Jeezy Faces Potential Jail Time For Non-Compliance In Divorce Case
An Atlanta judge threatened to place him in jail if he fails to comply with court orders
The divorce proceedings between Jay “Jeezy” Jenkins and Jeannie Mai have taken a turn that could potentially land the rapper in jail.
According to InTouch, a judge had determined that the Soul Survivor lyricist had “willfully failed” to turn over a 2021 Range Rover to his former wife. The vehicle and title were supposed to be given to Mai as part of the divorce settlement agreed to by the former lovebirds.
At the recent court hearing, it was revealed that Jeezy ended up complying with the court order, but the attorney for Mai wanted court fees to be paid by the recording artist. However, the judge denied that request. The judge also denied Jeezy’s request that Mai pay his attorney’s fee but warned the Atlanta rapper that failing to comply with any future order from the bench may end with him in jail.
The pair got married in 2021, but two years later, Jeezy wanted out of the marriage. The Boyz n da Hood artist filed for divorce in September 2023, citing that the marriage was “irretrievably broken” with no chance for a reconciliation. Their divorce was finalized in June 2024, but in September, after an agreement over child support, custody, and property division, Mai returned to court, accusing Jeezy of breaching the agreement.
She stated that he did not pay for certain costs related to daycare and school, while also not reimbursing her for four months’ rent totaling $92,000. She also claimed he had yet to transfer the title of the two cars, a 2021 Range Rover and a 2022 Ford Bronco, to her.
Jeezy countered by saying Mai leaked her petition to the press to “embarrass, humiliate and disparage” him.
An attorney stated, “Since the filing of this action, [Jeezy] has been forced to defend himself against frivolous claims, and the intentional public attempt to dismantle [Jeezy’s] name, brand, and reputation continued throughout this case. On the one hand, [Jeannie] wants as much money as possible from [Jeezy] to the penny, but on the other hand, [Jeannie] wants to destroy [Jeezy’s] ability to earn income by dismantling the public goodwill that [Jeezy] has built for decades before even meeting [Jeannie].”
The formerly married couple has a daughter named Monaco.
Small Caribbean Town Shuts Down Following Disagreement Between City Council Members
Hotin issued an order that is expected to last through May 7.
ABC News reported that the small town of Le Gosier, located on the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe, cancelled all classes, shut down government agencies, and paused municipal services following a disagreement between the city council during an emergency meeting.
Issues for the town, with roughly 26,000 residents, allegedly started in April 2025 after newly elected mayor, Michel Hotin, failed to garner support from opposing city council members in efforts to create a general delegation. The idea of the delegation would act as an executive branch, including a general manager and other officials, with the power to authorize contracts and make different decisions on Hotin’s behalf.
The mayor claims the lack of support has stopped him from managing Le Gosier effectively since, without a general delegation, all decisions would require a council vote. Hotin issued an order expected to last through May 7, and in a statement, he defended the closures, saying essential public contracts of state employees can’t be renewed without a proper delegation.
According to The Spec, Guadeloupe’s prefect, who by definition is the highest-ranking representative of the French government within the island’s administrative department, Xavier Lefort, announced he would file an appeal to suspend the order before an administrative court. Before it reaches that level, Lefort encouraged Hotin to take emergency measures to reopen the town and meet with the council immediately, hoping he could renew or award public contracts with a delegation present.
There have been other changes to the island outside of the town of Le Gosier. In January 2025, Guadeloupe, famous for its glorious beaches, announced plans to remove some iconic coconut palms in hopes of stemming coastal erosion and eradicating a contagious tree disease. Fabian Pilet of the Tropical Agronomy Research Centre (CIRAD) said, “The disease is spread by a tiny insect that looks like a cicada.”
“It’s curtains for the palm the minute the first symptoms appear,” the researcher said.
On the La Perle beach, authorities implemented a two-year plan to eliminate some of the palms and replace them with native species with roots that will better stem the erosion. Some residents and visitors aren’t too pleased with the plan but understand its necessity. “Not having coconut palms detracts a bit from the postcard image we have, but there’s still the sand and the warm sea,” retirees Liliane and Gary said.
Coconut palms carrying the disease have caused issues in countries like Jamaica in the 1980s.
12-Foot Tall Sculpture Of A Woman Stands Tall In Times Square
Price's "Grounded in the Stars" sculpture is a subtle nod to Michelangelo’s David and inspires deeper reflection around the human condition.
