Student Loan Payments, Supreme Court, Student Debt — (Photo: American Association of University Professors/Flickr)

by Shanique Yates

July 18, 2024

Supreme Court To Decide Whether Student Loan Payments Will Double In Some States

The Biden administration is in the process of appealing two challenges brought forth by GOP-led states that would block his SAVE student loan payment relief.

The fate of student loan payments now lies in the hands of the Supreme Court.

After successfully deploying its Saving On A Valuable Education, or SAVE, plan, the Biden administration has been met with a new hurdle, due to Republican-led states aiming to halt programs created to provide relief for student loan borrowers. The latest move could result in student loan payments that are double the amount that student borrowers are currently paying.

Thanks to two legal challenges issued by two sets of GOP-led states, Missouri and Kansas, it is up to the Supreme Court to decide whether or not SAVE will continue for student loan borrowers or if the plan will be reversed, thus causing those already enrolled in the plan to see an increase in monthly payments. For those currently benefiting from SAVE’s program, which allows undergraduate borrowers to see half of their student loan payments cut in half, if the highest court sides with the challengers, the payments would double.

SAVE was first launched in the fall of 2023 and includes lower payments on student loan repayments, a subsidy ending runaway interest accrual, as well as multiple avenues to achieve student loan forgiveness. According to the Missouri and Kansas courts, blocking SAVE upholds the argument that “the program’s generous benefits far exceed what Congress originally authorized when it passed legislation establishing IDR plans.”

The Missouri legal challenge has led to a preliminary injunction, upheld by a federal judge, that suggests that the “generous debt cancellation features under the program may have exceeded what Congress had authorized.” Under a preliminary injunction, a federal program, policy, rule, or law is temporarily blocked while litigation is still underway. In previous cases, when a preliminary injunction is granted, the court likely believes the challenge has a strong possibility of succeeding.

The second legal challenge filed in Kansas allows SAVE to continue its student loan forgiveness avenues; however, the preliminary injunction in this case blocked reduced payments set to go into effect on July 1 thanks to the student loan repayment plan. As a result of this injunction, student borrowers who were looking forward to seeing a huge portion, and in some cases, their entire undergraduate student loans reduced by up to 50%, will no longer reap those benefits. Instead, millions of borrowers have been placed into forbearance since there was not enough time to recalculate borrowers’ payments given the significantly short amount of time they were given to comply with the new court order.

With the challenges in place, the Biden administration has promised to appeal both rulings and found temporary success in fighting against the Kansas injunction. According to the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals, an emergency stay was issued to the lower court’s injunction. What this means for borrowers is that SAVE’s implementation of lower payments can continue, despite the Kansas injunction.

The win, however, was quickly diminished when state courts in Alaska, Texas, and South Carolina appealed the 10th Circuit’s ruling on the claim that “the stay of the Kansas court’s injunction was improper.” Now, the Supreme Court will decide if it will take on the 10th Circuit’s challenge, determining if it will uphold or overturn the stay.

In the Missouri injunction, the Biden administration still plans to challenge the court ruling. However, they are first looking for clarity around if this means that all student loan forgiveness under SAVE is blocked or if this only applies to “early” student loan forgiveness. The latter is a feature of the program designed to wipe out a borrower’s student loan debt in just under ten years, significantly lower than the 20 or 25 years that most borrowers take to clear out student loan debt.

It is predicted that both injunction rulings will end up in the hands of the Supreme Court, especially since lawmakers anticipate the Missouri case will be appealed by the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals. While it is unclear when the highest court in the nation will release details surrounding the emergency appeal of the 10th Circuit’s stay, it is anticipated that it will take place before July ends. A responsive brief from the Biden administration will reportedly take place July 18.

Buy From A Black Woman, Hilton Hotels, Racist, Racism — (Photo: Mikhail Nilov/Pexels)

by Sharelle B. McNair

July 18, 2024

Buy From A Black Woman Org Withdraws Support Of Hilton Hotels Over Racist Experience

The hospitality conglomerate has come under fire in the past for alleged racist behavior.

