Black-owned, restaurants, valentine's day

by Ahsan Washington

February 14, 2026

Black-Owned Restaurants That Will Fancy Your Lover’s Palate On Valentine’s Day

We spotlight Black-owned dining spots that serve up romance, blending exceptional culinary skill, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable flavors for a date night to remember.

Valentine’s Day transcends traditional gifts of roses and chocolates because it focuses on creating an unforgettable dining experience. We spotlight Black-owned dining spots that serve up romance, blending exceptional culinary skill, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable flavors for a date night to remember. The list features your suggested restaurants, Tatiana NYC, Brooklyn Chop House, Compère Lapin, and Marcus Bar & Grille, together with additional exceptional Black-owned restaurants from across the United States, which transform date night into a masterpiece.

Tatiana

Chef Kwame Onwuachi’s Tatiana restaurant is a culinary gem that combines Caribbean, West African, and New York City culinary traditions into an Afro-Caribbean fine dining experience. The restaurant sits at 10 Lincoln Center Plaza on Manhattan’s Upper West Side and attracts food lovers, who want to partake in an artistic and sensory culinary experience.

Brooklyn Chop House

The Asian-American steakhouse fusion Brooklyn Chop House delivers a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Robert “Don Pooh” Cummins and David L. Thomas operate Brooklyn Chop House as cultural entrepreneurs who bring their music and hospitality roots to the establishment. The menu presents a delightful fusion of flavors that include lamb dumplings and dry-aged porterhouse steaks. Brooklyn Chop House can be found in multiple NYC locations, including Manhattan’s Financial District and Times Square, making it an ideal spot for romantic dinners. Brooklyn Chop House serves as the perfect dining destination for both Valentine’s Day celebrations and those who want an unforgettable dining experience.

Compère Lapin

Chef Nina Compton offers culinary expertise in Caribbean and French/Italian cuisines at her Caribbean-Creole restaurant Compère Lapin in New Orleans, Louisiana. The contemporary dining establishment unites island flavors with New Orleans cooking techniques and soul. The jerk-honey-butter-dressed fried chicken and curried goat with sweet potato gnocchi is love on a plate. The ambiance makes an ideal place to wine and dine your Valentine. Compère Lapin serves dinner and Sunday brunch at its Warehouse Arts District location, 535 Tchoupitoulas Street. Guests must book early because Valentine’s Day reservations go quickly.

Marcus Bar & Grille

Atlanta’s Marcus Bar & Grille is a modern American restaurant, serving elevated comfort classics with bold flavors rooted in history and community. The kitchen at Marcus Bar & Grille operates under the leadership of Chef Marcus Samuelsson, who gained fame through his Red Rooster restaurant in Harlem, New York, and other culinary ventures. The restaurant at 525 Edgewood Ave SE, Atlanta, Georgia, delivers an energetic, yet intimate dining experience through its wood-fired cooking and inventive cocktails, and soulful dishes. The romantic atmosphere at Marcus Bar & Grille is enhanced through dinner service or the prix-fixe menu available on Valentine’s Day. The lively setting at Marcus Bar & Grille is perfect for couples who want to enjoy elevated comfort food from brisket hash to lamb chops and Sunday supper prix-fixe menus.

Linden

Linden is an intimate multicultural dining restaurant located in Los Angeles, California. The Black-owned contemporary restaurant serves elevated Caribbean, Southern, Jewish, and New York-inspired comfort food. The restaurant was co-founded by Alahna Jade, Sterling “Steelo” Brim, Vincent Bryant, Scott Williams, and Jonathan Harris, who serves as chef. Linden provides a sophisticated yet warm dining environment where polished plating meets communal dining. The menu’s signature dishes include oxtail wagyu pie and Southern fried chicken with innovative sides and creative cocktails that complete the dining experience. Linden’s distinctive combination of culinary techniques and flavors contributes to its celebratory environment, which suits date night occasions. The restaurant operates for dinner every day throughout the year, but requires reservations for Valentine’s Day.

