HBO, 'The Gilded Age,' Deneé Benton, Audra McDonald, Phylicia Rashad

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

July 4, 2025

Phylicia Rashad To Direct ‘Immediate Family’ At Blumenthal Arts In North Carolina

Phylicia Rashad is set to direct "Immediate Family" in North Carolina.

Fresh off her Broadway play’s Tony win for Best Musical, Phylicia Rashad has been announced as the director for the regional premiere of Paul Oakley Stovall’s Immediate Family at North Carolina’s Blumenthal Arts.

The Tony Award-winning actress is reprising her role as director for the stage play, which is making its East Coast debut following successful runs at Chicago’s Goodman Theatre and Los Angeles’s Mark Taper Forum, the latter helmed by Rashad herself, Playbill reported.

The play follows the Bryant family reunion, which is thrown into chaos when the middle son brings his boyfriend and tosses him into a slew of family dysfunction. Race, sexuality, and religion take center stage in this sharp-witted play that blends Modern Family with Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner.

The play was written by Tony Award-winning multihyphenate Paul Oakley Stovall, the Olivier-nominated producer of A Strange Loop, and former George Washington in the first national tour of Hamilton. Rashad brings her decades of theater experience, two Tony Awards, numerous Emmy nominations, and a Theater Hall of Fame induction.

Her Broadway credits include standout performances as Big Mama in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Aunt Ester in Gem of the Ocean, Violet Weston in August: Osage County, and roles in Into the Woods and Jelly’s Last Jam. She earned a Tony Award for her portrayal of Lena Younger in the acclaimed revival of A Raisin in the Sun.

As a director, Rashad has helmed productions of August Wilson’s Gem of the Ocean, Fences, and Joe Turner’s Come and Gone, as well as Lorraine Hansberry’s A Raisin in the Sun.

The Blumenthal Arts cast of Immediate Family includes Christina Sajous as Evy, Elijah Jones as Jesse, Freddie Fulton as Tony, Andy Mientus as Kristian, Kai Almeda Heath as Nina, and Britney Coleman as Ronnie. Deon Releford-Lee, Samuel Douglas, Aigner Mizzelle, and Vanessa R. Butler are cast as standbys.

Theater enthusiasts can catch Immediate Family at the Blumenthal Arts Booth Playhouse from July 29 to Aug. 31. Tickets are available at BlumenthalArts.org.

by Kandiss Edwards

July 4, 2025

Department Of Education Halts $7B In Funding For K-12 Schools

The Trump administration has put an abrupt hold on nearly $7 billion in federal funding intended for K-12 schools.

Effective July 1, the move has prompted widespread concern among educators, parents, and lawmakers. The hold leaves many school systems uncertain about the immediate and long-term impact on student programs.

The Department of Education notified states that the funds would not be released, citing a need to ensure spending aligns with the president’s priorities, Axios reported. Critics argue the action is unlawful.

Affected programs include after-school programs, summer learning programs, teacher professional development, English language acquisition, and support for migrant students. These programs collectively serve millions of children, many of whom come from low-income families. School leaders and advocacy groups warn of severe consequences. Districts that have already drafted budgets, planned services, and hired staff based on expected funding now face significant shortfalls.

Chris Reykdal, Washington state’s superintendent of public instruction, noted the decision could thrust several more school districts into extreme financial distress. In Alabama, some programs, such as the CARE Center, have halted student registration and hiring.

Jodi Grant, executive director of the Afterschool Alliance, described the funding freeze as “catastrophic” for families reliant on consistent programming for childcare and academic support.

“If these funds are not released very soon, we will quickly see more children and youth unsupervised and at risk, more academic failures, more hungry kids, more chronic absenteeism, higher dropout rates, more parents forced out of their jobs, and a less STEM-ready and successful workforce as our childcare crisis worsens dramatically,” Grant said in a statement.

Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, condemned the administration’s action as an “illegal usurpation of the authority of the Congress,” asserting it directly harms children.

