The Dayton Public Schools Board of Education has filed a lawsuit against the state of Ohio to challenge a new budget provision that prevents DPS students in Montgomery County from using school-issued bus passes at the downtown Dayton bus hub, the Dayton Daily News reported. With the hub serving as a transfer point for numerous RTA routes across the city, the law effectively stops Dayton Public from providing bus passes to its students, forcing them to get to school on their own.
“While DPS is not required to transport high school students to and from school, the practical reality is that if DPS does not provide transportation to its students, many of them will not have a safe means of transportation to and from school,” the lawsuit states.
Other Montgomery County districts, like Huber Heights City Schools, don’t provide busing for high school students and also don’t purchase bus passes. Comparing median household incomes, $61,942 in Montgomery County versus $74,947 in Huber Heights, highlights how families in Huber Heights are more likely to afford transportation costs than those in Dayton Public Schools.
“This effect will be harmful to students and families who do not have the financial capabilities to provide their own forms of transportation to and from school,” the lawsuit adds.
The lawsuit labels the state law amendment as unconstitutional under Ohio’s Uniformity Clause because it targets only DPS students. The district is seeking a temporary restraining order and a preliminary injunction to block enforcement of the law.
“We have heard from many individuals through their interactions with board members and staff members, and there is a consensus that, as a school district, we must partner with the community to assist and defend children,” DPS Superintendent David Lawrence said. “We continue to explore all of our options in an attempt to support our students and their families.”
Da Brat And Judy To Share Their Love Story In New Memoir, ‘The Way Love Goes’
Da Brat and Judy are sharing their love story in the form of a memoir and relationship guide.
Da Brat and wife Jesseca “Judy” Harris-Dupart remain an open book with their love story and will go more in-depth in their upcoming memoir.
The trailblazing hip-hop star and her beauty mogul wife will share the full story of their inspiring relationship in The Way Love Goes: A Guide to Building a ‘Beaurtiful’ and Everlasting Relationship. Scheduled for release in early 2026, the book will explore how the couple navigated the challenges of high-profile life to build a lasting bond through marriage, parenthood, and multiple business ventures.
“Guess who wrote a book 🤭🤗 and we are so excited for all of y’all to read it,” the pair announced on Instagram. “It’s literally been about 2 years in the making 🫶🏽🫶🏽 but it’s here. THE WAY LOVE GOES ❤️🤭 a book about us and how we have navigated our relationship over the years.”
Designed as a memoir and relationship guide, the book will trace Da Brat and Judy’s journey from the beginning of their relationship in 2017, through a brief breakup during which Da Brat came out as LGBTQ+, to the birth of their son, True Legend Harris-Dupart, in 2023, a journey the couple shared on their WeTV seriesBrat Loves Judy.
“We’re beyond excited to finally share our story in this book,” Da Brat and Judy told People. “It’s raw, it’s real, it’s us–full of love, lessons, laughter, and everything in between.”
The couple “have poured our hearts into these pages just being ourselves and living our lives as we do daily,” they said.
“True love and longevity is about commitment, communication, understanding, and sacrifice. We hope readers thoroughly enjoy our journey and how we sustain a happy and successful partnership,” Brat and Judy added.
The couple admitted that the book has been years in the making, and fans are celebrating the new project. One even recalls a past Brat Loves Judy episode where Judy tried to convince Da Brat to write a book.
“Yayyyy Love This yall finally did it I remember the episode where you were trying to get Brat on board with doing a book and it’s finally here can’t wait to get my copy Love you both Congratulations 🙌🏾❤️❤️❤️,” they wrote.
YouTube May Lean Into AI Use To Monitor Age Verification
YouTube is slowly rolling out an AI program that scans users search history and personal data to verify age.
YouTube will soon be implementing an age-verification process — leadership claims the move is aimed at ensuring minors are subject to appropriate online protections. Just in case a minor misstates their age at the time of sign-up, the AI feature will catch the error and implement safety measures.
The company announced its intent to move forward in a blog post written by James Beser, YouTube’s director of product management. For now, a small control group across the U.S. will take part in the AI age estimation technology. The company did not indicate whether or not the beta testers will need to opt in to the trial.
“Over the next few weeks, we’ll begin to roll out machine learning to a small set of users in the U.S. to estimate their age, so that teens are treated as teens and adults as adults,” Beser said.