Buy From A Black Woman (BFABW), a nonprofit organization, dropped support of Hilton Hotels after an alleged racist incident occurred at The Tulsa Club Hotel in Oklahoma.

The organization released a statement announcing they will no longer be utilizing Hilton Hotels and Resorts after working with them since 2020. All future reservations will be canceled, effective immediately. “We have been using Hilton Hotels for the Inspire Tour since its inception in 2021, and to experience such blatant racism is both shocking and disheartening,” BFABW founder Nikki Porcher said.

“Our community deserves better, and we cannot in good conscience continue to support a company that does not uphold the values of respect, inclusion, and equity.”

In July 2024, an incident took place at the hotel allegedly involving racist behavior that the organization team experienced. Porcher says the decision to release the partnership came from the lack of appropriate response from Hilton Hotels and Resorts. The organization claims the response heightened the situation.

The hospitality conglomerate has come under fire in the past for alleged racist behavior. In 2020, according to USA Today, the hotel was hit with several discrimination lawsuits by Black guests who claimed they were confronted about their presence at hotels when they were either visitors or registered guests. One man, Albert Law, claims he checked into the Hilton Richmond Downtown in Virginia and was approached by a security guard who asked, “Do you belong here?”

In other alleged instances, hotel staff called or threatened to call the police.

Porcher said the organization is taking a stance to boycott as it reflects its “commitment to standing against racism and ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all,” however, they are open to discussing ways to rectify the situation. “We are disappointed by Hilton Hotel’s handling of this issue and urge them to address these systemic problems within their organization,” she said.

“Our doors are open to discussing how we can move forward and work together to ensure that such incidents do not occur again.”

BFABW is currently hosting its 2024 “Inspire Tour” with retail giant H&M. The organization said alternative arrangements will be made for the remaining Washington, D.C., and Toronto, Ontario stops in order to partner with businesses that align with diversity, equity, and inclusion values.

Young Thug, RICO Trial, YSL, new music — (Photo: Paras Griffin/Getty Images)

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

July 18, 2024

Replacement Judge In Young Thug RICO Case Recuses Herself

After Judge Glanville was recused from the Young Thug RICO trial, the judge selected to replace him Judge Shukura L. Ingram recused herself

Another interesting twist to the longest-running criminal trial in Georgia history has occurred. After Judge Glanville was taken off the Young Thug RICO trial, the judge selected to replace him has now removed herself due to a previous connection with a YSL (Young Stoner Life Records, Young Thug’s record label) member.

According to Billboard, Judge Shukura L. Ingram recused herself on July 17 after stating her connection to a Fulton County courthouse deputy, Akeiba Stanley, who was arrested last year for allegedly trying to bring in contraband to another member of YSL. Prosecutors claimed that Stanley was having an “inappropriate relationship” with the defendant. Rolling Stone reported that the accusation occurred last year when the deputy allegedly tried to get Christian Eppinger contraband.

BREAKING: Judge Shukura Ingram has recused from the YSL/Young Thug case over the incident involving Christian Eppinger and a courthouse deputy.

Ingram said the deputy arrested was responsible and assigned to her courtroom for six months. @ajc pic.twitter.com/8EBBsV3eYE

— Jozsef Papp (@JozsefPapp_) July 17, 2024

Stanley was previously assigned to Ingram’s courtroom.

“Because this court’s former assigned deputy could be called as a witness in any future proceedings in this case, the court may be called upon to assess this deputy’s credibility or rule on matters related to her criminal prosecution,” Ingram said. “This may undermine the public’s confidence in the impartiality of the proceedings.”

Although she stated she had no actual bias against Stanley, she felt that she must avoid any “appearance of impropriety” in the proceedings: “The clerk of this court is directed to reassign this criminal action to another judge.”

The court clerk selected Judge Paige Reese Whitaker to take over the RICO case.

