Robert Lee, Boopac Shakur, pedophiles, Universal Coney Island, Pontiac, hero

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

October 1, 2023

Michigan ‘Hero’ Gunned Down After Confronting Suspected Pedophile In Restaurant

A Southeastern Michigan community is reeling after the tragic shooting death of “hero” Robert Lee after he reportedly confronted a suspected pedophile at a local restaurant.

Robert, also known as Boopac Shakur, was shot Sept. 29 at Universal Coney Island in Pontiac, Michigan. The self-proclaimed “concerned citizen” reportedly confronted two men inside the restaurant and accused one unidentified man of being a pedophile. The 40-year-old father followed up the indictment by punching the person, and a fight ensued. The man brandished a knife while the second assailant pulled a gun, shooting Robert inside the Universal Coney Island. He later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital.

Oakland County Sheriff’s Department and the Pontiac Gun Violence Task Force partnered to apprehend the suspects– ages 17 and 18. They were arrested Saturday night and will be arraigned next week.

In January, the Oakland Press interviewed the brave Pontiac resident. Robert explained that his efforts to stop pedophiles and child predators in their tracks began by watching NBC’s Dateline “To Catch A Predator” segment with Chris Hansen. The father of three also revealed that Dads Against Predators inspired him to catch predators. To lure potential violators, Robert used his cell phone and social media sites.

“There’s a lot of kids out here and a lot of pedophiles. They could be people sitting next to you. I want to uncover as many as I can.”

Before the incident claimed his life, Robert boasted about helping to catch 82 alleged pedophiles. Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard told the publication that while he understood why the family man pursued predators– he didn’t recommend the vigilante approach.

But he advised against citizens taking matters into their own hands. Robert’s Boopac Shakur videos also have led to four arrests, including another Oakland County deputy, Jared Salisbury. The 34-year-old former deputy was terminated from his post in September 2022 after being charged with accosting a child for immoral purposes. Jared had attempted to meet a 15-year-old girl for sex.

Since Robert’s death, there’s been an outpour of love from supporters and family members alike on Facebook.

On Sept. 30, a vigil was held at Universal Coney Island for the 40-year-old victim.

Quin Lee has set up a GoFundMe on Robert’s family’s behalf. The $30,000 goal is roughly 10% complete. Quin explained that proceeds would go to his daughter, Ah’vyana.

“Funds raised will be dedicated to ensuring [Ah’vyana’s] future is secure, providing her with the opportunities and education that Robert dreamt of for her. Together, let’s stand united and show our love for a true hero and offer solace and assistance to his precious daughter.”

Our prayers go out to Robert’s family.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

October 1, 2023

Bodega Clerk Sues Manhattan District Attorney For Racial Discrimination

A bodega clerk is suing Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg for what he claims was racial discrimination in a lawsuit filed on Sept. 29. The man, Jose Alba, was thrown into Rikers jail after he fatally stabbed an attacker while working at a Harlem convenience store.

In July 2022, Alba was at the Blue Moon Bodega when ex-con Austin Simon attacked him. In what he claims was an act of self-defense, the 61-year-old fatally stabbed Simon, according to the Daily Mail. He was originally charged with second-degree murder for killing the 35-year-old, whom he stabbed in the neck and chest.

However, many believed the charges were unjustified, prompting a social outcry against the prosecution. In the wake of the unanticipated backlash, Bragg’s offices decided to drop the charges. However, Alba is not accepting his release after six days in Rikers as a remedy for his suffering.

Intense public scrutiny and pressure from elected officials led to his reduced bail and subsequent dropping of charges.

“My heart goes out to the employee who was in the store doing his job, ” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “I am hoping that we take all of that into consideration, as this hard-working New Yorker was doing his job, and someone aggressively went behind the counter to attack him.”

Alba believes that he was used by the district attorney and his office after the charges against him were dropped. The filing stated that the attorney’s “racial equity” policies have, in turn, had a negative effect on certain races,

‘While in theory, Bragg’s ‘racial equity’ policies are a well-intentioned attempt by him to implement even-handed justice, the means and methods employed by Bragg have instead had an opposite effect and resulted in discrimination against certain defendants based on race.”

Alba is also suing Department of Corrections Commissioner Louis Molina and additional staff on the grounds of “unconstitutional” and “inadequate” treatment he endured at the Rikers facility.

Bragg pulled back on the hefty charges after a further evidence review determined Alba was not using excessive force in defending himself. While a settlement was attempted at first, Alba is now continuing his suit in the hopes of receiving damages.