Visitors and residents of Times Square have a new piece of artwork on view these days: a 12-foot-tall sculpture of a woman, titled Grounded in the Stars, stands at Broadway and 46th Street.
The bronze sculpture is the brainchild of London-based figurative artist Thomas J Price. By creating the fictional character, Price aimed to encapsulate the observations, images, and open calls of New York, Los Angeles, and London.
According to Times Square’s official website, “Times Square stands as an iconic symbol and site of convergence, uniting people from all walks of life, individual stories and experiences intersecting on a global platform.”
The new installation, presented by Times Square Arts, is a subtle nod to Michelangelo’s David and captures familiar everyday qualities through the woman’s stance, countenance, and clothing.
Grounded in the Stars contrasts two permanent statues of men in Duffy Square, and the installation invites the busy city to embrace a moment of personal reflection and empathy. “The intention of my public works is to become part of the place they inhabit and its physical, material history, as well as the visitors that pass through and around the location, no matter how fleeting.”
The sculpture of the young woman is just one of Price’s works for onlookers to observe as they pass through the iconic area. Throughout May, Price’s stop-motion animation Man Series will be featured on over 90 billboards. The multi-channel presentation is part of the world’s largest digital public art initiative, Midnight Moment, and passersby can catch the nightly presentation on screens from 11:57 p.m. to 12 a.m.
“I hope Grounded in the Stars and Man Series will instigate meaningful connections and bind intimate emotional states that allow for deeper reflection around the human condition and greater cultural diversity.”
Grounded in the Starsis supported by the Jacques and Natasha Gelman Foundation, Morgan Stanley, the New York State Council on the Arts, public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and the City Council, and the Times Square Edition Hotel. The sculpture will be on display through June 17.
Malia Obama Revealed As Director Of A’ja Wilson’s Nike Sneaker Commercial
The clip received praise for its storytelling and direction by Obama.
Malia Obama continues to make her mark in entertainment. The former president’s daughter directed two visuals for A’ja Wilson’s Nike sneaker commercial.
The first daughter of Barack and Michelle Obama has sat in the director’s chair before, directing her own short film The Heart that made its way to the 2024 Sundance Film Festival. Now, the young filmmaker has earned another notch on her resume with this new inspiring commercial for Nike.
The commercial focuses on the release of Wilson’s new signature shoe with the athletic wear brand, fittingly deemed the A’One. Obama directed two videos for the sneaker rollout ahead of the A’One’s official drop on May 6.
One of the videos pays tribute to Black girlhood, as a young Black girl teaches Wilson a reimagined version of the “Miss Mary Mack” hand clapping game. This time, the classic childhood game has lines that pay tribute to Wilson’s basketball career, stating no one can take her top spot.
“A’ja Wilson’s on top, top, top,” the girl sings. “Can’t take her spot, spot, spot.”
“Girl, let me show you how a professional does it,” shared the little girl as she continued the song.
“She’s a real one through through through. Always does what she’ll do do do,” continued the kid.
“She won MVP,P,P. 1 2, and 3, 3, 3. Her game is tea, tea, tea. she made history, -ry, -ry,” she sang. “And if you talk smack, smack, smack, she’s gonna clap back, back, back.”
After Wilson finally “100%” got it, the duo performed that last verse together in the heartwarming clip.
They continued, “Her drips elite, -lite, -lite. It can’t be beat, beat, beat. She’s A’One, its clear, clear clear. Cuz A’ja’s top tier, tier, tier.”
The second video directed by Obama shows Wilson during an interview at Big T’s Bar-B-Que in Columbia, South Carolina. The city is not only her birthplace, but also where she won a NCAA championship with the University of South Carolina Gamecocks. Her former coach at USC, Dawn Staley, also makes a cameo in the full commercial.
The advertisements received praise, with watchers applauding the clips for its focus on Black female youth expression and community. Obama, who normally keeps a low profile despite her fame, was later revealed as a director after behind-the-scenes footage made the rounds on social media. The photos showed Obama in action as she guided Wilson and her young scene partner during the porch clip.
Obama has held many roles within the filmmaking process, including a writer’s credit for Donald Glover’s 2023 show Swarm for Amazon Prime Video. Now, the 26-year-old is spreading her own wings as she leads new projects.
The full Nike commercial, titled “One of A’Kind” can be seen below.
