Donda Academy Faces Lawsuit and Scrutiny From Former Teachers
Three former teachers at the Donda Academy are filing a lawsuit against the school, claiming poor treatment, conditions and bullying from the higher ups. Original plaintiffs Cecilia Hailey and her daughter Chekarey Byers were joined by a third, Timanii Meeks, as they pursue a case against musician and fashion designer Kanye West’s school.
All three teachers allege that they experienced racism, bullying and retaliation when they brought up conditions occurring in the building that were less than safe for adults and kids alike. They even alleged that there were checks where the pay was lower than usual, sometimes by the thousands.
In the new complaint amended on June 1, Meeks stated that she believed that “building was not safe for occupants, let alone children.” This wouldn’t be the first time the public has been exposed to alleged poor conditions and lack of support at the Donda Academy. Early this year, it was alleged that the school lunch had been limited to Sushi for an extended period of time, amongst other disturbing alleged issues and concerns.
Hailey also raised the concern in their complaint that they’d gone to the principal, Moira Love, on three occasions. However, when the concerns were raised to Love, instead of taking action, she called Byers and Hailey “aggressive” in front of people. Byers and Hailey both felt a racial bias in Love’s response, saying it “facilitates stereotypes about African-American women as being confrontational simply for doing their job and voicing their legitimate concerns in order to provide a safe environment and proper education for their students.” Hailey even noted that she had tried to reach out to Mr. West himself, to no avail after she was allegedly “threatened not to reach out to him.”
While Meeks was fired months before Byers and Hailey from the school, she and the two other plaintiffs have similar termination stories that can support their suit against the school. The suit is currently in progress.
A lawsuit tailing back to 2016 is finally heading to its end for billionaire music mogul, Jay-Z. The musician was sued in 2016 by fragrance brand Parlux for breach of contract. Jay-Z, legally known as Shawn Carter, countersued against their accusations that included him forgoing appearances and keeping a $20,000 prototype bottle that was rejected. His 2021 win against the company was a financial bullet dodged, as Parlux sought over $60 million in penalties, Uproxx reported. Parlux filed an appeal following the 2021 ruling, however this week the appeals court upheld the ruling against the company, in favor of Carter.
During the trial, Carter’s defense stated that the company had given him “sketchy, inaccurate documentation on its financial health and failed to pay all the royalties he was owed over the course of the partnership.” Parlux went on to also claim that Carter had not promoted the fragrance partnership the way he was expected.
Over a three week trial, Carter won after a jury decided in favor that he did not owe back Parlux the penalties they requested. Afterwards, New York Supreme Court Justice Andrew Borrok also ruled in favor of the mogul that the company actually owed him $6.78 million in unpaid royalties as well as interest.
There hasn’t been any update if Parlux will continue with their appeal, however for now the music mogul seems to have come out on top in this case.
Jemele Hill Corrects False Reports That Her Podcast Was Canceled
People honestly just love to talk for the sake of hearing themselves speak. A rumor hit Beyonce’s internet that Jemele Hill had lost her podcast deal with Spotify, Finurah reported. However, Hill herself had to correct the false news.
In a Tweet sent out late Friday night, Hill commented that “A lot of what’s been reported just isn’t true. My podcast hasn’t been canceled.” Hill has been with Spotify since November 2022 through her ‘Unbothered’ Network deal where she kicked off with two podcasts led by Black women.
People: A lot of what’s been reported just isn’t true. My podcast hasn’t been cancelled. I never asked Spotify for $100M. This shit is truly comical.
Next week’s guest is: Sabrina Elba.
In the coming weeks: Blair Underwood, Kasi Lemmons, JR Smith, Kenny Latimore and more.… https://t.co/L9v4Ce61xS
While there are many whispers that the business partners are in talks of re-working their contract, there have been no confirmations that the two parties have decided to go their separate ways. Hill also made a point to dispel any myths around how much money she asked from Spotify, stating, “I never asked Spotify for $100M. This shit is truly comical.”