Young Thug, real name Jeffery Lamar Williams, was charged with conspiracy to violate the RICO Act and was accused of being involved in street gang activity when he was arrested in May 2022. Prosecutors also hit him with the charge of participating in street gang activity, three counts of violating the Georgia Controlled Substances Act, possession of a firearm while committing a felony, and possession of a machine gun.

Young Thug was accused of heading an alleged affiliate of the Bloods street gang and being responsible for murders, armed robberies, and assaults committed between January 2015 and May 2022.

Unemployment Rate, Black Women — (Photo: Hiraman/Getty Images)

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

July 18, 2024

A Fresh Approach To Gen Z Career Development

Understanding and adapting to Gen Z’s unique preferences and expectations is essential in building the next generation of talent.

I’ve had the privilege of working with organizations across various sectors, helping them navigate the evolving workplace and workforce. One partner, a private foundation headquartered in Chicago dedicated to empowering Black students to pursue higher education and careers in insurance, faced an increasingly common challenge: educating and effectively engaging its Gen Z (born 1997 to 2012) population.

Despite sharing similar socio-economic backgrounds and experiences with their students, the Gen X leaders (born 1965 to 1980) encountered a significant generational gap. This gap manifested in challenges related to technology, culture, and communication. Recognizing the need for a fresh perspective, the foundation partnered with my company to develop innovative strategies and activities that resonate with Gen Z students while still achieving their mission.

This experience highlighted a critical truth for today’s employers: understanding and adapting to Gen Z’s unique preferences and expectations is essential in building the next generation of industry and sector talent. As this newest generation enters the workforce, their distinct values, communication styles, and career goals demand a new approach to learning and development.

This article explores trends in building and sustaining a workplace culture where Gen Z can thrive and contribute. To gain deeper insights into this generation, I spoke with my colleague Keith Roseboro, a recruiter, workforce consultant, and passionate advocate for Gen Z. Growing up in New York City without access to resources or programs to help him navigate his career path, Roseboro understands the challenges and goals of today’s Gen Z cohorts.

Whether you’re a business owner, leader, manager, or simply curious about the future of work, I want to equip you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the changing workplace and unlock the full potential of the next generation of talent.

What Gen Z Brings to the Table

“What Gen Z brings to the workforce is a strong entrepreneurial spirit,” Roseboro shared. “Their access to information and resources is extremely high. They grew up in the digital age with Google and online platforms readily available, fueling their passions and dreams. They’ve done the research, found the answers, and made the connections. They’re ready to start businesses and make an impact.”

This entrepreneurial drive, coupled with their tech-savviness and desire for autonomy, presents a unique opportunity for organizations. By understanding and embracing these characteristics, companies can attract and retain top Gen Z talent while fostering a culture of innovation and growth.

Roseboro’s top advice for supporting Gen Z professionals revolves around three key principles:

Access
Autonomy
Impact

Providing Access

Share information and resources openly. Gen Z thrives on transparency and knowledge. By giving them access to information about your organization, customers, strategies, and more, you empower them to contribute meaningfully.

When working with the Chicago non-profit team, our company provided project-based learning in our programs, assessments that offer exposure, and the ability to connect with professionals and build mentorship as they explore post-graduation pathways.

“Continuous learning opportunities empower Gen Z individuals and help maintain their enthusiasm for growth,” Roseboro said. He recommended leveraging learning management systems to provide access to online courses and resources tailored to Gen Z’s preferences for self-directed learning.

Creating Autonomy

Allow Gen Z students and professionals to create their work-life balance. Gen Z values flexibility and control over their schedules. Embrace this desire for autonomy by offering flexible work arrangements and encouraging them to design their workday.

One highlight of our high school partnership is the student capstone project experience, where students dive deeper into a career of their choice and present their findings in a formal presentation. These capstone projects showcase the student’s knowledge and skills and provide valuable real-world experience.