He added that the platform will “closely monitor this before we roll it out more widely,” highlighting the company’s cautious approach.
The system does not rely on the birthdate entered during account creation. Instead, it analyzes a range of behavioral signals. These include monitoring the types of videos watched, video searches, account age, and viewing categories. Based on the search, the AI program infers whether the user may be under 18.
If flagged as a minor, users will automatically receive protections similar to those existing under-18 settings. This includes disabling personalized ads, activation of digital wellbeing tools like “take a break” reminders, limitations on sensitive content recommendations, and privacy prompts.
YouTube users may be mistakenly misclassified as underage. They can verify their true age using one of three methods: uploading a government-issued ID, submitting a selfie, or providing a credit card.
The YouTube announcement comes after Spotify implemented its own age verification system. After the passing of the UK Online Safety Act, platforms that host “adult content” are now required to implement youth safety measures. Unlike YouTube, platforms in the UK are using more than AI content searches and analysis.
The UK Online Safety Act expands the scope of verification options. As well as face verifications, platforms are allowed to use banking information, online banking age verification, use of a digital identity wallet, age checks via credit card, age estimation via email address, and Photo-ID, which may require consumers to upload both a selfie and a copy of their government ID.
The U.S. has not yet adopted any government policy surrounding verification, yet it appears companies, like YouTube, are being preemptive in their company policy.
Crowning The Road: England’s Most Iconic Supercars And Grand Tourers
Designers and artisans across the pond are magical with their bespoke craftsmanship and methods.
By Kimatni D. Rawlins
From the legendary performance of McLaren to the luxurious refinement of Aston Martin, Britain has a distinguished history of producing some of the world’s most iconic supercars and grand tourers. These vehicles are more than just modes of transportation; they are a showcase of exceptional engineering, timeless design, and a driving experience that has captivated enthusiasts for decades. Join us as we explore the models that have cemented their legacy as the most celebrated British machines on the road.
Recalling the test drive in San Diego with the all-new Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé in the spring of 2007, we invited Nick Cannon, an aficionado of the British automaker, to join us as the first entertainer to witness and experience the convertible. The brother was ecstatic and lost his mind at the time. But that is the distinctive effect British automakers garner from urban car fanatics, especially me!
Designers and artisans across the pond are magical with their bespoke craftsmanship and methods. For example, when the Bentley GT hit the scene, it found a newfangled audience within the hip-hop community. I can’t tell you how many rap videos the coupe was featured in. The reverence for the sporty two-door was unimaginable. The momentum continues as I showcase four elite British models that will engage all five senses.
McLaren Artura Spider
McLarens are born and bred on the track. The latest interaction with the brand’s racing technology came in the form of a 2025 McLaren Artura Spider, finished with a vibrant Ventura Orange paint job. Artura originated from pairing “Art” and “Future,” precisely articulating McLaren’s vision of the perfect daily driver. Energetically balanced, there is nothing like 691 English horses racing down runways with authority from the twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain. Inherently resourceful, McLaren leverages the technology and expertise from its motorsports division to enhance the performance of its consumer fleet.
The Artura is constructed with super-lightweight materials, advanced driver-focused technologies, and inventive McLaren design and engineering techniques. Representing McLaren’s first series-production hybrid convertible, it produces 691-horsepower, pushing the vehicle from 0 to 62 mph in 3 seconds. Top speed is a remarkable 205 mph. The supercar also offers a short all-electric range of about 21 miles for quiet city cruising. The e-motor also empowers the gas engine for top-end acceleration when called upon.
Starting at $273,800, the model test-driven was equipped with nearly every option available, totaling $325,258.
Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II
As you can imagine, Ghost Series II is technologically progressive due to detailed product planning and modern design strategies. It enters the reinvention phase as the most successful model in the British marque’s history. Ghost owners will appreciate the updated 6.75-liter twin-turbo V12 engine distributing 563-horsepower, a Spirit of Ecstasy Clock Cabinet, upgraded 1,400-watt, 18-speaker Rolls-Royce Bespoke Audio, and Grey-Stained Ash and Duality Twill finishes.