The LaRoux Table

LaRoux Table is a modern Cajun-Creole restaurant in Houston, Texas, that delivers an exceptional southern dining experience. Owner and chef Senae Tate creates a Louisiana heritage-inspired menu, which combines traditional Cajun and Creole dishes with contemporary culinary techniques. The menu includes gumbo and boudin balls alongside creative fried chicken options. LaRoux Table is a dining destination for couples who want an upscale romantic experience. The restaurant’s bold and soulful flavors make every dish conversational. It’s a perfect choice for Valentine’s Day. The restaurant recommends making reservations because it becomes busy during peak dining times, including Valentine’s Day.

Chemistry

Chemistry is a Black-owned steakhouse in Illinois that delivers an outstanding full-service, fine-dining experience in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood. The restaurant’s elegant environment and classic steakhouse menu serve premium steak cuts alongside beautifully crafted side dishes to draw couples who want a luxurious dining experience. Chemistry Chicago stands as one of the most talked-about Black-owned fine dining establishments in the region that guarantees every guest an unforgettable dining experience.

Red Rooster

Red Rooster Overtown is an upscale restaurant in Miami, Florida, that honors African-American heritage. The restaurant brings together elevated global flavors through Chef Marcus Samuelsson, Derek Fleming, and Michael Simkins, who created the establishment to honor Southern, Caribbean, and African diasporic culinary traditions. The restaurant serves dinner every night from its location at 920 NW 2nd Ave. in Miami’s Overtown neighborhood. Red Rooster strongly recommends making reservations for Valentine’s Day due to high demand.

by Kandiss Edwards

February 14, 2026

Michael Jackson Estate Tells Sexyy Red To ‘Beat It’ After Disrespectful Sample

In a statement, representatives for the estate said they were "deeply disappointed" by the use of elements from the classic song.

The estate of Michael Jackson has condemned rapper Sexyy Red for what it calls the unauthorized use of his classic song “Beat It” in a newly released track.

“Michael Jackson’s music is protected by copyright and by a legacy that is carefully managed to honor his artistic vision,” the estate said in a statement to Billboard. “The unauthorized sampling and alteration of ‘Beat It’ undermines that legacy and violates the rights of the Estate.”

Furthermore, the Michael Jackson estate emphasized that it has “zero tolerance” for unlicensed uses of Jackson’s recordings. Representatives said they are “reviewing all available legal remedies.”

The team “will take appropriate action to protect Michael’s intellectual property and preserve the integrity of his work,” the statement read.

Sexyy Red is going viral for remixing Michael Jackson’s ‘Beat It’ into ‘Just Eat It’ 👀

pic.twitter.com/1YKHIBX3xV
— My Mixtapez (@mymixtapez) February 11, 2026

Earlier this week clips of a “Beat It” remix titled “Just Eat It” circulated on social media after rapper Lil Yachty shared footage of Sexyy Red in the recording studio. The remix reworks the original track with explicit lyrics. Circulation of the video in which Sexyy Red rapped and gestured toward her genitals sparked aggressive commentary from fans online.

@BigMarsh414094 said, “Bruno Mars made a song with this person btw And I never want to hear another song by Sexxy Red ever again.” @BTCBabyBull referenced Red’s song “Pound Town” when commenting: “Jackson Estate Finna sue the Pink out her coochie and brown out that booty hole”

Another fan, @bippleyipsnipp, used words by Jackson in “They Don’t Really Care About Us” to denounce Red’s version: “And if Michael Jackson was living, he wouldn’t let this be nooo noo!”

It was unclear whether the estate had formally filed a lawsuit or issued takedown notices. What is clear is that the estate intends to keep Jackson’s musical legacy clean.

“Every decision we make is guided by preserving his artistry and ensuring that future generations experience his work as intended.”

by Kandiss Edwards

February 14, 2026

Stefon Diggs Pleads Not Guilty To Assault On His Personal Chef

The arraignment was postponed from late January so that Diggs could participate in Super Bowl LX, where the Patriots were defeated by the Seattle Seahawks.

