digital archives, Fisk university — Photo by Jason Davis/Getty Images for Marushka Media

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

November 12, 2025

Fisk University Unveils Digital Archive Celebrating Rosenwald Fund’s Legacy In Advancing Black Education

Fisk University has launched a digital archive showcasing the Rosenwald Fund’s impact on Black education in the Jim Crow South.

Fisk University has unveiled a digital portal of archived materials showcasing the Rosenwald Fund’s impact on Black education and community institutions in the South.

Launched on Nov. 5, the Julius Rosenwald Fund Archive database offers over 146,000 digitized items, including photographs, letters, fellowship applications, and building plans for Rosenwald Schools that educated the likes of Maya Angelou, Marian Anderson, James Baldwin, W.E.B. Du Bois, Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and John Lewis, the Nashville Banner reports.

The collection highlights the Fund’s enduring impact on Black communities throughout the Jim Crow South during a period of significant educational inequality.

Project staff hosted a virtual unveiling, offering an online tour of the archive. Dr. Jessie Carney Smith, dean emerita of the John Hope and Aurelia E. Franklin Library at Fisk, was inspired to launch the database after exploring Fisk’s collection and realizing she had attended a Rosenwald School as a child in the 1930s.

“In looking around at the materials in the library, I saw photos of schools, and some of them needed to be filed,” Smith recalled. “And I asked our special collections librarian, ‘What are these schools, why are they here?’”

Rosenwald, a Jewish businessman from Chicago, partnered with Booker T. Washington, who was seeking a new board member for the Tuskegee Institute. Deeply moved after reading Washington’s autobiography, Rosenwald needed no convincing when Washington encouraged him to invest in Black education.

Their efforts led to the construction of 5,000 schools across the Southeast, as well as homes for their teachers, designed to provide quality education in well-built facilities. Rosenwald remained on Tuskegee Institute’s board for the rest of his life.

Most Rosenwald schools closed after the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education decision and the push for desegregation. Some remained open during the transition or were repurposed as community centers. The last surviving Rosenwald school in Davidson County is the Pasquo School, now a private residence and listed as an endangered historic site in Nashville in 2019. Several other Rosenwald-supported buildings, including the Wabash Avenue YMCA in Chicago, also remain standing and have been recognized as historic landmarks.

“It’s just a great experience to know the history,” said Esther McShepard, who works at Franklin Library in Nashville and attended a Rosenwald School in 1950. “You don’t know that all these other schools around and all the other different communities, and they are going through the same thing in education.”

self-driving cars, tech companies — Photo by Abhishek Navlakha : https://www.pexels.com/photo/autonomous-vehicle-in-san-francisco-street-scene-32461216/

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

November 11, 2025

Self-Driving Cars Are Here And Tech Giants Are Willing to Pay The Price

Tech companies want self-driving cars to become the norm.

Self-driving cars have finally hit the road, and tech companies want the automated systems to take the wheel.

From self-driving vehicles to delivery robots, companies like Uber, Lyft, and Doordash want these advanced technologies to take over their everyday services to consumers—but making these automated robots mainstream will require a bit of cash.

Business Insider reports these companies plan to make significant investments into these advanced technologies over the next year. In these tech giants quarterly earning reports, an emphasis was placed on autonomous vehicles.

DoorDash has already implemented its own robot called Dot, which navigates bike lanes and sidewalks to make deliveries sans the human companion.

The company wants to scale up the development of these robots, but there are caveats.

“This is not something that’s going to happen overnight,” explained CEO Tony Xu on a recent earnings call. “It does require making investments upfront.”

The company’s stock price took a dive with news of this investment, but other companies are following suit to prioritize autonomous vehicles in their production.

Lyft has already begun developing a depot in Nashville to hold their self-driving cars, which will cost the rideshare giant between $10 and $15 million. Uber revealed that although self-driving cars are bleeding money from the corporation, it plan to scale up profits over time with increased availability.

Fears that this will reduce thehuman workforce remain prevalent. Black people also make a significant portion of the gig economy workforce. According to data by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Black and Latino individuals account for 42% of those doing app-based works, primarily Uber and Lyft.

With less need for contracted workers, those making livings off these flexible gigs may need to pursue other service roles in the near future.