Supporting Impact

Support Gen Z students’ and professionals’ desire to make a difference. Gen Z is passionate about social causes and wants to work for organizations that align with their values. Provide opportunities for them to lead projects, contribute to employee resource groups, and positively impact your organization and the world.

Through our development program in Chicago, our company supports college and high school students in building employability skills through career exposure and preparing for summer internship interviews. Over a semester, students participate in a comprehensive curriculum to introduce them to various career paths within the insurance industry. This includes career assessments, hands-on activities, and mentorship opportunities to help students explore their interests and goals.

More Gen Z Insights

Another crucial aspect of attracting and retaining Gen Z talent is understanding the changing job market dynamics. With the rise of contract work and the gig economy, Gen Z seeks diverse income streams and financial control. Organizations must be flexible and adapt to these changing expectations, offering various employment options and opportunities for growth.

Additionally, Roseboro emphasized the importance of authenticity and transparency in attracting Gen Z. “Be upfront about what your company can and cannot offer,” he advised. “Gen Z can see through inauthenticity and will call you out on it. Lay all your cards on the table and let them make informed decisions.”

Fostering a sense of psychological safety and open communication is essential to creating a workplace culture that resonates with Gen Z professionals. Encourage brave conversations, provide opportunities for feedback and growth, and prioritize mental well-being.

“Create a safe place where they feel brave enough to have hard conversations and know they’re not at risk for losing a promotion or job because you feel they don’t have the mental capacity to do it,” Roseboro said. “Have those conversations and be intentional about it. Find the budget, find the resources. Make it happen. That’s how you retain talent.”

Organizations can attract and retain top talent while driving innovation and growth by providing access to information, fostering autonomy, and supporting Gen Z professionals’ desire to make a difference. Remember, the key to unlocking Gen Z’s full potential lies in understanding and adapting to their unique preferences and expectations. You can explore additional Gen Z career development strategies in our latest whitepaper.

Author Bio:

Chelsea C. Williams, an Entrepreneur, Workplace Educator, and Mentor, is the Founder & CEO of Reimagine Talent Co., a national talent development firm based in Raleigh, NC. She is passionate about redefining workplaces through innovation and inclusivity.

RELATAED CONTENT: Tips To Help Black Gen Z Grads Score Jobs In Changing Business Landscape

homebuyers, rental property, gentrification, home expansion — (Photo: Getty Images)

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

July 18, 2024

How To Protect Communities from Corporate Expansion And Gentrification

Originally Published Jan. 19, 2022

T.J. Loftin is an expert on gentrification and economics.

Threatened by gentrification and corporate expansion across the United States, small business owners and long-time residents are at risk for displacement. T.J. offers updated strategies and solutions with the release of the new edition of his top-selling, Monetizing Gentrification: Building Black Ownership.

A native of Compton, California, T.J. has always advocated for business and homeownership. He has a long history of identifying and fighting wrongful politics, especially when affecting Black communities.

During the last 15 years, his voice and collaborative efforts range from advocating for residents affected by the Section 8 scandal of Antelope Valley, California, to the mass displacement of the primarily Black communities within urban Los Angeles. Silicon Valley tech companies, Metro, Elon Musk and SpaceX, NFL, Black Rock, and other major corporations swooped into the region monopolizing properties and businesses. A seasoned investor, T.J. identified the agenda to remove business and homeownership, nationally.

T.J. is a well-renowned international business leader, celebrity car builder, and manufacturer, real estate, land development, gentrification expert, speaker, author, and wealth coach. He has been hands-on in building businesses, industries, and communities. Becoming the business advisor to the late ancestor Dr. Sebi (world-renowned herbalist and celebrity holistic healer inspiring the forthcoming documentary by the late Nipsey Hussle and Nick Cannon) would forever impact T.J.’s life. Dr. Sebi redirected T.J. to teach others, globally, how to fight gentrification and to obtain residential and commercial ownership.