The test car featured fully polished 22” wheels, which Rolls-Royce describes as an interplay of elegant folding surfaces highlighting the robust 9-spoke arrangement. All-wheel steering and all-wheel drive increase traction and improve maneuverability. Of course, the rear-hinged, automatically closing coach doors and the famed Rolls-Royce door umbrellas are key attributes of the Ghost Series II. Interested parties can order and specify their Ghost Series II at any Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA authorized dealer commencing at $355,000. The $420,000 Black Badge Ghost Series II amplifies the game by integrating above and beyond amenities.
The posh, Bespoke cabin of the Series II is creatively curated from hand-stitched materials, precious metals, advanced digitization, omnipresent illumination, and new fabrics. For example, the richly grained Grey-Stained Ash is a natural open-pore wood finished by hand and highlighted with microscopic metallic particles for a shining effect. Optional features include reclining Serenity Seating akin to a mobile spa, a Champagne cooler, an automatic folding picnic table, lambswool floormats, illuminated treadplates, and the Shooting Star Headliner, all designed to provide occupants with memorable excursions.
The Return of Aston Martin’s Legendary Vanquish V12
Numerous devotees of British design philosophies first became acquainted with the Vanquish in the 2002 James Bond spy film Die Another Day, which starred Pierce Brosnan as 007. Quite the contrary, I wished to live another day to take full advantage of Aston Martin’s 2025 Vanquish V12 and its intoxicating acceleration.
Stunningly beautiful and ambitiously powerful, the RWD supercar from Gaydon is backed by a 5.2-liter Twin-Turbo V12 releasing 824-horsepower for a top speed of 214 mph and a 3.2-second 0-60 mph time. In addition, Formula 1 credibility is essential, since racing is aligned with the company’s history. What Aston Martin learns from the track is instilled into consumer products. Reserved for the upper echelon of society, just under 1,000 examples will be made annually for $429,000.
Step inside to admire the uber-luxurious and technical cockpit. Intimate details begin with semi-aniline leather, 16-way adjustable sports plus seats, carbon-fiber paneling (or metal trim), a new 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins bespoke audio system, and the fully digital 10.25” customizable touchscreen, which sits at an angle. The in-house engineered, custom infotainment system is utilized on three other Aston Martins (DB12, Vantage, and DBX 707) to bring the brand up to speed with today’s standards. For example, Wireless Apple CarPlay is available, and the Aston Martin Connected Car app is the nucleus for typical operations. I’m also elated that the Vanquish V12 incorporates physical buttons and dials instead of just touch-capacitive.
In addition to luxurious rides, Aston Martin’s Formula One team has actively committed to diversity and inclusion, with a particular focus on creating opportunities for Black individuals and students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). As part of its “Make A Mark” strategy, the team has partnered with organizations like the Aleto Foundation to provide bespoke leadership and mentorship programs for young ethnic minority students, aiming to break down barriers to entry in motorsport and STEM careers. Additionally, in collaboration with partners such as Cognizant and Citi, Aston Martin has held panel discussions and events to inspire students from HBCUs and underserved communities, showcasing pathways into the sport beyond driving. The team also celebrates Black History Month with internal events to honor the contributions of its diverse workforce and foster an inclusive culture where every team member feels represented and empowered.
New Bentley Continental GT Speed Electrifies
When the Continental GT first hit the scene, it was a cultural phenomenon that became a universal driveway display for influential individuals, from pro athletes to music artists. Today, the British grand tourer represents top-notch engineering, design, and technology practices related to performance and interior personalization from Bentley’s traditional bespoke materials and decorative finishes.
The current GT Speed is a plug-in hybrid featuring a 25.9 kWh battery and 140 kW e-motor, providing 50 miles of electric range for driving quietly and efficiently through the city. The marvel is powered by a stalwart 4-liter twin-turbo V8 (shared with the Porsche Panamera) that produces a combined 771-horsepower for a 0 to 60 mph time of 3.1 seconds. Added performance stems from active AWD, all-wheel steering, an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters, and twin exhaust outlets that rumble when pushed. Switch to Sport mode to automatically open the valves and exhaust, producing thrilling audible notes.
