racist attack, London, Black woman, bitten, white woman

by Stacy Jackson

October 7, 2023

Black British Charity Leader Allegedly Bitten, Assaulted By Racist Karen In London

A Black woman who heads a British nonprofit in West London, which works to shield Black women from violence and abuse, said she was attacked and bitten by a racist white woman, while an off-duty police officer stood by and did nothing.

Selma Taha, executive director of Southall Black Sisters, said a white woman verbally and physically assaulted her and her friends on Sept. 29 while on a train in London. According to The Independent, the woman left a nasty bite mark on Taha, requiring the nonprofit leader to get a tetanus shot and antibiotics. Taha also alleged the woman pulled out parts of her hair. On top of this, Taha claims a Metropolitan Police officer watched without intervening while the white woman made monkey sounds at the group and called them slaves and other slurs.

Taha and her friends told The Independent that they want justice.

“We demand that appropriate action be taken against the assailant and the police officer,” said Taha, adding she was shocked at the lack of response by police.

“Almost worse than the shock of the racist attack was the indifference of the police officer, especially now when the Met police has been rocked by evidence of historical, institutionalized racism and misogyny suffered by Black and minoritized communities and finally backed up by the Casey report.”

The Casey Report, a review of London’s Metropolitan Police from February 2022 to March 2023, identified problems in how police officers are dismissed for misconduct.

A spokesperson for the police said, according to The Independent, “A complaint has been received to the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards and we have made a referral to the Independent Office of Police Conduct. The officer involved is being provided with welfare support during this process.”

The British Transport Police (BTP) ultimately arrested the white woman, who has been released on bail while inquiries continue, the outlet noted.

“An off-duty officer from the Metropolitan Police intervened and separated the group before escorting passengers off at the next stop, King’s Cross, and calling the British Transport Police for assistance,” the BTP said, according to The Independent.

Taha is the executive director of Southall Black Sisters, a nonprofit that, according to its website, challenges “all forms of violence against women and girls, empowering them to gain control over their lives and assert the human rights to justice, equality and freedom.”

by Stacy Jackson

October 7, 2023

Jada Pinkett Smith Opens Up About Battle With Mental Illness In Memoir

Jada Pinkett Smith, 52, gets real about battling severe depression.

Smith, the wife of actor Will Smith, is set to release a new book, “Worthy,” and the page-turner is reportedly filled with details about her life in Baltimore all the way to living the high life in Hollywood. An important aspect of the memoir is her reflection on the struggles she experienced before and during her achievement of high-ranking success.

She opens up about her parents’ substance abuse, her success in the entertainment industry as well as finding and loving herself through it all.

Smith, who as the host of Red Table Talk has previously addressed the importance of mental health with celebrity guests on the popular series, unpacks the details of what led her on a journey of “reclamation.” The Hollywood celebrity says it all began when she experienced a low in her mental health and began feeling sentiments about “want[ing] to be on this earth less and less.”

Smith says she understood how her life looked from the outside. She was the one with “the beautiful family, the superstar husband,” and living “the lavish lifestyle.” However, Smith says this was her “put[ting] on a brave face for two decades.”

In an excerpt from Smith’s book, she writes: “For two decades, I had been putting on a good face, going with the flow, telling everyone I was okay. Yet underneath, bouts of depression and overwhelming hopelessness had smoldered until they turned into raging hellfire in my broken heart. Unwelcome feelings — of not deserving love — made it harder to understand the disconnect between the so-called perfect life I had achieved and the well of loss I carried with me. Therapy helped up to a point. It got me to forty! But to what end?”

Smith’s memoir, “Worthy,” which details her experience with mental illness, among other things, is set to release Oct. 17.

Steve Harvey, Micahel B. Jordan, Abu Dhabi, NBA

by Mary Spiller

October 7, 2023

Michael B. Jordan Hugs It Out With Steve Harvey At NBA Game A Year After Lori Harvey Breakup

A recent viral video seems to prove there’s no bad blood between actor Micheal B. Jordan and his ex-girlfriend’s father, Steve Harvey. An Instagram post from the NBA on Oct. 5 showed the pair hugging at a game that day.