T.J. has been an advisor to Compton and Inglewood school districts and to the Homeschooler community.

To date, he has toured 24 states, analyzing various states of gentrification within Black communities and its effects on businesses and homeownership. The tour has enabled him to write the ultimate handbook, Monetizing Gentrification: Building Black Ownership. Get your copy today at TJLoftin.com

This story first appeared on Blacknews.com.

Ryan Garner, a 17-year-old North Carolina pilot, recently became the first and youngest Black pilot to receive his license at Concord’s Goose Creek Airport. He also became the youngest Black pilot in North Carolina history. At first, Garner wasn’t sure he wanted to be a pilot, but after talking with a Delta Airlines pilot, he changed his mind.

According to WSOC-TV, the City of Concord honored Garner during the week of July 12 with an official proclamation from the city’s mayor, Mayor Dusch. Garner has also earned the praise of his mother, Melissa Dixon, who believes his achievement has laid the groundwork for any future pilots that come after her son.

As Dixon told WCNC, “He’s the footprint … he is actually the footprint to future generations to come and say it’s possible. I trust his ability,” Dixon said. “I trust what he’s capable, actually, of doing. So yes, I am willing to go up and get that experience and actually just see life on a different level.”

Garner told WSOC that it was only after conversations with the pilot that he began to understand what was possible for him beyond being a ground crew member. Now, he dreams of one day being the pilot for a major airline.

“I actually never wanted to be a pilot at first. I wanted to be a grounds crew member that would bring in the planes or marshal them in. I got to talking with a Delta pilot about flight school, and that’s how I got into it.”

Garner’s path from flight school graduate to airline pilot could be made somewhat more comfortable if programs from airlines like United, Delta, and Southwest are allowed to flourish and diversify their pilots.

According to Eilieen Bjorkman, a retired Air Force colonel and author who wrote an op-ed for the Chicago Sun-Times in 2023, the results of these aviation diversity programs have been encouraging. In 2023, the first class of United Airlines’ Unite Aviate graduated with a class that included 80% women or minorities. In a profession that is 90% white men, any kind of diversity is seen as a welcome change.

The backlash from conservatives who seemed to assume that pilots who weren’t white men weren’t qualified to fly commercial airplanes was largely met with derision and scorn from aviation experts like Bjorkman. In her op-ed, she argued that those arguments were nonsensical at best, measured against the actual requirements of getting into any of these programs, which required 1,500 flight hours and a substantial financial commitment from the pilots.

Garner, meanwhile, just wants to do what he has loved since he was a child, as he told WCNC, “I have always loved it (aviation) since I was a kid…It’s a little adrenaline rush coming into the plane…I want to take it to the majors and go to the airlines.”

New Report Reveals Best And Worst States For Retirees To Stretch $1M In Savings — Photo by AE Pictures Inc./Getty Images

by Shanique Yates

July 18, 2024

New Report Reveals Best And Worst States For Retirees To Stretch $1M In Savings

A new study conducted by GoBankingRates reveals the best and worst states for retirees to live off of $1 million in savings.

A new report reveals the states where retirees can see more bang for their buck after saving $1 million.

As Americans engage in what many dub the “Golden Years,” a study led by GoBankingRates revealed that retirees may fall on tough times in certain states across the U.S. more quickly than others. The new report calculated how long it would take retirees to spend $1 million in savings based on their location within the country.

Topping the list of states where $1 million in savings won’t last long for a retiree is Hawaii. It is estimated that it will take about nine years, seven months, and 25 days to blow through that savings amount in the Aloha state. The next place where those retired persons will likely eat up that amount in savings in a short amount of time is the District of Columbia. In the nation’s capital, retirees can expect to see $1 million in savings go in 11 years, 10 months, and 25 days. This estimate aligns closely with the state of Massachusetts.

When factoring in medical and regular living expenses, those living in the state of California could see that amount go in roughly 12 years. Trailing those top contenders where retirees won’t see $1 million in savings lasting for the long haul is New York, where it is anticipated that this amount will diminish in 13 years, eight months, and one day.