In a statement, Sen. Patty Murray stressed that every day of delay forces districts to make difficult choices about staffing and services. She highlighted that Congress had approved this funding as part of a continuing budget resolution in March, which President Trump himself signed into law.

“President Trump himself signed this funding into law—but that isn’t stopping him from choking off resources to support before and after school programs, help students learn, support teachers in the classroom, and a lot more. The uncertainty he has created has already forced districts to delay hiring and other initiatives to help students. The only question left now is how much more damage this administration wants to inflict on our public schools.”

States like California and Texas stand to lose the most. Tony Thurmond, California’s state superintendent, stated the administration is “punishing children” when states do not align with Trump’s political ideology.

LeBron James, Kids Picture book, 'I Am More Than', I promise school

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

July 4, 2025

Sold-Out LeBron James Richard Mille Timepiece To Benefit LeBron James Family Foundation

The RM 65-01 Split-Seconds Chronograph LeBron James only produced 150 and sold out within hours.

After the debut of the collaborative luxury timepiece that LeBron James partnered with Richard Mille on, the proceeds from the limited edition watches (which sold out) are going to the athlete’s nonprofit organization, the LeBron James Family Foundation.

The foundation posted to its social media account announcing that it will benefit from the sale of the RM 65-01 Split-Seconds Chronograph LeBron James.

“Debuting a one-of-a-kind piece for a one-of-a-kind cause. 🙏🏾👑💚 @kingjames & @richardmille created one of the most intricate and complex automatic timepieces that’s rooted in legacy and purpose.”

“As part of (James’) lasting legacy, the Foundation has created a blueprint for community building from the ground up, supporting students and families with opportunities, education, and an all-encompassing ecosystem of resources that has inspired an entire generation to live out their dreams.”

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A post shared by LeBron James Family Foundation (@ljfamfoundation)

The timepiece incorporates the Lakers’ signature color scheme and has a high price tag of $405,040. The LeBron series plays on the RM 65-01 timepiece made by Richard Mille, and LeBron’s signature is etched into the timepiece’s caseback.

AfroTech reported that all 150 watches sold out within hours after LeBron showed them off at Fanatics Fest in New York City.

The future NBA Hall of Famer is on his way to breaking another record as he is going into his 23rd NBA season. No one has ever played 23 years in the league. The Associated Press reported that LeBron opted into his $52.6 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2025-26 season. He is breaking a tie with former Toronto Raptors player, Vincent “Vince” Carter, who ended his career after playing for 22 seasons.

The 40-year-old billionaire averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists this past season. If he plays 50 games this upcoming season, he will break another record as he will surpass Boston Celtics legend Robert Parish in regular-season games played. Parish played in 1,611 regular-season games, and LeBron is currently at 1,562.

LeSean McCoy Returns Home To Unveil $16.7M Affordable Housing Project

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

July 4, 2025

LeSean McCoy Returns Home To Unveil $16.7M Affordable Housing Project

NFL champion LeSean McCoy is the owner of a $16.7 million affordable housing community in his hometown of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

NFL champion LeSean McCoy is giving back to his hometown of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, by investing in a $16.7 million affordable housing development.

The former Philadelphia Eagles running back led the June 24 ribbon-cutting ceremony for JMB Gardens, a new affordable housing community in uptown Harrisburg, Penn Live reported. Once empty lots are now home to real families in a bold effort to expand affordable housing across Pennsylvania.

Named in honor of LeSean McCoy’s late grandparents, James and Maryann Branch, JMB Gardens is a fully affordable housing community featuring 41 modern townhomes across four buildings. The development offers a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, including six ADA-accessible homes and one designed for residents with hearing or vision impairments.

At its heart is a community center located at North Sixth and Emerald Streets, serving as a vibrant hub that reflects the development’s people-first approach. McCoy expressed pride in owning the new development, calling it a reflection of his commitment to the community that raised him and a celebration of his family’s legacy.

He also credited the support of state and local leaders who helped bring the project to life.

“I do these things to bring everybody closer,” McCoy said. “People can’t see the things that I’ve seen and do the things I’ve done, but you can still impact the community.”

