, organizations like the National Black Professional Networking Association continue that legacy by creating spaces where connection becomes empowerment, and empowerment becomes impact. Key Takeaway Strong networks are the lifeblood of sustainable success.When we invest in relationships, we invest in our future, our community, and our collective legacy.

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

Michigan’s Double Standard: Harbaugh, Moore, and the Question of Racial Bias

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The University of Michigan has become a case study in contradictions. When Jim Harbaugh was implicated in two consecutive scandals, first violating recruiting rules during the COVID dead period, then presiding over the Connor Stalions sign‑stealing scheme, the university stood by him. Even as the NCAA dragged its feet for years before finally issuing historic fines and a 10‑year show‑cause penalty in 2025, Harbaugh was allowed to leave gracefully for the NFL. His reputation, though tarnished, was never destroyed. Now compare that to Sherrone Moore. Elevated to head coach in 2024, Moore was fired for cause in December 2025 after allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. The facts remain unclear, yet the university acted swiftly and decisively, ending his career overnight. Within hours, Moore faced criminal charges, his name splashed across headlines, his future in coaching effectively erased. Michigan Coaching Controversies: Harbaugh vs. Moore Coach Tenure Major Scandal(s) Outcome Impact on Program Jim Harbaugh 2015–2024 – Recruiting violations (BurgerGate) during COVID dead period<br>- Connor Stalions sign‑stealing scheme (illegal scouting, signal recording) – Multiple suspensions<br>- Left for NFL in 2024<br>- NCAA issued 10‑year show‑cause penalty in 2025 Despite winning the 2023 National Championship, Michigan’s success was overshadowed by historic NCAA penalties and reputational damage Sherrone Moore 2024–2025 – Inappropriate relationship with staff member<br>- Criminal charges: felony home invasion, stalking, breaking & entering – Fired for cause in Dec 2025<br>- Released on bond with restrictions<br>- Lost remaining $12.3M contract value Players felt “betrayed” and emotionally shaken before the Citrus Bowl; Michigan forced into another coaching search just two years after Harbaugh’s exit Wrong is wrong. But the disparity in treatment is glaring. Harbaugh’s systemic violations undermined the integrity of the game itself, yet Michigan protected him. Moore’s alleged misconduct, personal, contested, and far less clear, was immediately weaponized to destroy him. It looks, smells, and feels like a smear campaign, one that ensures he never coaches again. And when you look at who was shielded and who was sacrificed, the shadow of racial bias is impossible to ignore. Why do the differences between Black and White always surface at the ugliest times? Why do institutions like Michigan continue to fail at ethics, accountability, and due diligence when it matters most? Call to Action It’s time to hold the University of Michigan accountable. Like so many other institutions, they must be boycotted, exposed, and put on front street for their double standards and racial bias. We want to hear from you: Your voice matters. Share your thoughts, challenge the narrative, and let’s demand accountability together.

BLACK PEOPLE, BLACKLIVES, COMMUNITY, ECONOMICS, ENTERTAINMENT, FINANCE, JUSTICE, JUSTICE SYSTEM, NEWS, Police Brutality, POLITICS, RACE, SPORTS

