Appeals Court Rules Brian Flores’ Discrimination Lawsuit Against NFL Can Proceed
The former head coach also included the Miami Dolphins, the Denver Broncos, and the New York Giants in the lawsuit.
After suing the National Football League for discrimination in 2022, Brian Flores’ lawsuit can proceed after the league tried to solve the litigation through arbitration.
According toESPN, Flores sued the NFL and three teams, the Miami Dolphins, the Denver Broncos and the New York Giants. The Minnesota Vikings’ defensive coordinator, who was dismissed from the Dolphins as a head coach, alleged discrimination based on his firing.
He also sued the Broncos and Giants, citing the interview processes there.
After receiving the suit, the NFL told the court that it would prefer to go to arbitration with league commissioner Roger Goodell as the arbiter. Flores and his attorneys would like a neutral person to settle the matter.
In March 2023, Judge Valerie Caproni ruled in favor of Flores, calling the NFL’s “long history of systematic discrimination toward Black players, coaches, and managers—are incredibly troubling.”
“Although the clear majority of professional football players are Black, only a tiny percentage of coaches are Black,” she said.
The NFL appealed Caproni’s ruling, but the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Manhattan upheld it, deciding that the league’s constitution’s arbitration provision “contractually provides for no independent arbitral forum, no bilateral dispute resolution, and no procedure.”
“Instead, it offends basic presumptions of our arbitration jurisprudence” by forcing claims to be decided by the NFL’s “principal executive officer,” the appeals court added.
NFL spokesperson Brian McCarty said the league “respectfully disagree(s) with the panel’s ruling, and will be seeking further review,” according to ESPN. No further information has been released regarding what the next step is in the lawsuit.
Before heading to Minnesota, Flores previously worked as a coach for the New England Patriots from 2008 to 2018, the Miami Dolphins from 2019 to 2021 and the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2022. He joined the Vikings in 2023.
Lil Yachty performs during the 2023 Outside Lands Music festival at Golden Gate Park on August 13, 2023, in San Francisco. (Photo: Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images)
Lil Yachty Catches Heat From Stephen Jackson and Social Media Over Tasteless George Floyd Lyric
Jackson called out the new generation of rappers that use names of victims of police brutality for clout.
Rapper Lil Yachty thought he would climb the charts with a new song he previewed on social media. Instead, he climbed on people’s nerves with a bar referencing the senseless murder of George Floyd.
The Georgia-based artist previewed a song on a streamer Plaqueboymax’s platform and drew immediate attention from social media users and former NBA star and All The Smoke podcast co-host Stephen Jackson. Yachty can be seen vibing to a song that uses the lyric, “Put my knee up on her neck, I went George Floyd,” putting a disturbing sound in viewers’ ears.
Jackson caught on and condemned the “One Night” rapper from using Floyd’s name in a song, calling it “wack” and “weak.” “You been wack, my n****, but you think you saying George Floyd’s name in a bar that’s gonna make people like your whack ass music, my n****? That sh*t weak,” he said.
He called out other rappers of the new generation of hip-hop who use the names of victims of police brutality for clout. “Y’all the only era that feel like demeaning the dead and saying that sh*t is cool, my n****. It ain’t. Don’t ever say his name, bro. Not none of y’all knew G, knew nothing about him, but y’all wanna say his name for clout…but let somebody die in your family, we gonna do a whole skit about it and see how funny it is, bro.”
“Ya music been wack… don’t ever say his name bro.. only you wack SAMBO ass niggas that do shit like that”
Floyd was killed in May 2020 by former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin after he kneeled on his neck for almost nine minutes while Floyd could be heard saying, “I can’t breathe.” His tragic death sparked worldwide protests and launched the Black Lives Matter movement.
Jackson, who was a close friend of the victim, often referred to him as a “twin,” was outspoken about Floyd’s death and called for all parties of the Minneapolis Police Department to be held accountable during a Nightline interview at the time.
Social media users stood with Jackson on his sentiments, with some even claiming that Yachty needs to make music like this to appeal to a White audience. “He gotta appeal to the racist white ppl now cause he knows us niggas know his music is ass,” @NiqoNguyenn wrote on X.
He gotta appeal to the racist white ppl now cause he knows us niggas know his music is ass.
Another said, “Yachty might genuinely be one of the worst rappers that went mainstream ever” and questioned “how does he still have a platform…As Hip-Hop has evolved, music has gone from uplifting social change to potentially adding to the problem. However, to get back in decent graces, all it takes is accountability.
Think about Lil’ Wayne. The New Orleans Hot Boy received major pushback for a lyric in his 2013 featured verse on Future’s “Karate Chop” remix after referencing Emmett Till. In a letter to the Till family, Wayne, apologized, saying he has “always been interested in word play,” recognized his influence, and supported the record label’s decision to remove the lyric.
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photo credit: U.S. House of Representatives, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Jotaka Eaddy Believe Illinois Can Win With Robin Kelly In The Senate
Jotaka Eaddy, #WInWithBlackWomen founder, will support Illinois Rep. Robin Kelly in the 2027 Senate race.