Colin Powell, — (Department of Defense photo by Marvin Lynchard)

by Ahsan Washington

November 11, 2025

Salute To These History-Making Black Veterans

From the Civil War to today, Black veterans have consistently stood at the front lines of American history, shattering barriers, reimagining patriotism, and urging the nation to live up to its promise of equality. These trailblazers didn’t simply serve; they made history. Here’s a salute to 11 veterans who transformed the face of U.S. military service and leadership.

These 11 Black veteran figures whose deeds have rewoven the fabric of history stand as testaments to a courage that spans centuries and a spectrum of conflicts. Their narratives remind us that patriotism isn’t a devotion; it’s a courageous, accountable stance. From the dust of Fort Wagner’s battlefields to the polished corridors of the Pentagon, each has propelled the quest for freedom forward both abroad and on the home front.

Salute to them all

William H. Carney

Sergeant William H. Carney, born in Norfolk, Virginia, in 1840, held the United States flag aloft amid a hail of fire during the 1863 assault on Fort Wagner, refusing to let it ever kiss the ground. That daring act earned him the Medal of Honor. When the award was finally presented in 1900, Carney became the first African American ever to receive that distinguished decoration.

Charles Young

Born in Mays Lick, Kentucky, Charles Young became the third Black graduate of West Point in 1889, later the first Black colonel in the U.S. Army, and in 1903, the first Black superintendent of a national park when he was appointed to Sequoia. In the 1900s, Young’s service spanned the United States, the Philippines, and Africa, and his command and diplomatic work bucked the norms of a segregated era, offering a vivid illustration of Black excellence in leadership long before integration took hold.

Eugene Jacques Bullard

Eugene Bullard, a native of Columbus, Georgia, born in 1895, became the first African‑American to earn military pilot’s wings during the Great War. At a time when the United States barred Black men from ever setting foot in a cockpit, Bullard crossed the Atlantic and joined the French Air Service, taking to the skies over France from 1917 to 1918. His daring service broke down barriers of his era and, in doing so, forged a path for the Black pilots who would follow.

Henry Johnson

When a German raiding party struck in May 1918, Private Henry Johnson, of the celebrated Infantry known as the Harlem Hellfighters, fought back alone, refusing to yield despite multiple wounds and managing to save his comrades. His gallantry earned him France’s Croix de Guerre. Decades later, the Medal of Honor finally arrived, a long‑overdue tribute to Black heroism in World War I.

Hazel Johnson-Brown

Hazel Johnson‑Brown, born in West Chester, Pennsylvania, enlisted in the Army Nurse Corps in 1955. By 1979, she had become the first Black woman to rise to the rank of general and to lead the Army Nurse Corps, breaking gender and racial barriers in military medicine and command.

Benjamin O. Davis Sr.

Born in Washington, D.C., Brig. Gen. Benjamin O. Davis Sr. shattered a long‑standing racial barrier in 1940, when he became the U.S. Army’s African‑American general officer. His military career stretched from the Spanish‑American War to World War II, tearing down a ceiling that had long hovered over the service since its establishment.

Phyllis Mae Dailey

Phyllis Mae Dailey, a New York City native born in 1919, made history as the first Black woman ever sworn into the U.S. Navy Nurse Corps during World War II. Her groundbreaking enlistment shattered the long‑standing gender barriers that kept the Navy’s medical ranks divided.

Daniel “Chappie” James Jr

Born in Pensacola, Florida, in 1920, General Daniel “Chappie” James Jr. fought in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. In 1975, he shattered a barrier by becoming the first Black four‑star general in the U.S. Air Force. From 1943 through 1978, James Jr helmed bases scattered across Asia, Europe, and the United States.

Freddie Stowers

Freddie Stowers, a corporal born in 1896 in South Carolina, led a daring charge in World War I. Even as a fatal wound took him down, Stowers’ fierce determination spurred his men to clinch the victory. In 1991, more than seven decades later,  Stowers was finally awarded the Medal of Honor, a commendation that had been denied for far too long because of the color of his skin.

Waverly Woodson Jr.