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Drops Nine Word Statement On First Day Of Trial
The statement shared more insight into how Combs was feeling as he begins his trial.
Sean “Diddy” Combs began the first day of his federal trial on May 5 in New York City. Appearing before a judge for jury selection, Combs made an unexpected nine-word statement as the high-profile case got underway.
“I’m sorry, your honor, I’m a little nervous today,” Combs told U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian, as reported by NBC News.
Before his brief remark, Combs had leaned on the voice of his defense team to convey his thoughts during the pre-trial process. The news source also reported that his statement was made in response to his attorneys requesting a “quick bathroom break.”
However, Judge Subramanian suggested that they wait, instead stating, “I’m a machine.”
His insistence led to Combs speaking up.
The first day included the name-dropping of several A-list celebrities, such as Michael Jordan and Kanye West. However, they were not suspected of any crimes surrounding this case, but were used to gauge jurors’ knowledge of who they are and their ability to remain impartial.
The Associated Pressreports that “three dozen” prospective jurors were questioned about their potential biases on the case. Around half were dismissed during the first day.
Opening statements are expected to begin next week as jury selection continues. According to the AP, Combs seemed warm to his defense team, hugging and shaking hands with his attorney, Teny Geragos. However, his appearance has remarkably changed since his indictment and arrest last September.
The disgraced media mogul wore a sweater over a white collared shirt and gray slacks. His hair and goatee were distinctively gray. However, the grayness was unsurprising, given that hair dye is not allowed in jail.
At least one high-profile witness will take the stand in the case. Combs’ accuser and former partner, Cassandra “Cassie” Ventura, was previously announced to testify during the trial. However, when exactly she will appear in court remains unknown.
The federal judge aims to select 12 jurors and six alternates within three days. The trial is also expected to last eight weeks. Combs’ attorney’s father, high-profile defense lawyer Mark Geragos, was also present. He will reportedly serve unofficially, offering guidance to Combs’ legal team during the jury selection.
“Can’t I just watch my daughter? I’m a helicopter parent,” cheekily stated the elder Geragos as he entered court.
Combs stands accused of various crimes, including sex trafficking, arson, bribery, forced labor, and kidnapping. Combs has pleaded not guilty to the allegations, even rejecting a plea deal as his highly anticipated trial comes into fruition.
New York Auto Show Featured The Wow Factors In Genesis’ Concept Car
The luxury car brand emphasized its steadfast dedication to performance
Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins
During the media preview days of the 2025 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), luxury brand Genesis emphasized its steadfast dedication to performance, adventure, and state-of-the-art innovation with a set of vehicles that could dictate the company’s immediate future.
VIP guests, automotive and lifestyle media, and principal executives such as José Muñoz, Randy Parker, Luc Donckerwolke, and Olabisi Boyle gathered at Genesis House New York to witness the strategic evolution of the sporty X Gran Equator Concept (XGEC) and the high-tech GMR-001Hypercar, which will spearhead the company’s racing endeavors in 2026. On the other side of the spectrum, the luxuriant, off-roading XGEC represents a unique formula of refinement and ruggedness for those living nomadic lifestyles like mine. The ability to venture deep within Mother Nature with the freedom of the wild is awe-inspiring. That’s right, in just one trailblazing decade, the progressive Korean automaker has made strides in motorsports and overlanding.
“The X Gran Equator Concept is an exercise in harmonizing contrasts—combining elegance with ruggedness and the spirit of exploration with refined comfort,” said Genesis Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke. “It represents the orchestration of true off-road competence and uncompromising luxury, designed to enable the discovery of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.”
Genesis has unveiled opulent and Magma performance concepts at NYIAS for three consecutive years, including the exclusive GV80 Coupe Concept, the breathtaking Neolun Concept, and the dynamic GV60 Magma Concept. These vehicles add dimension to the portfolio with vigorous lines, enthusiastic attributes, and forward-thinking engineering. The goal is to continue expanding its roster to meet the diverse needs and evolving appetites of each consumer genre and motorsports enthusiast.
Symbolizing the brand’s desire to appease owners with ultimate hospitality, we gathered at the Genesis House in the Meatpacking District, where Genesis unveiled the X Gran Equator Concept, which will be on display until the end of July. With a name borrowed from the mighty Arabian horse, the revolutionary SUV and its dune buggy-like grappling capabilities incorporate an extended hood, signature Two-Line headlamps that cross the faceless grille, a split-opening tailgate, 24” beadlock rims wrapped in knobby Nitto tires, a creatively sleek cabin, and grey rocker panels, bumpers, mirror caps, and integrated roof racks. The interior commingles digital traits with physical switches and grab handles, a 4-circle display cluster inspired by the dials of vintage cameras, swiveling front seats, and sectional storage areas and compartments.