The best place for retirees to see their savings carry them far is West Virginia, which had the best ranking. Seniors in that area of the nation are expected to have $1 million in savings to last them for an estimated 20 years, three months, and 19 days.

Moreover, in states like Texas, that $1 million in retirement savings will last the average person 18 years, seven months, and seven days. Some states like Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, and the Carolinas report that this amount could last for at least 17 years. The study found that some of those states could even see the $1 million seeing retirees through almost 20 years, and the same rings true in places like Arkansas, Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois, Indiana, and Kansas, which fall within the country’s Midwest region.

Pepa Denton, Southwest Airlines, Sandra Denton, Salt-N-Pepa — (Photo: Christopher Polk/Variety via Getty Images)

by Stacy Jackson

July 18, 2024

Pepa Denton Claims Southwest Airlines Wrongfully Booted Her Off A Flight

Pepa told a Southwest Airlines worker that passengers were going to write letters to help complain on her behalf as a disabled passenger.

Southwest Airlines found itself in a turbulent situation when Sandra “Pepa” Denton, the renowned rapper from Salt-N-Pepa, complained about an alleged removal from a plane due to a disability-related dispute.

The artist took to social media to express her shock at being put off a Southwest Airlines flight from Las Vegas to Nashville, Tennessee. Pepa, who TMZ reported is still recovering from a 2018 car accident, had purchased two seats and arranged wheelchair assistance for her journey. However, conflict arose when a flight attendant questioned her need for both seats. In the video shared on Instagram, Pepa confronted Southwest Airlines employees in the jetway, explaining her situation and expressing disbelief at allegedly being replaced by another male passenger, who TMZ said needed the seat to get to a funeral.

According to Pepa, Southwest Airlines personnel, disregarding her clearly marked “disabled” tickets, proposed relocating her to the bulkhead emergency row — a suggestion she promptly rebuffed.

The rapper recounted, “I’m not trying to do the race thing. Y’all know I ain’t trying to do that,” as she struggled to comprehend her removal from the plane. In the back-and-forth, the male employee physically barred her path, extending his arms to prevent her approach as she moved closer to the plane’s entrance to document the situation.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sandra Pepa D (@darealpepa)

Southwest Airlines offered a different perspective, telling TMZ the “Push it!” rapper failed to adhere to crew members’ instructions. In the video, the male employee explained to Pepa, “When she got on the plane, I asked you, ‘Why did you need a second seat?’…You weren’t wearing your brace or anything like that.”

The airline cited her alleged recording and safety concerns as grounds for removal, though she denies filming while on board the aircraft.

While Southwest Airlines refunded Pepa’s $2,500 for the two seats, Pepa claimed support from fellow travelers, stating they would write letters and help complain on her behalf.

Van Jones, Amber Rose — (Photos from left: Gage Skidmore/Flcikr; Unique Nicole/Getty Images)

by Sharelle B. McNair

July 18, 2024

Van Jones Praises Amber Rose’s Speech At The Republican National Convention: ‘Biggest Threat To The Democratic Party’

While Rose received praise from Jones, other called her out on social media.

Personality Amber Rose made an impression at the Republican National Convention (RNC) on Democratic political strategist, Van Jones, who called her the “biggest threat to the Democratic Party.”

Jones praised Rose’s appearance on day one of the RNC in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. During RNC coverage on CNN, Jones described her speech as “the most dangerous for the Democratic coalition,” claiming people can relate to what she was talking about.

“That was probably the most dangerous speech for the Democratic coalition. As a young woman of color, she is describing the experience that a lot of people have, feeling that maybe if you’re around too many liberals, you might get criticized too much or might not be able to speak your mind,” he said.

