Kamala Harris, Bloody Sunday March
by Sharelle B. McNair

March 4, 2024

Kamala Harris Leads 59th Annual Bloody Sunday March Across Edmund Pettus Bridge

Harris led a diverse crowd of supporters across the bridge.

The very first Black woman vice president of the U.S. led the march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge ahead of the 59th anniversary of the Bloody Sunday attacks. 

Harris, along with her husband, Doug Emhoff, gathered at the same place where leaders such as the late Sen. John Lewis and Dr. Martin Luther King were brutally beaten by racist law enforcement officers and people of Selma, Alabama, on March 7, 1965, as they walked in support of voting rights.

Followed by hundreds of supporters, arms linked with civil rights leaders, including Rev. Al Sharpton and Ben Crump, the VP paid respect to those who lost their lives that day and touched on their bravery, knowing the violent consequences waiting for them.

“Today, we know our fight for freedom is not over because, at this moment, we are witnessing a full-on attack on hard-fought, hard-won freedoms, starting with the freedom that unlocks all others, the freedom to vote,” Harris said.

Ahead of the primary elections on March 5, Harris criticized numerous attempts to restrict voting rights, including limiting absentee and early voting. During her speech, Harris said the nation is at another crossroads. “What kind of country do we want to live in? Do we want to live in a country of freedom, liberty, and justice,” she questioned. “Or a country of injustice, hate, and fear?” 

Several decisions handed down by the Supreme Court and lower courts have put the Voting Rights Act of 1965, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson to secure the right to vote for Black Americans, under attack. Harris mentioned the parameters built between people who survived the civil rights movement and “extremists” who she said are working to restrict the American people on core issues like gun violence, voting, and reproductive care.

“Fundamental freedoms, under assault. The freedom to vote, the freedom from fear, violence, and harm. The freedom to learn, the freedom to control one’s own body, and the freedom to just simply be,” she said. 

This was Harris’ second time attending the annual march. While notable dignitaries, including President Joe Biden, Barack and Michelle Obama, and Bill and Hillary Clinton, have attended in the past, this year’s prominent attendees included U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland and U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (D-Ala.), a Selma native. Bloody Sunday survivor Eugene Smith also attended, according to the Montgomery Advertiser.

Attending with his niece, this was Smith’s first time back in Selma since he crossed the bridge 59 years ago. “Even today, just remembering what took place, there’s nothing over there,” he said. “It was just to keep us back.”

And lawmakers are pushing forward to ensure his sacrifice doesn’t go in vain. Ahead of the legislation’s anniversary approaching in August, Senate Democrats have re-introduced the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act after stalling since 2021.

RELATED CONTENT: VP Kamala Harris Continues Calls For Voting Rights Legislation As She Crosses Edmund Pettus Bridge On Anniversary Of Bloody Sunday

Drake, Pregnant Fan
by Rafael Pena

March 4, 2024

Do Good Drizzy! Drake Offers To Pay Off Mortgage Of Fan’s Deceased Mother’s Home

Drake showcased his philanthropic spirit by offering to pay off the mortgage for the home of a fan's deceased mother during a performance.

On March 2, amid the beats and melodies of Drake’s “It’s All A Blur – Big As the What?” tour, the Toronto rapper once again showcased his philanthropic spirit by offering to pay off the mortgage for the home of a fan’s deceased mother during a performance at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri, according to Complex.

In a heartwarming moment that unfolded on March 2, Drake paused the concert to engage with the crowd, during which he received a note from a fan detailing the difficult situation. Reading aloud from the note, Drake shared, “You said, ‘[Pay] off my mom’s house, rest in peace.’ Your mom passed away? Alright. And you owe… Oh, this is the outstanding balance right here.” The rapper’s genuine concern for the fan’s plight was evident as he continued, “This is a lot of money right here.”

Undeterred by the substantial amount, which he later revealed to be $160,000, Drake immediately announced his intention to alleviate the financial burden. “But you know what, Imma pay off your momma’s house for you,” he declared, eliciting cheers and applause from the audience.

The rapper expressed his commitment to cover the entire expense “out of my pocket,” emphasizing the personal nature of this generous act. “That’s gonna come from me,” Drake assured the fan. He also took a moment to pay respects, saying, “Rest in peace to your momma. Hold on, wait. Rest in peace to Jennifer Schumer. Rest in peace. I love you.”