The Instagram post included Harvey and Jordan hugging on the basketball court at a Dallas Mavericks versus the Minnesota Timberwolves pre-season game during the NBA Abu Dhabi Games. The NBA and NBA Europe shared the sincere moment, captioning the post, “All smiles at #NBAinAbuDhabi!”

The photo featured Jordan and Harvey, hugging each other, and sharing a few quick words in a soundless video. With their arms wrapped around each other, both were smiling wide and seemed in good spirits while on the court after the game.

The moments where the pair shared a few words prompted commenters to speculate about what was said. Some joked in the comments that Harvey was interrogating Jordan about the end of his and Lori’s relationship. One wrote jokingly, “Whispers ‘why did you leave Lori?’”

Another user added, “‘Bro, you need to call my daughter,’” along with a laughing emoji.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by NBA (@nba)

As previously reported, Harvey commented about Jordan and Lori’s one-year relationship breaking off in 2022.

Last summer, Harvey specified that he supported both of them in their decision on The Steve Harvey Morning Show.

He acknowledged how difficult relationships could be while in the media spotlight.

“I wish them well. I’m Team Lori 1000%. She’s my daughter; I love her, I support her. Things happen. It’s hard to be young and in the limelight and have a successful relationship,” Harvey said.

Harvey added that he wasn’t upset at Jordan, at the time, expressing, “He’s still a cool guy from what I know. It’s a breakup … people break up all the time.”

Floyd Mayweather, money team, money, money man, watch

by Mary Spiller

October 7, 2023

Floyd Mayweather Gifts Friend $250K Watch

Floyd Mayweather has gone viral for gifting his friend a quarter-of-a-million-dollar watch this week. The 46-year-old reportedly gave his friend Shuki Diamonds a custom wristwatch on Oct. 5 that was worth $250,000, according to TMZ.

Mayweather shared a video of the exchange. In the clip posted on social media, the proclaimed Money Man said, “The Money Man is back. I’m right here with my main man, Shuki. We in L.A., ballin’ out. This watch right here is going to Shuki. One of my custom pieces. Money Man, y’all know the rest.”

The gifted timepiece was a pristine cut diamond, white and gold, coming directly from Mayweather’s jewelry collection.

Shuki Diamonds expressed his appreciation for the gift in the short footage, showing off next to the 50-0 fighter on camera.

Mayweather has recently been in the media for another example of gift-giving. As previously reported, during the devastating Maui, Hawaii wildfires back in September, Mayweather personally paid for nearly 70 families to fly from Maui to the safety of Honolulu. He provided financial support to cover the extensive hotel costs for all the families, food from local restaurants, and even provied them with clothing after they lost everything they owned in the fires.

Working with H&M, Mayweather got clothes from the retail store and handed them out to the families in Honolulu. He confirmed the reports, but told the outlet that he wasn’t going to give any further comment about his act of charity because he “was not looking to garner additional attention” and just wanted to help the families begin to recover from what they went through.

Kanye West Makes Defiant Choice By Reportedly Filing For ‘Yews’ Trademark

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

October 7, 2023

Kanye West Makes Defiant Choice By Reportedly Filing For ‘Yews’ Trademark

Kanye West might be returning with a vengeance after being canceled for his antisemitic remarks. The rap/fashion mogul is reportedly gearing up for a business comeback under a new name that seemingly plays off the term “Jews.”

On Oct. 6, word got out on Kanye’s reported plans to secure trademark rights to “YEWS,” a phrase he wants to use on various business ventures, TMZ reported. The filing is linked to an LLC called Ox Paha Inc., which shares the same address as Kanye’s office on Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles.

The document lists Ye’s plans to slap the “YEWS” name on everything from financial services and real estate to clothing, music, and streaming content. There are also reported plans for audio, entertainment content, beauty products, restaurants, and more.

The naming of the new company is quite the choice, considering the backlash Kanye faced after he allegedly praised Adolf Hitler on Alex Jones’ Info Wars and made a series of disparaging remarks against Jewish people on social media.