Corporal Waverly Woodson Jr., an Army medic, stormed onto Omaha Beach on D‑Day. Even after a shrapnel wound struck him, he kept moving, stitching and coaxing life back into two hundred soldiers. In 2024, for his gallantry, Woodson finally received a posthumous award, a long‑awaited recognition of Black bravery that helped shape that historic landing.

Colin Powell

Born in New York City to immigrants, General Colin Powell served two tours in Vietnam before becoming National Security Advisor. He then made history as the first Black Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and later as the first Black U.S. Secretary of State. From 1958 to 2005, Powell’s career spanned assignments in Washington, D.C. His leadership consistently reflected excellence, integrity, and a deep sense of service, reshaping how Black veterans and American statesmen are perceived.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

November 11, 2025

Michael Jackson Has Timeless Hits As ‘Thriller’ Charts In Billboard Top 10 For Six Decades

The King of Pop now reigns as the first artist to break the Top 10 six decades in a row.

Michael Jackson has proved, yet again, that his musical legacy withstands the test of time.

The legendary King of Pop has returned to the Top 10 of the Billboard charts with his spooky hit, “Thriller.” The re-entry of his 1982 single has cemented a new record for the pop icon.

As “Thriller” found its way into the Top 10 following its revived popularity over Halloween weekend, the milestone made Jackson the first artist to score a top 10 hit across six decades. Despite the song’s release over 40 years ago, “Thriller” has since become a Halloween theme song.

Also an instant classic when it debuted back in the ’80s, Variety confirmed that the song’s 14 million streams and radio airplay audience of 9.3 million helped it climb the Billboard charts. While the song peaked at No. 4 during its heyday, its rise back to the Top 10 helped Jackson make history while showcasing his popularity in a new era of music.

Since the 1970s, Jackson has run his own race with music. He dominated the industry with chart-topping songs throughout each decade, even as music changed. His latest entry proves his art even has an impact through music streaming.

He now beats Andy Williams for the longest consecutive decade of placing in the Top 10 on the charts. However, the emergence of another piece of media surrounding Jackson may have led to the revival of the ’80s classic.

The long-awaited biopic on Jackson’s life, titled Michael, is set to hit theaters next April. A widely viewed teaser trailer for the musical film was released on Nov. 6, showcasing the professional achievements and personal journey of the “King of Pop.”

While securing this latest Billboard record, Jackson remains no stranger to the charts. Throughout his 40-year career, he earned 30 Top 10 hits, including 13 No. 1 singles. Currently, he and Drake are tied for 5th place among artists whose songs reigned at the top. Drake’s inclusion of Jackson’s posthumous vocals in his 2018 hit “Don’t Matter To Me” also paved the way for Jackson’s prior chart placement.

As fans sing-along to “Thriller,” they can catch the reenactment of how one of Jackson’s signature songs came to life once “Michael” hits theaters.

Ashley Allison, — Photo Courtesy of Ashley Allison

by Mitti Hicks

November 11, 2025

A Dream Deferred, Not Denied: ‘The Root’ Returns To Black Ownership

Only 4% of all media in the United States is owned by Black individuals, according to a report.

Ashley Allison didn’t expect that the news of her company, Watering Hole Media, acquiring The Root would create so much buzz. For her, it wasn’t out of the ordinary because acquisitions “happen all the time.”

However, for the community, this was something significant.

“The response to this deal has been huge. It was overwhelmingly humbling,” Allison tells BLACK ENTERPRISE.

The response from others reflects just how rare Black ownership in media has become. A report from NPR reveals that only 4% of all media in the United States is owned by Black individuals. Meanwhile, legacy media companies with verticals dedicated to coverage of Black communities gutted these departments and laid off staff.

Recently, NBC News dissolved its dedicated editorial team for NBC BLK, a platform that launched in 2015 and focused on telling stories about Black identity, politics, and culture. Teen Vogue and its publisher, Condé Nast, have recently come under fire for layoffs that disproportionately affected Black people and people of color.

“Gone is the political-cultural criticism of the fashion and culture industries by the Black women writers laid off today,” The NewsGuild of New York wrote in a statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter about the layoffs. “As of today, only one woman of color remains on the editorial staff at Teen Vogue.”

Allison’s purchase of The Root could not have come at a more dire time.