This gesture of kindness is not the first time Drake has extended support to fans in need. In February, the acclaimed artist gifted $50,000 to a cancer survivor, showcasing his consistent dedication to making a positive impact. Just days before the Kansas City concert, Drake promised a generous contribution of $100,000 to a fan who had recently completed a round of chemotherapy treatments.

Drake’s actions highlight his ongoing commitment to using his influence and success to bring joy and relief to those facing challenging circumstances. As the “It’s All A Blur – Big As the What?” tour continues, fans can anticipate more moments of genuine connection and compassion from the acclaimed rapper.

RELATED CONTENT: Drake Shows Generosity To Fans At Concert Stops In St. Louis And Nashville

meditation
by Selena Hill

March 4, 2024

The Importance Of Meditation In The Workplace 

Originally Published Mar. 19, 2019

Are you having one of those days when you’re buried in paperwork while your boss piles on a list of unrealistic demands and a difficult co-worker manages to get on your very last nerve? If so, then it may be time for you to step away from your desk and take some time to meditate.

We’ve all had tough days like this while working on the clock. However, we don’t always deal with the stress of challenging situations and people at work in a healthy way. That’s why BLACK ENTERPRISE invited entrepreneur, wellness expert, and author Quentin Vennie to share advice on how and why we must meditate.

Stay Calm at Work

Vennie explained why it’s imperative for everyone, especially working professionals, to give themselves a mental break and practice mindfulness.

“So often throughout the day, we’re faced with so much adversity, so many things, so much stress, [and] we’re trying to multitask,” he said. “Sometimes I think it’s important to just take yourself outside of that. Focus your attention on one thing and move forward from that point.”

In a nutshell, here is why Vennie says mindfulness is crucial for success:

  • We are what we think
  • You can’t be faithful and fearful at the same time
  • Focus on what you want to accomplish
  • Gratitude is the best mechanism to defeat depression

Vennie also talked about using meditation as a tool to overcome affliction. Watch the full interview below.

Overcoming It All

Vennie, who says meditation has personally helped him overcome drug addiction and severe depression, was also recognized as a 2017 BE Modern Man of Distinction, where he shared his story. Here’s an excerpt:

I was born and raised in a single-parent household on the west side of Baltimore. My father was a heroin addict, and by the time I was 12 I had been shot at and spent more time visiting prisons than most of the people I was close to. Despite spending a lot of time in my old neighborhood in West Baltimore, I went to predominantly white schools in the suburbs of Baltimore County. I experienced racism, discrimination, prejudice, you name it. I was diagnosed with acute anxiety and mild depression when I was 14, and then diagnosed with severe generalized anxiety and panic disorder, and mild to severe major depressive disorder, at 26. I endured a two-year addiction to my anxiety medication, survived an accidental overdose and two failed suicide attempts, but was fortunate to discover a wellness system that saved my life (yoga, meditation, and fruit/vegetable juicing). Not only did it help me get off all medications, but it also made my anxiety and depression easier to manage.

I started telling my story of my battles with anxiety, depression, and addiction in 2012 when I first started my journey into sobriety, and on May 30th of 2019, my first book, Strong in the Broken Places: A Memoir of Addiction and Redemption Through Wellness was published in the U.S. and Canada, and published in Australia and the U.K. on July 1st. I was able to successfully turn my trial into a triumph that has positively impacted people worldwide.

Now, it’s time for you to meditate with us! Follow along with this 14-minute meditation session guided by Quentin below.

RELATED CONTENT:   It’s Giving Stress-Free: 5 Ways To Manage Stress 

Eligio Bishop, sex cult
by Rafael Pena

March 4, 2024

Alleged Georgia Sex Cult Leader Eligio Bishop Sentenced To Life For Rape

Eligio Bishop, leader of an alleged sex cult was found guilty on all counts, including rape, false imprisonment, and revenge porn charges.

Complex reports that Eligio Bishop, leader of the alleged sex cult Carbon Nation, was found guilty on Mar. 1st on all counts, including rape, false imprisonment, and revenge porn charges. The verdict, delivered by a Georgia jury, marks a significant milestone in a case that offered a disturbing glimpse into the operations of the purported cult.

Bishop, who also goes by the names “Natureboy” and “3God,” faced allegations of raping a former cult member attempting to escape, followed by posting explicit content online. The trial unfolded, shedding light on the cult’s practices, particularly its use of social media to propagate its holistic lifestyle and teachings.

During the sentencing hearing that followed the verdict, several of Bishop’s former cult members provided emotional testimonies, revealing the psychological impact of his actions, according to FOX 5 Atlanta. One woman testified, “He said my soul belonged to him, and there was absolutely no saying no to him,” illustrating the coercive nature of Bishop’s influence.