Senator Patty Kim, who first met McCoy a decade ago during a holiday turkey drive for Harrisburg families, praised the former NFL star for his unwavering love and commitment to the community.

“He’s giving out the same joy and getting back to his community,” Kim said. “And we are so grateful for you and for being a hometown hero.”

Governor Josh Shapiro highlighted the critical need for safe, affordable housing in Pennsylvania, where many homes date back to before 1970. He stressed that tackling the state’s housing crisis calls for strong partnerships between government, private developers, and community leaders, pointing to the Commonwealth’s $1.3 million investment in JMB Gardens as a key example.

“So we need to vote to build more affordable housing. And we need to be able to target investments in our aging housing stock to allow people here to stay in their homes,” he said.

McCoy spent the bulk of his NFL career with the Philadelphia Eagles before being traded to the Buffalo Bills in 2015. He played four seasons in Buffalo, then wrapped up his career with one-year stints on the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, winning a Super Bowl with each team in 2019 and 2020.

Since retiring, McCoy has transitioned into sports media, co-hosting FS1’s The Facility alongside Emmanuel Acho, Chase Daniel, and James Jones.

by Kandiss Edwards

July 3, 2025

Union City In Atlanta Welcomes Newest Tiny Home Community

The Union Park Cottages are providing a community that helps Atlanta residents stay in the metro area at affordable prices.

An Atlanta development company is raising its second tiny home community, Union Park Cottages.

The development helps address the home inequity crisis that has become prevalent in the city of Atlanta, 11 Alive reported.

Techie Homes, the development responsible for the tiny home communities, is owned by developer Booker T. Washington. The newest community in Union City, Georgia, is starting to sell out.

The average home price in metro Atlanta is $400,000, which is inaccessible to many. Techie Homes is supplying properties in the $200,000 range, making a home more affordable to the average buyer.

“You have to have a mixture of communities that do adapt for people in different income levels, because they need to experience life and examples of all types so they can grow up in balance,” said Washington.

The Union Park cottage home is for all demographics. Anyone from a young adult to a retiree can find a fitting accommodation. The homes are built to be sustainable and provide all basic amenities, including a full kitchen, living room, bathroom, and bedroom. Units are about 750ft. Outside materials include fiber-cement cladding and solar panels.

The neighborhood provides a community tech lab. Additionally, each owner of each cottage has a 15% equity stake in the community coffee shop. Washington believes the tech lab represents another step toward addressing the literacy crisis prevalent in communities across the US.

“The literacy rate is declining,” Washington told 11 Alive. “So, in this community, I just wanted to provide an access point for people to elevate their skill sets because we could teach entrepreneurship and other classes in the computer lab.

As an Atlanta native, Washington wants to provide opportunities for others to invest in the communities they’ve lived in their entire lives.

“I grew up in this part of town,” Washington said. “I was that kid that was on the bicycle, walking down the sidewalk. I lived in apartment after apartment…there has never been any innovation to this side of town because it’s always bet on people renting forever.”

Techie Homes has sold all Union Park Cottages but hopes to break ground on another development in the future.

5 Tips To Survive Your 9-5 With A Side Hustle

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

July 3, 2025

Online Conservative Groups Are Mocking The Reality Of ‘Black Fatigue’ To Fit A Racist Narrative

The conservative trend has twisted the original meaning of the phrase.

Online conservative groups have reportedly had it with “Black fatigue,” twisting the term on its head to promote a racist ideal.

In the era where everything and anything can go easily viral, more eyes are watching and critiquing certain communities based on what’s displayed. For groups with biases already ingrained toward racial groups, this can further their prejudiced narratives and potential disrespect, especially online.

A new racist trend has already taken over the more conservative side of the internet, as reported by Rolling Stone. In some right-leaning spaces, Black fatigue, a phrase created by author Mary-Frances Winters and initially reserved to describe Black people’s physical exhaustion from white supremacy, has taken on a new meaning. There, Black fatigue means a frustration with a stereotypical view of Black culture.