Black America: The Blueprint of Global Culture and Opportunity

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Introduction Black America has always been the heartbeat of democracy, culture, and progress. Yet, too often, our contributions are overlooked, minimized, or outright stolen. From the Civil Rights Movement to the African Diaspora, Black Americans have paved the way for immigrant communities, global liberation movements, and cultural revolutions. It is time to reclaim that truth. Civil Rights Legacy and Immigration The Civil Rights Movement, led by Malcolm X, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and countless others, did more than secure rights for Black Americans. It opened doors for immigrant communities. The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 was born out of the Civil Rights struggle, allowing Cubans, Latinos, Caribbeans, Nigerians, Asians, Somalians, and others to enter the U.S. in greater numbers. Without Black America, those opportunities would not exist. Identity and Assimilation Yet, many of these groups distance themselves from Blackness, seeking acceptance by aligning with whiteness. Statements like “I’m not Black, I’m Jamaican” or “I’m Nigerian, not African American” fracture solidarity. Assimilation for survival may be understandable, but denial of identity undermines collective power. The Diaspora and World Culture The African Diaspora is not just about migration, it is about influence. Black America is the epicenter of global culture. Hip-hop, born in the Bronx, is now the most consumed music genre worldwide. Jazz, gospel, and R&B shaped entire industries. Fashion trends rooted in Black creativity dominate global markets. Even social justice movements abroad borrow language and tactics from the Civil Rights Movement. Cultural Appropriation vs. Scrutiny Black culture is celebrated globally but often stolen and repackaged by others. TikTok dances created by Black teens go viral, but influencers from other groups profit. Streetwear, rooted in Black creativity, is now a billion-dollar industry. Meanwhile, Black youth are stereotyped as “criminals” for the same creativity. The hypocrisy is undeniable: the world profits from Black culture while vilifying Black people. Politics and Immigration Many immigrant groups supported Donald Trump, believing his promises. Yet, his administration deported thousands from Latin America, Africa, and Asia. The irony is sharp: communities that distanced themselves from Black solidarity were targeted by the same system they empowered. Global Impact of Black America Black America is not just a cultural force, it is a political and social catalyst. Civil rights victories inspired global liberation movements, from South Africa to the Caribbean. Marcus Garvey’s Pan-African vision, Dr. King’s dream of justice, and Malcolm X’s call for dignity continue to resonate worldwide. Conclusion Black America is the foundation, the heartbeat, and the blueprint. We are not just culture, we are culture. We paved the way for the world politically, socially, and culturally. It is time for the world to recognize, respect, and honor that legacy.

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

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, FINANCE

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.

BLACK PEOPLE, BLACKLIVES, COMMUNITY, ECONOMICS, FINANCE, NEWS, RACE

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.

BLACK PEOPLE, BLACKLIVES, COMMUNITY, ECONOMICS, FINANCE, NEWS, Police Brutality, POLITICS, RACE

17 Shots in the Back, When Will Justice Come?

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Credit: Original reporting by Joe Walker (@joewalkr, The Independent) Atlanta rapper B Green, born Linton Blackwell, was shot and killed on October 11th outside Five Paces Inn in Buckhead. The autopsy revealed a chilling truth: he was shot 17 times in the back by off-duty police officer Gerald Walker, who was working security at the bar. Police claim Walker was responding to reports of a “disruptive person.” They allege that Green attempted to re-enter the bar through a rear entrance and later placed an item in the small of his back. Commands were issued “in reference to a gun,” and moments later, Green was gunned down. Investigators later found a firearm, but the autopsy makes clear: every single bullet entered his back. Green’s manager and friend, Timothy Coleman, expressed disbelief: “I just couldn’t believe it was 17 times in the back. There’s not one shot in the front. If he wasn’t pointing a gun at you or doing anything, what does that have to do with shooting him in the back 17 times? That means he wasn’t facing you. He wasn’t a threat.” Green was a father of twin girls, a family man, and an artist who left behind a legacy, including his final album PTSD: Vietnam Vet released in 2020. The Larger Issue This is not just about one man. This is about a system that continues to allow police officers, sworn to protect, to kill Black men with impunity. And what makes this even more painful is the reality that Black officers, too, have participated in this cycle of violence against their own communities. The badge, in too many cases, has become a shield for abuse rather than a symbol of protection. The Questions We Must Confront A Call for Accountability It is long past time to demand change. Calls to “defund” are not about chaos, they are about redirecting resources away from militarized policing and toward community safety, mental health, education, and opportunity. Every time another Black man is killed, we are reminded that reform alone is not enough. Accountability must be real. Justice must be enforced. And communities must be empowered to protect themselves from the very institutions that claim to serve them. Timeline of Police Killings of Black Men (2014–2025) 2014 – Michael Brown (Ferguson, Missouri) 2015 – Walter Scott (North Charleston, South Carolina) 2016 – Alton Sterling (Baton Rouge, Louisiana) 2016 – Philando Castile (Falcon Heights, Minnesota) 2016 – Terence Crutcher (Tulsa, Oklahoma) 2020 – George Floyd (Minneapolis, Minnesota) 2020 – Rayshard Brooks (Atlanta, Georgia) 2022 – Patrick Lyoya (Grand Rapids, Michigan) 2025 – Linton “B Green” Blackwell (Atlanta, Georgia) https://www.statista.com/statistics/585152/people-shot-to-death-by-us-police-by-race https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/list-police-related-deaths-usa-1.4438618 https://mappingpoliceviolence.us What This Timeline Shows Closing Thought This timeline makes clear: B Green’s killing is not an isolated tragedy. It is part of a decades-long crisis of police violence against Black men. Until accountability is real and systemic change is enforced, these killings will continue. Sources: Wikipedia CBC Statista mappingpoliceviolence.us Closing Thought B Green’s death is not just a tragedy, it is a symptom of a system that continues to devalue Black lives. Seventeen shots in the back is not policing. It is murder. The question remains: When will justice finally come?