As a result, the “Stronger” rapper lost out on multi-million dollar deals with Adidas and Balenciaga and saw his short-lived billionaire status drastically drop to his current reported net worth of $500 million.

Many are already sounding off about the new trademark filing and seeing it as another attempt at attacking the Jewish community.

“But why tho,” one fan asked under Daily Loud‘s Twitter/X announcement.

Kanye’s most recent antics include ruffling feathers with his wife, Bianca Censori, in Italy with their unique fashion choices and alleged inappropriate behavior on private boats.

Kanye and Censori were banned from one Venetian boat rental company after the rapper was seen with his pants down and bare backside on the vessel while his wife had her head near his lap. Their actions led many to believe the couple was being naughty when the captain wasn’t looking.

Advancements in Pharmaceutical Care in Canada: Embracing Innovation and Technology

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

October 7, 2023

Advancements in Pharmaceutical Care in Canada: Embracing Innovation and Technology

The Canadian pharmaceutical landscape has been undergoing significant transformations, driven by technological advancements, policy shifts, and evolving healthcare needs. At the forefront of this evolution is the role of pharmacies and pharmacists, who are increasingly playing a pivotal role in patient care and medication management. Websites like The Canada Pharmacy are examples of how the digital domain is intersecting with pharmaceutical services to enhance access and convenience for patients across Canada.

The Rise of Digital Pharmacy Solutions

The integration of technology in pharmacy practice is one of the most significant advancements in recent years. Online pharmacies, telepharmacy services, and mobile health applications are redefining how patients access medication and consultation services. These digital platforms offer several advantages, including:

Convenience and Accessibility: Online pharmacies provide patients with the convenience of ordering medications from the comfort of their homes, which is particularly beneficial for those in remote or underserved areas.
Enhanced Medication Management: Digital tools facilitate better medication management, especially for chronic conditions, by providing reminders, dosage information, and drug interaction alerts.
Telepharmacy Consultations: Virtual consultations with pharmacists allow for personalized medication advice, adherence support, and drug safety education.

New Drug Approvals and Therapies

The Canadian pharmaceutical sector has seen a surge in new drug approvals, offering hope for various conditions that were previously difficult to treat. These new therapies reflect the industry’s commitment to research and development. The approval process, overseen by Health Canada, ensures that these medications meet stringent safety and efficacy standards before they reach patients.

Pharmacogenomics: Personalizing Medicine

Pharmacogenomics, the study of how genes affect a person’s response to drugs, is a growing field in Canada. This approach to personalized medicine can significantly improve treatment efficacy and reduce adverse drug reactions. By understanding genetic variations, pharmacists can tailor medication regimens to individual patients, leading to more effective and safer treatments.

The Evolving Role of Pharmacists

Canadian pharmacists are taking on more significant roles in healthcare teams. Beyond dispensing medications, they are involved in chronic disease management, preventive care, and patient education. This expanded scope of practice allows pharmacists to:

Conduct Medication Reviews: Pharmacists assess patient medication regimens, ensuring optimal treatment and minimizing the risk of adverse effects.
Administer Vaccinations: Many pharmacies now offer vaccination services, increasing public access to essential immunizations.
Manage Chronic Diseases: Pharmacists play a role in managing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and asthma, often in collaboration with other healthcare providers.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite these advancements, the Canadian pharmaceutical sector faces challenges, including drug affordability, supply chain issues, and the need for continuous professional development in the face of rapid technological changes. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative approach among healthcare providers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders.

The Future of Pharmaceutical Care in Canada

Looking forward, the future of pharmaceutical care in Canada is bright, with continued innovation and an increasing focus on patient-centered care. Key areas of potential growth include:

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: These technologies could revolutionize drug discovery, patient monitoring, and personalized medicine.
Blockchain for Drug Traceability: Implementing blockchain technology could enhance drug supply chain transparency and security.
Sustainable Pharmacy Practices: There is a growing focus on environmentally sustainable practices in the pharmaceutical industry, from drug production to disposal.

As the Canadian pharmaceutical landscape continues to evolve, it’s clear that embracing innovation and technology will be crucial in meeting the healthcare needs of Canadians. Platforms like The Canada Pharmacy exemplify the shift towards a more accessible, efficient, and patient-focused pharmacy experience, marking a new era in healthcare delivery in Canada.