Winters initially introduced the concept in her 2020 book Black Fatigue: How Racism Erodes the Mind, Body, and Spirit. She wrote about the physical and mental impact of systemic racism following her time as a DEI researcher and consultant. Noting the discussions she had with Black employees in the workforce, their descriptions of how racism attacks their everyday lives led to her revelation.

“In my book, Black fatigue is the mental and physical exhaustion that comes from repeated acts of discrimination over time,” explained Winters. “It’s not just, ‘I’m tired because I had a long, busy day.’ No, it’s this repeated racism that wears you down, over and over again.”

To some, “Black fatigue” now equates to white people’s tiredness of videos depicting Black people fighting, having multiple kids, or acting in a way that makes them uncomfortable. The co-opting of this phrase has already undermined its very serious origins. While unsurprised at how white supremacy continues to delegitimize the experience of Black people, Winters refuses to let the insidious adoption of her coined phrase dishearten her.

“People who are in these extremes are not open to a conversation. I’m choosing not to let it impact me personally, emotionally,” Winters said. “I’m not going to get involved in whatever delusions, disinformation, or pain that causes people to be racist. I don’t know what they’re dealing with. But I know what my truth is. And I’m sticking to it.”

Some believe the start of this new Black fatigue came from the April 2025 stabbing arrest of Black Texas teenager, Karmelo Anthony. The news of Anthony allegedly stabbing a white high schooler at a track meet sparked outrage nationwide. The racialized elements of the crime led some alt-right groups to begin citing their version of “Black fatigue.”

However, this spin on racial justice terms is not a new phenomenon. Given the internet’s uncontrolled environment, a phrase can gain another life, even if it contradicts its first one.

“Conservatives tend to do a lot of co-opting of Black politics, especially in the digital space. So Black Lives Matter, Blue Lives Matter, woke versus woke, Black fatigue, black fatigue,” explained Zari Taylor, digital culture expert at New York University. “It’s the same thing. Once those words reach a certain level of mainstream [recognition] within digital culture, people like to co-opt them for their own purposes.”

While still “devastated” by its co-option, Winters remains committed to uplifting and supporting the holistic freedom of Black people, as well as other vulnerable groups. The activist and writer believes that continued work and focus on progress can help others “devastated” by this change to stay hopeful.

by Selena Hill

July 3, 2025

‘Heads of State’ Delivers Big Laughs and Action Between an Unlikely Presidential Pairing

Idris Elba and John Cena star in the action-packed comedy film released just in time for July 4th weekend

Heads of State is a fast-paced, action-packed buddy comedy with global appeal.

Directed by Ilya Naishuller, the film follows an unlikely alliance between two world leaders: UK Prime Minister Sam Clarke (played by Idris Elba), a veteran SAS-trained commando turned politician, and U.S. President Will Derringer (played by John Cena), a former action movie star turned elected official. Tensions between the two rivals are high, especially following a very frosty joint press conference. However, when a deadly security breach spirals into a global conspiracy, they’re forced to put their egos and politics aside and trust each other to survive. Along the way, they team up with MI6 agent Noel Bisset (played by Priyanka Chopra Jonas) and a surprising ally played by Jack Quaid in a fight for their lives and the free world at large.

Produced by Amazon MGM Studios, the film is loaded with witty zingers and high-octane action. At the world premiere held at Lincoln Center in New York City on June 24, Cena opened about the on-screen chemistry he shares with Elba, whom he previously worked with in The Suicide Squad.

“Developing chemistry is a skill, and it’s an exploration you have to make every time you have a part—unless you’re a one-man show,” he told BLACK ENTERPRISE on the red carpet. “This one was easy because Idris is a professional. I consider him a friend, and it’s great to work with a friend again. Man, he’s a professional who makes me better.”

Cena described their characters as polar opposites: “[I play] a kind of upbeat, aloof, ignorant head of state, while [Idris’ character] is a lifelong diplomat, pessimistic, glass-half-empty type of guy.”

