Black-Led Homeschool Networks Are Growing As Parents Ditch Public Schools Over DEI Pushback
Homeschool networks in Texas have risen
Black-led homeschool networks that teach progressive values are growing, with many parents disenrolling from public schools as DEI scales back.
These nontraditional schools encourage students to think deeply about political and social issues, instead of treading away from these worldly topics as insisted on by the Trump administration. The conservative movement against diversity, equity, and inclusion has pushed many public schools to eliminate these teachings to keep their federal funding.
However, not all parents are leaving it up to their public schools to teach their children these values. Many have opted out of federal mandates by joining these growing homeschool networks. One of these cooperatives, For The Culture Homeschool, offers children throughout San Antonio an inclusive and secular curriculum.
Students not only learn multiplication and the parts of speech, but also about current events and how they shape the world, whether through advocacy for the people in Gaza or unrestricted lessons on the plight of Black Americans. For The Culture ingrains social action into every lesson.
Its existence remains especially relevant in Texas, where censorship, book bans, and federal cuts have severely impacted schools. For the Culture’s Co-Founder, Ashley Peek, says their expanding community comes from parents who are fed up with the conservative education system, who refuse for their children to fall prey to it.
“They were also looking for an inclusive, justice-centered space that affirmed our kids’ identities and gave them room to thrive,” Peek explained of the growing community to TruthOut. “We dreamed of a space where banned books are read on purpose, where we don’t shy away from hard history, and where our families don’t have to code-switch or constantly explain their existence. A decolonized, secular, inclusive homeschool community where all of our identities are honored.”
Peek co-founded the institution after the city’s public schools failed to wholly support her daughter’s visual impairment. Although initially seeking already-established homeschools, the lack of diversity alarmed Peek and her husband. A chance meeting with Kiah Mitchell Scott and Jennifer Verme led to the parents meeting every week to educate each other’s children.
The co-operative has expanded to nearly 30 families, now requiring a waitlist for others to take part. However, as homeschooling grows in popularity, For The Culture does not want to take over public schools entirely. The co-founders believe in the purpose and benefits of public schools, while also affirming that not every student thrives in such environments.
For The Culture also emphasizes unorthodox approaches to learning that deviate from other public schools. As many public settings can deal with bullying, stemming from racism, classism, or otherwise, encouraging students to love themselves and respect one another remains a core value.
“We really try to center joy in our homeschooling experience,” added Peek. ” For instance, first thing in the morning, the kids do an affirmation that they don’t have to be like everyone else — that it’s cool to be themselves.”
A key to homeschooling efficiently and productively requires some structure and balance, including diversity of the lessons themselves. However, For The Culture wants other parents passionate about their children’s schooling to start where they can to ensure their education as well as empathy.
Rainbow Baby Mom Launches Wellness App To Empower Women Of Color Facing Infertility
A new app aims to support and empower Black women facing infertility.
Meet Reniqua Allen-Lamphere, a two-time rainbow mom who turned her infertility journey into inspiration for launching a new app that supports women of color facing similar challenges.
Allen-Lamphere, an award-winning journalist and TV producer, recently launched Oshun Griot, a wellness platform explicitly designed for women of color. While many wellness apps cater to Black women, Oshun Griot fills a unique gap by supporting those navigating the often-overlooked emotional journey of fertility struggles and the desire to start a family.
It’s a journey Allen-Lamphere knows all too well, as she had her two children, son George, and daughter Charlie, in her early 40s after experiencing multiple miscarriages, making them her cherished rainbow babies, Essence reports. The author and scholar first faced signs of reproductive challenges at just 13, enduring intense period cramps later diagnosed as the result of grapefruit-sized fibroids and endometriosis.
These conditions are prevalent among Black women, who experience fibroids at higher rates and with more severe symptoms than white women. Research also shows that Black women are more likely than white women to undergo hysterectomies and myomectomies to treat fibroids, and tend to have larger fibroids and face a higher risk of complications during these surgeries.