Surely, no one is mad at Hill deciding to put an end to all the rumors surrounding her deal with Spotify. In fact, many might expect this from the witty journalist. The commentator is known for her strong stance and putting topics and people in perspective. BLACK ENTERPRISErecently covered an incident where Hill put Barstool Sports Founder Dave Portnoy in his place for talking reckless about LSU student and NCAA basketball champion Angel Reese. Portnoy referred to Reese as a “classless piece of sh*t.”
A swift response soon followed via tweet: “So I’m going to pick this fight. Fuck you.”
Hill’s tweet was followed by a litany of defenses for Reese from other notable names in sports, including Shaquille O’Neal, Stephen A Smith, and Los Angeles Lakers player Lebron James.
Now that the air has been cleared, we’re look forward to seeing what Hill has in store with her podcasts.
Floyd Mayweather’s Sneaker Collection Will Oddly Remind You of a Classic Game
Floyd “Money” Mayweather is probably noted to be one of the flashiest athletes to live, and he has the wealth to back it up. With a net worth, estimated around $450 million, Mayweather can now add a new category to his famous collections. That category is sneakers.
The boxing champion recently shared his love of the sneaker universe on his Instagram account. “I don’t know about anybody else, but ‘Money’ Mayweather loves his sneakers.” To be honest, many of us didn’t know about it.
His high end sneaker collection towers up his walk-in bedroom walls, some even hitting his ceiling as he shares a few pairs in the Reel. A very casual appearance on the social media platform, Mayweather gave a peek into one of his likely many walk-in closets housing his fashionable footwear, positive vibes and all.
“I’m not bragging or boasting I’m just truly blessed. I just want to motivate people. Side note: I donate the shoes after I wear them,” he captioned the Instagram post that featured a video of him talking about his love for his kicks.
The boxer likened the shoe boxes to the game Jenga, where boards are stacked on top of each other as high as possible. He even demonstrated just how high it was, using a ladder to get to the top of his collection.
Mayweather has been enjoying showering his grandson with his love and riches. When he’s not giving his only grandchild mini-boxing lessons, he’s likely driving him around in one of his classic cars, sitting baby boy snuggly into his $18,000 mink fur-lined baby car seat.
While some say he’s probably the richest boxer in the history of the sport, we know for sure that he is living up to his own hype. The accomplished athlete has worked hard for his wealth, and has shown many how to use his wealth for the betterment of others.
#WinWithBlackWomen and Black Women Leaders Buy Out Theaters for “The Little Mermaid” Opening Weekend
Leave it up to Black women to lead a nationwide effort to buy out theaters in support of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” starring Halle Bailey.
With Halle serving as Disney’s first Black live-action princess, #WinWithBlackWomen and Black Women Leaders teamed up to launch an inspiring initiative that bought out theaters nationwide for the new film’s opening weekend, Black Westchesterreports.
The diverse leaders, who represent various industries, successfully bought out over 100 theaters and hosted private screenings that aided in the film’s box office success as the number one movie in the world earning over $723 million worldwide, as noted by Rotten Tomatoes.
“#WinWithBlackWomen is proud to stand behind the transformative narrative of The Little Mermaid,” Jotaka Eaddy, the founder of #WinWithBlackWomen. said.
“We understand the powerful influence of representation and want to highlight the importance of supporting strong, dynamic depictions of Black women in all walks of life.”
The private screenings were held in major markets like Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington DC, Atlanta, and New York, as well as smaller markets including Florence, SC; Kansas City, MO; Jackson, MS; Columbia, SC, Prince George’s County Maryland, Little Rock, AR; Clayton County, GA, and more. Attendees were encouraged to engage in impactful conversation and celebration of the history Halle made with her starring role as the mermaid Ariel.
“As a Black Woman business owner who serves the community, I think it’s crucial that we share positive Black images on the screen, off the screen, and buying screens,” Holli Holliday, entrepreneur and #WinWithBlackWomen leader said.
“Black children should be inspired to play all the positions.”