Tabitha Brown Headlines Hallmark Mahogany’s Black Women Empowerment Event In Atlanta

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

October 1, 2023

Tabitha Brown Headlines Hallmark Mahogany’s Black Women Empowerment Event In Atlanta

Tabitha Brown is leading a star-studded list of speakers at Hallmark Mahogany’s inaugural event, “Mahogany Moment.” The “curated brand experience” will host panels and discussions for Black women to connect and empower one another.

The event, taking place in Atlanta Oct.1, will also feature Real Housewives of Atlanta star Cynthia Bailey and TV host Egypt Sherrod, and other influencers and professionals who will share their experiences and insights.

“We’re calling it the Mahogany Moment because right now, as we think about what’s happening in culture for Black women, it’s a movement,” Mahogany’s vice president, Alex Kerr, told Rolling Out. “It is a time for us to gather but also support each other. So, the Mahogany Moment is about empowerment. It’s also about taking a step from behind the curtain and discussing what it means to be soulful.”

Of Brown’s inclusion as headliner, Kerr touched on how the content creator “exemplifies” all that they are trying to promote with the experience.

“The intersection of a person like Tabitha Brown is that person when you think about Hallmark; everything about us is about care. When we think about Tabitha, I feel like she exemplifies friendly, sisterly, motherly, auntie, and, in some cases, depending on the age, that grandma care and love,” Kerr said.

The “Mahogany Moment” strives to speak to every women’s purpose in segments such as “Self-Care in the Midst of Ambition” and “Nurturing All Aspects of Your Creativity,” in which Brown is the keynote speaker.

Hallmark Mahogany is a personal expression brand, part of the card company’s portfolio, that centers and caters to the African-American demographic. This event seeks to not only engage further with their intended community but be a beacon of networking and support for Black women as they pursue their personal and professional ambitions.

Tyler Perry Visits The Bahamas To Celebrate 50 Years of Independence

by Daniel Johnson

October 1, 2023

Tyler Perry Visits The Bahamas To Celebrate 50 Years of Independence

Following his efforts to help the island following the devastation of Hurricane Dorian in 2019, Tyler Perry visited the Bahamas recently to help celebrate 50 years of Bahamian independence from the colonial rule of the United Kingdom.

In a Sept. 24 Facebook post Prime Minister Philip Davis’s Office of the Prime Minister acknowledged Perry.

“Earlier this weekend, Tyler Perry paid Prime Minister Philip Davis a courtesy visit to celebrate The Bahamas’ remarkable milestone of 50 years of independence,” the post read. “During their meeting, Perry shared warm congratulations and expressed his admiration for the nation’s achievements. He also highlighted the incredible potential for growth in The Bahamas’ Orange Economy, emphasizing the exciting new opportunities for the creative arts and cultural industries.”

According to the Bahamas Development Bank, The Bahamas’ Orange Economy refers to all sectors of the country’s economy based on the creation of intellectual property.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) states that the “main purpose of the Orange Economy, is the production or reproduction, promotion, dissemination, and/or the marketing of goods, services and activities that have cultural, artistic, or patrimonial content.”

Perry, who owns a private island in The Bahamas, has described himself as an adoptive son of the island in the past.

“I very much feel like a part of the Bahamian people,” he told The Tribune. “If we go back to our history and our culture, and how we all got into America and this part of the world, you know, we all have a common bond. So to have a country celebrating 50 years of independence is pretty amazing, especially being people of color who know what it takes to be independent and to make their way through things.”

Perry also stated his commitment to involving The Bahamas in future projects.

“I write what I know and what I understand,” Perry said. “I never want to be insulting to anyone. So until I fully get immersed and understand and spend time with some real downhome Bahamians—and here’s the other part of it, each island is going to have their own different flavor and feel so until I can understand all of that I don’t want to insult anybody,” he said.

by Jameelah Mullen

October 1, 2023

Hughes Brothers’ Take Home Pay For ‘Menace II Society’ Was Meager

After a four-way split, and taxes and fees, the Hughes brothers received a mere $24,000—if that—from their debut film Menace II Society despite the movie being a box office success.

Albert Hughes, who directed the cultural classic with his twin brother Allen, confirmed the meager earnings in an exclusive interview with VLADTV.

“$100,000 between the two Hughes brothers, right, after taxes, agents … we probably made less than $24,000 and not a dime more,” Hughes said.