“I’ve been in hospitals often, and no one had any answers for me. I was given birth control pills way before I even started having sex, and when I was in my late 20s, I had a myomectomy for fibroids, like so many other Black women do, and was told I had endometriosis. It was the first time I’d even heard of the term endometriosis,” Allen-Lamphere told Essence.
Since fibroids are linked to fertility issues, Allen-Lamphere’s experience reflects a broader struggle, especially as 1 in 6 American families face infertility. A harsh reality that can often discourage a woman from wanting or trying to start a family.
“I just thought that everything was broken. I thought I was broken,” Allen-Lamphere said. “I felt like my uterus had long been broken, and it was continuing to fail me.”
After being told she was infertile while trying to start a family with her husband, Allen-Lamphere took matters into her own hands. She joined Facebook groups, downloaded fertility apps, interviewed doctors, and even began an unsuccessful IVF journey. Along the way, she noticed a lack of diversity in support spaces, which inspired her to launch Oshun Griot, the first infertility wellness platform specifically created for people of color, rooted in lived experiences and the belief that fertility journeys shouldn’t be faced alone.
With a name inspired by African heritage, honoring Oshun, the Yoruba goddess of fertility and love, and “griot,” the traditional African storyteller, Allen-Lamphere takes a bold and intentional approach in creating a wellness app centered on the experiences of Black women.
“I was inspired to name it that, because I realized that for so long, especially for Black and other communities of color, our stories of our fertility weren’t told in the way we would’ve wanted them to be; instead, it’s been controlled by other people,” she said. “This platform is designed to help us share our own stories, because they’re powerful. The Black family is important. Black children are so centrally important. However, the story of how we build our families is also important. And for too long, we have not been in control of our fertility, and it’s felt like it’s been in the hands of other people.”
Rooted in both medical insight and cultural traditions, Oshun Griot provides users expert directories, wellness trackers, and Q&As on topics like fibroids, medical bias, and healing practices. The app also features guided meditations, yoga, affirmations, and personal stories from people of color navigating fertility challenges, as well as resources for those supporting loved ones on the journey.
“In the political times we’re in, where we’re not sure if we can even access fertility care, it felt like a time when we needed something more,” Allen-Lamphere said.
10 Black Entertaining Food Reviewers Shaking Up The Dining Scene
Food criticism isn't just for insiders anymore
Food criticism isn’t just for insiders anymore. Gone are the days when only Michelin inspectors and newspaper columnists got to have a say. Now, a fresh wave of Black food reviewers is injecting some much-needed humor and perspective into the dining world. They’re giving us a way to think about food, one bite at a time. You can find them on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. They’re the ones making us laugh, making us hungry, and showing us what’s really good. Let’s take a look at a few favorites. Here are 10 food reviewers who are changing the dining game with their voices and style.
Rashad “Mr. ChimeTime” Mooreman (@mr.chimetime)
Rashad Mooreman, notably known as Mr. Chimetime, is a popular food reviewer recognized for his assessments of local dives and small Black-owned establishments throughout the United States. Mr. Chimetime has established himself as a notable figure with his irreverent personality and shoot-from-the-hip style of food critique on Instagram. Mooreman’s perspective has not only sparked discussion around your favorite food spots but also ignited widespread debates that have gone viral. Chimetime also spreads the love across good restaurants by paying for the meals for scores of customers.
Keith Lee, a former MMA fighter, has created a lane reviewing restaurants across the US with a special focus on Black-owned eateries. What sets him apart is his approach. Lee orders anonymously, which helps keep his reviews honest and authentic. Lee’s food reviews have a side effect; once he features a restaurant, it tends to get a surge in customers and attention. The “Keith Lee Effect” has been a game-changer for Black-owned businesses, which often struggle to gain the spotlight. Lee has built up a strong following. People love his down-to-earth reviews and his commitment to showcasing America’s hidden gems.
