by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

December 17, 2025

Lights, Camera, Litigation: Diddy Heads To The Hot Seat For January Video Deposition

The deposition is slated to take place at Fort Dix federal prison on Jan. 26, 2026.

Sean “Diddy” Combs will be in front of the cameras in January for a videotaped deposition for a civil lawsuit against the shamed entertainment mogul.

According to AllHipHop, the “Press Play” music producer will have attorneys visit him at Fort Dix federal prison in New Jersey, where he is currently serving a 50-month prison sentence after being convicted on two counts of transporting individuals to engage in prostitution under the Mann Act.

The visit is to obtain testimony from Diddy in connection with a civil lawsuit filed by April Lampros, who has accused him of sexual assault, coercion, and abuse of authority.

The video deposition is slated for Jan. 26, 2026.

In her suit, Lampros alleges that Diddy threatened her with retaliation and humiliation if she revealed her accusations to anyone. The threats also included the release of intimate pictures or videos that he may have allegedly recorded without her permission.

Lampros’ attorneys, who cited New York civil procedure rules that allow the deposition of jailed defendants, coordinated the sit-down with the Federal Bureau of Prisons to secure a legal visitation room for the testimony.

Diddy will be questioned about allegations made against him by Lampros dating back to the 1990s.

The lawyers plan on asking him about his relationships with other women, the allegations of intimidation tactics and coercion, as well as his control over his record label, Bad Boy Records, and related entities. An inquiry will be placed about testimony and documents related to the 1996 transfer of Bad Boy co-founder Kirk Burrowes’ ownership interest.

All video footage must be filmed in its entirety.

Diddy is embroiled in multiple lawsuits, including one he filed seeking $100 million from NBCUniversal and Peacock following the release of the Diddy: Making of a Bad Boy documentary earlier this year. In November, the broadcasting giant argued that it wants the suit dismissed based on the entertainment mogul’s own words.

The broadcasting company, which premiered the doc Jan. 14 on Peacock, claims that at Diddy’s sentencing, he said, “Because of my decisions, I lost my freedom. I lost my career. I totally destroyed my reputation.”

That one sentence is why the “No Way Out” producer cannot blame NBCUniversal for his portrayal in the documentary, NBC Universal says.

by Mary Spiller

December 17, 2025

Wisconsin Lawmakers Consider Task Force To Address Violence Against Black Women & Girls

Proposed legislation draws emotional testimony from families and backing from law enforcement as supporters urge action on a long-standing crisis.

Wisconsin lawmakers are weighing a bill that supporters say could bring long-overdue attention to the disproportionate violence faced by Black women and girls across the state. The proposal, introduced by Democratic State Rep. Sheila Stubbs of Madison, would establish a 17-member task force charged with examining the root causes of violence against Black women and girls and recommending policy solutions. The measure was the focus of testimony Tuesday during a public hearing before a state Senate committee.

“The people of Wisconsin have realized that we cannot wait one more time for another African American woman to go missing or be murdered,” Stubbs said as she urged lawmakers to move the bill forward, according to Fox 6 Milwaukee.

Advocates say the legislation is meant to address a pattern of harm that has too often gone unexamined. Stubbs has championed the issue since 2021, citing the lack of comprehensive data and coordinated response surrounding violence targeting Black women and girls.

The hearing also featured emotional testimony from family members who have lost loved ones to violent crime. Sheena Scarbrough, whose teenage daughter Sade Robinson was killed in April 2024, told lawmakers that the grief has reshaped her life and perspective.

“This has been very draining spiritually, mentally, for your soul, for your spirit to lose your child,” Scarbrough said.

Robinson’s death, which involved a lengthy investigation and a subsequent criminal trial, became a rallying point for advocates pushing for systemic change. Scarbrough said navigating the justice system exposed gaps that families often face alone, which would be addressed by Rep. Stubbs’ bill.

As previously reported, Robinson was reported missing in April 2024 after going on a first date with Maxwell Anderson at a Milwaukee restaurant. Prosecutors say that later that night, Anderson killed her inside his residence on the city’s south side.