Jotaka L. Eaddy, founder of the social impact consultancy Full Circle Strategies, announced her endorsement for the Illinois Senate seat.
Eaddy is lending her support to Rep.Robin Kelly in her bid for the U.S. Senate. Eaddy is known for spearheading the #WinWithBlackWomen network. The organization was instrumental in raising millions of dollars for presidential candidate Vice President Kamala Harris. Her decades of advocacy on voting rights and equity issues make her endorsement politically valuable. The tech maven announced her support alongside Kelly during a panel at the Black Women’s Expo in Chicago, Suburban Chicagoland reported.
“All of us win when we elect Robin Kelly to the U.S. Senate,” Eaddy said. Robin is a proven fighter for Illinois and all Americans who shows us every day how to lead with grace, dignity, and a long record of experience in Washington. Robin doesn’t just say she’ll fight — she’s made history by taking on special interests and winning and lifting up workers and families across the state.”
Eaddy’s career includes senior roles with the NAACP and other voting rights advocacy groups. Additionally, she has a robust background in corporate responsibility and philanthropic advising. Through Full Circle Strategies, she partners with nonprofits, foundations, and corporations on initiatives aimed at racial justice, economic opportunity, and civic engagement.
Kelly, who has served Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District since 2013, graciously accepted the endorsement. In an X post, she praised Eaddy’s accomplishments. “A dynamic and trailblazing national leader.”
Also, she expressed gratitude for Eaddy, saying her support “means the world” to the campaign.
It’s an incredible honor to have the endorsement and support of @JotakaEaddy — a dynamic, trailblazing national leader. Jotaka’s work on behalf of Black women across the country has been nothing short of extraordinary. She continues to show us the pivotal role Black women play in… pic.twitter.com/bF4bNNv0Vf
Kelly has built a coalition that includes gun violence prevention advocates, labor organizations, reproductive rights groups, and elected officials from across the Democratic Party.
Her campaign has received backing from Brady PAC, the political arm of one of the nation’s most prominent gun violence prevention organizations. Furthermore, Kelly has secured endorsements from members of the Congressional Black Caucus, Elect Democratic Women, and leaders from the LGBTQIA+ community.
Kelly’s platform focuses on expanding access to healthcare, strengthening gun safety laws, investing in infrastructure, and closing racial wealth gaps.
“Robin Kelly is a candidate who understands the intersections of our struggles and will fight for solutions that leave no one behind,” Eaddy said.
The Illinois Senate race will take place in 2027. Current Senator Dick Durbin will retire after 30 years in office. Kelly is currently running against the current Lieutenant Governor, Juliana Stratton, and Representative of Illinois’s 8th District, Raja Krishnamoorthi.
Dr. George C. Fraser is Chairman and CEO of FraserNet, Inc.,
a company he founded 38 years ago to lead a global networking and economic development movement for people of African descent. Born in Brooklyn, NY, he was an orphan and foster child for 15 years. He spent 20 years in leadership positions with Procter & Gamble, United Way and Ford Motor Company before starting his own business, FraserNet Inc. in 1987.
He’s written 6 best-selling books to include: Success Runs in Our Race, Click and most recently, Mission Unstoppable: Extraordinary Stories of Failure’s Blessings, a book he co-authored with Les Brown. Upscale Magazine named him one of the "Top 50 Power Brokers in Black America," Black Enterprise magazine called him "Black America’s #1 Networker" and featured him on its cover.
Dr. Fraser has been featured on 10 national magazine covers, He has received over 350 awards and citations including: Induction into the Minority Business Hall of Fame and Museum, 3 Honorary Doctorate Degrees, a Chaplaincy, and an Ambassadorship. He is a *Certified Financial Education Instructor (CFEI). He was honored as a “HistoryMaker” in 2005. He graduated from Dartmouth College’s Amos Tuck School of Business Minority Business Executive Program 1999.
He has been named as one of the best speakers in America and 5 of his speeches have been selected for global distribution by the prestigious Vital Speeches of the Day magazine, a first for any professional speaker in America. He has 2 “The Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awards one from President Obama in 2016, and one from President Biden in 2023.”
Dr. Fraser is most proud of the 2 charter schools he co-founded in Cleveland, Ohio nearly 20 years ago which educate nearly 300 inner city Black children annually of which 50% are boys. As an Elder, Dr, Fraser will now use his massive network and influence to launch a new virtual nation with no borders, boundaries or barriers called FraserNation: Citizens of Generational Wealth. The goal is to mobilize and unify people of African descent around, effective networking, business development, training, and coaching.
He will also join the fight for financial literacy in Black America. FraserNet Inc launched the WINDS: Wealth Building Centers and Curriculum in 2018. Over the next decade, thousands of new and well-equipped faith-based WINDS Centers will be open (free of charge) to all those to want to teach and/or learn the basics of wealth creation and management.
He is the Founder of the Black Business Legacy Hall of Fame, Museum & Metaverse. This is a “Legacy Project” Dr. Fraser has been working on for the last 22 years. Several major urban areas are being evaluated and considered for their location potential.