Houston Rockets Head Coach Explains Why He Did Not Sign James Harden: It’s About ‘Fit’

by Derek Major

October 6, 2023

Houston Rockets Head Coach Explains Why He Did Not Sign James Harden: It’s About ‘Fit’

At the Houston Rockets media day, head coach Ime Udoka discussed the signing of point guard Fred Van Vleet and why the team chose him over James Harden.

According to ESPN’s Zach Lowe, Van Vleet, who left the Toronto Raptors to come to Houston, can play off the ball,l making him a better fit for Houston. Udoka, formerly with the Boston Celtics, reiterated that stance while fighting back against rumors he didn’t want Harden.

“Nothing against James,” Udoka told ESPN, “but Fred is just a better fit. I coached James in Brooklyn. He’s one of the smartest players I’ve ever been around. The words’ Ime doesn’t want James’ never came out of my mouth. It was, ‘Let’s look at the best fit.’ If we want Jalen and the young guys to take the next steps, we need them to have the ball. As for me saying I don’t want James, that was never the case. It was about fit.”

NBA pundit Stephen A. Smith had a different take. According to Smith, Harden told Udoka and the Rockets brass that he wanted to become the NBA scoring champion again, which turned Udoka off of signing the 10-time All-Star and seven-time All-NBA Harden.

“James Harden, this is what I was told—he actually talked himself out of a max deal because he went in there talking about how he wanted to return to being that scoring champion,” Smith said on First Take. “And Ime Udoka and them were like, ‘Nah, we ain’t trying to have that here, we’re building something a little bit different.’”

Neither Harden nor Udoka have commented on Smith’s rumor. However, if the rumor is true, Harden likely regrets being so honest. Since Houston declined to bring him back, Harden is stuck in Philadelphia, where many have said he has burned bridges with Sixers President Daryl Morey and has been seeking a trade all summer.

The Sixers, however, want an adequate return for Harden, something no team has been willing to give up for a player who has a habit of souring on teams, making trade demands, and creating a hostile environment. The Los Angeles Clippers and New York Knicks were both reported to be interested in the three-time scoring champion, but both teams have since become disinterested, leaving Harden in Philadelphia with the NBA season set to begin Oct. 24.

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

October 6, 2023

Woman Bitten During Racist Attack On An UK Train

In an incident on the London Tube, a woman has revealed the racist attack she and her friends endured after requesting a fellow train passenger to move her suitcase, as reported by the BBC. Selma Taha, affiliated with Southall Black Sisters, disclosed the ordeal that unfolded as she and her companions traveled from Camden Town to King’s Cross.

The incident began when the alleged attacker pushed her luggage toward them, almost colliding with one of them.

In response to the request to move the suitcase, the situation took a disturbing turn as the woman unleashed a tirade of racist slurs. Taha recounted that the woman declared, “It’s not my fault you’re lesser than me,” and proceeded to direct derogatory language, such as calling them “slaves,” expressing her aversion to Black women, and even making monkey noises.

As the dispute escalated, the confrontation turned physical, leading to Taha being bitten and having clumps of her hair violently ripped out. The incident occurred in the presence of an off-duty police officer, who, Taha claims, did not immediately identify himself or intervene. It was only upon reaching King’s Cross train station that the officer revealed his status.

Taha expressed her fury and frustration toward the officer, holding him partly responsible for the disturbing incident. She alleged that the officer had failed to take appropriate action, which, in her view, validated the aggressor’s behavior.

Taha received medical attention in the aftermath, including a tetanus shot and antibiotics due to a “rash” around her wounds. The British Transport Police confirmed their response to the altercation and the subsequent arrest of a 30-year-old woman. The alleged perpetrator was arrested on suspicion of assault and a racially aggravated public order offense and then released on bail.

The Metropolitan Police acknowledged the complaint filed by Taha and reported that an inquiry was in progress, with the matter referred to the Independent Office of Police Conduct. The officer involved in the incident is receiving welfare support during the investigation process.