Surprisingly, during the hearing, Bishop appeared dismissive, engaging in casual conversation with the bailiff and displaying a lack of remorse, prompting scolding from DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Stacey Hydrick. Bishop’s attempt to communicate with the judge and the victims resulted in a muted courtroom, emphasizing the gravity of the charges.

In his brief remarks before sentencing, Eligio Bishop asked, “Are you happy?” to which the judge responded, “I’m not answering any questions of yours.” Bishop, seemingly unrepentant, stated, “I forgive, I forgive you,” addressing the judge. Judge Hydrick, unswayed by Bishop’s words, characterized him as a “master manipulator” and a classic narcissist.

Prosecutors pushed for the maximum sentence, highlighting Bishop’s lack of remorse throughout the trial. Despite the defense’s argument citing his troubled childhood, Judge Hydrick sentenced Bishop to life without parole. Additionally, he received a consecutive 10-year sentence, with concurrent sentences for revenge porn charges.

Judge Hydrick imposed strict conditions, prohibiting any contact, direct or indirect, with the victims and restricting Bishop from profiting from his crimes, including book deals or other means. The defense has 30 days to file a motion for a new trial.

Bishop’s supporters, though not present during the verdict, criticized the judge’s words as one-sided, asserting the case was a setup. They vowed to appeal the conviction.

The sentencing brings a measure of closure to the victims, with Judge Hydrick expressing hope that they can find peace, at least beginning with the imposed sentence.

RELATED CONTENT: Disappearance Of Six In St. Louis May Be Connected To Suspected Online Cult

Emmitt Smith, University of Florida
by Rafael Pena

March 4, 2024

NFL Legend Emmitt Smith Criticizes University Of Florida’s Decision To Disband DEI Department

University of Florida's recent decision to dissolve its entire DEI department has sparked criticism from NFL legend Emmitt Smith.

University of Florida’s recent decision to dissolve its entire Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) department on Mar. 1st has sparked strong criticism from former Florida Gator and NFL legend Emmitt Smith, according to Sports Illustrated. The university’s move, aimed at complying with the Florida Board of Governors’s regulations, has drawn a sharp rebuke from Smith, who expressed his disappointment and concern about the potential ramifications.

In a passionate statement shared on social media, Smith voiced his strong disapproval of UF’s decision, emphasizing the vital role DEI offices play in fostering diversity and equality. He remarked, “I am utterly disgusted by UOF’s decision and the precedent that it sets. Without the DEI department, the job falls to the Office of the Provost, who already has their hands full, to raise money for the university and continue to advance the academic studies and athletic programs.”

Smith, who stands as the NFL’s all-time rushing leader, raised concerns about the lack of diverse perspectives in decision-making. He pointed out the inherent limitations when leadership lacks representation from varied backgrounds, stating, “We cannot continue to believe and trust that a team of leaders all made up of the same background will make the right decision when it comes to equality and diversity. History has already proven that is not the case.”

The university’s decision to eliminate the DEI positions was driven by the need to comply with the Florida Board of Governor’s regulation 9.016 on prohibited expenditures. This regulation defines DEI as any program, campus activity, or policy that classifies individuals based on certain characteristics and promotes preferential treatment. The board’s stance against expending state or federal funds on activities perceived as advocating diversity, equity, and inclusion or engaging in political or social activism led to the disbandment of the DEI department.

Smith criticized the university’s choice, attributing it to succumbing to political pressures and systemic issues. He urged minority athletes at UF to be vocal about the decision, emphasizing the potential impact on other minorities without proper oversight. Addressing those who remain passive, Smith stated, “And to those who think it’s not your problem and stay on the sidelines and say nothing, you are complicit in supporting systemic issues.”

The controversy surrounding UF’s decision highlights the ongoing debate over the role of DEI initiatives and the challenges institutions face in navigating regulations while ensuring a commitment to diversity and equality.

RELATED CONTENT: University of Florida Withdraws Offer From High School QB Who Posted Video Mouthing N-Word

Black businesses, report, growth, Starting businesses, economy,
by Jeff Shuford

March 4, 2024

How To Start A Business You Love

Many people point to drive, creativity, an ability to work hard over the long term to get a project done, something they're passionate about, or something they're excited to share with other people.

Originally Published Mar. 20, 2019.