Next was a flashy and energetic introduction of Genesis Magma Racing and its full-scale GMR-001 Hypercar. Built in about a year, the LMDh endurance prototype will begin competing in 2026 with the ultimate challenge of entering the 24 Hours of Le Mans. However, its current focus will be the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) and IMSA SportsCar Championship. Also introduced were the drivers, race suits, and the Magma Orange livery, representing grit with a powerful presence. The artwork pays tribute to Genesis’ Korean heritage while interspersing motorsport innovation. Final specifics have not been released, but the newly developed twin-turbo V8 engine is the root of the hybrid powertrain and chassis developed with ORECA Motorsport. The Magma program adds a new dimension to Genesis, marking its expansion into high-performance manufacturing. Genesis aims to create a Magma model for each production vehicle in the existing lineup.
“Today marks a significant milestone for Genesis Magma Racing as we unveil the GMR-001 Hypercar, along with our striking livery and race suits,” said Cyril Abiteboul, team principal. “As we gear up for our 2026 WEC and 2027 IMSA campaigns, we are not merely assembling a race team; we are forging a legacy. Each day brings us one step closer to realizing the full potential of Genesis in the world of motorsports.”
After the vehicle presentations, I aligned with the unique and authentic offerings at Genesis House, where you can have a delectable Korean culinary experience, read up on Korean history, enjoy tea time, or view the array of Genesis products on display. Other places and activities to relish while in New York City include a warming stay at the majestic Equinox Hotel, admiring the Vessel and its honeycombed structure, exploring the Shops at Hudson Yards, including Genesis Studio, walking along the elevated High Line park built on a historic rail line, and grabbing lunch at Mercado Little Spain or dinner at the distinctly Korean restaurant Moono in Manhattan’s East Village.
To understand the tenets of the brands you admire—whether automotive, technology, or travel—it is ideal to pay homage to their heritage, strategies, and values by immersing yourself within the DNA of their successful formulas. I was thankful to represent as a son-nim (honored guest) while ingesting the enriching habits, social etiquette, and philosophical design approach during the 2025 Genesis Experience at NYIAS.
Dream Machine’s AI x Library Project Is Changing the Game For Underserved Innovators
Through the AI x Library Project, CNN commentator, activist and entrepreneur Van Jones and project co-leaders Inayah Bashir and Steven Pargett are ensuring Black and Brown communities have free, hands-on opportunities to learn the power of artificial intelligence.
Libraries have long been safe havens for knowledge, access, and community. Now, they are becoming launchpads for innovation. Through the AI x Library Project, CNN commentator, activist, and entrepreneur Van Jones and project co-leaders Inayah Bashir and Steven Pargett are ensuring Black and Brown communities have free, hands-on opportunities to learn the power of artificial intelligence.
Launched through the trio’s Dream Machine Innovation Lab in partnership with Google, the AI x Library Project is already impacting cities like Brooklyn and Atlanta, with plans to expand to Miami, Detroit, and Los Angeles.
“We don’t just want to consume technology — we want to create it, shape it, and lead it,” Jones said during an interview with BLACK ENTERPRISE. “I think that AI is potentially the closest to reparations we’re ever gonna get, because it’s the first time in 400 years that we have literally equal access and equal opportunity to something transformational. What our project is about is being opportunity sensitive and making sure that we are in a conversation about equal access to the good stuff. When it comes to education, when it comes to health, when it comes to creativity, you’re giving the most creative culture in the world the most powerful tools for creativity ever imagined. And we think a lot of good things can happen if we take it seriously.”
Rather than focusing solely on the threats of AI, like algorithmic bias, Jones, Pargett, and Bashir are challenging communities to focus on opportunity. “Often Black folks are very threat-sensitive, and we go quickly into conversations about equal protection from bad stuff,” Jones said. “That’s important. But our project is about being opportunity-sensitive — making sure we’re also in the conversation about equal access to the good stuff.”
Libraries are the perfect entry point for this kind of democratized tech education. “The library has always been the civic hub for tech or anything else,” Bashir noted. “For people who are underserved or under-resourced, the library is where they first touch new technology. When computers came out, when the internet started, people went to libraries to learn.”