He’s been married to Nora Jean for 51 years and has 2 sons and 3 granddaughters. He lives in Cleveland, Ohio.
Dr. John Hope Bryant is an American entrepreneur, prominent thought leader, author, philanthropist, and a global authority on financial literacy, economic empowerment, and inclusive capitalism. Referred to as the “Conscience of Capitalism” by Fortune 500 CEOs, Bryant’s advocacy helped make financial literacy the policy of the United States Federal Government under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. He also successfully led efforts to rename the U.S. Treasury Annex to the Freedman’s Bank Building, recognizing the unfinished economic work of Abraham Lincoln for freed slaves.
John Hope Bryant is the founder, chairman, and chief executive officer of Operation HOPE, Inc., the nation’s largest nonprofit provider of financial literacy services for youth and adults. He is also the founder of John Hope Bryant Holdings, Bryant Group Ventures, and Bryant Group Advisors. He previously led The Promise Homes Company, which he successfully recapitalized in 2021 with a $200 million credit facility—one of the largest Black-owned capital raises in over a decade. He is a CNBC Contributor, host of the iHeart Radio podcast “Money & Wealth with John Hope Bryant”, and a member of both the CNBC Global Financial Wellness Council and the CNBC CEO Council.
In 2024, Bryant wrote The Business Plan for America, a bold blueprint for inclusive economic growth to promote financial literacy and opportunity for all nationwide. Understanding that AI will define the future economy, Bryant has pioneered national efforts to bridge the AI opportunity gap. In December 2024, he announced the AI Literacy Pipeline to Prosperity Project (AILP³). He also co-founded AI Ethics Council, with Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI.
Bryant’s impact has been recognized with numerous awards, including Oprah Winfrey’s “Use Your Life” Award, American Banker’s “Innovator of the Year,” and inclusion in TIME’s 50 Leaders for the Future. He is a LinkedIn Influencer with over 3 million social media followers and has amassed over 300 million views across digital platforms through his “Straight Talk with John Hope Bryant” series. Bryant is named to the prestigious Forbes BLK50 List in December 2024 and TIME Magazine’s inaugural The Closers List, recognizing 18 global leaders working to close the racial wealth gap. Bryant has dedicated his career to transforming economic systems for underserved communities and ensuring inclusive growth in the AI-driven future.
His life’s mission? To help America live up to its promise—one financially and technologically empowered person at a time.
John Hope Bryant is a best-selling author. He is one of the only Black thought leaders in the world today writing on economics and business leadership, with six books to his name, including his latest national best-seller, Financial Literacy for All ( Published in April 2024).
Larry Fitzgerald, Jr. is widely recognized for his 17-season NFL career as a wide receiver with the Arizona Cardinals, earning accolades such as the NFL 100 All-Time Team, the 2016 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award, and a 2024 College Football Hall of Fame induction.
Beyond football, Fitzgerald is a philanthropist, investor, and business leader. In 2005, he founded The Larry Fitzgerald Foundation, which creates opportunities for young people in underserved communities to learn and thrive in safe and healthy environments while also providing resources for individuals and families impacted by breast cancer.
Fitzgerald is a dedicated investor and entrepreneur. He is the co-founder of Trenches Capital, a firm focused on critical technology, fintech, and enterprise software, investing in opportunities ranging from Seed to Series A. Additionally, he has invested in more than 160 companies across industries such as hospitality, sports, technology, real estate, and fintech. He serves on the boards of Infinite Athlete, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Boys & Girls Clubs of America. He is also a co-owner of the Rajasthan Royals cricket team.
Furthering his commitment to community and business leadership, Fitzgerald was named a Henry Crown Fellow for the Aspen Institute. He regularly speaks to audiences ranging from youth groups to business executives about mindset, mentorship, perseverance, and community service.
Sr. Pastor Grace Baptist Church Chairman Conference of National Black Churches
Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson is, first and foremost, a pastor, in the broadest sense of the term. His life’s work stems from his commitment to the biblical mandate of what it means to be a pastor. Dr. Richardson believes in being a voice for the voiceless, feeding those who are hungry, providing shelter for those who are homeless, challenging systems that are unjust and unfair, and seeking justice for the marginalized and victimized. In his current posts – Senior Pastor of Grace Baptist Church, Chairman of the Conference of National Black Churches, Chairman of the National Action Network, Chairman of Virginia Union University, and Board Member of Comcast and Pepsico – Dr. Richardson purposefully lives within his life’s mission and constantly works to be a positive force for change for all those he serves.
As Senior Pastor of Grace Baptist Church in the City of Mount Vernon, New York, Dr. Richardson has led the growth of the congregation to a weekly attendance of more than 4,000 people in three locations. He has built a ministry that focuses on six primary community-focused pillars: 1) children and youth development, 2) educational enrichment, 3) health awareness and prevention, 4) housing and community development, 5) music, arts, and culture, and 6) workforce development. These six pillars comprise more than 80 ministries, programs, and services that currently impact more than 10,000 people annually. Over 3,000 individuals, in the City of Mount Vernon, benefit from the 800 units of affordable housing that Grace has constructed through its community development corporation.