COMMUNITY, ECONOMICS, FINANCE, NEWS, POLITICS

Epstein’s Accountant, JPMorgan, and the Two Justice Systems in America

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Credit: Original reporting by Jacob Shamsian (Business Insider) For 22 years, Harry Beller served as Jeffrey Epstein’s personal accountant. He wasn’t one of the boldfaced names splashed across Epstein’s social calendar, not a Jes Staley, Bill Clinton, Donald Trump, or Prince Andrew. But Beller was entrusted with managing some of the most delicate parts of Epstein’s financial life. Court records and Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) filed by JPMorgan Chase reveal that Beller personally withdrew tens of thousands of dollars in cash from Epstein’s accounts, sometimes in structured amounts just under the $10,000 reporting threshold. These withdrawals raised alarms inside JPMorgan as early as 2002, long before Epstein’s abuse of girls was publicly investigated. Yet, despite repeated red flags, Epstein continued to bank with JPMorgan until 2013. Congressional investigators now want answers. Democrats on the House Oversight Committee are seeking subpoenas for bank records tied to Beller and others in Epstein’s orbit. Senator Ron Wyden has demanded records from the Treasury Department and JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon. Civil lawsuits have already revealed that HBRK, a company managed by Beller and Epstein’s top accountant Richard Kahn, facilitated Epstein’s trafficking operation. Here’s a Sidebar Timeline of Epstein’s Financial Enablers that you can integrate into your blog post. It highlights the network of individuals and institutions who sustained Epstein’s empire, showing readers how deep this goes. Sidebar Timeline: Epstein’s Financial Enablers 1990s – Early Foundations 2000s – Banking Relationships 2008 – First Conviction 2010s – Continued Influence 2013 – JPMorgan Breaks Ties 2019 – Epstein’s Death 2020s – Ongoing Investigations What This Timeline Shows What This Reveals This story is not just about one accountant. It is about the top 1 percent of America’s wealth pyramid, men with power, influence, and connections, who are implicated in a child trafficking ring yet shielded from accountability. The Questions We Must Ask A Call for Accountability If these individuals are not prosecuted, then every official who obstructs justice should be relieved of their duties and jailed for dereliction of duty. The protection of predators at the highest levels of wealth and power is not just corruption, it is complicity. This is not about partisan politics. It is about human rights, justice, and the protection of children. If America cannot hold its wealthiest accountable, then the very foundation of justice collapses. Closing Thought Harry Beller may not be a household name, but his role in Epstein’s financial empire reveals the machinery that allowed trafficking to flourish unchecked. The question is not whether Epstein was guilty, that is settled. The question is: Will America finally confront the powerful men who enabled him, or will the blindfold of justice continue to slip when wealth and influence are involved?

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