Cheryl Parks Ajamu, the woman behind Black Girl Food Critic, is on a mission to shed light on Black-owned restaurants and community-driven eateries. Ajamu started BlackGirlFoodCritic in 2021. From mouth-watering Detroit brunch spots to classic Southern-style dishes, BlackGirlFoodCritic tries them all. The reviews are not only about the food. She weaves in the context and history behind each spot. If you’re looking for in-depth reviews that go beyond just what’s on the plate, definitely check for BlackGirlFoodCritic.
BlackFoodie is a platform founded by Eden Hagos that highlights Black-owned restaurants across the country. Her feed is more than a bunch of food pics. She’s built a community around it where she shares her thoughts on restaurants, talks about dining events, and breaks down the latest culinary trends. What really sets BlackFoodie apart is the way she weaves in commentary and highlights the Black people behind the food.
Chef Vicky V, or The Queen of Yum as she’s fondly called, is making waves. This food influencer has a knack for storytelling. She uses vivid images and killer events to bring dining hotspots to life. The Queen of Yum champions Black-owned restaurants and gives them the attention they deserve. Chef Vicky has been getting nods for her work since 2024. It’s clear she’s on a mission to lift up food spots, bring people together, and make Black food scenes more accessible.
Brittany and Dave, who run the Instagram account Two Midwest Foodies, are on a mission to highlight Black-owned restaurants in the Midwest. These two have been creating content since 2019. They cover all kinds of cuisine from comfort food to adventurous dishes. Their account is a resource for anyone looking to support Black-owned businesses and see what the Midwest’s food is hitting on.
Lindsay C. Green made history as the dining and restaurant critic at the Detroit Free Press. She’s been writing reviews since 2022, covering everything from fine dining spots to beloved community eateries that mean a lot to the people of Detroit. Green has an eye for what makes a restaurant special. She’s been getting some serious recognition for her work, including a James Beard Award nomination for Emerging Voice and even a Pulitzer Prize finalist nod. Her reviews give readers a sense of the city’s restaurant scene and tell stories rooted in Detroit culture.
KJ Kearney is the brains behind Black Food Fridays, a platform that’s racked up a James Beard Award. Born and raised in South Carolina, Kearney’s passion project has become a go-to spot for advocating for Black-owned eateries across the country. What sets them apart is their weekly review system, which breaks it down into five telling categories: how good it tastes, how it looks, how well it’s made, the vibe of the place, and how clean it’s. Since launching Black Food Fridays in North Charleston in 2020, Kearney’s been crisscrossing the nation trying spots and sharing their honest take on each one. What I love about these guys is that they really know how to review food in a way that’s fair and thoughtful. They consider the culture behind the dish, making their opinions highly valuable to anyone passionate about food.
A Couple of Bites is a couple who reviews food spots in Houston. Alex and Allison Onyina are a husband-and-wife team that focuses on date night restaurants and Black-owned establishments in the community. Since 2024, they’ve been getting attention around Houston and their unique take on dining. A Couple of Bites make trying new restaurants feel approachable.
Stephen Satterfield, a food writer from Atlanta, is the face behind the Netflix show High on the Hog. Satterfield travels all over the US to share stories about the food and people behind it. What sets him apart is that he doesn’t just review food, he digs into its history and culture. It’s not only about what’s on the plate; he’s on a mission to elevate the conversation around food. Satterfield has been reviewing food culture since he started Whetstone Media back in 2018. But his passion for food goes back much further.
Marva Johnson To Have ‘Open Mind’ With FAMU Community As HBCU President Begins Tenure
In her speech, Johnson shared how she sees the FAMU community and its passion for the HBCU's future.
Marva Johnson has officially started her tenure as president of Florida A&M University.
The polarizing leader shared a message of unity with the FAMU community in her first virtual message as president. Johnson spoke about having an “open mind” during the HBCU’s summer commencement ceremony Aug. 1.
She began her speech by recognizing the latest cohort of graduates from FAMU, while calling her presidency a “sacred obligation.” The corporate lobbyist then stated how she had heard the impassioned takes regarding the institution’s future.