When asked if he has ever seen royalties the director responded, “yeah, enough to pay a light bill maybe.”

“Sometimes, you get a check that’s like five cents,” Hughes said. “This ain’t even worth the labor.”

Thirty years ago, Menace II Society was released in theaters May 26, 1993, grossing $3,839,638 opening weekend after producing the film on a $3.5 million budget, The Numbers reported. The movie which contributed to the success of Hollywood actors Tyrin Turner, Jada Pinkett Smith and Larenz Tate, went on to gross $30 million, making the Hughes brothers’ profit that much more abysmal. Luckily for the filmmaking duo, their sophomore effort fetched them far more from Disney Studios.

The brothers received a $1 million check to direct Dead Presidents, another hit movie that raked in $24,000,000 after its 1995 release, and solidified their talents in Tinsel Town.

Menace II Society and Dead Presidents is now streaming on multiple platforms.

RELATED CONTENT: 22 Movies You Didn’t Know Had Black Directors

PVDFest, Arts and Culture, Edward Mitchell Bannister, Art, Statues, African American Statues

by Daron Pressley

October 1, 2023

Providence’s PVDFest Unveils Statue Of Black Artist Edward M. Bannister

PVDFest, held from Sept. 8-11, is the signature cultural event in the capital city of Rhode Island. Founded in 1636, Providence is known as the birthplace of religious freedom and has experienced significant evolution over the last five decades.

Providence boasts a flourishing arts scene, along with lively and multifaceted neighborhoods that attract over 100,000 visitors to Downtown Providence each year for PVDFest.

“PVDFest is a celebration of the people who drive our Creative Capital: its artists, artisans, and the creatives within every sector of our beloved community,” Joe Wilson Jr., a veteran actor who runs the City’s Office of Art, Culture, and Tourism, says.

Home to prestigious schools like Brown University, Rhode Island School of Design, and Johnson & Wales, Providence is rich in art, culture, and African-American history.

The highlight of PVDFest was the unveiling of the Edward M. Bannister Sculpture, memorializing the impact Bannister had on American landscape art.

Edward Mitchell Bannister Statue: A Catalyst for Change

Unveiled during PVDFest, the Edward Mitchell Bannister statue represents a significant milestone in honoring the legacy of this esteemed African-American artist.

“The Bannister statue honors an abolitionist and social justice warrior who has left a somewhat forgotten legacy,” says Washawn Jones of the Bannister Community Art Project. “The courage it took Bannister to pursue a passion for art during a time when there was no place for black people cannot go without mention.”

Sculptures representing Black Americans, or the absence thereof, often go unnoticed as a gauge of racial advancement, yet they exist in plain view. These statues serve as dynamic symbols that can underscore the significance and presence of Black Americans. Conversely, the absence of such statues conveys a stark message of exclusion. In 2021, Monument Lab surveyed 48,178 statues, plaques, parks, and obelisks across the United States and found that less than 1% were of people of color.

Jennifer Davis-Allison of the Bannister Art Club describes the sculpture as a celebration but not the destination.

“There are three platforms that are important in continuing the significant contributions of Bannister. Education, art, and engagement are the pillars to carry on his legacy and integrate a learning experience,” says Davis-Allison.

The economic impact of PVDFest

Artists and performers from around the block and the globe converge in Providence to showcase their talent. The economic impact reached over $2 million for the city, with expectations to grow.

Providence artist and musician Spocka Summa see PVDFest as a driver of entrepreneurial activity. “If you have an idea, put yourself out there,” he says. “PVDFest is a playing field for entrepreneurs and creatives to share their unique abilities with tens of thousands of people.”

Sidi Maïga, a world-renowned Malian djembe drummer is a staple at PVDFest, sharing his West African Dance and Drum Festival: Afrika Nyaga.

“My partnership with the festival allows me to create something to unite the community,” Maïga says. “I also want to inspire and educate young people who see my performances. I want them to see it is possible to be a professional drummer and touch thousands of people through music”

A powerful statement

The unveiling of the Edward Mitchell Bannister statue at PVDFest is a powerful testament to the enduring importance of recognizing and celebrating African-American artists and visionaries in our society.

Not only does the stature pay homage to Bannister’s remarkable legacy as an abolitionist and artist, but also catalyzes change, reminding us of the courage it took to pursue a passion for art during a time of systemic inequality. Sculptures like Bannister’s are vital symbols that underscore the significance and presence of Black Americans in our cultural narrative.