A Legacy Reclaimed

Since its launch in 2008 by Harvard University Professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. and former Washington Post Company chairman Donald E. Graham, The Root has been a trusted voice in Black news, identity, and political discourse. Ownership shifted in 2015 when Univision purchased it from The Washington Post Company.

G/O Media purchased Univision’s portfolio of online brands, including The Root, in 2019, before Allison’s company, Watering Hole Media, purchased the publication for an undisclosed amount this past October. She is reportedly the first Black woman owner of The Root.

“I have always been a reader and an admirer of The Root … and it has always been a part of my story,” Allison says.

When the opportunity presented itself to acquire such a powerful platform over the summer, she knew instantly that: “This is it. No questions asked. Why wouldn’t we build on the legacy that it has had to date?”

A Vision for The Root’s Future

A study from Pew Research shows that Black Americans are skeptical about the U.S. news media. The skepticism is rooted in long-standing concerns about coverage, representation, and the media’s role in society.

Almost two-thirds of Black adults, or 63%, say news about Black people is often more negative than news about other racial and ethnic groups. More than half (57%) say the news only covers specific segments of Black communities and often misses essential information, and 43% said the coverage largely stereotypes Black people.

Allison says her goal with The Root is to close this gap.

“We want to tell the stories that might not make it in other publications or on other channels,” she says. “I think we are able to do that with honesty, integrity, data, and facts with a journalistic rigor.”

She plans to expand the digital reach and coverage by investing in video and audio components to meet people where they are. An estimated 54% of U.S. adults access news through social media and video networks. There will be no shortage of opinions, commentary, and conversations with people readers may not always agree with.

Allison is clear that The Root will not platform people who cause harm to Black communities.

“There is a rigor that I think we should be able to have as Black people, to have a conversation and debate and still be able to work together in community,” says Allison. “We’re also going to be asking folks what they want to hear throughout the year to really get a sense of where our audience is.”

An average of 10 to 15 million people consume The Root each month. According to Allison, readers are not solely Black. Another goal for Allison is to ensure that The Root provides information for people who want to learn more about the Black experience.

A Dream Deferred Is Not a Dream Denied

What many may not know is that Allison wrote down her dreams of acquiring digital media properties in her journal in 2009. She envisoned it, then prayed about it, and waited.

Acquiring The Root is more than a business move. It’s destiny fulfilled. The Democratic strategist and former senior staff member in the Obama and Biden administrations urges anyone with a dream to push through, even when it feels impossible.

“The things that we sometimes fear or feel that no one will support, it’s often the exact opposite,” she says. “My dream was to buy media property, and I did it. People have been very receptive. If you have a dream, try it, because it’s probably been something everybody has been waiting for.”

military, citizen, ICE, trump — Photo by Bo Zaunders/Getty Images

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

November 11, 2025

Veteran’s Day Looks Different As Government Shutdown Impacts Veterans Affair Department

The government shutdown has halted many services managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Although Veterans’ Day honors the contributions of former military members, this year’s federal holiday may look a little different amid a government shutdown.

The shutdown has essentially halted many federal agencies and operations, from the release of SNAP benefits to those working at Air Traffic Control centers. While many federal workers have felt the effects of the shutdown, another group of service members and veterans has also taken a hit, even on their designated day of recognition.

Celebrated on Nov. 11, Veterans’ Day is an official day of remembrance for all who served in the U.S. Armed Forces. However, the shutdown has stunted the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, leaving many of its services and employees on hold. The VA manages the rollout of healthcare, pensions, and other benefits to veterans nationwide.

According to USA Today, many VA employees were furloughed following the shutdown. Initial numbers presumed only 15,000 of the 460,000 employed under the VA would face furloughs. However, actual figures revealed that 37,000 employees were suspended or working without a full paycheck.

The staff shortage left many operations in limbo, including transition briefings for those leaving the Armed Forces. Career counseling for the approximately 100,000 veterans enrolled in the VA’s Readiness and Employment program has also been paused. Additionally, more than 50 regional benefit offices faced closures amid the shutdown.

With GI Bill hotlines unplugged as well as stalled placements of permanent headstones at almost 100 VA cemeteries, veterans have faced their own unique struggles as the government attempts to reopen. Those needing pre-need burial support are also waiting for Congress to pass a deal.