Taha’s case has garnered significant attention and raised concerns about the handling of racially motivated incidents on public transport. Organizations like Southall Black Sisters and London’s Victim’s Commissioner have called for appropriate action against the assailant and the officer involved.

by Sharelle B. McNair

October 6, 2023

Steph Curry Allegedly Paid $35M For Promotion Of Failed FTX Cryptocurrency

Author Michael Lewis alleges disgraced FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried paid NBA All-Star Steph Curry $35 million for 60 hours promotion, SF Gate reports.

During an interview on CBS’ 60 Minutes promoting his new book, Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon, Lewis said he met with Bankman-Fried over 100 times, where he got a look at some internal FTX documents showing how much partnering celebrities made for working with the company.

“He paid Tom Brady $55 million for 20 hours a year for three years,” Lewis said. “He paid Steph Curry $35 million for the same thing for three years.”

An ad featuring Curry, which can now only be found on YouTube, painted the facade that he could still succeed in the crypto world without being an expert since FTX made things so easy.

Bankman-Fried is facing federal charges of wire fraud and money laundering, with a trial starting on Oct. 10—the same day Lewis’ book is available to the public. Curry has been listed in a class-action lawsuit against the failed company and its supporters.

Curry joined the company as a global ambassador with an equity stake in 2021. FTX welcomed the Golden State Warrior with open arms in a since-deleted post.

“Welcome to the FTX Team, NBA Superstar Stephen Curry!” the tweet said, according to AfroTech. “We’re excited to announce he’s become FTX Global Ambassador and a shareholder. Though, who better to announce it than @StephenCurry30 himself.”

The cryptocurrency exchange folded a year later in November 2022.

NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal and tennis pro Naomi Osaka were also listed in the lawsuit that claims the celebrity endorsements of FTX were “fraudulent.” To add insult to injury, Shaq was served during the playoff game between the Boston Celtics and the Miami Heat. Court filings report that Osaka allegedly pocketed over $300K, and O’Neal reportedly received close to $750K from FTX.

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

October 6, 2023

Cam Newton Believes He’s A Top Tier NFL Quarterback Without A Team

In a candid conversation with former Pro Bowl quarterback and ESPN analyst Robert Griffin III on Thursday’s episode of RG and The Ones, former Carolina Panthers great Cam Newton raised questions about his absence from the NFL, as reported by USA Today.

Newton, currently without a team in the NFL, didn’t mince words when he expressed his belief about the league and his abilities as a quarterback: “I said there’s not 32 guys that are better than me. I still feel that way,” Newton confidently stated. “I now know there’s not 64 guys that are better than me.”

The 34-year-old quarterback, known for his larger-than-life personality and strong rapport with fellow players, is determined to make a comeback. Despite expressing his willingness to serve as a backup this past spring, Newton is perplexed that an NFL team hasn’t picked him up. In the interview, he even provided a comprehensive list of players he’d be willing to support, including rookies like Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud, and Anthony Richardson.

However, the lingering question remains: Why isn’t Cam Newton back in the league? As Newton sees it, the answer may be more complex than a simple matter of talent. He suggests that his unique personality and popularity among players might give teams pause when considering bringing him in to back up a young quarterback.

“But now, the fact that I did it in a manner where it’s like — what do you tell your team, what do you tell your quarterback room if Cam Newton comes into that situation?” he mused. “It’s bigger than just that. It’s bigger than just bringing on talent. It’s almost similar — and I don’t want to just name-drop — but it’s like bringing Colin Kaepernick to the fold. What is that gonna bring?”

Newton elaborated that the mere presence of an experienced quarterback like himself might create turmoil within a team’s quarterback room, especially when the starter is struggling. He emphasized his professionalism, noting that criticism about his attire and his alleged self-centeredness largely stemmed from outsiders who didn’t really know him.

In a final playful remark to Griffin, Newton joked about his current endeavors as a “YouTuber” and his enjoyment of life as he lingers in the liminal space between Nos. 1 and 32 on the NFL roster list. While he might be taking his time off in stride, one thing is clear: Cam Newton is not ready to hang up his cleats just yet.