Bentley is famous for its custom and premium interior materials, whether dark chrome or stone veneers. Owners consistently come to Bentley to present their unique expressions, mainly through color combos and hand-finished materials. The vehicle has been upgraded with connected services using Google’s network, air ionization, and wellness seat technology. Quilted doors, three-dimensional leather textures, and perforated bucket seats set the tone for stellar craftsmanship. The icing on the cake comes in the form of the 3-way Bentley Rotating Display, which is interchangeable to show either a handcrafted veneer, three analog dials, or the 12.3” navigation screen. Pricing starts at $302,100.
It needs to be stated that Rolls-Royce ownership is a potent symbol of success. This luxury brand has been embraced by prominent figures in the Black community, including athletes like Floyd Mayweather and Shaquille O’Neal, as well as artists like Jay-Z and Beyoncé , who reportedly own a custom-built Rolls-Royce Boat Tail valued at over $28 million.
Entrepreneurship has also played a key role, with Thomas Moorehead becoming the first African American Rolls-Royce dealer in the U.S. in 2001; his company, Sterling Motorcars, now generates over $600 million annually and supports the community through various initiatives. Reflecting this growing market and social awareness, Rolls-Royce has made a public commitment to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and leadership, implementing programs like a global leadership initiative for Black, Asian, and other ethnic groups to increase representation.
The company also celebrates UK and US Black History Months and has adapted its marketing to authentically reflect its diverse consumer base, a notable evolution from a historical reliance on stereotypes.
So, you can get with this, or you can get with that. But no matter what, a luxury British ride is where it’s at!
Men Who XCEL: Troy Taylor To Be Honored At The 2025 ‘XCEL Summit For Men’
Troy Taylor, CEO and founder of Coca-Cola Beverages Florida will be honored for his elite work in the beverage industry and Black community.
Troy Taylor will be honored for his exceptional leadership in business and mentorship at the 2025 BLACK ENTERPRISE XCEL Summit for Men.
Taylor made history as the first family owner of a Coca-Cola franchise. He exemplifies the summit’s ethos of “Made For Men. Built For Impact.” In 2015, Taylor broke barriers by establishing Coca-Cola Beverages Florida. The company is the first privately held Coca-Cola bottling franchise in six-decades. A decade later he remains the founder, chairman, and CEO. The company now ranks as the third-largest privately owned Coca-Cola franchise in the U.S.
Billion-Dollar Businessman
In 2018, BE reported on Taylor’s success in garnering $1.2 billion in revenues. BE recognized Taylor’s franchise as part of the elite “billion-dollar revenue club.” The acknowledgement is a rare feat amongst Black-owned businesses.
Taylor is intentional in his efforts to pour back into the Black community through his business venture. He makes a point of using his personal and professional leverage to uplift others.
“The beauty of having larger Black-owned businesses, you’re controlling cash flow where you can invest in Black banks, Black vendors, and other Black entrepreneurs,” he said to BE CEO Earl “Butch” Graves at the company’s BEEntrepreneurs Summit.
Business Accolades
Beyond scaling his enterprise, Taylor serves on multiple industry boards: the Coca-Cola Bottlers’ Association, American Beverage Association, and the Florida Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, he also contributes to the overall governance of the institution through the Coca-Cola North America System Leadership Board and the Florida Council of 100. Furthermore, in 2018, his entrepreneurship earned him the EY Entrepreneur of the Year, Florida (Consumer Products) award, further affirming his business acumen and impact.
After receiving his honor for his exceptional leadership, Taylor will lend his voice during a fireside chat. Taylor will join Ed Gordon, Jamal Harrison-Bryant and George C. Fraser in conversation. The esteemed honorees and host will discuss what’s lies ahead for Black men, the Black community, and Mobilizing On An Agenda For Black Progress.
Taylor’s is poised to inform and inspire emerging professionals at the XCEL Summit for Men. Be in attendance Oct. 15–17 at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando. For more information click here.
Economists report that healthcare and social assistance are defying the broader hiring slowdown, ABC News reports. The two sectors are emerging as the only industries to show job growth over the past three months.
“This is a job market where growth is very thin,” said Daniel Zhao, chief economist at job-posting site Glassdoor. “Unfortunately, there aren’t many industries growing consistently and robustly.”
“The job market is being propped up by healthcare and social assistance,” Zhao added.