A number of prominent Black figures aided in the initiative by pledging their support including best-selling author and recipient of a 2023 Luminary Award Luvvie Ajayi Jones, business leaders Michelle Dubois, Jotaka Eaddy, Tameika Isaac Devine, and renowned filmmakers Gina Prince-Bythewood, Felecia Henderson, and Mara Brock Akil, among many others.
“We believe our collective actions will ignite inspiration within future generations. This is about more than a film; it’s a spotlight on stories of courage that are a reflection of Black women. We need more stories like this.”
#WinWithBlackWomen is continuing its theater buyout initiative as “The Little Mermaid” continues to dominate the box office worldwide.
National Home Ownership Month: Automate Savings, Compare Lenders, And More Tips For Aspiring Homeowners
Meet Wendy Wiltz, the New Orleans realtor who’s on a mission to empower and encourage the Black community to own and invest in real estate.
Fresh off the heels of inking a travel television series on Tubi and Xumo that follows her global tour of real estate properties, the “Invest Away” host is focused on educating African Americans on the power of ownership in real estate.
With real estate serving as a natural passion for Wiltz, the former model made a career shift to generate a second source of income that didn’t demand too much of her time or physical presence. Since making the shift, Wiltz uses her platform to promote ownership and share the industry keys that are normally gatekept.
As part of her mission, and in honor of National Home Ownership Month, Wendy Wiltz shared five resourceful tips for aspiring homeowners.
1. Automate Savings: Set up an automatic deposit into a separate account and/or consider a money-saving app such as Albert which automates savings based on your income and bills.
2. Strive For the Best Credit Score Possible: Higher credit scores obtain a better interest rate saving thousands in the long run and allowing you to spend more on your home and less on interest payments. Reach out to a credit advisor to determine if there is room for improvement.
3. Speak to a Realtor ASAP: The earlier this is done, the sooner you’ll become familiar with the process and can get answers to your questions. Don’t assume what you don’t know, get the facts. Most Realtors offer buyer and seller consultations completely free and can help guide you in the right direction.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Compare Lending Options: Not all lenders have the same rates and/or fees. Shopping around for the best mortgage within a 45-day timeframe will result in one inquiry on your credit. This is a big purchase and it’s significant to get the best deal.
5. You Don’t Have to Spend the Entire Pre-Qualification Amount: Don’t be afraid to set your own limits. Let your lender know what you are comfortable spending each month. Avoid being house broke! There will be other things in life you’ll want to do with your family aside from paying a mortgage.
6. Consider Your Day-To-Day Activities in Terms of Location.Purchasing a home convenient to your day-to-day activities can make life easier. For example, don’t hesitate to take the drive from home to your workplace before making the commitment.
Big Freedia ‘Means Business‘ As She Launches Into Entrepreneurship With New Orleans Hotel
Big Freedia is back and bigger than ever and the Queen Diva means business!
The newest season of Fuse’s most-watched docuseries continues Freedia’s professional journey from New Orleans phenomenon to national headliner. But this time around, the bounce music legend is shaking up the business world with ventures in a hotel, a record label, eyewear, purses, a cannabis line and “Big Freedia Means Business!”
“I mean exactly that. business,” Freedia told BLACK ENTERPRISE of the docuseries’ new season.
“I will be this business mogul that will be taking over the business world, letting people see the ups and downs of the business world in my business ventures, the hotel, the record label, the cannabis, the makeup, the eyewear, the press on nails, the whole Big Freedia experience.”
Cameras go inside the Grammy award winner’s board room meetings where there’s always time for a quick twerk session, and Freedia’s construction site visits to oversee the development of Hotel Freedia. All while recording songs for Freedia’s first LP in nine years “Central City.”
The Bounce music pioneer is coming big in the month of June with the release of a new show, a cannabis line, a cosmetics line, a new album, and a summer tour to go with it! The show sees Freedia’s manager try to reel the New Orleans native in when it comes to taking on so many big projects at once.