As Chairman of the Conference of National Black Churches (CNBC), Dr. Richardson extends his role of leadership as an ecumenical trailblazer. CNBC, an interdenominational religious-advocacy organization, is comprised of the eight largest historically Black denominations in America, representing more than 65,000 churches and over 20 million individuals – 70% of African American Christians in the United States. With a focus on addressing racism in America, Dr. Richardson promotes ecumenism through CNBC and works with clergy, faith-based organizations, and other institutions to improve the quality of life for African Americans and other underserved populations through programs and advocacy.
Social Justice is another cause that is central to the life work and legacy of Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson. He currently serves as the Chairman of the National Action Network, one of the leading civil rights organizations in the country. Working along side Reverend Al Sharpton, Dr. Richardson fights for causes of justice, equality and opportunity for all people regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, citizenship, criminal record, economic status, gender, gender expression, or sexuality. Under Dr. Richardson’s leadership, the National Action Network serves as the vehicle for the collective voice of the Black church to fight social injustice. Whether it is criminal justice issues, police brutality or voting rights, Dr. Richardson stands on the vanguard of social justice in America to be a champion for those who otherwise would have no voice.
As passionate as he is about social justice, Dr. Richardson is equally as fervent about education. For nearly ten (10) years, he has served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for his alma mater, Virginia Union University, in Richmond, Virginia. Under Dr. Richardson’s leadership, Virginia Union is positioned to be one of the highest regarded Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the country, as it houses the preeminent seminary for preachers of color, the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology. Additionally, with a focus on student success, academic excellence, community partnerships, and financial viability, Dr. Richardson continues to lead Virginia Union upwards toward institutional prominence.
Diversity in corporate America is another struggle that Dr. Richardson works relentlessly to influence and improve. As an active member of the board of Comcast and Pepsico’s diversity councils, Dr. Richardson strives for workplace diversity and inclusion beyond race and gender quotas. He applies his deep understanding of the connection between community, diversity and inclusion, and business growth and innovation to help corporations be more accountable for their choices internally and externally.
Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson is a distinguished pastor, leader, and national advocate for economic and social justice. He is also the author of the #1 best-selling book, “Witness to Grace.” He has a Divinity degree from Yale University Divinity School and a Doctorate of Ministry as a Wyatt Tee Walker Fellow from the United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Richardson has received extensive recognition for his dynamic and impactful leadership in ministry, business, and social justice. He is also the recipient of numerous awards from various institutions and corporations from around the world. He is married to Inez Nunally Richardson and they have three adult children and eight grandchildren.
Robert F. Smith is the Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Vista Equity Partners. Vista manages equity capital commitments of over $100 billion and oversees a portfolio of over 90 enterprise software, data, and technology-enabled companies. Since Vista’s inception, Smith has supervised over 600 completed transactions representing more than $320 billion in aggregate transaction value. In 2023, Vista was named Global Technology Private Equity Firm of the Year by Private Equity International.
In 2017, Smith was named by Forbes as one of the 100 Greatest Living Business Minds. For his philanthropic commitments to uplifting communities, Smith was also recognized on TIME100’s “Philanthropy” list in 2025.
The same year, Smith signed on to the Giving Pledge. As part of his philanthropic commitment, he gave $20 million to the National Museum of African American History and Culture – the museum’s largest gift by an individual donor at the time.
Smith is the Chairman of Carnegie Hall, on the Board of Directors for the Business Roundtable, on the Board of Overseers of Columbia Business School, a Member of the Cornell Engineering College Council, and a Trustee of the Boys and Girls Clubs of San Francisco.
In 2019, he eliminated the student loans of nearly 400 Morehouse College 2019 graduates in a commencement address, which he later expanded to eliminate debt held by their guardians on their behalf. After his Morehouse pledge, Smith founded Student Freedom Initiative to relieve the crushing burden of student debt for students at HBCUs, other MSIs, and TCUs.
Smith is the founding director and President of the Fund II Foundation, dedicated to preserving the African American experience, safeguarding human rights, and sustaining critical American values like entrepreneurship.
In 2019, Fund II Foundation launched internXL, a platform to match leading companies with internship candidates from communities that lack access to opportunities.
He also co-leads Southern Communities Initiative, a catalytic program to accelerate wealth creation and economic growth in six Southern communities.
Smith is also a contributor to the book Lead Boldly: Seven Principles from Martin Luther King, Jr., in which Smith reflects on seven of Dr. King’s most impactful speeches, offering his own insights and reflections to bring Dr. King’s lessons to life for a new generation.
Troy Taylor is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, LLC (Coke Florida), a family-owned Coca-Cola bottler.
Coke Florida is the sixth-largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States and operates in an exclusive Florida territory that covers over 21 million consumers and includes the major metropolitan markets of Miami, Tampa, Orlando, and Jacksonville. Headquartered in Tampa, the company generates over $2 billion in annual revenue and employs over 5,000 associates. Coke Florida was recently recognized as a 2025 US Best Managed Company Gold Standard Winner by Deloitte Private and The Wall Street Journal. This honor is awarded to companies who have been recognized as US Best Managed Companies for four or more years.