Ongoing demand for healthcare from an aging population and recovery from COVID-19-related job losses are driving growth in the health sector, while rising needs for services such as childcare and counseling are boosting social assistance roles amid a struggling economy.
“We do expect job growth in healthcare to continue as the U.S. population ages and demand for health services continues to rise,” Zhao said.
The healthcare sector added 55,000 jobs in July, accounting for three of every four jobs created across the U.S. economy last month. This continues a period of strong growth that has lasted several years, economists say, as healthcare remains a necessity for consumers regardless of economic conditions.
“Healthcare is a non-optional industry,” says Cory Stahle, an economist at Indeed Hiring Lab. “If you need healthcare, you need healthcare.”
Social assistance, which provides support and emergency relief services, added 18,000 jobs in July, nearly one in four of all jobs created last month. All of these new positions came from the “individual and family services” segment, which includes counseling, welfare, and referral services.
Employers have continued hiring therapists despite the cooldown in the job market. Should the economy slip into a recession, the sector is expected to keep growing, as more people would require assistance during financial hardship.
“This is a sector that grows even during bad times, because there is a demand for more social assistance when the economy is poor and people do need those services,” Zhao said.
These Black-Owned Car Dealerships Are Thriving In The Automotive Industry
Black-owned car dealerships are far and in between
Black-owned car dealerships are few and far between. Recent statistics from National Automobile Dealer Association (NADA) and the National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers (NAMAD) indicate that of the roughly 18,000 throughout the United States a mere 8% are owned by minority groups. To date, just 266 car dealerships are Black-owned. Disparity aside, these Black-owned dealerships are thriving in the automotive industry by offering their clientele a range of vehicles and treating customers like royalty with much-deserved dignity and respect. Let’s take a look at eight dealerships that are really making a name for themselves across the country.
Famba Automotive Inc.
Faith Mba, an entrepreneur who owns the Famba Automotive Inc. dealership in Vermont. The company was set up in 2018. Famba specializes in Toyota and Ford sales. You can find them at 6896 US Route 5 in Westminster. Faith started out vending at a street market in Nigeria, and now the Nigerian American owns a dealership for both Toyota and Ford in the U.S. Famba Automotive is all about making sure customers are happy and community involvement. Famba has a selection of new and used cars to choose from. Faith’s journey is a part of what makes this dealership unique.
Mills Automotive Group is an Black-owned dealership group that has been around since 2008. Mills Auto is based in Pineville, North Carolina. The company was founded by Damian Mills, an entrepreneur who made a mark in the industry. What sets Mills Auto apart is the range of brands the company offers. We’re talking Toyota, Volkswagen, Genesis, BMW, Mercedes Benz, Maserati, Audi, and Sprinter to name a few. If you’re ever in the area you can find them at 10724 Pineville Road, in the heart of Pineville. There are a lot of options under one roof.
RLJ McLarty Landers Automotive Holding is a dealership in Little Rock, Arkansas. RLJ McLarty Landers has a group of dealerships under its belt, selling all types of vehicles. The company was started back in 2007 by Robert L. Johnson. RLJ McLarty Landers Automotive Holding is not just about selling cars. It’s also about giving back to the community. As one of few Black-owned car companies in the U.S., RLJ McLarty Landers Automotive Holding is passionate about promoting diversity and helping out in their neighborhood.
Sutton Auto Team has been a staple in the Midwest since 1989, when it was founded by Nathaniel “Nate” Sutton. The dealership is mostly known for selling Fords, but deals other brands, too. Based in Matteson, Illinois, the company started small and has since expanded into a dealership group that serves the whole state. What sets Sutton Auto Team apart is its customer service and dedication to the community. Sutton Auto Team is passionate about giving back and being involved in the community, which is one reason they’re so beloved. The dealership company is a player in the auto market. The family-owned business is led by Nate Sutton’s daughter, Karen Sutton-Ford.
In the heart of New York’s Hudson Valley is a BMW dealership that stands out from the rest. BMW of the Hudson Valley, situated in Poughkeepsie, is owned by Ronald Walton, a businessman with enthusiasm and passion for the brand. Since its launch in 2009, this dealership has become the go-to place for BMW fans in the area. Whether you’re in the market for a brand new car or something preowned, BMW of the Hudson Valley has got you covered.