“My presidency is not simply a new chapter in leadership. It is a sacred obligation,” began Johnson. “To Rattler Nation, students, faculty, alumni and community stakeholders, I want you to know I see you. I hear you and feel your passion. I’ve listened, I’ve reflected, and I will continue to learn from those who care deeply about this university’s future.”
From there, she spoke about beginning this new position with an “open mind” and “unwavering commitment” to the school’s continued success.
“To lead FAMU is to step into a legacy and to carry forward the charge of ensuring this institution thrives for the years to come,” continued Johnson. “I step into this role with an open mind, a full heart, and an unwavering commitment to protect and extend FAMU’s legacy, while positioning this university to thrive in a changing higher education landscape.”
Johnson’s appointment faced pushback, particularly from the HBCU’s alumni community, over her support from Florida’s GOP leadership. Deeming her the “MAGA” pick, many called out the presidential search for lacking transparency, as well as Johnson’s limited experience in academia. Johnson has never led any college or HBCU before, but has served as chair of the Florida Board of Education.
Despite the controversy, the Florida Board of Governors confirmed Johnson’s appointment on June 18. While not explicitly mentioning the contention surrounding her appointment, Johnson emphasized her commitment to students by becoming a consistent face on campus.
“I will be visible. I will be engaged. My door will be open. You’ll find me on campus, in classrooms, at events, and in the heart of this vibrant community—hearing your hopes, your concerns, and your vision for what FAMU can be,” added Johnson. “And to the graduates: wherever life takes you, carry the flame of FAMU with pride. The world needs your light—and I’m proud to be taking the helm of the university that helped spark it.”
Despite FAMU limiting comments on the post, commenters kept the same energy regarding their initial discontent with Johnson’s appointment. Now, all eyes look upon FAMU and Johnson to see what her presidency holds for the HBCU.
How To Attract High-Profile Guests And VIP Clients To Your Hospitality Business
Impression matters
If you want VIPs to pull up to your spot, you’ve got to give them a reason. Once? Twice? No! Over and over. But this isn’t about chasing trends or copying what next door is doing.
You have to know your lane. What makes your business different? Every detail, from first impression to the moment guests walk out of your door, should reflect your brand, your story, and your standard.
Everything matters because VIPs notice when things are off. Your playlist, your lighting, and even whether your commercial fridge keeps the drinks ice-cold and the ingredients fresh.
Sounds overwhelming? We’ve got all the tips ready for you!
1. Make Your Brand Impossible to Ignore
(Photo: Morsa Images/Getty Images)
Your brand is more than a logo; it’s the energy people feel before they even step through the door.
So, ask yourself: What’s your spot known for?
Is it the vibe? The plating? The playlist? The storytelling? If you can’t point that out, it’s time for a change.
Think of how Slutty Vegan Founder Pinky Cole built a full-on movement. The name grabs attention. The visuals pop. From their menu names (e.g., “One Night Stand,” “Fussy Hussy”) to their food truck rollouts, everything tells a consistent, unapologetic story.
That’s the goal. Know your story. Own your aesthetic. Be consistent, from your menu design to your Instagram grid. If you’re in the food service industry, here’s a look at the restaurant concepts that are turning heads right now.
Pro Tip: Use clean shots, sharp design, and imagery that reflects your vibe to draw the right crowd. When your brand looks like it knows exactly who it is, folks notice. They don’t just show up; they bring their people.
2. Deliver a VIP Experience Every Time
(Photo: Ibrahim Boran/Pexels)
VIPs don’t always roll in with a spotlight. That’s why every guest needs to feel like they matter.
Take Bomb Biscuits in Atlanta. Chef Erika Council earned national recognition not only for the food but also for the consistent, thoughtful experience. Clean space. Warm welcome. No detail skipped.
It doesn’t take glam. It takes care.
Train staff to lead with warmth and calm.
Remember regulars. Use names. Make it personal.