Taylor is also the Founder and CEO of Cardinal System Holdings (Cardinal), the holding company for Coca-Cola Beverages Florida and Tellus Equipment Solutions (a John Deere agriculture and worksite equipment dealer). Cardinal also owns Florida Fresh Vending and Markets (a provider of unattended retail solutions), Cardinal Equipment Services (an integrated food and beverage equipment sales and service business), and related private investments.
Taylor serves as Co-Chair of the Coca-Cola North American System Leadership Governance Board. He is a board member of the Coca-Cola Bottlers’ Association, American Beverage Association, and Florida Chamber of Commerce. He is also a member of The Florida Council of 100 and a trustee of the Studio Museum in Harlem. Taylor earned a bachelor’s degree in Finance and Business Law from Marshall University and was a past recipient of the EY Entrepreneur of The Year award.
FDA Approves Vizz, First Daily Eye Drop For Age-Related Blurry Vision
Presbyopia is defined as age-related loss of near vision that affects nearly everyone over age 45.
The FDA has approved Vizz, an aceclidine ophthalmic solution 1.44%, making it the first and only aceclidine-based eye drop cleared to treat presbyopia in adults, according to Lenz Therapeutics.
Unlike traditional treatments, Vizz works primarily on the pupil rather than the eye’s ciliary muscle. By contracting the iris’s sphincter muscle, the drop creates a pinhole effect that narrows the pupil to under 2 millimeters, extending the depth of focus and improving near vision without inducing a myopic shift.
Presbyopia is the gradual, age-related loss of near vision that affects nearly everyone over the age of 45. As the eye’s crystalline lens stiffens with age, it becomes less able to focus on close objects. Although the decline is progressive, many patients notice sudden difficulties in daily activities by their mid-40s, prompting the use of over-the-counter reading glasses or prescription corrective lenses.
“This FDA approval represents a disruptive paradigm shift in treatment options for millions of people who are frustrated and struggling with the inevitable age-related loss of their near vision,” said Marc Bloomenstein, OD, FAAO, clinical investigator at Schwartz Laser Eye Care Center in Scottsdale, Arizona.
“I believe this will be a welcome solution for both optometrists and ophthalmologists who will now be able to offer a highly effective and sought-after presbyopia treatment that could immediately become the standard of care, with a product profile that will meet our patients’ needs.”
Approval was supported by results from three phase 3 randomized, double-masked, controlled trials, including CLARITY 1 and CLARITY 2, which met all near vision improvement endpoints. Among 466 participants treated once daily for 42 days, Vizz improved near vision within 30 minutes and lasted up to 10 hours. Data from April 2024 showed that 71% of participants achieved at least a three-line improvement at both 30 minutes and three hours, while 40% maintained that improvement at 10 hours.
Across more than 30,000 treatment days in all three trials, Vizz was well tolerated, with no serious treatment-related adverse events reported. The most common side effects were mild and temporary, including instillation site irritation, dim vision, and headaches.
“The FDA approval of Vizz is a defining moment for LENZ and represents a transformative improvement in the available treatment options for the 128 million adults living with blurry near vision in the United States. We are ready and excited to launch the first and only once-daily eye drop with proven efficacy for up to 10 hours into the market,” said Eef Schimmelpennink, president and CEO of LENZ Therapeutics.
The Dayton Public Schools Board of Education has filed a lawsuit against the state of Ohio to challenge a new budget provision that prevents DPS students in Montgomery County from using school-issued bus passes at the downtown Dayton bus hub, the Dayton Daily News reported. With the hub serving as a transfer point for numerous RTA routes across the city, the law effectively stops Dayton Public from providing bus passes to its students, forcing them to get to school on their own.
“While DPS is not required to transport high school students to and from school, the practical reality is that if DPS does not provide transportation to its students, many of them will not have a safe means of transportation to and from school,” the lawsuit states.
Other Montgomery County districts, like Huber Heights City Schools, don’t provide busing for high school students and also don’t purchase bus passes. Comparing median household incomes, $61,942 in Montgomery County versus $74,947 in Huber Heights, highlights how families in Huber Heights are more likely to afford transportation costs than those in Dayton Public Schools.
“This effect will be harmful to students and families who do not have the financial capabilities to provide their own forms of transportation to and from school,” the lawsuit adds.
The lawsuit labels the state law amendment as unconstitutional under Ohio’s Uniformity Clause because it targets only DPS students. The district is seeking a temporary restraining order and a preliminary injunction to block enforcement of the law.
“We have heard from many individuals through their interactions with board members and staff members, and there is a consensus that, as a school district, we must partner with the community to assist and defend children,” DPS Superintendent David Lawrence said. “We continue to explore all of our options in an attempt to support our students and their families.”