When you look at successful CEOs and entrepreneurs in your community, what do you see that they have in common? Many people point to drive, creativity, an ability to work hard over the long term to get a project done, something they’re passionate about, or something they’re excited to share with other people. You’re going to enjoy running your own business much more if your company is focused on something you are passionate about. Here is how to start a business you love.

How to Start a Business You Love 

Start With Your Passion

Many entrepreneurs try to go where the money is. They have an idea for a new game or an app that will solve all the problems of the world, and they know there’s big money in venture capital for tech. While this is undoubtedly true, if all you’re doing is following the money, the odds are that many people are already there looking to carve themselves a slice of the same pie.

If apps and games are your passion, by all means, work to find something new to create in that arena. However, if you’d rather talk about fishing, or knitting, or carpentry, or parenting, look within your passions to find a problem that needs solving. The benefit is when you start your work, you’ll already have a community of people who can beta test and review your product, ready-made.

Draw on Your Community

Sometimes, you get caught up with a new community and think, “If they just did things this way, everything would be easier.” Sometimes you’re right, but more often there are reasons why things are done in a particular way. Until you’ve been part of a community for a while, you don’t always see the why of things that seem out of place or strange. Now, sometimes those ideas still need updating and changing, but until you understand why something happens in a particular way, your chances of being able to change the culture to reflect your new idea are essentially zero.

When you see something you think could be done differently, start talking about it, but talk about it with respect; and when people tell you that it can’t possibly be changed, listen to their reasons and be respectful. You’ll learn something that will help with your eventual creation. This is especially true in small, niche markets. Many products are brought to market by young mothers who are solving the problems they’re facing, whether that is how to carry their baby or a better kind of Halloween costume.

Offer Value

The biggest reason you’re more likely to find success when you’re following your passion and drawing on your community is you’re more likely to create something that offers value to your users. Let’s take the earlier example of a young mother who is bringing to market a different type of baby wrap. Boutique baby carriers have become a highly in-demand item in certain parenting circles, with people paying hundreds of dollars for a wrap woven by this or that company.

It is quite possible to carry a baby on your back with an old sheet, and thousands, if not millions of people do this every day. However, with boutique wraps, the value offered isn’t just the ability to carry a child. It’s also the story of supporting a young mother who is selling these wraps, or the bright colors that make another parent recognize the brand of the wrap, or simply the story a person can tell themselves about how much a child is valued when they’re being wrapped in that much love.

When you understand what value you need to offer with your product or service, you know the story you need to tell your customers. You know how to start with marketing, and how to move forward to find success within the community in question.

RELATED CONTENT: Passionate Protestor Labels Trump As ‘Racist’ During GOP Lawmaker’s Pro-Trump Speech 

Tricia Rose
by Stacy Jackson

March 4, 2024

Tricia Rose Unpacks ‘Metaracism’ In Exploration Of Systemic Racism’s Effects

After conducting research for over a decade, Tricia Rose releases her new book explaining “metaracism” and racism in America as a system.

In her groundbreaking work, Metaracism: How Systemic Racism Devastates Black Lives—and How We Break Free, Tricia Rose unveils a compelling analysis that sheds light on the intricate web of practices perpetuating racial inequality.

By meticulously dissecting the stories of Trayvon Martin, Kelley Williams-Bolar, and Michael Brown, the Brown University professor guides readers through a thought-provoking exploration of the systemic patterns of containment, extraction, and punishment directed at Black communities nationwide.

Metaracism

A press release revealed that Rose’s extensive research challenges the prevailing notion that racism is primarily driven by individual biases or explicitly discriminatory laws. Instead, she introduces the concept of “metaracism,” a term that encapsulates the “compounding impact of racial disadvantage and discrimination more devastating than any single policy or practice could create.” As she explains, “‘Meta’ is a systems term describing the compounding effects of the interconnections that are reinforced over time in any system.”

The Africana Studies professor emphasizes the significance of understanding the difference between “structural” and “systemic” racism. “The key difference is that ‘systemic racism’ analyzes racism as a system, which emphasizes the dynamic interconnections between its component parts.”

Hidden Mechanisms and Breaking Free From Limitations

Through her analysis, Rose unveils the hidden mechanisms that perpetuate systemic racism. She asserts, “So much of the work of systemic racism is hidden from view that individuals from many backgrounds may find that they are unwittingly benefiting from a racist system, even if they themselves strongly believe in racial equality.”