According to investigators, Anderson later transported Robinson’s body to Warnimont Park in Cudahy, where authorities allege he dismembered her remains. Prosecutors also say he intentionally set Robinson’s vehicle on fire in an effort to conceal evidence.

Law enforcement officials later recovered portions of Robinson’s remains from multiple locations across the region. Her head has not been recovered.

“I learned in these past 20 months about the criminal justice system, about everything with how a lot of things move,” Scarbrough told lawmakers.

Stubbs said the bill is gaining traction beyond Wisconsin, noting increased national attention to similar efforts.

“Today, I am proud to report that this bill has received 11 letters of support,” she said, adding that momentum for such legislation continues to build.

Law enforcement officials also voiced support during the hearing. Madison Police Chief John Patterson emphasized that the task force should be viewed as a collaborative effort rather than a critique of policing.

“The creation of this task force should not be considered as a criticism of law enforcement,” Patterson said. “It is an investment in better outcomes, and continuous improvement must be a virtue of every one of our police agencies in our state.”

Several states, including Minnesota and Illinois, have already established comparable task forces. The Wisconsin bill must still clear additional legislative hurdles before it can advance to the governor’s desk.

SUSIE WILES, Susan Wiles, Donald Trump,, Vaniity Faiir

by Sharelle B. McNair

December 17, 2025

Sometimes It Be Your Own People: White House Chief Of Staff Susie Wiles Airs Out Trump And Others

As soon as word of the interview hit mainstream, Wiles took to X to claim the article was “a disingenuously framed hit piece."

A bombshell Vanity Fair interview featuring White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles is sending shockwaves after airing out members of the Trump administration cabinet and comparing President Donald Trump’s personality to that of an alcoholic, CNN reports.

In a series of 11 interviews, Wiles discussed her experience working in Trump’s White House, saying the 47th president “has an alcoholic’s personality.” However, he doesn’t drink, which is easy for her as she grew up with an alcoholic. (Her late father, Pat Summerall, was an NFL player and legendary sports broadcaster for decades.)

She came in hot by admitting that Trump has a tasty appetite for revenge, with a number of pending or dismissed cases against “political enemies” being proof of her experience.

“I mean, people could think it does look vindictive. I can’t tell you why you shouldn’t think that,” Wiles said, according to the story. “I don’t think he wakes up thinking about retribution. But when there’s an opportunity, he will go for it.”

She also spoke out about Vice President JD Vance and his journey from Trump hater to his second-in-command. Wiles labeled him as “a conspiracy theorist for a decade” and made allegations about his sudden switch-up as a politician amid his voyage from Ohio senator to VP, once calling his boss “America’s Hitler.”

Wiles highlighted several instances when Trump ignored her advice, even though Secretary of State Marco Rubio told VF writer Chris Whipple that the bond between her and the president is an “earned trust.” “I don’t think there’s anybody in the world right now that could do the job that she’s doing,” he said.

Despite Wiles not bad-mouthing her counterparts throughout the series, as soon as word of the interview hit the mainstream, Wiles took to X.

“Significant context was disregarded, and much of what I, and others, said about the team and the President was left out of the story. I assume, after reading it, that this was done to paint an overwhelmingly chaotic and negative narrative about the President and our team,” she wrote.

“The truth is the Trump White House has already accomplished more in eleven months than any other President has accomplished in eight years, and that is due to the unmatched leadership and vision of President Trump, for whom I have been honored to work for the better part of a decade. None of this will stop our relentless pursuit of Making America Great Again!”

The article published early this morning is a disingenuously framed hit piece on me and the finest President, White House staff, and Cabinet in history.

Significant context was disregarded and much of what I, and others, said about the team and the President was left out of the…
— Susie Wiles (@SusieWiles) December 16, 2025

Trump himself didn’t seem to be bothered by the banter.

“I didn’t read it, but I don’t read Vanity Fair—but she’s done a fantastic job,” Trump said, who often refers to Wiles as the “most powerful woman in the world.”