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 03: Da Brat and Jesseca Harris-Dupart attend the Black Enterprise Disruptor Summit at Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead on June 03, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Derek White/Getty Images)
Da Brat And Judy To Share Their Love Story In New Memoir, ‘The Way Love Goes’
Da Brat and Judy are sharing their love story in the form of a memoir and relationship guide.
Da Brat and wife Jesseca “Judy” Harris-Dupart remain an open book with their love story and will go more in-depth in their upcoming memoir.
The trailblazing hip-hop star and her beauty mogul wife will share the full story of their inspiring relationship in The Way Love Goes: A Guide to Building a ‘Beaurtiful’ and Everlasting Relationship. Scheduled for release in early 2026, the book will explore how the couple navigated the challenges of high-profile life to build a lasting bond through marriage, parenthood, and multiple business ventures.
“Guess who wrote a book 🤭🤗 and we are so excited for all of y’all to read it,” the pair announced on Instagram. “It’s literally been about 2 years in the making 🫶🏽🫶🏽 but it’s here. THE WAY LOVE GOES ❤️🤭 a book about us and how we have navigated our relationship over the years.”
Designed as a memoir and relationship guide, the book will trace Da Brat and Judy’s journey from the beginning of their relationship in 2017, through a brief breakup during which Da Brat came out as LGBTQ+, to the birth of their son, True Legend Harris-Dupart, in 2023, a journey the couple shared on their WeTV seriesBrat Loves Judy.
“We’re beyond excited to finally share our story in this book,” Da Brat and Judy told People. “It’s raw, it’s real, it’s us–full of love, lessons, laughter, and everything in between.”
The couple “have poured our hearts into these pages just being ourselves and living our lives as we do daily,” they said.
“True love and longevity is about commitment, communication, understanding, and sacrifice. We hope readers thoroughly enjoy our journey and how we sustain a happy and successful partnership,” Brat and Judy added.
The couple admitted that the book has been years in the making, and fans are celebrating the new project. One even recalls a past Brat Loves Judy episode where Judy tried to convince Da Brat to write a book.
“Yayyyy Love This yall finally did it I remember the episode where you were trying to get Brat on board with doing a book and it’s finally here can’t wait to get my copy Love you both Congratulations 🙌🏾❤️❤️❤️,” they wrote.
YouTube May Lean Into AI Use To Monitor Age Verification
YouTube is slowly rolling out an AI program that scans users search history and personal data to verify age.
YouTube will soon be implementing an age-verification process — leadership claims the move is aimed at ensuring minors are subject to appropriate online protections. Just in case a minor misstates their age at the time of sign-up, the AI feature will catch the error and implement safety measures.
The company announced its intent to move forward in a blog post written by James Beser, YouTube’s director of product management. For now, a small control group across the U.S. will take part in the AI age estimation technology. The company did not indicate whether or not the beta testers will need to opt in to the trial.
“Over the next few weeks, we’ll begin to roll out machine learning to a small set of users in the U.S. to estimate their age, so that teens are treated as teens and adults as adults,” Beser said.
He added that the platform will “closely monitor this before we roll it out more widely,” highlighting the company’s cautious approach.
The system does not rely on the birthdate entered during account creation. Instead, it analyzes a range of behavioral signals. These include monitoring the types of videos watched, video searches, account age, and viewing categories. Based on the search, the AI program infers whether the user may be under 18.
If flagged as a minor, users will automatically receive protections similar to those existing under-18 settings. This includes disabling personalized ads, activation of digital wellbeing tools like “take a break” reminders, limitations on sensitive content recommendations, and privacy prompts.
YouTube users may be mistakenly misclassified as underage. They can verify their true age using one of three methods: uploading a government-issued ID, submitting a selfie, or providing a credit card.
The YouTube announcement comes after Spotify implemented its own age verification system. After the passing of the UK Online Safety Act, platforms that host “adult content” are now required to implement youth safety measures. Unlike YouTube, platforms in the UK are using more than AI content searches and analysis.
The UK Online Safety Act expands the scope of verification options. As well as face verifications, platforms are allowed to use banking information, online banking age verification, use of a digital identity wallet, age checks via credit card, age estimation via email address, and Photo-ID, which may require consumers to upload both a selfie and a copy of their government ID.
The U.S. has not yet adopted any government policy surrounding verification, yet it appears companies, like YouTube, are being preemptive in their company policy.
Crowning The Road: England’s Most Iconic Supercars And Grand Tourers
Designers and artisans across the pond are magical with their bespoke craftsmanship and methods.
By Kimatni D. Rawlins
From the legendary performance of McLaren to the luxurious refinement of Aston Martin, Britain has a distinguished history of producing some of the world’s most iconic supercars and grand tourers. These vehicles are more than just modes of transportation; they are a showcase of exceptional engineering, timeless design, and a driving experience that has captivated enthusiasts for decades. Join us as we explore the models that have cemented their legacy as the most celebrated British machines on the road.
Recalling the test drive in San Diego with the all-new Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupé in the spring of 2007, we invited Nick Cannon, an aficionado of the British automaker, to join us as the first entertainer to witness and experience the convertible. The brother was ecstatic and lost his mind at the time. But that is the distinctive effect British automakers garner from urban car fanatics, especially me!