New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs appeared in a Massachusetts courtroom Feb. 13, where he formally entered a not guilty plea to multiple criminal charges.

Diggs pleaded not guilty to strangulation and assault charges due to an alleged altercation with his former personal chef. The incident reportedly took place on Dec. 2, 2025, at Diggs’s Dedham, Massachusetts, residence following a dispute over unpaid compensation.

During the arraignment at Dedham District Court, Diggs was charged with felony strangulation or suffocation and misdemeanor assault and battery, ESPN reported. Court records indicate the unnamed chef told police Diggs entered her room, located in his home, where they began to argue over wages. During the argument, she claimed he struck and placed his arm around her neck in a chokehold, causing her difficulty breathing. Diggs vehemently denies all claims. Diggs’ attorney, Mitchell Schuster, told reporters, “He is completely innocent of these false allegations that have been alleged against him. We’re confident that after the facts and evidence reviewed in this case, he will be completely exonerated.”

Stefon Diggs pleads not guilty to assaulting his female private chef.

Diggs lost the Super Bowl, split from Cardi B, and now has to deal with this legal situation less than a week after the Super Bowl.
pic.twitter.com/sjm5Oe17ca
— FearBuck (@FearedBuck) February 13, 2026

Additionally, Schuster reiterated the player’s denial of wrongdoing outside the courtroom, calling the accusations “unsubstantiated and financially motivated.” The New England Patriots organization also issued a statement affirming its support for the receiver while emphasizing cooperation with authorities.

Judge Jeanmarie Carroll released Diggs on his own recognizance, ordering him not to have contact with the alleged victim. A pretrial hearing is scheduled for April 1.

The arraignment was postponed from late January so that the NFL star could participate in Super Bowl LX, where the Patriots were defeated by the Seattle Seahawks. Unfortunately, along with legal troubles, Diggs is facing other personal battles. The Patriot had a public falling out with his high-profile girlfriend Cardi B, and is facing multiple paternity issues as he allegedly fathered more than 4 children in 2025.

by Ahsan Washington

February 14, 2026

Love On Your Hair For Valentine’s Day With 5 Of The Best Bask & Lather Co. Products

Shaina Rainford established Bask & Lather Co. to provide natural haircare solutions for growth.

Valentine’s Day allows people to show affection to others and to focus on self-care, which enhances personal confidence and overall well-being. The founder, Shaina Rainford, established Bask & Lather Co. to provide natural haircare solutions for growth, which attracted a loyal customer base through personal experience and community-driven needs. The misdiagnosis of a scalp condition that caused severe hair loss to Rainford’s younger sister inspired her to create this Black-owned brand, with plant-based formulations, that restore scalp health while strengthening hair strands for long-term improvement. Bask & Lather’s most popular products from their Valentine’s Day collection provide a perfect reminder that self-love can start with caring for your hair. The products make perfect additions to self-care hair routines that focus on intentional practice and restoration while delivering measurable results.

Scalp Stimulator Hair Growth Oil

The Scalp Stimulator Hair Growth Oil helps with thinning hair, hair loss, or slow hair growth by nourishing the scalp and improving circulation to stimulate stronger, healthier hair when used regularly. Use the product one-to-four times per week or every day if you have localized thinning or bald spots. The cold-pressed blend of rosemary and mint and omega fatty acids promotes hair growth and scalp health through root nourishment and irritation relief and dandruff reduction, and shine enhancement.

Hair Elixir Oil

The Hair Elixir Oil is a strengthening oil that contains Jamaican Black Castor Oil with vitamins and nutrients to lock moisture into fragile hair while reducing breakage. The product functions as a pre-poo treatment, heat protectant, and hot-oil treatment when applied 3 to 4 times weekly on damp or dry hair. The product is commonly used with Scalp Stimulator. It hydrates hair while softening strands and improving manageability, which supports healthy hair growth.