As we continue to celebrate PVDFest’s vibrant arts scene and its economic impact, let us also remember the enduring importance of the Bannister statue as an instrument of education, art, and engagement, bridging the past and the present, and inspiring future generations to break barriers and make their mark on the world.

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

October 1, 2023

Detroit Doll Show Brings Fun And Empowerment With The Help Of American Girl

Originally published on BlackNews

Sandy’s Land LLC is an entertainment service where the mission is to “Party with a Purpose” to provide amusement and empowerment.

Its 2023 Detroit Doll Show will include new and returning vendors and a power-packed program to delight every child as well as the inner child of an adult. Attendees will experience a variety of vendors that include authors, artists, selfie stations, Christmas Diorama and Black dolls.

The event has moved to the Marygrove Conservancy to provide free parking, food trucks and comfort in the heart of the west side community on Saturday, Nov. 18 from 11am to 6pm. The first one hundred people will receive a swag bag.

Program will include tribute in honor of Detroit’s Icon Rev. Dr. JoAnn Watson and character developer of Melody Ellison American Girl Doll; legacy award presentation to honor Tawana Petty Founder of Petty Propolis; Rev. Mayowa Reynolds, Principal; Lil Dee Davis and Luciana Gilmore, Founders of Our Brown Boy Joy; Panel Discussion, “The Negative Impact of Colorism in our Community”; Food Trucks, DJ (Live Music), Raffles, Arts & Crafts, Giant Games, Best Dressed Reborn Doll, Largest Doll Look-Alike Group Selfie, African Drumming & Dance; and a special announcement in regards to the Butterfly Garden & Black Doll Museum.

The Detroit Doll Show’s mission is to celebrate the history, culture, diversity, and self-love with the promotions of dolls of color. This includes action figures and books. The Detroit Doll Show has been featured in the Michigan Citizen, the Detroit News & Free Press, BLAC Magazine, Metro Parent, American Black Journal/PBS, Fox 2, The Noon; WDIV – Live In the D; Rolling Out Magazine, Black America Web, Black Doll Collecting and Dolls Magazine. The event draws in attendees from around the globe of all ages.

Author Denise Crittendon stated, “It’s rewarding and self-affirming to see dolls in one’s own image. The DDS — the largest and most fascinating display of dolls of color I have ever seen — fulfills that need and so much more. Visitors are exposed to dolls of color from all over the globe. It’s a cultural experience that’s beautiful and unforgettable.”

Be prepared to shop with unique vendors before the Christmas holiday and have a Dollightful time at Sandy’s Land LLC’s 12th Annual Detroit Doll Show on Saturday, November 18, 2023, from 11am to 6pm at Marygrove Conservancy, 8425 W. McNichols, Detroit, MI 48221.

Single and group tickets can be purchased in advance at https://detroitdoll.bigcartel.com

To become a sponsor or for questions, email detroitdollshow@gmail.com

by Jameelah Mullen

October 1, 2023

Social Media Users React After Podcaster Says Black Women Are The Only Women Who ‘Embrace The Struggle’

An Instagram clip from the 8 At The Table podcast had social media users in an uproar recently when a guest claimed that Black women are the “only race” of women who wants to be independent, and they seem to “embrace the struggle.”

A social media influencer who goes by the Instagram handle @Gwap0 made these remarks when he appeared as a guest on the podcast.

“I’ve never heard no Spanish woman talking about she happy to be independent. I never seen a white woman in my life on the ‘gram saying I’m independent.“

“Right here,” panelist Aly_ems, a white woman, chimed in.

The animated guest seemed to ignore her statement and continued to speak.

“This is why we as a people don’t have a strong bond because Black women don’t want us,” the guest said, seemingly saying Black women don’t want Black men.

When the clip was reposted to Onsite’s Instagram page, social media users quickly chimed in with passionate rebuttals.

Instagram user panther4_lyfe, who appears to be a male, offered encouragement to Black women.

“And you never hear Brazilian, Chinese, and white men blaming the government for their constant shortfalls and brokenness! Our Black women have unwillingly adapted and that’s commendable not a fault! Keep shining Black women!”

Fox Soul Commentator Claudia Jordan wrote: “Trust us/ it’s not a choice. Many of us feel on our own and not protected from a very early age so we ACT like we embrace the struggle to not appear weak but many of us want nothing more to have a real partner we can totally feel safe with that won’t bounce at the slightest inconvenience. It’s a survival tactic IN MY OPINION (from being disappointed so much!).”