The damage may already be done. Soon after Wiles claimed the story was fictitious, Whipple joined CNN’s Anderson Cooper to reveal he had receipts. “Everything is on tape,” he said.

by Black Enterprise

December 17, 2025

Young Thug Benefit Concert Takes A Romantic Turn As The ‘Hometown Hero’ Proposes To Mariah The Scientist

The Atlanta native proposed to his longtime girlfriend, Mariah the Scientist, while onstage at the State Farm Arena.

During a Dec. 16 concert in Atlanta, recording artist Young Thug became a “Hometown Hero” when he proposed marriage to his girlfriend and fellow Georgia native, Mariah the Scientist.

The two artists have been dating for year since 2021, with Mariah standing by Thug’s side during his years-long Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) trial.

The proposal took place at the State Farm Arena, where Thug headlined the charity event, “Hometown Hero: Young Thug & Friends.”

A video clip shot showed Thug getting down on one knee to “pop the question” to Mariah while both were on stage. As he presented her with the ring, the backdrop behind him read “Will You Marry Me?” in pink lettering. As the crowd cheered for the couple, he appeared to propose.

When he stood up, Thug asked her, “What you say?

“Put it on!” said Mariah, who extended her finger.

After several seconds, she turned to the crowd and said, “Guess I’m getting married.”

Young Thug proposed to Mariah the Scientist during his "Hometown Hero" concert in Atlanta 🙏💍 pic.twitter.com/g80RbOetOp
— Kurrco (@Kurrco) December 17, 2025

Young Thug is getting back into the swing of things after being on trial for over two years and being in police custody for more than 900 days. After pleading no contest to racketeering and leading a criminal street gang, he was sentenced to time served and released from custody following Fulton County’s (GA) longest trial in history.

The “Stoner” rapper also hosted a free concert at a rally at the Fulton County Courthouse on Sept. 28.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

December 17, 2025

TSA Warns Travelers Of Thousands In Fines For ‘Unruly Behavior’ At Security Checkpoints

The TSA wants bad behavior at the airport—and in the air— to hit stop.

As holiday travel ramps up again, and set to break records, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is warning passengers about the hefty fines for bad behavior on the ground or in the air.

“Passengers who engage in unruly behavior at the checkpoint or in-flight may face substantial penalties and possible prosecution on criminal charges,” wrote TSA in a Dec. 8 post, as reported by The Sun.

The reminder comes as air travel-related passenger incidents remain relatively high, as they did before the pandemic.

Although the FAA reported that 2025 numbers, roughly 1,500 incidents, have lessened compared to 2021, which saw a peak of nearly 6,000, the TSA still aims to reduce these figures.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of yearly incidents remained well under 1,000, averaging 860.

The agency emphasized the “zero tolerance” policy regarding treatment of TSA officers and flight personnel: “No threats…No verbal abuse. No physical violence of any kind,” detailed the post.

If a traveler violates this ruling, they could pay well over $10,000 and could face jail time.

“If you threaten, endanger, or harm Transportation Security Officers during screening, TSA will pursue criminal penalties and fines of up to $13,910.”

A post this week confirmed that assaulting a TSA officer could come with a fine of just over $17,000.

There is zero tolerance for assaulting our officers. Make no mistake, violators who threaten, endanger, or harm our officers will face severe penalties and legal action, with fines of up to $17,062. https://t.co/neSX0CyslB
— TSA (@TSA) December 15, 2025

But recent in-flight incidents between passengers and flight attendants left passengers with even pricier fines to pay. Fines of up to $45,000 have been issued to passengers who harass and harm flight attendants or other travelers while on board aircraft.

reparations, slavery, governor, Wes Moore

by Mary Spiller

December 17, 2025

Maryland Lawmakers Override Governor’s Veto, Approve Commission To Study Slavery Reparations

The Democratic-led legislature moved forward despite the governor’s objections, saying a formal study is necessary to determine how reparations could be implemented.

Maryland will establish a commission to examine potential reparations for slavery after state lawmakers voted on Tuesday, Dec. 16, to override a veto from Gov. Wes Moore, marking a significant step in a debate that has divided Democrats nationwide.