At each AI x Library workshop, participants can choose from topics like Marketing with AI, AI-Enhanced Writing, Smart Prompting, and The Future of Work. Importantly, local librarians help select which topics will be taught based on the needs of their patrons.
“We were looking for a way to bring this conversation to real communities,” Jones said. “There’s a lot happening online and at fancy conferences, but not much at the neighborhood level. Most neighborhoods still have a library. It’s a trusted place. That’s where we decided to go.”
The project has drawn participants as young as seven and as old as 70, creating an intergenerational learning environment. “Every workshop, we come up with at least three new business ideas,” Bashir shared. “In Atlanta, we had a mother who runs a homeschool collective. She said they were already using AI for curriculum planning — and even used AI to find our event.”
Other attendees include a waste management worker in Miami bringing his two sons to learn alongside him, and grandparents exploring AI tools for the first time. “It’s amazing seeing families learning together,” Bashir said. “The excitement is there — the creativity is there.”
Shifting Mindsets, Not Just Skill Sets
Unlike the digital divide in the 1990s, where access to software and hardware created barriers to entry, Jones believes the greatest obstacle our communities face today is mindset. “We don’t have a hardware problem anymore because everybody’s got a smartphone,” Jones said. “We don’t have a software problem because so much is free now. What we have is a ‘wetware’ problem. Our brains are not processing AI as something that’s for Black people. That has to change.”
Rather than viewing AI as a perfect, omnipotent tool, Jones encourages people to think of it as “a slightly dumb, but free, super-fast intern.” He explained, “Nothing is perfect — you have to check human work, and you have to check AI work. But would you rather correct something you get in two weeks, or correct something you get in two minutes?”
Marlon Avery echoed this sentiment, reminding participants that everyone is engaging with AI for the first time at their own pace. “It’s Ok to take your time,” Avery said. “AI is like a treadmill — you can walk, jog, or sprint depending on what you’re ready for. The important thing is to get on it.”
Building Liberatory Innovation
Ultimately, the AI x Library Project is about more than just learning new tools — it’s about envisioning a better future.
“Liberatory innovation is not just about creating new technology and new systems — it’s about creating new freedoms,” Bashir explained. “Our brains, our communities, even our definitions of what it means to be human are changing. We have to stay conscious of how technology is shaping us.”
Jones stressed the urgency of diverse participation in tech. “When one small group tries to design civilization for everyone else, it doesn’t work out well,” he said. “We have a chance now to build something more human, more just — but only if everyone has a seat at the table.”
As Dream Machine looks to scale the AI x Library Project beyond its pilot cities, one thing is clear: the future of innovation is not just happening in Silicon Valley — it’s being built in neighborhood libraries, one workshop at a time.
Letitia James Going After Trump Administration With Insider Trading Inquiry
New York attorney general Letitia James launched an inquiry into possible insider trading within the Trump administration.
New York Attorney General Letitia James is keeping her foot on Donald Trump’s neck with an inquiry into potential insider trading.
Building on the 15 ongoing legal actions her office is pursuing against the president and his administration, James has launched a new inquiry into potential insider trading involving Trump’s inner circle. The investigation, reportedly tied to last month’s market-shaking tariff policies, was confirmed by an anonymous source who told Business Insider the AG’s office is “looking at” the matter.
The inquiry has sparked mixed reactions among legal experts. Some view it as a rightful and even essential use of the attorney general’s authority, considering her office’s proximity to the Stock Exchange. Critics, however, dismiss it as a politically driven stunt with little chance of success.
“This is a story of politics, not a story of law,” said Richard Epstein, a law professor at New York University.
The inquiry is backed by New York’s Martin Act, a 104-year-old statute widely regarded as the most powerful state-level securities fraud law in the U.S. It grants the attorney general sweeping authority to investigate Wall Street, including the ability to issue subpoenas, question witnesses under oath, and pursue both civil and criminal charges. Still, proving insider trading remains notoriously difficult, and whatever unfolds behind the scenes appears to be without precedent.
“There’s been nothing like this,” said Manhattan attorney Armen Morian, a former financial crimes prosecutor for the New York AG’s office who helped defend Trump during James’s fraud case.