Stimulating Scalp & Hair Balm

The Stimulating Scalp & Hair Balm combines shea and mango butters with jojoba oil and peppermint to provide extended hydration and shine to dry scalps and frizzy-textured hair. The balm creates a cooling sensation while improving scalp comfort and delivering antioxidants and vitamin E to support healthier roots and strands. Apply this product following a hydrating mist on wash day or whenever you need moisture and scalp relief. The product has become part of the best-selling collections while increasing its presence on major retail platforms.

Strengthen Hair Shampoo

The Strengthen Hair Shampoo is a pH-balanced shampoo that contains no sulfates, parabens, or silicones and cleanses the hair without removing its natural oils. Apply this product on wash days to start your hair care routine before using conditioner and treatment products. The product comes in two sizes: standard and XL. The formula includes natural ingredients such as castor oil, grapefruit extract, and shea butter to support scalp health while minimizing hair breakage and dry scalp conditions.

Hydrating Hair Mist

This lightweight spray includes aloe vera with avocado and glycerin to deliver instant hydration while managing frizz and soothing scalp itchiness. The mist enhances hair absorption of conditioners and oils while delivering scalp itch relief.

The Hydrating Hair Mist is designed for daily use and can be applied before styling hair. Bask & Lather provides this product in two different sizes: regular and XL.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

February 14, 2026

Chris Paul Retires From Basketball After Being Waived By Toronto Raptors

'This is it! After over 21 years I'm stepping away from basketball!'

After announcing before the season that this would be his last, although it did not pan out as he hoped, future NBA Hall of Famer Chris Paul has made it official: he is retiring from basketball after being traded to and then waived by the Toronto Raptors.

The All-Star point guard took to his social media account to let the world know that he has led his last NBA team down the court.

“This is it! After over 21 years I’m stepping away from basketball. As I write this, it’s hard to really know what to feel, but for once — most people would be surprised — I don’t have the answer lol! But, mostly I’m filled with so much joy and gratitude! While this chapter of being an “NBA player” is done, the game of basketball will forever be engrained in the DNA of my life.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chris Paul (@cp3)

His career was supposed to end in Los Angeles with the franchise he led on the court for six seasons when it was announced that he was returning to the Clippers before the season started. The franchise stated that he was coming “home” after leaving it at the end of the 2017 NBA season. The future NBA Hall of Famer played with the Clippers from 2011 to the end of the 2016-17 season.

After reports of disagreements with the Clippers’ head coach, Tyronn Lue, and several teammates during the season, the team sent the point guard home in the middle of the night during a road trip in Atlanta. At 3 a.m. on Dec. 3, the veteran posted on his social media account that he was being “sent home” by the Clippers.

Lawrence Frank, the team’s President of Basketball Operations, released a statement that confirmed the release.

The once-explosive point guard was traded to the Raptors as the trade deadline approached, and after the team made it clear he was not in their future plans, Paul decided to call it quits.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver released a statement praising the career of the point guard and gave him props for his work as a former president of the National Basketball Players Association.

“After 21 remarkable seasons, Chris Paul retires as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history and a true steward of our sport,” Silver said in a written statement. “From the moment he entered the league, Chris distinguished himself with his savvy playmaking skills, elite competitiveness and intense work ethic. He also poured enormous time and energy into his role as President of the Players Association – offering thoughtful and principled perspectives to strengthen our game and our business.”

Chris Paul has played for seven teams throughout his NBA career. His first team was the New Orleans Hornets (2005-11). He played for the Los Angeles Clippers (2011-17), Houston Rockets (2017-19), Oklahoma City Thunder (2019-20), Phoenix Suns (2020-23), Golden State Warriors (2023-24), and San Antonio Spurs (2024-25) before making the short-lived return to the Clippers.

After playing for 21 seasons, he has been an NBA All-Star 12 times (2008-16, 2020-22) and has been named to the All-NBA team 11 times (2008-09, 2011-16, 2020-22). His defensive skills earned him a spot on the All-Defensive team nine times (2008-09, 2011-17). He is also a two-time Olympic gold medalist representing the country in 2008 and 2012.

by Ahsan Washington

February 14, 2026

Skip The Red Roses: Here Are Black-Owned Valentine’s Day Gifts That Slay

To make it plain—Buy Black.