But Big Freedia is focused on the hustle and inspiring the next generation of movers and shakers.
“It’s been a lot of work, a lot of hard work and determination, lots of conversations, lots of meetings, but great opportunities for me to want to inspire young people out there or anybody who wants to be in the business world, to become a business owner or business leader, you know, a CEO, a boss, you know, all of the great things,” Freedia.
Press play below for the full interview and be sure to catch “Big Freedia Means Business” June 7 on Fuse, and stream “Central City” on June 23.
African-Born Surgeon Helped Shut Down DEI Practices At UNC Medical School
DEI efforts have ramped up nationwide in professional and educational settings, but for African-born surgeon and Harvard graduate Dr. Nche Zama the push for inclusion in the medical field is unsettling.
Joining forces with conservative anti-DEI activist Kenny Xu, Zama spoke on a panel in Chapel Hill aimed at forcing the University of North Carolina‘s medical school to rethink its inclusive practices.
“The most important issue should be educational excellence but it’s the one thing missing in all these DEI policies,” Zama, who immigrated to the United States at age 14, said. With the help of Zama, Xu’s efforts were successful. UNC’s medical school has disbanded its DEI task force and has no plans to implement its recommendations now or in the future, according to the New York Post.
The school’s DEI task force, which was formed in 2019, completed its work in 2020, according to the school. However, Xu claimed that the institution had taken part in “unconscious bias training” and “racially-preferential admissions” since then, according to the paper.
Zama is on board with the thinking of Xu’s group Color Us United, which feels that a focus on diversity rather than academic meritocracy is dangerous in medical schools.
“If you’re promoting numerical equity based on having a certain number of minorities or disadvantaged people and you’re allowing them into medical school based on that, they’re not going to be prepared for what is a very competitive environment,” Zama said. “Health care is the most important thing on this planet and to lower the standards to satisfy a policy is unfair to the patient and to the doctor who may not have the level of confidence and ability he or she should have because of these policies. DEI has drowned out what real diversity should look like.”
Zama’s stern approach may come from a personal connection to saving lives as his book, Mommy Please Don’t Die, details the death of his mother in childbirth, which led to his coming to the United States to pursue a medical degree.
Celebrating Black Pioneers In Advertising: 5 Remarkable Individuals Who Shaped The Industry
Written by Don Brown
The advertising industry has seen the rise of talented and visionary Black pioneers who shattered barriers and made significant contributions. In this article, we highlight five exceptional individuals who not only left a lasting impact but also paved the way for future generations. From breaking down racial barriers to founding their own agencies, these pioneers revolutionized the field of advertising and marketing.
Tom Burrell: Redefining Advertising with Cultural Relevance
Courtesy of D. Watkins
Tom Burrell’s journey began as a mailroom worker at Wade Advertising while studying at Roosevelt University in 1961. Despite facing racial barriers, Burrell became the agency’s first African American copywriter, challenging the industry’s status quo. His belief that “Black people are not dark-skinned white people” transformed advertising strategies, notably seen in his iconic reimagination of the Marlboro Man. Burrell later founded his agency, Burrell Communications Group, working with renowned brands such as McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, and Kmart.
Vincent T. Cullers: Breaking Boundaries with the Cullers Agency
Courtesy of D. Watkins
Vincent T. Cullers, a former art director at Ebony magazine, recognized the industry’s underserved market and co-founded the Cullers Agency in 1956 with his wife, Marian, and Emmitt McBaine. Their agency aimed to bring attention to communities that had long been neglected by advertising. Through their groundbreaking work, they challenged stereotypes and empowered diverse voices.
Barbara Gardner Proctor: Shattering Glass Ceilings with Proctor and Gardner Advertising
Courtesy of D. Watkins
Barbara Gardner Proctor, an advertising executive, made history as the first African American woman to own and operate an advertising agency. In 1970, she founded Proctor and Gardner Advertising, Inc., which quickly became one of the largest African American advertising agencies in the United States. Proctor’s resilience and commitment to excellence earned her numerous accolades, including being named Chicago Advertising Woman of the Year and being featured in the Smithsonian Institution’s “Black Women Achievement against the Odds Hall of Fame.”