Source: **Sarah Niles attends the Amazon MGM Studios World Premiere of “Heads of State” (Photo Credit: Marion Curtis / StarPix for Amazon MGM Studios)**

Their contrast is the heart of the film’s comedy. English actress Sarah Niles, who also stars in the film, praised the duo’s dynamic. “They’re so funny. They have great chemistry. I’ve always been a big fan of John Cena and Idris, who is from London.”

Source: **Idris Elba attends the Amazon MGM Studios World Premiere of “Heads of State” (Photo Credit: Dave Allocca / StarPix for Amazon MGM Studios)**

Elba revealed the film was shot over two years across the UK, France, Spain, and Italy during the writers’ and actors’ strikes in 2023. Despite the challenges, Elba remained unfazed by outside political noise.

“There’s no difference” in Hollywood, he told BE. “The film industry is pretty modular.”

Released just days before Independence Day on July 2, Heads of State offers a wild, satirical take on timely themes like international diplomacy, cyber warfare, and modern leadership. The movie also draws from the reality that some political leaders are more showmen than statesmen.

Still, the contrast between Cena’s charismatic but clueless President and Elba’s calculating Prime Minister is enlightening and entertaining. Their banter, blunders, and eventual bond keep the plot moving and the laughs flowing.

Heads of State is now available on Prime Video.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

July 3, 2025

Coco Gauff Loses At Wimbledon But Will Use Time ‘To Reset’

She lost the match to an unseeded player, Dayana Yastremska, 7-6 (3), 6-1.

After winning her last tournament and rising up to become the No. 2-ranked tennis player, Coco Gauff got bumped from Wimbledon in the first round.

According to NBC Sports, Gauff was disappointed with the loss, but it won’t stop her from her goals as she intends to “reset.” Her loss comes less than a month after she won the French Open on June 7, besting No. 1-ranked Aryna Sabalenka. With the victory, Gauff became the first American woman in over 10 years to win the tournament, since Serena Williams did it in 2014.

The expectation was high for Gauff to do better, but she has traditionally done better on a clay tennis court than on grass. The surface for the French Open was clay, while Wimbledon is on grass.

She lost to an unseeded player, Dayana Yastremska, 7-6 (3), 6-1.

After losing the tennis match, Gauff said, “I definitely was struggling in the locker room. I don’t like losing. The main thing I’m sure my team and everyone is going to tell me (is): ‘You did well at Roland-Garros. Don’t be so upset.’ Things like that.”

The All England Club has not been good to Gauff. This is the second time in three years that she has lost in the first round. At every major tournament she’s been involved in, she has at least made it to the semifinals, yet at All England, she’s never made it past the fourth round.

But she is taking the loss in stride and promises to get back on track. Gauff stated that she’s not going to dwell on the loss but that losing “isn’t the worst thing” to happen as she can now refocus back to her previous winning ways.

“I mean, obviously, I’m not going to dwell on this too long, because I want to do well at the U.S. Open. Maybe losing here (in the) first round isn’t the worst thing in the world,” she said, “because I have time to reset.”

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

July 3, 2025

UK Doctors Vote To Approve Identity-Based Care For LGBTQIA+ Patients

A UK doctors union has voted in support of identity-based care for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Doctors represented by the British Medical Association (BMA) have voted to support the inclusion of “identity-based care” for LGBTQIA+ patients as part of updated medical training.

The decision came during the BMA’s annual representative meeting in Liverpool on June 25, where a majority of members voted in favor of a motion focused on ensuring “respect, safety, and dignity” for LGBTQ+ doctors and patients, the Independent reported.

Member Bethan Stanley spoke ahead of the votes being submitted to address a “blatant transphobia” within the current political climate. Urging her fellow union members to vote “yes” on the motion, she insisted, “gender-affirming care is healthcare.”

“I feel it is a no-brainer that we should support care that is going to improve the welfare and well-being of our patients,” Stanley said.

“Trans women are women. Trans men are men,” she added through resounding applause.