The following Valentine’s Day gift guide highlights Black brands and entrepreneurs who offer products and services with Black consumers in mind. The purchase of Black-owned brands during peak shopping periods not only offers gift givers unique and cultural gift options, but also strengthens the economic power among Black-owned businesses that lead innovation in retail products and increases the economic flow within the Black communities they benefit and exist in.

To make it plain—Buy Black.

TELFAR Shopping Bag

The unisex TELFAR Shopping Bag is a stylish faux-leather shopping bag that Telfar Clemens designed for his globally recognized Black-owned brand TELFAR. The bag is available for purchase through TELFAR’s official online store and selected retail partners.

Mila Eve Essentials Massage Oil

The Black-owned wellness brand Mila Eve Essentials produces this natural essential oil massage oil. Customers can purchase this product as a Valentine’s Day gift as an expression of love and care or to create a sensual experience around the day.

Introvert N the City’s Love Notes Deck

The Love Notes Deck is a collection of 50 pre-written love note cards created by the small Black-owned creative shop Introvert N the City. The cards help partners share their emotions during times when verbal communication is difficult. The deck makes an ideal Valentine’s Day gift to reinforce loving connections. It retails at $40 and is available through the brand’s website as well as specialty stores.

Savoir Faire Cologne

Savoir Faire Cologne is a Black-owned fragrance brand founded by Chris Classic. The sensual cologne “Love Suede” was created in 2017, following the establishment of the business. The Valentine’s Day men’s cologne features musk and complex base notes in its composition. This line becomes especially relevant during Valentine’s Day. The “Love Suede” fragrance is available through Savoir Faire’s online store and through Black-owned commerce partners.

Maya’s Cookies Valentine’s Collection

Maya’s Cookies, a leading black-owned gourmet vegan cookie company in America, offers its Valentine’s Collection, which includes six delicious cookies to satisfy a sweet tooth. The cookie collection includes heart-shaped sugar cookies together with double chocolate sweethearts and traditional chocolate chip cookies which make each treat a work of art. These cookies are both delicious treats and meaningful gifts. Maya’s Cookies offers these delicious cookies through their online store, where you can make your purchase today.

Les’ Bloom Floral Bouquets

Les’ Bloom Floral Bouquets is owned by florist Rasheedah Leslie. Based in Brooklyn, Les’ Bloom Floral Bouquets combines classic flowers with a Black-owned twist. The floral shop offers handcrafted floral arrangements with Valentine’s Day aesthetics and sentiments. These bouquets are lush. Customers can make orders for pick up or have their bouquets delivered.

by Kandiss Edwards

February 14, 2026

Iyanla Vanzant To Appear At 20th Annual Women Of Power Summit Raw And Unfiltered

Vanzant's presence at the 2026 summit aligns with the event’s emphasis on personal accountability, executive leadership, and holistic success.

The queen of motivational, spiritual, and provocative advice, Iyanla Vanzant, is set to appear at the 2026 Black Enterprise Women of Power Summit, March 11-15, at the Bellagio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas.

Vanzant, best known for hosting OWN’s long-running series “Iyanla: Fix My Life,“ has also authored multiple best-selling books, including “Acts of Faith” and “Peace From Broken Pieces.” The spiritual straight shooter is an ordained minister and has spent decades leading workshops and transformational seminars centered on emotional healing and spiritual growth.

Her presence at the 2026 summit aligns with the event’s emphasis on personal accountability, executive leadership, and holistic success.

The summit appearance comes as Vanzant returns to television with a refreshed series on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN). It’s been nearly five years since her long-running show “Iyanla: Fix My Life” concluded in 2021, and as the attacks on Black women have become more pronounced, she has a message to impart.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Black Enterprise (@blackenterprise)

Vanzant premiered her newest series, “Iyanla: The Inside Fix,” in January 2026. The show revisits 12 of the most impactful episodes from the original “Fix My Life” series. Vanzant will offer renewed insights and reflections on the personal growth journeys featured in the earlier episodes.