To break free from the limitations imposed by systemic racism, the author advocates for a paradigm shift in our collective thinking by looking at two strategies. The first is to “change the way we perceive and analyze events and outcomes: away from a ‘one or two bad apples’ approach and toward a systemic point of view that probes the interconnections between different policies, practices, laws, and beliefs” she explains.

The second strategy is to leverage the new systemic point of view “to drive a paradigm shift in our collective thinking about and responses to racism.”

Rose’s research reveals the profound and disproportionate harm inflicted upon Black communities by the system of racism, while simultaneously highlighting the inverse: the system profoundly and disproportionately favors those not perceived as Black, especially white individuals. As she poignantly states, “If we as a society value equality of opportunity and outcome – regardless of race, religion, gender or other factors – then what harms one group, harms all.”

To challenge skepticism and foster understanding, Rose advocates for retelling familiar stories in a way that “illuminates the impact” of larger social policies and practices. “Too often, we tell stories that deny the connection between the profound advantages for some of us and the staggering level of human-produced suffering directed toward Black people,” she asserts.

The award-winning writer has conducted her research for more than a decade, according to a Feb. 28 interview with ABC News.

Metaracism: How Systemic Racism Devastates Black Lives—and How We Break Free, published by Basic Books, is set to release on March 5, 2024. Rose invites readers to engage in conversation at upcoming events, including March 14 at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island; March 18 at Brattle Theatre in Cambridge, Massachusetts (a conversation with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.); March 22 for Politics & Prose in Washington, DC; and April 10 at the Free Library of Philadelphia.

RELATED CONTENT: Black Twitter Blasts Home Owner’s Associations For Its History Of Systemic Racism

Allen Iverson, Nike, Jordans
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

March 4, 2024

Allen Iverson To Be Honored By Philadelphia 76ers With Sculpture At Training Complex

Allen Iverson is getting more recognition for his contributions to the NBA and the Philadelphia 76ers, namely, a sculpture of his likeness in Philadelphia.

The 76ers announced on the 10th anniversary of Iverson’s number three jersey being retired by the organization, they will be adding another accolade for the NBA Hall of Famer. On April 12, the team will host a sculpture unveiling ceremony at Penn Medicine Philadelphia 76ers Training Complex.

The latest celebration for “The Answer” (Iverson’s nickname while playing in the NBA) adds to the accolades bestowed on the retired, sometimes embattled baller. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016.

“Allen Iverson is one of the greatest 76ers to ever live and one of the most iconic players in the history of the NBA, and we’re thrilled to honor his accomplishments with a well-deserved sculpture on Legends Walk,” Josh Harris and David Blitzer, Founders of Harris Blitzer Sports and Entertainment/Managing Partners of the 76ers, said in a written statement. “Paying homage to the legends who paved the way for our franchise is not only the right thing to do; it’s an incredible source of inspiration for current and future generations of 76ers players and staff who enter our Training Complex every day, as well as kids in the city of Philadelphia and at large. We look forward to celebrating Allen’s legacy on April 12.”

The sculpture of Iverson will be placed next to several other 76ers legends. Charles Barkley, Wilt Chamberlain, Maurice Cheeks, Billy Cunningham, Julius Erving, Hal Greer, Bobby Jones, Moses Malone, and Dolph Schayes have sculptures along the 76ers Legends Walk at the Penn Medicine Philadelphia 76ers Training Complex.

The 2001 NBA MVP took the 76ers to an NBA Finals in the same year he took home the MVP award. During his career with the franchise, he averaged 27.6 points, 3.9 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 2.3 steals in 41.4 minutes per game. He is currently Vice President of Reebok Basketball.

Dylan Dilinjah Says Chappelle’s Show Skit Ended His Music Career
by Daniel Johnson

March 4, 2024

Dylan Dilinjah Says Chappelle’s Show Skit Ended His Music Career

Dilinjah says that although he did get some opportunities from the precursor to viral fame, he was shut out of the music industry.

Dylan Dilinjah made an appearance on The Flatbush Show and claimed that his rap career was stymied by a Chappelle’s Show skit wherein comedian Dave Chappelle mocked Dilinjah and Sean “Diddy” Combs’ appearances on the MTV reality show Making The Band 2.

As Complex reported, the accusation is slightly different from past accounts Dilinjah has given regarding the now infamous skit.

In 2017, Dilinjah reportedly told Okayplayer that he harbored no ill will toward the comedian. After the two met, he likened the situation to meeting his brother who once made him mad a long time ago. 

“It felt like meeting my brother who pissed me off years ago but made sure he left money in the stash for me that I found later.