Designers and artisans across the pond are magical with their bespoke craftsmanship and methods. For example, when the Bentley GT hit the scene, it found a newfangled audience within the hip-hop community. I can’t tell you how many rap videos the coupe was featured in. The reverence for the sporty two-door was unimaginable. The momentum continues as I showcase four elite British models that will engage all five senses.
McLaren Artura Spider
McLarens are born and bred on the track. The latest interaction with the brand’s racing technology came in the form of a 2025 McLaren Artura Spider, finished with a vibrant Ventura Orange paint job. Artura originated from pairing “Art” and “Future,” precisely articulating McLaren’s vision of the perfect daily driver. Energetically balanced, there is nothing like 691 English horses racing down runways with authority from the twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain. Inherently resourceful, McLaren leverages the technology and expertise from its motorsports division to enhance the performance of its consumer fleet.
The Artura is constructed with super-lightweight materials, advanced driver-focused technologies, and inventive McLaren design and engineering techniques. Representing McLaren’s first series-production hybrid convertible, it produces 691-horsepower, pushing the vehicle from 0 to 62 mph in 3 seconds. Top speed is a remarkable 205 mph. The supercar also offers a short all-electric range of about 21 miles for quiet city cruising. The e-motor also empowers the gas engine for top-end acceleration when called upon.
Starting at $273,800, the model test-driven was equipped with nearly every option available, totaling $325,258.
Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II
As you can imagine, Ghost Series II is technologically progressive due to detailed product planning and modern design strategies. It enters the reinvention phase as the most successful model in the British marque’s history. Ghost owners will appreciate the updated 6.75-liter twin-turbo V12 engine distributing 563-horsepower, a Spirit of Ecstasy Clock Cabinet, upgraded 1,400-watt, 18-speaker Rolls-Royce Bespoke Audio, and Grey-Stained Ash and Duality Twill finishes.
The test car featured fully polished 22” wheels, which Rolls-Royce describes as an interplay of elegant folding surfaces highlighting the robust 9-spoke arrangement. All-wheel steering and all-wheel drive increase traction and improve maneuverability. Of course, the rear-hinged, automatically closing coach doors and the famed Rolls-Royce door umbrellas are key attributes of the Ghost Series II. Interested parties can order and specify their Ghost Series II at any Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA authorized dealer commencing at $355,000. The $420,000 Black Badge Ghost Series II amplifies the game by integrating above and beyond amenities.
The posh, Bespoke cabin of the Series II is creatively curated from hand-stitched materials, precious metals, advanced digitization, omnipresent illumination, and new fabrics. For example, the richly grained Grey-Stained Ash is a natural open-pore wood finished by hand and highlighted with microscopic metallic particles for a shining effect. Optional features include reclining Serenity Seating akin to a mobile spa, a Champagne cooler, an automatic folding picnic table, lambswool floormats, illuminated treadplates, and the Shooting Star Headliner, all designed to provide occupants with memorable excursions.
The Return of Aston Martin’s Legendary Vanquish V12
Numerous devotees of British design philosophies first became acquainted with the Vanquish in the 2002 James Bond spy film Die Another Day, which starred Pierce Brosnan as 007. Quite the contrary, I wished to live another day to take full advantage of Aston Martin’s 2025 Vanquish V12 and its intoxicating acceleration.
Stunningly beautiful and ambitiously powerful, the RWD supercar from Gaydon is backed by a 5.2-liter Twin-Turbo V12 releasing 824-horsepower for a top speed of 214 mph and a 3.2-second 0-60 mph time. In addition, Formula 1 credibility is essential, since racing is aligned with the company’s history. What Aston Martin learns from the track is instilled into consumer products. Reserved for the upper echelon of society, just under 1,000 examples will be made annually for $429,000.
Step inside to admire the uber-luxurious and technical cockpit. Intimate details begin with semi-aniline leather, 16-way adjustable sports plus seats, carbon-fiber paneling (or metal trim), a new 15-speaker Bowers & Wilkins bespoke audio system, and the fully digital 10.25” customizable touchscreen, which sits at an angle. The in-house engineered, custom infotainment system is utilized on three other Aston Martins (DB12, Vantage, and DBX 707) to bring the brand up to speed with today’s standards. For example, Wireless Apple CarPlay is available, and the Aston Martin Connected Car app is the nucleus for typical operations. I’m also elated that the Vanquish V12 incorporates physical buttons and dials instead of just touch-capacitive.
In addition to luxurious rides, Aston Martin’s Formula One team has actively committed to diversity and inclusion, with a particular focus on creating opportunities for Black individuals and students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). As part of its “Make A Mark” strategy, the team has partnered with organizations like the Aleto Foundation to provide bespoke leadership and mentorship programs for young ethnic minority students, aiming to break down barriers to entry in motorsport and STEM careers. Additionally, in collaboration with partners such as Cognizant and Citi, Aston Martin has held panel discussions and events to inspire students from HBCUs and underserved communities, showcasing pathways into the sport beyond driving. The team also celebrates Black History Month with internal events to honor the contributions of its diverse workforce and foster an inclusive culture where every team member feels represented and empowered.