Keep the basics tight: lighting, music, restrooms, and service flow.
Stay ready, every time (even when it’s quiet!).
Nail the experience, and the VIP customers will keep coming.
3. Let Influencers Work for You
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 04: Bartise Bowden takes a selfie as Love Is Blind cast celebrates Netflix’s first Live Reunion with the iconic pods at Rockefeller Center In New York City on April 04, 2023 in New York City. (Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images for Netflix)
High-profile guests pay attention to where the buzz is, and influencers help create that hype. But skip the big-name celebrities with fake engagement. Focus on local voices with real reach in your city, such as food bloggers, lifestyle creators, and respected culture shifters.
Invite them to exclusive experiences that they’ll want to share (no hard sell), such as private tours, special tasting events, or a soft launch with first access vibes. That organic content and exclusivity signal to VIP guests that your spot is hot, trusted, and worth a visit.
Trap Kitchen grew its loyal customers through this kind of real love, not paid ads. People with influence showed up, posted, and the right people followed.
4. Network Like a Pro Behind the Scenes
(Getty Images)
Influencers bring attention. But access? That comes from insiders.
If you want to attract VIP guests, cultivate quiet relationships with publicists, artist managers, executive or personal assistants, and event planners. They’re the folks booking last-minute changes and tables or scouting the perfect vibe for a VIP’s night out. When they trust you, your name starts showing up in the right texts.
Host a closed-door session for them. Or send a personalised invite when there’s something special on the menu. Through this, you can build exposure and trust, and you’ll become the go-to for VIP customers.
5. Make Your Online Presence Match Your Energy
Social media and digital online concept, woman using smartphone and show technology icon.
Before VIPs walk in, they check you out online, or someone checks your digital vibe for them. And if it’s off, they won’t book.
That means your Instagram, website, and Google listing all need to be tight. Clean visuals. Updated hours. Clickable links. Smooth booking flow. No excuses.
Look at Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley. Its online presence? Just like its dining experience: bold, polished, and photo-ready. You catch the vibe instantly. The colours hit, the energy’s real, and you already know what kind of experience you’re about to step into.
That’s what VIPs want: confidence before they commit. That means:
Post crisp, professional shots
Keep your link in bio updated
Make it easy to book, call, or share
Let your digital front door speak for you, and speak well.
6. Host What They Can’t Get Anywhere Else
Photo Credit:
In the hospitality industry, VIP guests are always looking for an experience worth spending money on. That might mean a custom-tasting menu, but it could also include spa treatments, concierge services, or private jet arrangements through business partners. The goal? Make your business feel like a full escape, not just a stop.
Not to mention, extended stays with additional services: personal chefs, massage therapy, and access to exclusive events. Curate it.
One example is The Ivy Hotel in Baltimore, where five-star service and fine dining meet historic elegance. It’s culture wrapped in luxury, with charm you can feel in every room. From the grand architecture to the quiet, personalized care, it strikes that rare balance: intimate, but unforgettable.
When you create something they can’t get anywhere else, high-profile guests notice. They stay longer. Spend more. And tell the right people.
7. Stay Ready for the Big Moment
(Photo: pixdeluxe/Getty Images)
In this business, the big moment rarely comes with a heads-up.
A celebrity books under another name. A journalist walks in solo. A high-level guest’s team scouts your spot hours before arrival. If you’re not ready, you miss it.
So don’t scramble. Stay ready.
Train your team to deliver even when the room is quiet. Keep your space and press kit tight, and have your high-resolution photos ready. Build systems that don’t rely on you being in the room.
Because reputation? It moves fast. And in VIP circles, word travels faster than you think.
If your service is consistent, your space is always photo-ready, and your story’s locked in? You won’t have to chase the moment. It’ll find you.
Be the Spot That’s Worth Talking About
(Photo: Getty Images)
Attracting VIPs? It starts with how you treat everybody who walks through your doors. You’ve got to build a space that feels intentional, where the vibe speaks even without a word.