As reported by NBC News, the bill, which had been a top priority for the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland, calls for a formal study of how the state could address the lasting effects of slavery and systemic racism. Moore, the nation’s only Black governor, vetoed the measure earlier this year, arguing that Maryland had already conducted extensive research on the issue and should instead focus on direct action.

In his veto message, Moore described the decision as difficult but wrote that the time had come to “focus on the work itself.” Lawmakers, however, said a commission is a necessary step toward determining what meaningful and legally sound reparations could look like.

“This topic isn’t easy, but, again, without formal study, reparations risk being dismissed as symbolic or unconstitutional, regardless of moral merit,” said state Sen. Charles Sydnor, a Democrat, during debate on the override vote.

After the legislature reversed his veto, Moore said he disagreed with the decision but signaled a willingness to cooperate. “I am eager to move forward in partnership on the work of repair that we all agree is an urgent and pressing need,” he said in a statement. “I believe the time for action is now — and we must continue moving forward with the work of repair immediately.”

The bill outlines a wide range of potential reparations that the commission could explore, including official apologies, direct financial compensation, property tax relief, housing assistance, tuition waivers, debt forgiveness, and business incentives. It also references possible support for childcare, social services, and reimbursement of licensing fees.

Maryland has one of the largest Black populations in the country, with about 30% of residents identifying as Black — the highest share of any state outside the Deep South.

Momentum around reparations has grown since the 2020 murder of George Floyd, though the issue remains politically sensitive, particularly as conservative opposition to diversity and equity initiatives intensifies. The Legislative Black Caucus praised the override vote, calling it a reaffirmation of “truth-telling, accountability, and meaningful progress for Black Marylanders.”

Maryland now joins a growing list of states and cities examining reparations. California and New York City have launched similar efforts, while Evanston, Illinois, became the first U.S. city to implement a reparations program using cannabis tax revenue.

Public opinion on reparations remains divided. A 2021 Pew Research Center survey found that roughly 70% of U.S. adults opposed providing compensation to descendants of enslaved people, highlighting the political challenges lawmakers continue to face.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

December 17, 2025

CDC Drops Universal Hepatitis B Vaccine Recommendation For All Newborns

The CDC has ended its decades-long policy recommending the hepatitis B vaccine for all newborns.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has adopted controversial guidance from its advisory panel, ending a decades-long policy that recommended the Hepatitis B vaccine for all newborns.

On Dec. 26, Acting CDC Director Jim O’Neill approved the shift after the agency’s vaccine advisory committee—all members who were appointed this year by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., following the dismissal of the prior panel—voted in favor of the change earlier this month, NBC News reports. With the decision finalized, the CDC now advises women who test negative for hepatitis B to consult their healthcare providers about whether their newborns should receive the first dose of the vaccine within 24 hours of birth.

“We are restoring the balance of informed consent to parents whose newborns face little risk of contracting hepatitis B,” O’Neill said in a statement.

The decision overturns more than 30 years of CDC guidance, as the agency has recommended the hepatitis B birth dose since 1991. The agency is still reviewing a related proposal advising parents to consult healthcare providers about testing children for hepatitis B antibodies before proceeding with later doses of the vaccine, which is typically administered as a three-shot series.

Under the updated guidance, the CDC now advises delaying a baby’s first hepatitis B shot until at least two months of age if the birth dose is skipped, while still recommending immediate vaccination within 24 hours for infants born to mothers who test positive for hepatitis B or whose status is unknown.

Experts warn the CDC’s shift to what it calls individual-based decision-making could leave more children vulnerable to hepatitis B and encourage families to skip vaccination without a clear federal standard. Critics also note that CDC guidance influences insurance coverage and helps doctors determine appropriate care.

Public health specialists say delaying the vaccine could fuel a rise in hepatitis B infections and, over time, increase cases of liver disease and cancer, despite broader changes to U.S. vaccination policy under RFK Jr, a noted anti-vaccine activist.

“This recommendation is ignoring the science,” said Dr. Emily Landon, an infectious diseases expert at the University of Chicago Medicine. “The fact that the acting director of the CDC would sign on to this just continues to reinforce that they are no longer committed to science-based recommendations for improving health.”