Jo Muse: Championing Multicultural Advertising
Courtesy of D. Watkins
Known as the “Father of Multicultural Advertising,” Jo Muse broke barriers and championed diversity in the industry. In 1987, he co-founded Muse Cordero Chen, the first true multiethnic agency, alongside David Chen and Mavis Cordero. Muse believed in the power of reflecting the diverse consumer base through the agency’s workforce and campaigns. His dedication to fostering talent and promoting diversity earned him a place in the Advertising Hall of Fame. Muse passed away just a few weeks ago in April of 2023.
Don Coleman: Leading the Way in Multicultural Advertising
Courtesy of D. Watkins
Don Coleman, an advertising executive and entrepreneur, played a pivotal role in the growing field of multicultural advertising. He founded GlobalHue, the largest multicultural advertising agency in the United States. Coleman’s agency focused on effectively communicating with African-American, Asian, and Hispanic consumers. His commitment to diversity and cultural relevance garnered recognition, including being named the BE 100 Advertising Agency of the Year.
Aaron Walton – A Legacy of Excellence
Courtesy of D. Watkins
Aaron Walton, a highly influential figure in the advertising industry, has made remarkable contributions to the field. After graduating from Babson College, Walton embarked on an impressive career journey, working with notable names such as PepsiCo, Michael Jackson, and Magic Johnson. In 2005, he co-founded Walton Isaacson,alongside Cory Isaacson.
Through his leadership, the agency has achieved exceptional results for A-list clients, including Lexus, American Airlines, Constellation, McDonald’s, Pepsi, Bristol-Myers Squibb, and Amazon.
Walton’s impact on the advertising industry goes beyond his agency’s success. His entrepreneurial spirit, influence, groundbreaking ideas, and exceptional leadership have solidified his position as one of the nation’s top Black advertising executives. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Walton was inducted into the advertising hall of fame in 2023.
These five remarkable pioneers not only made their mark in the advertising industry but also paved the way for future generations of Black professionals. Through their talent, determination, and groundbreaking ideas, they challenged the status quo, shattered barriers, and championed diversity and cultural relevance. Their contributions continue to inspire and shape the ever-evolving landscape of advertising and marketing.
Chicago Urban League Released The ‘State Of Chicago’ Report And The Racial Disparity Is Dismal
The Chicago Urban League released its annual “State of Chicago” report which reveals major disparities between the city’s Black and white residents.
According to the organization’s site, The Chicago Urban League was founded in 1916 to help achieve equity for Black families and communities through social and economic empowerment and was one of the first affiliates of the National Urban League.
This year, the numbers represented not only a significant decrease in the Black population of Chicago but also a clear line of segregation from white residents.
The CUL found that over 80 percent of Chicago’s Black population would need to be relocated for the two groups to be evenly distributed throughout the city, according to the report. With a clear difference between where each race live, the disparities in resources, safety, access, and income will continue to rise.
“If we don’t take the all-hands-on-deck approach, we will continue to see a tale of two cities,” said CUL President and CEO Karen Freeman-Wilson.
“Because, unless you are doing something to help people catch up, other folks will keep making progress; and Black people, Black Chicagoans, will continue to lag behind,” she said.
The median income for Black households in Chicago is less than $36,000 a year, while for White households is more than $82,000, according to the report. The majority of white residents tend to exist in solid middle-class and wealthier neighborhoods that allow them immediate access to a range of Chicago’s amenities.
The differences in earnings and therefore quality of life can also be attributed to unemployment. For Black residents, the unemployment rate is more than 16 percent, for white residents it is just under 11 percent.
With limited resources and lack of access to disposable income, Black residents are not always at liberty to afford higher education. As a result, more than 53 percent of white residents have at least a bachelor’s degree, while the number is just under 23 percent for Black residents.