In a market full of copy-paste concepts, your story has to come through loud and proud. From a restaurant to a boutique hotel and private lounge (especially when you’re in scaling mode), having the right energy leads to longer stays, higher spend, and real loyalty.
After all, when guests feel seen and valued, they remember. And they tell folks.
Meet Gabe Wilson, co-founder of Edgy Design Group, automation expert, and Microsoft Certified AI Engineer, trusted by cultural icon 19 Keys and a roster of high-performing entrepreneurs. Gabe’s AI-driven systems have generated over $17 million in client revenue. His clients range from creators and CEOs to a major U.S. municipality. He is setting a new standard for growth in the digital age.
“AI shouldn’t replace people–it should empower them,” says Wilson. “We build systems that think, speak, and act like your best employee–on their best day, every day.”
Wilson also co-leads a venture with millionaire entrepreneur Mario Kelly, known for his appearance on Earn Your Leisure (EYL). Their partnership highlights the power of combining AI with real-world applications.
What Makes Edgy Design Group Different?
Edgy Design Group isn’t just another AI agency, it’s a full-scale transformation partner. Their services include:
• AI Consulting – Pinpointing high-impact ways to integrate AI into your business • Education & Training – Helping teams adopt AI confidently • Custom AI Development – Building intelligent chatbots, voice agents, and automation workflows that work around the clock
Whether it’s booking appointments, nurturing leads, or delivering better customer service, Edgy Design Group’s systems help clients cut costs, save time, and make money.
The Bottom Line
AI isn’t just for Big Tech – it’s for any business ready to work smarter.
Founded in 2014, Edgy Design Group is a tech-forward creative agency specializing in AI-powered tools, mobile apps, sales funnels, marketing, and web development. Its mission is to deliver enterprise-level automation and design solutions at startup-friendly pricing.
With over 15 years of experience in technology, Wilson, a North Carolina A&T State University alum, has positioned Edgy Design Group as a trusted partner for businesses ready to grow through smart automation and innovative digital solutions. Learn more at EdgyDesignGroup.com.
Beyond leading the agency, Wilson serves as a panel speaker, youth AI educator, and business consultant, helping both emerging entrepreneurs and established organizations harness AI for meaningful business growth.
More Than A Party: Carmelo Anthony Says Strip Clubs Were For Team Bonding
'You're going there to just relax and reset. You might have a drink, maybe some food.'
NBA Hall of Famer Carmelo Anthony shared in a recent discussion that when he and teammates went to a strip club, it wasn’t necessarily for the women, but more for bonding with each other off the court.
On a recent episode of the former New York Knicks player’s podcast, 7 p.m. in Brooklyn, which featured Atlanta producer and executive Jermaine Dupri, part of the conversation revolved around strip clubs. The producer was there to discuss his documentary, Magic City, based on the infamous Atlanta-based strip clubs that cater to many athletes, rappers, entertainers, and businessmen.
During the discussion, Anthony dispelled the notion that the entertainment at the club was always the primary reason for attendance, particularly during team outings. Using Magic City as an example, he stated that some of the excursions to the club were for teammates to bond, talk, and just relax with each other away from the basketball court.
There are times when players have to be out of the basketball mindset, especially if the team is experiencing a bad stretch of games or a losing streak.
“We’d go out to eat, have a good team outing—no girls, leave it alone,” he said.
“Everybody thinks you’re going there just to get lap dances or for that. No, you’re not going there for that nonsense. You’re really going to clear your mind,” he stated.
One thing that is associated with many strip clubs across the country is that the vibes and food are usually talked about when not discussing the women at the spots. Anthony also confirmed that notion when he admitted that “most clubs have the best food.”
“You’re going there to just relax and reset. You might have a drink, maybe some food. Honestly, most strip clubs have the best food—especially the good ones. You prefer going there because you get everything in one: music, food, good vibes.”
Watch the full interview below:
You’ll be able to see and hear more from Anthony when the upcoming NBA season starts, as NBC has hired him as an analyst.