“Iyanla: The Inside Fix” builds on her previous work, inviting audiences to explore how life’s challenges and healing processes have evolved. Vanzant describes the series as a focus on reconnection with personal truth and self-understanding rather than simply resolving external problems.

Vanzant will bring the Women of Power audience knowledge to help them move forward from the conference with greater capacity to stand strong in corporate America. The conference will not only speak to the minds of women of color professionals, but it will also speak to their spirits. Be in attendance for the transformative experience.

Registration details for the 2026 Women of Power Summit are available through BLACK ENTERPRISE’s official events page.

by Ahsan Washington

February 14, 2026

Events Basketball Enthusiasts Can Enjoy at NBA All-Star Weekend That Don’t Include the All-Star Game

NBA All-Star Weekend is in full effect.

NBA All-Star Weekend starts Friday, Feb. 13 and runs through Sunday, Feb. 15. The popular basketball event is a nexus of influence that creates resale markets, turning basketball enthusiasts into buyers and collectors.

Yes, there’s a game on Feb. 15. But the off-court events are ideal for the basketball fans who value culture as much as competition.

For instance, the NBA Hardwood Classics capsule from Kith demonstrates how basketball culture transforms into commercial value through nostalgia. Other activations deliver exclusive merchandise to fans and granting them special access. Brands achieve enviable consumer market connections. The host city, this year Los Angeles, gets an economic boost.

The NBA maintains control of the court but basketball culture and financial capital follow fans.

adidas x Shoe Palace x Willy Chavarria Backyard Cookout

Willy Chavarria, a CFDA Award-winning designer, together with Adidas and Shoe Palace organized this multi-day event that combines a pop-up retail with regional food offerings and exhibition basketball matches, live music performances from Peso Pluma and Randy Savvy. The event looks to merge West Coast culture with Chicano and Latin heritage,basketball elements and streetwear to create a community space from sneaker commerce.

adidas AntLAnd Experience

Fans can participate in basketball activities and demonstrate their skills at the main attraction of the activation, which was the “DAWG Park” half-court play area. Gaming lounges and purchase exclusive merchandise from limited product drops will also be available.

Kith x NBA All-Star 2026 “Hardwood Classics” Collection

This collection honors the 25th anniversary of the 2001 NBA All-Star Game by offering team-specific jerseys along with matching shorts and satin bomber jackets with team embroidery and mesh Leon shirts and shorts that replicate the uniforms of legends Vince Carter, Tracy McGrady, and Latrell Sprewell.

Nike SNKRS All-Star Weekend Drops & Pop-Ups

Nike and Jordan Brand will release exclusive sneakers. During this All-Star event, the SNKRS app will provide geo-located experiences to participants who want to join the sneaker drops which will take place throughout L.A.

Love N Basketball All-Star Week Street Festival

Taste of Inglewood, along with community partners, hosts this street festival that combines basketball culture with local food vendors and music and art. The festival goes down Feb. 14, between 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. at Downtown Market Street in Inglewood, California. The event creates a direct link between All-Star Weekend and grassroots culture, bringing together community vendors with live entertainment and basketball activities on public streets.

19th Annual All-Star Gospel Celebration

This faith-driven celebration of gospel music, fellowship, and community honoring NBA players, legends, hometown heroes, and philanthropic contributors took place at Faithful Central Bible Church, The Tabernacle in Inglewood, California, on Feb. 12. The event combined gospel music performances with award presentations for Russell Westbrook, Byron Scott and Mookie Betts.

Complex The Market

This large-scale cultural marketplace brings together mainstream and streetwear brands with artists and athletes and creators. The event showcases multiple elements, including streetwear merchandise alongside sneaker releases and art displays. The Market takes place Saturday, Feb. 14, at the Los Angeles Convention Center and at nearby activation spaces.

by Kandiss Edwards

February 13, 2026

Minneapolis Extends Online Learning To Protect Students From ICE

The previous deadline for online instruction was Feb. 12, but parents' concerns and the continued presence of ICE prompted further accommodations for students' safety.