This is also threatening to the nation’s prominent Black veteran population. According to the Black Veterans Empowerment Council, there remain over 2 million Black vets across the country. This demographic accounts for 12% of the total number of former military men and women.

While benefits have continued to roll out, the discontinuation of several essential VA services has made this Veteran’s Day an outlier. Fortunately, VA medical centers and other services remain operational, including burials, housing benefits, compensation, and the review of veterans’ cases. Suicide prevention programs and the Veteran Primary Call Center, Crisis and Benefit Hotlines still operate.

However, the celebration of Veterans’ Day has been slightly overshadowed by the stifled VA services prompted by the federal crisis. While the government shutdown is nearing an end, departments from the USDA to VA will need time to recover from the halted operations.

Wes Moore, trump, Redistricting — Photo: Rob Carr/Getty Images

by Sharelle B. McNair

November 11, 2025

Two Can Play That Game: Gov. Wes Moore Says Maryland ‘Wont Just Sit On Our Hands’ In Redistricting Fight

Moore announced the commission’s formation in early November in an effort to draw 'fair maps,' unlike his Republican counterparts.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore says he is standing up to President Donald Trump and Republicans’ redistricting scheme by creating a committee that could potentially push out the only seat held by a Republican in the state, CBS News reports.

During a sit-down on “Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan,” Moore said he’s “not sure why we should be playing by a different set of rules than Texas, or than Florida, or than Ohio or all these other places,” highlighting the headlining push from red-leaning states to give in to Trump’s demand. The Democratic governor says the state will prove to be one that’s not afraid to fight back. “I want this bipartisan commission to be able to actually speak with the people and to be able to go through their process and just simply say that if other states are going to go through this process, that we’re not just going to sit on our hands because Donald Trump tells us to,” Moore said.

“That’s not the way this process is going to work.”

Moore announced the commission’s formation in early November 2025 to draw “fair maps,” unlike his Republican counterparts. In July 2025, Texas answered Trump’s call to redistrict Democratic areas for the GOP. However, state Democratic leaders protested by leaving the state to avoid a vote that could advance the mission.

Maryland law outlines that congressional maps should be drawn by the state Assembly, a supermajority of Democrats. Moore would have to call a special session of the Assembly to move forward with the plan. Chaired by Maryland Sen. Angela Alsobrooks, the commission consists of Senate President Bill Ferguson, Maryland House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones, former Attorney General Brian Frosh, and Cumberland Mayor Raymond Morriss.

However, leaders like Ferguson are seemingly opposed to the redistricting effort, citing high-risk legal issues in a letter. “Mid-cycle redistricting for Maryland presents a reality where the legal risks are too high, the timeline for action is dangerous, the downside risk to Democrats is catastrophic, and the certainty of our existing map would be undermined,” the Senate President wrote.

But Moore says that, for democracy, nothing is too risky, as both he and Ferguson agree that Trump has taken things to the limit, and it’s time for a change. “Where we differ is the urgency that this moment requires, the fight that this moment requires,” Moore said.

“And I personally am someone who is not going to allow Donald Trump to determine whether or not Maryland follows this idea of saying, are we going to do everything we can to make sure we’re preserving our democracy.”

The call for change comes after California voters’ historic vote to pass Proposition 50, according to The Hill, giving the state Legislature the green light to take over the state’s congressional maps until the state’s independent commission takes control in 2030.

The proposition received 64% support.

Alabama State University won first place at the 2025 BE SMART Hackathon. Students are joined by BLACK ENTERPRISE CEO Earl "Butch" Graves, Jr. (left) and Tomias Davis, IT Application Manager; Strategy, Culture and Communications at American Airlines (right).

by Ashlei Stevens

November 11, 2025

Alabama State University Takes Home The Win At 10th Annual BE SMART HBCU Hackathon

The team’s winning App would address maternal health crisis in rural Alabama

As Black women are disproportionately affected by the nation’s maternal health crisis, students at Alabama State University (ASU) created a mobile app to address this and won first place at the 2025 BE SMART HBCU Hackathon.

“Winning this Hackathon is an incredible honor for our team. It reflects the hard work, creativity, and collaboration we’ve built together and highlights the strength of our school’s support for innovation,” said Oluwatodimu Jonathan Adegoke, a junior computer science major at ASU.