Motorist William McNeil’s Encounter With Police Sparks Conversations About Recording The Police
McNeil's lawyer Benjamin Crump said his client’s video offered the public a crucial alternate angle.
William McNeil’s decision to place his cell phone in a holder above his dashboard just before Florida police broke his driver’s side window during a traffic stop added a new perspective that challenges the officers’ body cam footage, prompting the police department to investigate their conduct.
McNeil is a young Black man whose video of his violent arrest by Jacksonville, Florida, police officers in February went viral. The video, recorded by McNeil himself from his dashboard camera, showed officers repeatedly punching and slamming him to the ground during a traffic stop. While some traffic-related charges were dropped, McNeil pleaded guilty the day after his arrest to driving with a suspended license and resisting an officer without violence.
McNeil is now planning to file a federal civil rights lawsuit against the police. Attorneys Ben Crump and Harry Daniels have been retained to represent him in this case.
According to The Associated Press, McNeil’s decision to record the incident highlights the challenges of relying on a single source of video evidence. When only police bodycam footage is available, it may give a limited perspective. While videos of incidents like those involving George Floyd and Rodney King have raised awareness, they do not always guarantee legal justice. However, such recordings do provide victims or their families with an opportunity to share their own account of events.
Crump recently made clear in comments to the media that the fact that his client recorded from another angle gave the public another point of reference.
What happened to William McNeil Jr. should never happen during a traffic stop. He was punched, dragged, and dehumanized — not for committing a violent crime, but for asking questions. America, this treatment is far from acceptable! pic.twitter.com/kFzMq3e7b1
“We got to see firsthand and hear firsthand and put it all in context, what driving while Black is in America. All the young people should be recording these interactions with law enforcement. Because what it tells us, just like with George Floyd, if we don’t record the video, we can see what they put in the police report with George Floyd before they realized the video existed,” Crump said.
As Crump noted, there are some notable discrepancies between the police report and the video taken by McNeil.
According to McNeil’s lawyers, the officers pulled him over because his headlights should have been on due to bad weather. Moments after his video camera captured him asking what he did, an officer smashed his window, struck him as he sat in the seat, pulled him to the ground, and struck him six more times in his right thigh while he was on the ground.
The police report, however, did not document the punches to McNeil’s head, and McNeil’s arresting officer clinically described what happened to McNeil in his report: “Physical force was applied to the suspect and he was taken to the ground.”
McNeil went on to release his version of the arrest video in July, which went viral, prompting the sheriff’s office to open an investigation that is currently ongoing.
Another of McNeil’s lawyers, Harry Daniels, condemned the actions of the officers, offering up his assessment of what led to the situation as he praised his client’s poise in a stressful situation.
“On Feb. 19, 2025, Americans saw what America is. We saw injustice. You saw abuse of police power. But, most importantly, we saw a young man that had a temperament to control himself in the face of brutality,” Daniels said.
He continued, saying that the traffic stop was not only racially motivated, but “it was unlawful, and everything that stemmed from that stop was unlawful.”
Black British Man Gets Mysteriously Sick And Dies During Hair Transplant Prep At Turkey Clinic
The clinic issued a statement confirming the patient passed all necessary testing before mysteriously becoming unwell.
A Black British man has died after getting mysteriously sick during his hair transplant at a clinic in Turkey.
Martyn Latchman traveled from his home in Milton Keynes, England, to Turkey for the hair transplant. The former teacher-turned-defense contractor traveled to Eastern Europe for the popular procedure. According to The Guardian, the transplant typically costs around $1,700.
However, the relatively safe medical trip turned fatal, as Latchman fell mysteriously ill during preparation for the procedure. He went to a clinic run by Dr Cinik, who claims to have completed the procedure successfully over 70,000 times, including for multiple soccer stars.
Once his health became in jeopardy, the 38-year-old man was transported to a nearby hospital. However, he died there hours later in the intensive care unit. Now, Turkey and the United Kingdom are investigating what happened.