Hepatitis B infections in the U.S. have dropped by nearly 90%, falling from 9.6 cases per 100,000 people before widespread vaccination to about one per 100,000 in 2018. Meanwhile, officials are conducting an additional review of the panel’s secondary recommendation that parents consult healthcare providers about antibody testing to decide whether later doses of the hepatitis B vaccine are necessary.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

December 17, 2025

Lizzo Speaks Out After Lawsuit Over ‘Fat-Shaming’ Claims Dismissed By Judge

While a judge has axed the fat shaming claims, the allegations of false imprisonment and sexual harassment remain.

Lizzo spoke out after a judge dismissed the “fat-shaming” claims made by her ex-dancers in a defamation lawsuit.

The lawsuit made headlines when it was filed in 2023 after the former dancers accused the body-positive singer of letting them go due to their weight gain as well as accusations of sexual harassment and creating a hostile work environment.

A judge ruled earlier this week that the case will not proceed with all of its initial claims, as reported by Blavity.

The “Good As Hell” singer took to social media for an update, posting a message over a video of herself looking at the camera.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lizzo (@lizzobeeating)

“The fat-shaming claims against me have been have been officially dropped by my accusers,” wrote Lizzo in the video. ” They conceded it had no merit in court.”

She then revealed what led to the dancers’ termination.

“There was no evidence that I fired them because they gained weight. Because it never happened. Now the truth is finally out,” she continued. “They weren’t fired for gaining weight. They were fired for taking a private recording of me without my consent and sending it off to ex-employees.”

The news initially shocked fans, given Lizzo’s platform for supporting body diversity, which she emphasized in her video.

“I have never fired an employee for gaining weight. I have only encouraged and supported people with bigger bodies and shared my platform with them. “

As the case continued, Lizzo became less vocal about the legal battle. Her team has remained adamant that the allegations were fraudulent, and filed appeals.

She added, “This claim has haunted me since the day it came out. It has been devastating to suffer through this in silence, but I let my lawyers lead, and I’m so grateful for this victory.”

The three dancers, Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams, and Noelle Rodriguez, confirmed that they will not appeal the ruling, said their attorney, Ron Zambrano, who released a statement.

“Of the couple of claims Judge Epstein did dismiss, the plaintiffs have taken a considered approach to leave that be. One would hope to see the same level of intellectual honesty and neutral assessment from the defendants, but that hasn’t been the case thus far, and it’s disappointing,” he said.

Zambrano added that a “vast majority” of claims are in play, so Lizzo, 37, may still have to appear in court as there are additional claims of sexual harassment and false imprisonment.

“I am still in a legal battle…I am not settling,” she said. “I will be fighting every single claim until the truth is out. “

10 Black Movies To Cozy Up To For The Holidays

by Ahsan Washington

December 17, 2025

10 Black Movies To Cozy Up To For The Holidays

Which is your favorite?

As the holiday season nears and planning for all the festivities gets underway, remember that nothing beats watching films that focus on Black joy, family, love and tradition.

When the busy hours of the holiday start to wind down, cozy up on the couch to watch these 10 Black films, which are ideal choices for first-time audiences and returning viewers.

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey

This 2020 holiday musical fantasy tells the story of a toymaker who rediscovers his holiday spirit through his granddaughter. The film, featuring Forest Whitaker Keegan-Michael Key, Anika Noni Rose, and Madalen Mills, serves as perfect family holiday entertainment, thanks to its diverse cast.

Almost Christmas

This 2016 comedy-drama depicts a family uniting for the holidays that quickly results in both disorder and affection. Starring Danny Glover, Gabrielle Union, Mo’Nique, Kimberly Elise and Romany Malco, Almost Christmas delivers an authentic depiction of family relationships by blending comedy and emotional depth.

It’s available to watch on Prime Video and Netflix.

Boxing Day

This 2021 British romantic comedy tells the story of an author and his fiancée who manage family pressures during the Christmas season. It stands as the first British Christmas romantic comedy to feature an almost complete Black cast. Even better, the film delivers a warm and unique approach to the genre.