The investigation aims to determine whether there were unusual trading spikes, such as those seen on April 9, just hours before Trump posted on Truth Social, “THIS IS A GREAT TIME TO BUY!!!” which led to a market surge. As part of the process, the attorney general’s office would eventually issue a wave of “inquiry letters,” formally authorized by the bureau’s chief or deputy chief and signed by the assistant attorney general overseeing the case.
“Such letters can ask for documents, data, or information,” former Executive Attorney General Manisha M. Sheth said. “Sometimes the recipient of an inquiry letter may volunteer to meet with the office to provide the requested information.”
If her insider trading inquiry moves forward, James, a Democrat who ran for attorney general vowing to investigate Trump, will likely face renewed accusations of political bias and retaliation. She’s currently under investigation by the DOJ for alleged mortgage fraud, a claim she has dismissed as baseless, and her lawyer, Abbe Lowell, has called “improper political retribution.”
Meanwhile, Trump has repeatedly denounced James’ probes into his finances and businesses as unfounded, “racist,” and part of a broader “political witch hunt.”
Beyond The Stage: 8 Influential Haitians And Haitian-Americans Shaping The World
These eight individuals represent a glimpse into the vast array of influential Haitians and Haitian-Americans who have left indelible marks on the world stage, far beyond entertainment.
As Haitian Heritage Month continues, Haitians’ global contributions often shine brightest in arts and entertainment. However, the influence and impact of Haitian individuals and their descendants extend far beyond the stage and screen. This listicle highlights eight notable and influential figures of Haitian descent who have made significant strides and lasting contributions in politics, medicine, entrepreneurship, activism, and other crucial fields. It showcases the diverse talents and unwavering dedication of the Haitian people and their diaspora.
1. Jean-Bertrand Aristide: Former President and Advocate for Education
Jean-Bertrand Aristide, a former Catholic priest, rose to prominence as a vocal critic of Haiti’s oppressive regimes. He became Haiti’s first democratically elected president in 1991. While his political career was marked by progress and instability, Aristide remained an influential figure in Haitian politics for over two decades, advocating for social justice and expanding access to education for Haiti’s most marginalized populations. His emphasis on literacy and empowerment through schooling left a lasting impact on the national discourse surrounding development and opportunity.
2. Patrick Gaspard: Diplomat and Labor Organizer
Patrick Gaspard is a prominent Haitian-American diplomat and political strategist. He served as the United States Ambassador to South Africa under President Obama, playing a crucial role in fostering diplomatic relations and promoting American interests on the African continent. Before his ambassadorship, Gaspard held key positions in labor organizing and Democratic politics in the United States, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex political landscapes and advocate for workers’ rights. His career highlights the significant contributions of Haitian Americans to international diplomacy and domestic policy.
3. Régine Chassagne: Musician and Philanthropist (Outside Entertainment Focus)
While Régine Chassagne is widely known as a founding member of the acclaimed band Arcade Fire, her influence extends beyond the entertainment industry through her dedicated philanthropic work focused on Haiti. Following the devastating 2010 earthquake, Chassagne, whose parents emigrated from Haiti, co-founded Kanpe, a foundation committed to supporting sustainable development and empowering vulnerable communities in Haiti. Her tireless advocacy and fundraising efforts have provided critical aid and long-term support for Haitian families, demonstrating a deep commitment to her heritage that transcends her artistic endeavors.
4. Michèle Pierre-Louis: Former Prime Minister and Governance Advocate
Michèle Pierre-Louis served as Haiti’s second female Prime Minister from 2008 to 2009. Her tenure was marked by efforts to strengthen governance, promote transparency, and address pressing social and economic issues. With a background in social work and development, Pierre-Louis brought a focus on community empowerment and sustainable development to her leadership. Her career highlights the crucial role of Haitian women in shaping the nation’s political landscape and advocating for effective governance.
5. Dr. Jean William Pape: Pioneering HIV/AIDS Researcher and Healthcare Leader
Dr. Jean William Pape is an internationally recognized Haitian physician and researcher who has made groundbreaking contributions to the fight against HIV/AIDS. He founded and directs GHESKIO (Groupe Haïtien d’Étude du Sarcome de Kaposi et des Infections Opportunistes), a leading healthcare and research center in Haiti that has provided comprehensive care for HIV/AIDS patients and conducted crucial research on the epidemic in resource-limited settings. Dr. Pape’s pioneering work has not only saved countless lives in Haiti but has also informed global strategies for combating HIV/AIDS.