On the full episode of the podcast, which appears on YouTube, the outspoken influencer blamed “butt-hurt” mothers and grandmothers for Black women’s (perceived ) ideologies.

“They put that pain in their daughters,” he said.

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

September 30, 2023

Shirley Strawberry’s Estranged ‘Husband’ Is Allegedly Still Married To First Wife

The plot thickens with the scandal surrounding Earnest “Ernesto” Williams, 58, and his estranged “wife,” The Steve Harvey Morning Show co-host Shirley Strawberry, 69, after a YouTube vlogger exposed the jailbird as an alleged bigamist.

A video uploaded by vlogger Chronicle Speaks on Sept. 25 reportedly revealed Ernesto’s first wife, Edith Williams, contacted the vlogger to divulge that he had been married to her for 37 years. Although Ernesto appeared to have jumped the broom four times, Edith assured Chronicle Speaks that they’ve never legally divorced, so the other women, including Shirley- were never his wives. A certificate of marriage from 2019 documented that the former couple married on Oct. 22, 1985, in Aiken County, South Carolina.

Chronicle Speaks also explained that Edith and Ernesto were college sweethearts who started a business together upon graduating. The former chucked the deuces to her philandering husband after his infidelity and lying became excessive. She didn’t clarify why they never divorced. The other women he fooled into thinking he was married to were Martha, Carol and now Shirley. He was “married” to Martha for 20 years and two years to Carol.

The vlogger shared that the incarcerated man’s estranged wife noted that he never touched her children inappropriately. In 2022, the 58-year-old barber faced charges of gun possession, child pornography, theft and fraud. He’s currently serving just under two years in prison for fraud in Georgia. Ernesto is still facing other egregious charges, including rape and trafficking of a person for sexual servitude, among other violations, stemming from July.

Ernesto’s latest victim, Shirley, is reportedly ready to move on from the cheating debacle, his jail shenanigans and an uncomfortable incident with her boss and friend, Steve Harvey. Black Enterprise reported that the 69-year-old media personality faced public humiliation after a phone call leaked between her and her incarcerated spouse. Shirley alleged that Marjorie Harvey was not kind to Steve’s employees and that the 66-year-old comedian was reportedly “afraid” of Marjorie.

Steve reportedly expressed to the media personality how hurtful her words were, “When [the phone calls] came out, [it was] a little bit different because it’s not gossip, rumor, or [a] malicious lie. It came from the inside circle… ’cause we’re an inside circle. We are family.”

He did eventually forgive his friend.

by Ann Brown

September 30, 2023

‘I Don’t Play Bout My Baby’: Jonathan Owens Fires Back At Fan Who Said His Wife, Simone Biles, Was Rude

Don’t talk bad about NFL player Jonathan Owens’ wife, who happens to be the most decorated gymnast ever, Simone Biles.

Owens, a defensive back for the Green Bay Packers, defended his wife against claims of rudeness made by a fan who encountered Biles during a shopping trip. The incident was brought to light when the fan alleged that Biles was dismissive and impolite during their encounter at a makeup store where she had been working.

The fan, whose account is now private, detailed the encounter through a series of tweets. According to the tweets, the fan mentioned an incident from several months ago, where Biles was described as “so f***ing rude.”

The fan claimed that Biles, 26, refused to take a picture with a coworker’s daughter, justifying it by saying, “Absolutely not. Your daughter is 4 she doesn’t even know me.”

The fan also alleged that Biles complained to the store manager about feeling uncomfortable with people staring at her while she shopped, TMZ reported.

“For months after,” the woman also tweeted, “every time I’d see new about her and they would call her sweet I just recall how mean she was for no reason. When she left we all were like ‘what the f*** just happened.'”

Owens took to social media to defend his wife against these accusations, calling the story a lie.

Owens explained that he was with Biles during the encounter in question and asserted that the allegations were an attempt to gain viral attention. He stressed that Biles is the “sweetest person in the world” and clarified that declining a picture doesn’t make someone rude. Owens further expressed that celebrities often desire to shop in peace and added that unwanted attention can be overwhelming, The New York Post reported.

“Spreading lies on the internet is crazy,” he posted. “It’s okay for her to deny a picture. People don’t understand sometimes you just want to shop in peace, if she stops and takes one picture people will just keep following her and won’t leave us alone.”

He added, “And another thing, I’ve never heard her talk to someone like that, especially to someone who asked her for a picture, like why would you try to make her look like that.”

He continued, “I’m not going for that, I don’t play bout my baby.”