Lexus of Huntsville in Huntsville, Alabama, has been around since 2016. What’s pretty remarkable about this place is that it’s owned by Ellenae Fairhurst, who happens to be the first African American woman to ever own a Lexus dealership in the U.S. If you’re in the market for a set of wheels, Lexus of Huntsville has a selection of brand-new and preowned Lexus vehicles to choose from. The dealership tends to offer high-end cars.
If you’re in the market for a set of wheels, you should check out Jackson Acura in Roswell, Georgia. The dealership is 51% Black-owned by Harvey Jackson and has been around since 2006. Jackson Acura has built a reputation for treating their customers like royalty. The business earned a whopping $56 million in revenue in 2009.
Pittman Enterprises
Pittman Enterprises has come a long way since Winston R. Pittman Sr. first started the company in Louisville, Kentucky back in 1987. What began as a dealership, has blossomed into one of the largest African American-owned auto dealership groups in the country. Today, Pittman Enterprises is spread across multiple states, offers a range of car brands and top notch customer services and is heavy on the customer service.
Rev. Al Sharpton Calls For Mediation After The Sierra Club’s First Black Executive Is Terminated
Aaron Mair, who served as the first Black president of the board, said Jealous has been “a victim of racism, white privilege and white victimhood.”
Civil rights activist and founder of the National Action Network (NAN) is calling on the Sierra Club, an environmental organization to act in “good-faith” and host a mediation with Ben Jealous, the group’s first former Black executive in its 130-year existence, after he feels Jealous’s firing will spark racial implications, according to a press release shared with BLACK ENTERPRISE.
Sharpton is calling for an independent mediation to take place between both Jealous and the Sierra Club following a review of the situation, feeling “another set of eyes is needed to examine what has gone on here. “I am troubled by the Sierra Club’s manner in which they parted ways with Ben Jealous, a man who has carried himself with dedication, professionalism, and integrity in the time I have known him,” Sharpton said in a statement.
“There are serious racial implications in firing a Black man of Ben’s caliber, in this fashion, at a time when diversity is under attack. It also runs counter to the Sierra Club’s own principle of eradicating racism.”
The organization has failed to outline details on the reasons behind Jealous’s firing after being at the Sierra Club since early 2023. The former leader of People for the American Way and the NAACP was brought on after Sierra’s former leader, Michael Brune, stepped down in 2021 amid sustained calls for the organization to heighten diversity amongst its leadership.
Shortly after, the group was flooded with complaints about Jealous from employees and the Club’s staff union, Progressive Workers Union (PWU), according to E&E News. After taking on a $40 million budget deficit, the leader announced layoffs shortly after arriving, resulting in a public spat between Jealous and staff members.
While members of the PWU’s Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Caucus sent a letter to the Club’s board of directors pushing concerns regarding Jealous’s leadership, Aaron Mair, who served as the first Black president of the board, said Jealous has been “a victim of racism, white privilege, and white victimhood.” He seemingly agrees with Sharpton’s sentiments, labeling Jealous as “a professional” who used his tenure as executive director to care for the group’s fiduciary condition. “He was fired for stabilizing this organization,” Mair said.
Back in a 2023 interview, Jealous said PWU was “attacking the brand of this organization for years” and accused the union of sending reporters to leaders with “multiple lies” that “follow racist tropes about Black leadership.” The former gubernatorial candidate for the state of Maryland called their tactics “uniquely destructive.”
Sharpton wants to bring both parties to the table to hopefully reach a resolution. “Whether it’s myself or another trusted third-party, someone clearly must step in to bring a resolution to this issue,” the NAN president said.
“We should instead focus on making this planet cleaner and healthier. I urge the Sierra Club to come to the table and put this chapter behind all of us so we can get back to that shared mission.”
DC Mayor Muriel Bowser Changes Her Tone Amid Trump’s Police Takeover – But Why?
Several Democratic leaders at the city and state levels have openly condemned the President’s moves but Bowser seemingly used the opportunity to welcome the challenge as help for local law enforcement.
It seems that Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser is between a rock and a hard place as President Donald Trump has unleashed the National Guard on the streets of our nation’s capital amid a call to crack down on growing crime, NBC News reports.