6. Magalie Racine: Entrepreneur and Advocate for Haitian Arts and Culture
Magalie Racine is a dynamic entrepreneur globally promoting Haitian arts, crafts, and culture. Through her ventures, she provides platforms for Haitian artisans and creatives to showcase their work, fostering economic empowerment within the artistic community and bridging cultural understanding. Her passion for Haiti’s rich artistic heritage and business acumen has made her a significant advocate for the country’s cultural sector, demonstrating the potential of entrepreneurship to uplift and celebrate Haitian identity.
7. Mia Love: Late U.S. Congresswoman and Trailblazer
The late Mia Love (born Ludmya Bourdeau) was a Haitian-American politician who made history as the first Black Republican woman elected to the U.S. Congress, representing Utah’s 4th Congressional District from 2015 to 2019. Love, the daughter of Haitian immigrants who fled political persecution, embodied the American dream and shattered political barriers. Her election marked a significant moment for the Haitian-American community and the Republican Party, demonstrating the growing political influence and diverse voices within the Haitian diaspora. Love’s career, though relatively brief, served as an inspiration and a testament to the potential for Haitian Americans to achieve at the highest levels of American politics.
8. Karine Jean-Pierre: White House Press Secretary
Karine Jean-Pierre is an American political advisor who served as the White House press secretary. She is the first Black and openly LGBTQ person to serve as press secretary. Born to Haitian immigrants, she has risen to one of the highest-profile positions within the U.S. government. Her position is a very strong example of the impact of the Haitian American community.
These eight individuals represent a glimpse into the vast array of influential Haitians and Haitian-Americans who have left indelible marks on the world stage, far beyond entertainment.
During Haitian Heritage Month, it is essential to recognize and celebrate Haiti’s artistic and cultural vibrancy and the profound impact of its people and their descendants on politics, medicine, entrepreneurship, activism, and countless other fields.
Louisiana Judge Could Be Removed From Bench After Accusations Of Repeated Dishonesty
Former OSC Investigator Tim Parker called cases like Foxworth-Roberts’ rare.
A report from the Office of Special Counsel (OSC) shows a recommendation to remove Louisiana’s 19th Judicial District Judge Tiffany Foxworth-Roberts from the bench over claims she was dishonest about her military ranking and a burglary, WAFB 9 reports.
The report was submitted to the Judiciary Commission of Louisiana, which will consider whether it should be passed along to the State Supreme Court. After being elected in August 2020, Foxworth-Roberts is accused of being dishonest about her military service, which aired in advertisements during her political campaign, in addition to alleged lies about an insurance claim for a diamond ring.
Assistant Special Counsel to the Judicial Commission, Michael Bewers, called the evidence against Foxworth-Roberts “overwhelming.” “The evidence was overwhelming that Judge Foxworth-Roberts’ conduct constituted egregious unethical conduct, necessitating a severe penalty. Judge Foxworth-Roberts’ egregious misconduct, including a severe lack of cooperation, was calculated, deliberate, and in bad faith to further her own self-interests and avoid detecting,” Bewers wrote.
“Her persistent and public conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice that brings the judicial office into disrepute more than justify a recommendation of removal from office.”
According to WBRZ 2, the commission said the most serious of the complaints was the judge’s repeated claims of her military ranking, claiming captain in the Army. Foxworth-Roberts allegedly provided “misleading, incomplete, and false information” to investigators and ignored requests and subpoenas for her military records. Investigators later received her Army records, revealing Foxworth-Roberts left the U.S. Army Reserves at the lower rank of First Lieutenant.
The brief said the judge “failed to achieve the rank of Captain twice, requiring her separation from the U.S. Army Reserves at the rank of First Lieutenant.”
Foxworth-Roberts was also accused of falsifying a police report and insurance claim in relation to her 2020 campaign. The brief alleges the judge was dishonest about claiming a $19,000 diamond ring had been stolen from her vehicle. She allegedly told police the theft happened in her driveway, but authorities discovered it was several miles away. The OSC said the judge then tried to hide the fact that she made a claim and tried to mislead the commission regarding what losses were actually obtained.
Former OSC Investigator Tim Parker called cases like Foxworth-Roberts’ rare. “In my time there, I think the closest we came to ever getting to remove a justice of the peace, he resigned at the last minute,” Parker said.
Foxworth-Roberts is scheduled to appear before the Judiciary Commission on May 23.