Friday After Next

The Friday trilogy’s third installment features Ice Cube, Mike Epps, and John Witherspoon. The story follows them as mall security guards who experience a Christmas disruption when a robber Santa attacks them. The 2002 film, which has gained cult status because of its holiday chaos and hilarious comedy, streams on multiple platforms.

This Christmas

The Whitfield family reunion forms the central storyline of this holiday ensemble drama. This Christmas received acclaim for its multi-character storytelling which unites humorous moments with emotional scenes and soulful elements. Loretta Devine, Delroy Lindo, Idris Elba, Regina King, and Chris Brown lead the cast of this 2007 gem..

The Best Man Holiday

The Best Man Holiday continues the story from The Best Man by showing college friends who meet again during Christmas to resolve their past conflicts during a funny, poignant reunion.

The cast of the 1999, including Morris Chestnut, Taye Diggs and Nia Long, returns for this 2013 hit. Peacock and Hulu both stream the film.

Black Nativity

This memorable 2013 musical drama adapts Langston Hughes’ play about family, faith, and finding one’s way home for Christmas. The film features Jennifer Hudson together with Forest Whitaker, Angela Bassett, and Jacob Latimore.

Christmas At Water’s Edge

Christmas at Water’s Edge presents a modern holiday story that follows the structure of A Christmas Carol. Here, a student receives guidance from an angel who reveals the true significance of the holiday season. Keshia Knight Pulliam and Pooch Hall star in this 2004 film that delivers a delightful and spiritual message. It’s available on DVD and on streaming.

Holiday Heart

Holiday Heart tells the story of a drag performer who takes responsibility for raising a little girl during the holidays. Ving Rhames, in the title role, and Alfre Woodard lead the cast of this touching 2000 film, which is available through streaming services and VOD platforms.

A Diva’s Christmas Carol

Another contemporary retelling of A Christmas Carol features superstar divas Vanessa Williams and Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas uncovering holiday spirit on a journey of self-discovery. The 2000 film is the perfect holiday movie for a cozy night at home.

Sigma Gamma Rho, Block Party, Black business, Black Business Block Party

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

December 17, 2025

19-Year-Old Ph.D. Makes History As Youngest Sigma Gamma Rho Grad Chapter Member

Dr. Tillman is a renowned leader in the STEAM field and a BLACK ENTERPRISE 40 Under 40 Honoree.

At just 19 years old, Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman has a new accolade under belt outside her Ph.D. The academic phenom has officially joined the Delta Sigma Chicago Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. She is the youngest member of the chapter in its nearly century of existence.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Dr. Dorothy Jean Tillman II (@dorothyjeanius)

Tillman was officially inducted into the Sigma Gamma Rho on Nov. 1, joining her cohort as part of the “14 Phases of RHOyalty.” Founded in Chicago, the chapter’s latest inductees have tremendous accomplishments of their own.

She began her journey in higher education at just 10 years old. The prodigy then went on to earn her doctoral degree in integrated behavioral health at Arizona State University seven years later.

With her platform, she founded the Dorothy Jeanius STEAM Leadership Institute, helping the youth transform while building careers across science and the arts. The BLACK ENTERPRISE 40 Under 40 Honoree continues to be an inspiration to her new sorority sisters and young scholars in STEAM and beyond.

Through her motto, “Leading by Examples of Excellence,” Tillman has also maintained her native roots, helping the Chicago community through an environment-focused educational program, Space To Grow. On an international level, Dr. Tillman is an advisor on STEAM education for the Akuapem people in Ghana.

Founded at Butler University in 1922, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. has fostered over 100 years of dedication to communal upliftment and education. As a public speaker and renowned advocate for youth empowerment, Tillman exemplifies the sorority’s values of sisterhood, scholarship, and service.

With this latest honor, Tillman hopes to further encourage women to achieve their greatest ambitions. As a Black woman in STEAM and a change-maker for young students, Tillman will also bring more awareness to her work as a member of this esteemed organization.