By taking control of the Metropolitan Police Department, Trump called on Bowser to join in and cooperate with the order of his administration. While several Democratic leaders at the city and state levels have openly condemned the President’s moves — as he threatens to do the same in other metro cities — Bowser seemingly used the opportunity to welcome the challenge as help for local law enforcement. “What I’m focused on is the federal surge and how to make the most of the additional officer support that we have,” Bowser said following a meeting with Attorney General Pam Bondi.
While she has labeled Trump’s move to community leaders as an “authoritarian push,” Bowser’s tone has been described as more measured than that of other leaders from the blue side of the aisle. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) turned the tables on the indicted politician, stating, “The Trump administration has consistently broken the law and violated the Constitution to further the personal and political agenda of a wannabe king.”
Starting Aug. 11, law enforcement on the federal level has been seen parading the streets of D.C. in what the Trump administration has described as “a crime-fighting effort” in addition to removing homeless persons off the streets. The concerns about the federal takeover are supported by legislation from decades ago. Since Washington, D.C. is not a state, the federal government has the right to overtake city affairs, despite the 1973 Home Rule Act, which grants the city the right to elect its own mayor and council members.
However, some leaders understand Bowser’s standpoint, regardless of her back being against the wall. Washington, D.C. City Council member Christina Henderson says she empathizes with the mayor. “You do not want to be the mayor that loses home rule, and that there is no mayor after you,” Henderson said, according to CNN.
As Bowser’s team has highlighted her skill of removing emotions from certain situations, political analyst for D.C. public radio station WAMU and veteran city reporter Tom Sherwood said the mayor is being smart with her strategic ways. “I believe that the mayor has done all she can do to tend to the weather-vane attitude of President Trump,” Sherwood said.
“The image from the president is that the district is a liberal, mostly Black city that doesn’t care about fighting crime, and so that’s left the mayor and the DC Council as prime targets for him.”
While Trump called the mayor “a good person who has tried” and given many chances, his anti-Black rhetoric is still at the forefront of everyone’s mind. In 2020, the president, during his first term, employed the National Guard to violently break up peaceful Black Lives Matter protests. He then used the moment for a photo op in front of a church, holding up a Bible in an odd move to address the press. The organizing director of Free DC, a movement that calls for accountability in the district’s statehood, Nee Nee Taylor, remembers the backlash from that moment and feels Bowser is doing the best that she can. “I think she’s standing up to the best of her ability, being that DC is not a state,” Taylor said.
However, she is not blind to what residents feel is Trump’s true agenda. “Black Washingtonians have long recognized that community violence cannot be solved through state violence,” she continued. “We will not be idle as oppressors’ structures try to harm our communities and take power.”
Drake Wants Access To Kendrick Lamar’s Recording Contract, Alleged Evidence Of Domestic Violence
The saga continues during the discovery stage of Drake's defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group
In Drake’s defamation lawsuit against his distribution label, Universal Music Group, his attorneys have recently requested information about his rival, Kendrick Lamar’s contract with the company, as well as any documented paperwork related to allegations of domestic violence or any crimes allegedly committed by Lamar.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, the Canadian superstar is looking to receive those items in a discovery move against the recording label in his suit, accusing the label of spreading defamatory statements that Lamar alluded to in his hit song, “Not Like Us.” The attorneys are asking the court to force UMG and the company’s CEO, Lucian Grainge, to turn over the label’s contract with Lamar, as well as information related to alleged crimes committed by the “M.A.A.d City” rapper.
In the paperwork, Drake has stated that the label allowed Lamar to spread a narrative that the OVO label owner is a pedophile, thus ruining his reputation. He also asserted that UMG offered reduced licensing rates to third parties to help promote “Not Like Us” to bring down Drake’s value while they were in the middle of contract renegotiations.
After a previous court date, after UMG handed Drake’s lawyers the contract it had with Lamar, he had an issue with some of the redactions in the 22-page document, “rendering it virtually unreadable and incomprehensible.” Drake is trying to determine if anything he can gather can help him prove that the label was trying to lowball him in current contract negotiations as he tries to re-up with UMG.
UMG also does not want to include Grainge in the discovery, as they stated that the CEO has “no meaningful involvement in the matters and decisions at issue in this litigation.”
The company has tried to get the case thrown out previously after filing a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, citing that Drake “lost a rap battle that he provoked and in which he willingly participated.”