The clinic stated it was “deeply saddened” by the death of their returning client. It disclosed that he had come in for a follow-up procedure after getting a transplant in 2024. The statement also shared that the clinic followed the necessary steps and tests to ensure Latchman could undergo the procedure.
“Prior to the second operation, all necessary medical evaluations and tests (including blood work, chest X-ray, ECG, etc) were carried out thoroughly and without omission, just as they were during the first procedure,” explained Dr. Cinik’s clinic. “These assessments were conducted under the supervision of an anaesthesiologist, and the patient was cleared for surgery.
The clinic also emphasized that Latchman’s medical emergency struck before the procedure began.
“However, before the hair transplant procedure began and during the preparatory phase, the patient unexpectedly became unwell for reasons that are still unknown.”
Hims, a telehealth company, detailed that deaths from hair transplant surgery remain extremely rare. They asserted that most complications, if any, stem from issues during and after the procedure itself.
Despite the loss, the man’s loved ones remember Latchman as an inspiring man. Before leaving the teaching profession, he served as an assistant headteacher at Goldington Academy in Bedford. His brother, Yashley Latchman, also expressed remorse for the death of his brother.
“Rest in Peace, my brother,” he wrote alongside a photo of the siblings working out. “You will forever be my source of inspiration and motivation. Thanks for everything. Will miss u loads.”
According to the U.K. Foreign Office, Latchman’s body was flown back to his native country as local law enforcement continues to share updates.
The clinic’s statement added, “All relevant medical documentation related to this incident has been submitted to the appropriate authorities, and judicial bodies are currently investigating the matter.”
Black Farmers Vs. White Supremacists: The Legacy Of Stealing Black Farms
Muhammad is asking the public to support his efforts
Originally published on BlackNews.com.
Shelton Muhammad, an African American farmer in Southampton County, Virginia, is calling for urgent public support to help protect his family’s farm from what he describes as a longstanding campaign of harassment, sabotage, and economic suppression led by individuals tied to white supremacist ideologies.
For over 15 years, Muhammad and his family have fought to maintain ownership of their small farm against what he says is a coordinated effort involving local agencies, legal entities, and individuals with deep institutional influence. He claims that members of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Farm Service Agency (FSA), local officials, and lawyers have taken strategic actions to economically destabilize his farm to seize it through legal and financial manipulation.
“Generations of Black farmers have had their land stolen or have been forced to sell through underhanded tactics,” Muhammad says. “We are determined not to let history repeat itself.”
Last year, the family’s main farming equipment was reportedly sabotaged, causing a 20-month operational shutdown and significant financial strain. Muhammad says that despite mounting legal and repair costs, the family was able to retain the land. However, he warns that another wave of sabotage has recently targeted their primary farming operation — the same one that generates revenue to cover the mortgage, pay taxes, and compensate family workers.
The family has received a proposed real estate tax payment plan from lawyers Muhammad believes are working to create conditions that would lead to default and force a court-ordered sale. “The plan is to make us break the payment terms and then rush our property into a forced sale through the courts,” he explained.
Before this latest setback, Muhammad had begun implementing an agribusiness program designed to help sustain Black-owned farms, provide affordable produce to local communities, and create a model of economic independence for other farmers facing similar challenges. He believes this program is a direct threat to those who wish to maintain systemic control over agriculture and land ownership in the region.
Now, Muhammad is asking the public to support his efforts by sharing his story and contributing to a fundraising effort aimed at restoring the farm’s operations, covering overdue real estate taxes, compensating workers, and expanding the agribusiness program.
“This is more than about just one farm,” Muhammad says. “It’s about protecting the legacy and future of Black farmers and standing up to the systems that continue to work against us.”
Donations can be made via a GoFundMe page to support the Muhammad family farm and the ongoing development of the agribusiness program. Community members and supporters are also encouraged to spread the word and help raise awareness of the challenges Black farmers face nationwide.