The 10^th annual Hackathon, themed “Built Different, Built Brilliant,” returned to Charlotte Nov. 5 – 8, where Queen City Mayor Vi Lyles greeted students from more than three dozen historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), including two teams from Charlotte’s own HBCU, Johnson C. Smith University. She discussed the job opportunities available in the city.

“We need new engineers. We need people who are going to help us build a greater city,” Lyles told BLACK ENTERPRISE. “We want people to come to Charlotte, North Carolina, especially these young people.”

American Airlines Vice President of Customer Intelligence Saba Beyene said that more than 50 former Hackathon participants have been hired by American Airlines, which returned as the Hackathon’s host sponsor. BLACK ENTERPRISE CEO Earl “Butch” Graves, Jr., told the audience of more than 300 HBCU students about the importance of the Hackathon, which has helped fulfill a need over the past decade to recruit talented Black students into tech careers.

Preparing HBCU students for Tech Careers

On Nov. 6, Sponsor Day, students listened to sage advice and helpful tips from sponsors while also presenting their resumes during a career fair. Leaders from Verizon spoke to students about gaining visibility through intentional networking. Fidelity Investments leaders walked through useful tools for developing investment habits, and Toyota leaders shared professional and personal tips for building a meaningful career during the transition from college. Various leaders from American Air helped prep students for technical interviews and highlighted the company’s early-career talent development program, ADEPT. Representatives from each of these four companies also served as tech mentors and judges.

During the 24-hour coding competition from Nov. 7-8, each of the 62 teams was challenged with developing an app that solves an issue in their respective communities. Judges assessed the team’s application impact, technical complexity, and user-friendliness, and also rated teams on their pitch and presentation skills. All competitors were computer science, computer engineering, and cybersecurity majors.

A suite of prizes was offered to winners, including AAdvantage miles from American Airlines, savvy digital devices like laptops and gaming keyboards, branded blankets and bags, tumblers, and useful tech gear. Thanks to PepsiCo and McDonald’s, students from the top three winning teams collectively took home more than $100,000 in cash to split amongst team members. Additional sponsors for the 10th annual BE Smart Hackathon include The City of Charlotte, NASCAR, and Nationwide, marking the largest Hackathon sponsor pool to date.

Addressing Community Needs Through Technology

Via ASU’s proposed MomCare app, women in rural Selma, Alabama—some of whom team members said have to travel up to 100 miles to the nearest obstetrician—would receive expedited services via virtual consultations, answers on medication and food risks while pregnant, belly-bump photo assessments, and much more. The winning team members, in addition to Oluwatodimu Jonathan Adegoke, are Oluwakanyinsola Erinle, Abigiya Mesfin, George-Michael Kondoun, and Jamerio Robinson; all computer science majors, ranging from a sophomore to three juniors and one senior at the Montgomery, Alabama, HBCU.

Adegoke and Mesfin both competed in the BE SMART Hackathon last year and were excited for this year’s win.

“This experience motivates us to continue pursuing meaningful projects in tech that can have real-world impact,” said Adegoke, “and it inspires us to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in our future careers.”

In second place was “Team Albert & Friends” from North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC. Their app allows users to locate food pantries by zip code and includes a feature that turns grocery store receipts into recipes.

In third place was “Team HackHouse” from Morehouse College in Atlanta. The quad developed Launchpad, an app that connects students to careers in technology, which was timely and relevant given the Hackathon’s objective to connect students to meaningful tech internships and career opportunities.

Team Albert & Friends from N.C. Central University placed 2nd at the 2025 BE SMART Hackathon.

A team from Fisk University and from Grambling State University advanced to the top 5 and presented their apps on stage, after which the judges narrowed it down to the three winners.

See a complete list of winners’ prizes here. Prizes were also given to students who proudly represented their Hackathon experience in a major way on social media.

Follow Black Enterprise on Instagram to see highlights across the 2025 Hackathon.

SZA — Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

by Mary Spiller

November 11, 2025

SZA Partners With Jon & Vinny’s to Serve 1,400 Free Meals Amid SNAP Crisis

As millions of Americans face uncertainty over food assistance during the ongoing government shutdown, SZA’s NOT Charity teams up with a beloved Los Angeles restaurant to feed families in need.