Dilinjah continued, “[Chappelle] admitted that I made him famous, so that was cool and different,” Dilinjah said. “Things are destined to be and by throwing me out there like that it created a piece of pop culture that will never die.”

Now, however, Dilinjah says that although he did get some opportunities from the precursor to viral fame, he was shut out of the music industry due to perception from the skit.

“Any time I send my music to DJs, they say, ‘Oh, that’s the n***a that Dave Chappelle made fun of, nah, I’m good on that,'” Dilinjah said. “Not only that, but now, every promoter says, ‘nah, we’re not booking him.’ So now I have a newborn, and the fridge is empty in 2005, and no one is calling me. Everyone is laughing.”

Dilinjah continued, “I’m legend now! But [back then] I’m fucked up for what you just did. And you’re not answering the phone. At that time, no one picking up they phone. Not one label; and at that time, you had to sign to a record label. And I called all of them direct. And they said, ‘I can’t help you.’ That joke gone, boy. That joke took over. That joke burned [my career].”

RELATED CONTENT: Dave Chappelle Faces Backlash For New Netflix Special Riddled With Trans Jokes

called 304 times, ex, ex boyfriend, ex-boyfriend
by Daniel Johnson

March 4, 2024

Outrage, Controversy Surround Oklahoma High School Toe-Licking Fundraiser Video

The school district has since apologized.

A fundraiser at an Oklahoma high school has raised eyebrows after a video went viral of teenagers reportedly licking and sucking peanut butter off of toes, Fox 25 reports. 

Deer Creek High School hosted an assembly that students had to pay to attend. At Clash of Classes, students from 9th to 12th grade signed up for various events and games. The district noted that participation in the events was completely voluntary and organized by the students.

The school district, Deer Creek Schools, told the outlet that there were also no faculty or staff involved in the games and that the students were matched up by grade level. The toe-sucking video, which was blurred to protect the privacy of the students, began circulating on social media Friday, according to The Daily Beast.

Outrage and questions from parents followed.

“It was surprising,” a student told Fox 25. “I didn’t think they were going to do all that. I was just shocked. I didn’t really have like a feeling. I was kind of disgusted, and then kind of glad I wasn’t over there.”

“Whenever she told me yesterday that was happening, I had to ask her, ‘Wait, what? They’re licking peanut butter off of toes,” an anonymous parent told the station. “What?”

The act was part of a week-long fundraising effort for Not Your Average Joe Coffee, a coffee shop that employs people with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities. The coffee shop reportedly had nothing to do with the fundraiser.

According to Tim Herbel, the coffee shop’s executive director, the shop began receiving threatening phone calls not long after the videos started circulating. 

“They call our stores and our friends with special needs usually answer the phones and they are being cussed out and called pedophiles,” Herbel told The Oklahoman. “One star reviews from all over the country. We’re not this well-funded machine that has all these dollars. We’re getting beat up. The kids are getting beat up.”

https://twitter.com/wsuares/status/1763684093177348114?t=fHA6TW9t8zwPMHWWKapzag&s=19
https://twitter.com/Okiefaith/status/1764470323729027306?t=sYHwGmOkVyOBaM34xOEGFw&s=19

Deer Creek Schools sent Fox 25 a statement on March 1, explaining their side of events. Kind of. After explaining all the good that was done for the coffee shop—nearly $150,000 raised—the district went on the defensive.

“On Thursday, February 29, 2024, Deer Creek High School hosted an assembly called the Clash of Classes for students who paid to attend. During this assembly, ninth through twelfth grade students volunteered to participate in various student-organized class competitions, in the spirit of raising money for NYAJ. All participants in the assembly were students who signed up for the game(s) they played ahead of time.

“No Deer Creek faculty or staff participated in any of the games during this Clash of Classes assembly. Many dedicated students gave generously of their personal time to achieve this momentous accomplishment, which will serve communities beyond the boundaries of Deer Creek. We would like to thank all of the patrons, businesses and sponsors who contributed to the success of this year’s Wonderful Week of Fundraising.”

The district issued another statement to The Oklahoman that actually took accountability for its failure to oversee the fundraiser.

“We want to stress to our community that much of the information accompanying this video is inaccurate,” the district said. “However, through this specific game we failed to uphold the dignity of our students and the proud image of our community. We have a responsibility to protect our Antlers and showcase them in a positive light. In regards to this one particular activity, we fell short and for that we greatly apologize.”

RELATED CONTENT: Howard Dropout Partners With GoFundMe To Raise Money for HBCU Students

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