The BMA’s new measure moves forward despite concerns it could conflict with the law, following the Supreme Court’s April ruling that defined the terms “woman” and “sex” in the 2010 Equality Act as referring to biological sex. Union member Louise Irvine expressed her opposition to the motion, saying while it has a “laudable aim of protecting LGBTQ+ and other people’s rights to fair treatment,” it also “risks advocating that the BMA and other organizations adopt policies which are unlawful.”

The vote follows complaints from transgender patients that doctors have abruptly stopped prescribing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) without notice, often citing a “lack of expertise” and “lack of support” in managing the treatment.

The motion calls on BMA to “affirm the right of all LGBTQ+ patients and staff to identity-based care and working conditions – defined as care and policies that actively account for the individual’s lived, intersecting identities (including sexuality, gender, neurodivergence, race, and cultural background)” and for guidance and a “lobbying strategy to embed this principle into NHS equality standards, training frameworks, and institutional policies.”

by Mitti Hicks

July 3, 2025

The Elevation Experience: Women’s Empowerment Event Kicks Off Orange Blossom Classic

The Orange Blossom Classic is 90% produced by women- and minority-owned businesses.

Most people know Kendra Bulluck as the brains behind reviving the historic Orange Blossom Classic, an annual Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) football game and cultural celebration. In a male-dominated industry, Bulluck is the only Black woman in the United States to own the exclusive rights to a major HBCU sports property.

The son of Florida A&M University’s President, J.R.E. Lee Jr., founded the inaugural Orange Blossom Classic in 1933. The event welcomed 2,000 fans to the “Blacks-only” ballpark in Jacksonville, Florida. FAMU beat Howard 9-0 and successfully established the foundation of HBCU classics. From 1933 to 1978, the Orange Blossom Classic reigned supreme as the postseason’s premier HBCU classic event.

After a 43-year hiatus, the Orange Blossom Classic made its return to Miami Gardens in 2021, thanks to Bulluck. The event attracts thousands of fans, alumni, students, and family members each year. It highlights not just football but also the crucial role HBCUs play in educating aspiring professionals and developing future leaders. Bulluck has transformed the classic into a must-attend event for anyone interested in HBCUs. Under her direction, the event has been featured on ESPN2 during the past two NCAA football seasons.

Photo Credit: Kendra Bulluck, Executive Director of The Orange Blossom Classic

But there’s more to Bulluck than what spectators see on the field each year. She’s a mother, author, and serial entrepreneur who has worn various hats while pursuing her career endeavors. Now, Bulluck wants to make sure women have the tools they need to succeed in corporate America and as entrepreneurs. That’s why she’s hosting a women’s empowerment event known as “The Elevation Experience.”

“The Elevation Experience was something I thought about based on my experience as a woman and entrepreneur. I was working in different spaces, with different people, and trying to elevate through those spaces,” she told BLACK ENTERPRISE. “I thought it would be a really good opportunity to give [women] something practical that can help them navigate corporate America.”

What Women Can Expect During The Elevation Experience

The Elevation Experience, presented by Fort Lauderdale, is the official countdown to the Orange Blossom Classic, which is 90% produced by women- and minority-owned businesses.

Bulluck said the one-day conference on July 11^th will provide women with tangible information through panel discussions, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities. Some speakers include an attorney who will discuss how to protect attendees’ brands with trademarks and copyrights. Other speakers will focus on how women can finance or obtain grants for their businesses, and there will also be a conversation about image consulting.

“[The focuses] will be on health and wellness, fashion and beauty, corporate structure, understanding how to incorporate your business, as well as how to protect your brand and investing,” Bulluck added.

The free event for women will take place at the Charles F. Dodge City Center in Pembroke Pines from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This year’s panel will feature a lineup of powerhouse women who Bulluck said are redefining what success looks like across entertainment, education, beauty, and entrepreneurship. The lineup includes serial entrepreneur Ebony Austin; actress and comedian Pretty Vee; Grammy-nominated rapper Dr. Yolanda “Yo-Yo” Whitaker; and beauty creative and entrepreneur Ericka J.

While the event is free, registration is required. Women can learn more and sign up for the event here.