As the nation’s most vulnerable brace for food insecurity amid a prolonged government shutdown, Grammy-winning artist SZA has stepped in to help. Her nonprofit organization, NOT Charity, has joined forces with the Los Angeles-based Italian eatery Jon & Vinny’s to provide 1,400 free meals to residents affected by the suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

“Y’all know how much I love Jon and Vinny’s,” SZA wrote in a shared Instagram post with the restaurant on Nov 10. “But it ain’t no fun if the homies can’t have none!!”

According to Jon & Vinny’s, the collaboration was born from SZA’s own outreach. “Last week [SZA] reached out to us with an idea and now, with her help, it’s a reality,” the restaurant announced. “Over the next seven days, we are partnering with her NOT Charity to provide 1,400 free meals (100 dinners for two per day) for Los Angeles community members who receive SNAP.”

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Meals will be available for pickup at Jon & Vinny’s Slauson location from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. daily, beginning Nov. 11 through Nov. 17. The restaurant thanked SZA for “inspiring all of us to be there for our neighbors.” Recipients can sign up by emailing notcharity@jonandvinnys.com, with a limit of four meals per family.

The initiative comes as the future of SNAP remains uncertain for the 5.5 million Californians who rely on it. With the government shutdown now in its sixth week, many families are struggling to keep food on the table. The Trump administration has petitioned the Supreme Court to maintain a freeze on full SNAP payments, despite lower court rulings requiring that benefits continue during the stoppage.

According to the Associated Press, the administration argues that resuming full funding could hinder negotiations in Congress. Meanwhile, the human toll is mounting — families skipping meals, food pantries stretched thin, and communities bracing for hunger just weeks before Thanksgiving.

On Monday, the Senate passed legislation to end the record-breaking shutdown and sent it to the House for approval. But as lawmakers remain gridlocked, SZA’s grassroots gesture offers immediate relief.

armed forces, desegregate, integrate, 75 years, White House — military salute. With beret (hat) patch with no rank.

by Ahsan Washington

November 11, 2025

Military Vets Can Dine For Free At These Restaurants On Veterans Day

Each year, restaurants across America take time to honor individuals who have shown bravery and served the United States by offering them a free meal on Veterans Day. On Nov. 11, a host of chains and cherished local hangouts, from neighborhood diners and burger joints to coffee cafés and pizza kitchens, are paying it backward and forward. Feeding our former military service members is a collective thank you for their patriotism. Below are eight restaurants where veterans and active‑duty service members can enjoy a meal this Veterans Day.

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar will present a full‑size entrée chosen from a select menu to veterans, National Guard members, Reservists, and active‑duty U.S. military personnel on Veterans Day. The promotion is dine‑in only and available nationwide at participating Applebee’s locations.

Chili’s Grill & Bar

In recognition of service, Chili’s Grill & Bar is providing a complimentary dine‑in meal from a special Veterans Day menu, giving vets a no‑cost dining experience. The free meal will be offered at participating Chili’s locations across the United States.

California Pizza Kitchen

California Pizza Kitchen will honor veterans and active‑duty service members with an entrée and beverage from a special menu at all participating locations across the country.

Olive Garden

Olive Garden hands out an entrée on Veterans Day to veterans and active‑duty service members. The offer appears at participating restaurants across the United States (double‑check whether the nearest spot is in on it).

Smoothie King

Smoothie King is extending a gratis 20‑ounce blend to veterans and active‑duty service members on Veterans Day, between noon and 3 PM (verify with your local store). This chilled, nutrient‑dense libation acts as a salute acknowledging their dedication.

In‑N‑Out Burger

On Veterans Day, In‑N‑Out Burger will treat veterans, active‑duty service members, reservists, and National Guard personnel to a burger meal, fries, and a beverage at all participating locations.

Denny’s

Denny’s offers free “Original Grand Slam” breakfasts (or similar free meals) to veterans and active-duty military personnel during breakfast hours on Veterans Day at participating restaurants.

Shake Shack

Shake Shack will hand out a “Big Shack” burger to veterans and active‑duty military personnel at participating locations across the United States a modest gesture meant to convey gratitude, for their service.

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