“And she spoke to it really well. And she’s way more famous than any of us up here …so to the extent that these guys are trying to bust up our coalition, that was a bunker-busting right there.”

https://twitter.com/VanJones68/status/1813262996803887366

Rose stood before thousands of former President Donald Trump’s supporters to tell the tale of how she went from thinking Trump was a “racist” to being an advocate for his election. The mother of two described how her father, also a Trump supporter, challenged her to research statements and policies made by the former President to make a decision for herself.

During her speech, she announced that she was finally with “her people.”

“I realize Donald Trump and his supporters don’t care if you’re Black, white, gay or straight. It’s all love,” she said. “And that’s when it hit me: these are my people. This is where I belong.”

https://twitter.com/big_business_/status/1813037394959986987

Rose’s newfound conservatism received backlash in May 2024 after she posted a picture with Trump and his wife, Melania, at a campaign event. Weeks later on Jul. 8, she confirmed her support of Trump and convention appearance on X. “It’s true, I’m speaking at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. #MAGA,” Rose wrote.

Jones wasn’t the only one who felt Rose was a great addition to the RNC.

Republican strategist and commentator Scott Jennings agreed with Jones and highlighted the “cadence” of her ability to look directly into the camera while speaking. However, social media users call her out for her recent switch-up and Jones for his support. “

“You give her too much credit. She doesn’t represent any democrat core group. She’s always been seen in the cultural opportunist light, anti-black women, and morally suspect,” @thebigtizzle wrote.

“The GOP under MAGA has a reputation for collecting faux coverts of the clown show variety. If anything she offputs suburban and traditionally conservatives. The electorate of 2020 accounted for her kind.”

Other users are shining a light on a past confrontation between her and fellow model, Joseline Hernandez. The two women came to blows on an episode of BET’s College Hill: Celebrity Edition after Hernandez accused Rose of wanting to be “a white girl.” The conversation resulted in a physical fight.

HBCU, Sexual Health, Beyond the Sheets — (Photo: Getty Images)

by Stacy Jackson

July 18, 2024

Initiative Empowers HBCU Students To Tackle Sexual And Reproductive Health Disparities

Through the 'Beyond the Sheets' program, HBCU student share sexual and reproductive health information on campus.

Power to Decide, a nonprofit organization dedicated to sexual and reproductive health, continues its mission through “Beyond the Sheets,” an initiative empowering HBCU students in the aftermath of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, the case that overturned Roe v. Wade.

The program addresses crucial gaps in sexual and reproductive health services at HBCUs. Launched in 2023, “Beyond the Sheets” employs four guiding principles: listen, engage, mobilize, and influence. A press release by Power to Decide shared that the initiative utilizes social media to spark discussions, organizes campus events promoting nonjudgmental spaces, and facilitates access to safer sex materials and local health services. It also encourages peer advocacy to tackle inadequate sexual and reproductive health resources.

HBCUs play a vital role in shaping Black professionals. They enroll 10% of all Black college students, with women comprising 64% of this population. Power to Decide emphasized that “Ambassadors are at the forefront on HBCU campuses spreading accurate, trustworthy sexual and reproductive health information.”

Many HBCUs are situated in areas with limited access to sexual and reproductive health resources, a situation worsened by structural racism and healthcare disparities.

“Beyond the Sheets” strives to confront and mitigate multifaceted obstacles like the nearly 75% of HBCUs that operate within states that have implemented stringent reproductive rights laws while simultaneously grappling with insufficient financial support for on-campus wellness facilities. The program currently involves ten student ambassadors from five HBCUs: Florida A&M University, Tougaloo College, Tuskegee University, the University of the Virgin Islands, and Xavier University of Louisiana. Dr. McDonald-Mosley noted, “Our ambassadors are creating sustainable change across their campuses and beyond to ensure everyone has the resources and information needed to advance sexual and reproductive well-being.”

https://twitter.com/powertodecide/status/1813589734490358012

Looking ahead, Power to Decide envisions broadening the reach of “Beyond the Sheets” and aspires to expand to additional HBCU campuses across the nation.