Minneapolis Public Schools will extend its online learning accommodations for students who are scared to attend school in-person amid concerns of federal immigration enforcement activity.

According to a statement by Minneapolis Public Schools district officials, teachers will deliver instruction simultaneously to students in classrooms and those participating from home until April 6. The previous deadline for online instruction was Feb. 12, but parents’ concerns and the continued presence of ICE prompted further accommodations for students’ safety.

“We will continue to monitor the situation and may return to full in-person learning sooner than April 6,” the district said. “If that occurs, families participating in temporary online learning will receive at least two weeks’ notice.”

𝗜𝗺𝗺𝗶𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗮𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴

𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲: https://t.co/ubDs9SkHlY pic.twitter.com/9p3BhhOQMT
— Punch Newspapers (@MobilePunch) February 7, 2026

Parents and educators have expressed the need for direct action to protect children. In a statement, Minneapolis Public School Superintendent Lisa Sayes-Adams directly responded to those concerns and praised educators and the community to make sure all Minneapolis students continue to learn without fear.

“Our teachers and staff have once again shown why public education is the foundation of our community as we have supported our students in incredible ways,” Sayes-Adams said. “In a short time, we have created online learning opportunities, developed food supports with community partners, provided alternative transportation options, and connected families with other needed resources and supports. I am so grateful for our staff and honored to be your Superintendent.”

Continued ICE activity in several other communities has prompted school districts in Minnesota, Ohio, and California to provide virtual options for families who request them.

by Sharelle B. McNair

February 13, 2026

Third Time’s A Charm: Barbados PM Mia Mottley Secures Power With Historic Re-Election Sweep

As Barbados marks 75 years of universal voting rights, Mottley vowed to protect democracy and strengthen the economy.

Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottle was elected for a third term as part of a historic sweep, with her Barbados Labour Party (BLP) taking all 30 seats in the House of Assembly, The Guardian reports.

Unseating opposition leader, Ralph Thorne, Mottley’s BLP secured all the available seats after grabbing voter support by building one of the strongest global profiles of any Caribbean leader.

With Barbados celebrating 75 years of having the right to vote without being property owners, Mottley guaranteed to take care of the island’s democracy and promised to target the economy, the cost of living, and the country’s place on the world stage.

“Our mission first and foremost is to stop poor people from being poor and to remove injustice wherever it exists to create opportunities for people,” she said.

According to Caribbean National Weekly, Mottley, 60, is the second leader in Barbados history to serve over two consecutive terms. Thorne, who was elected in 2022 first as a member of BLP before moving to the Democratic Labour Party (DLP), labeled the results as disappointing but said, “people have spoken, and we respect their voices.”

Thorne was one of them. He failed to cast a ballot since he was not registered in the district where he was living and competing.

As the Caribbean’s easternmost country and home to roughly 283,000 people, voting officials have highlighted discrepancies in the voting register prior to elections. The head of the Caribbean Community’s electoral observation mission and opposing candidates felt it could push for a delay, but the electoral commission maintained that citizens had enough time to correct any issues and that the process was legitimate.

Mottley took the oath of office during an intimate ceremony attended by President Jeffrey Bostic, family members, and other invited guests Feb. 12. On X, she continued her celebration.

“Today I was sworn in as Prime Minister by President Lt. Col. The Most Hon. Jeffrey Bostic. I accept this mandate with humility, committed to every Bajan. I thank God, the BLP, my constituents, family & the people for your trust,” she wrote.

“Now is the time to come together as one nation.”

Today I was sworn in as Prime Minister by President Lt. Col. The Most Hon. Jeffrey Bostic.

I accept this mandate with humility, committed to every Bajan. I thank God, the BLP, my constituents, family & the people for your trust.

Now is the time to come together as one nation. pic.twitter.com/eU794aqT0W
— Mia Amor Mottley (@miaamormottley) February 12, 2026

Her leadership seems to be supported worldwide, with well wishes coming from social media users in Nigeria, Uganda, and Liberia.. She thanked her supporters on Facebook, saying she is “fully committed to hono[u]ring it through service and hard work.”