New Bentley Continental GT Speed Electrifies
When the Continental GT first hit the scene, it was a cultural phenomenon that became a universal driveway display for influential individuals, from pro athletes to music artists. Today, the British grand tourer represents top-notch engineering, design, and technology practices related to performance and interior personalization from Bentley’s traditional bespoke materials and decorative finishes.
The current GT Speed is a plug-in hybrid featuring a 25.9 kWh battery and 140 kW e-motor, providing 50 miles of electric range for driving quietly and efficiently through the city. The marvel is powered by a stalwart 4-liter twin-turbo V8 (shared with the Porsche Panamera) that produces a combined 771-horsepower for a 0 to 60 mph time of 3.1 seconds. Added performance stems from active AWD, all-wheel steering, an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters, and twin exhaust outlets that rumble when pushed. Switch to Sport mode to automatically open the valves and exhaust, producing thrilling audible notes.
Bentley is famous for its custom and premium interior materials, whether dark chrome or stone veneers. Owners consistently come to Bentley to present their unique expressions, mainly through color combos and hand-finished materials. The vehicle has been upgraded with connected services using Google’s network, air ionization, and wellness seat technology. Quilted doors, three-dimensional leather textures, and perforated bucket seats set the tone for stellar craftsmanship. The icing on the cake comes in the form of the 3-way Bentley Rotating Display, which is interchangeable to show either a handcrafted veneer, three analog dials, or the 12.3” navigation screen. Pricing starts at $302,100.
It needs to be stated that Rolls-Royce ownership is a potent symbol of success. This luxury brand has been embraced by prominent figures in the Black community, including athletes like Floyd Mayweather and Shaquille O’Neal, as well as artists like Jay-Z and Beyoncé , who reportedly own a custom-built Rolls-Royce Boat Tail valued at over $28 million.
Entrepreneurship has also played a key role, with Thomas Moorehead becoming the first African American Rolls-Royce dealer in the U.S. in 2001; his company, Sterling Motorcars, now generates over $600 million annually and supports the community through various initiatives. Reflecting this growing market and social awareness, Rolls-Royce has made a public commitment to diversity and inclusion within its workforce and leadership, implementing programs like a global leadership initiative for Black, Asian, and other ethnic groups to increase representation.
The company also celebrates UK and US Black History Months and has adapted its marketing to authentically reflect its diverse consumer base, a notable evolution from a historical reliance on stereotypes.
So, you can get with this, or you can get with that. But no matter what, a luxury British ride is where it’s at!
Men Who XCEL: Troy Taylor To Be Honored At The 2025 ‘XCEL Summit For Men’
Troy Taylor, CEO and founder of Coca-Cola Beverages Florida will be honored for his elite work in the beverage industry and Black community.
Troy Taylor will be honored for his exceptional leadership in business and mentorship at the 2025 BLACK ENTERPRISE XCEL Summit for Men.
Taylor made history as the first family owner of a Coca-Cola franchise. He exemplifies the summit’s ethos of “Made For Men. Built For Impact.” In 2015, Taylor broke barriers by establishing Coca-Cola Beverages Florida. The company is the first privately held Coca-Cola bottling franchise in six-decades. A decade later he remains the founder, chairman, and CEO. The company now ranks as the third-largest privately owned Coca-Cola franchise in the U.S.
Billion-Dollar Businessman
In 2018, BE reported on Taylor’s success in garnering $1.2 billion in revenues. BE recognized Taylor’s franchise as part of the elite “billion-dollar revenue club.” The acknowledgement is a rare feat amongst Black-owned businesses.
Taylor is intentional in his efforts to pour back into the Black community through his business venture. He makes a point of using his personal and professional leverage to uplift others.
“The beauty of having larger Black-owned businesses, you’re controlling cash flow where you can invest in Black banks, Black vendors, and other Black entrepreneurs,” he said to BE CEO Earl “Butch” Graves at the company’s BEEntrepreneurs Summit.
Business Accolades
Beyond scaling his enterprise, Taylor serves on multiple industry boards: the Coca-Cola Bottlers’ Association, American Beverage Association, and the Florida Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, he also contributes to the overall governance of the institution through the Coca-Cola North America System Leadership Board and the Florida Council of 100. Furthermore, in 2018, his entrepreneurship earned him the EY Entrepreneur of the Year, Florida (Consumer Products) award, further affirming his business acumen and impact.
After receiving his honor for his exceptional leadership, Taylor will lend his voice during a fireside chat. Taylor will join Ed Gordon, Jamal Harrison-Bryant and George C. Fraser in conversation. The esteemed honorees and host will discuss what’s lies ahead for Black men, the Black community, and Mobilizing On An Agenda For Black Progress.
Taylor’s is poised to inform and inspire emerging professionals at the XCEL Summit for Men. Be in attendance Oct. 15–17 at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando. For more information click here.
