by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

April 9, 2026

Black Mamas Matter To Begin 10th Annual Maternal Health Week ‘Rooted In Justice And Joy’

The week will focus on Black maternal health topics and communal upliftment.

The Black Mamas Matter Alliance will begin its Maternal Health Week on a special day focused on the pillars of this community.

The nonprofit will kick off its 9th annual advocacy week on April 11, also known as the International Day for Maternal Health and Rights and Black Doula Day. The educational campaign will feature digital and in-person events to spark conversations on Black women’s maternal health.

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According to a press release shared with BLACK ENTERPRISE, the week-long campaign features the 2026 theme of “Rooted In Justice and Joy.” Through activities that fuel advocacy and engagement, Black Mamas Matter remains committed to justice for women in the reproductive fight, while reclaiming the joy of motherhood.

The Health Week begins with the Black Maternal Health Walk and Community Fair in Atlanta. The in-person event will connect Black mamas and their supporters for the wellness immersion. To engage with advocates on a global scale, the health week will feature a virtual webinar on birth justice.

The e-festivities will continue with a neighborhood pep rally. This virtual gathering will inspire and promote Black maternal health organizations nationwide.

Following this spirited event, a networking event will bring out Atlanta’s professionals. These industry leaders will gather to strategize on ways to build upon the movement’s cause.

This year’s activities also come amid BMMA’s 10th anniversary of the Global Black Maternal Health Movement. The organization’s co-founder, Angela D. Aina, emphasizes how Black motherhood deserves to be uplifted and safeguarded from preventable tragedy.

“As we launch our 9th annual Black Maternal Health Week, we do so rooted in both the weight of this moment and the joy of this movement,” shared Aina in a statement. “We are witnessing unprecedented attacks on Black families, on reproductive rights, and on the very institutions
meant to protect our health and dignity. And yet, we remain rooted. “

Amplifying diverse family care and support, BMMA will also open its programming to uplift trans parenthood. The virtual discussion will open the floor to trans parents and gender-expansive families as they navigate the healthcare system.

The final programming will honor the lives lost due to maternal mortality through a Community Remembrance and Healing vigil. Taking place on April 17, the ceremony will honor these women while recognizing that the fight continues in their name.

Emphasizing that community care is essential to this work, Black Mamas Matter’s Maternal Health Week aims to mobilize supporters nationwide while raising awareness of this monumental cause.

“Justice and joy are not separate — they are the foundation of everything we do,” added Aina. “BMHW26 is a time for community-rooted action in addressing maternal health inequities and ensuring that everyone, especially Black Mamas, receives the resources needed to thrive.”

Advocates can sign up for respective events on BMMA’s website.

Detroit, golf, Eastside,, Morehouse,, Earl Cooper,Olajuwon Ajanaku

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

April 9, 2026

Augusta After Dark Returns For Second Year

Kevin Hart steals the show while performing as a caddy for Bryson DeChambeau

Augusta After Dark returns for its second year on April 8 in Augusta, Georgia, featuring Shaquille O’Neal, Kevin Hart, Ray Lewis, Victor Cruz, and J.R. Smith, as well as prominent figures from golf, sports media, entertainment, and business.

The event brought together DraftKings’ most loyal customers, who were exclusively invited, to mingle with celebrities, executives, and others happy to be in the company of those involved. Taking place during Masters Week, it was put together by Sports Illustrated and presented by Venmo and the sports betting company.

“After an unforgettable debut last year, we’re excited to bring Augusta After Dark back for a second year with Sports Illustrated,” said Shawn Henley, chief customer officer at DraftKings, in a written statement. “This event is designed to celebrate our loyal customers with a premium experience that matches the scale of the week in Augusta.”

According to Yahoo Sports, Hart made a memorable appearance as a caddie for golfer Bryson DeChambeau, who is currently ranked No. 24 on the PGA Tour. The comedian joined DeChambeau during Augusta’s Par 3 Contest, which is played every year before the start of the Masters, which happens April 9-12 this year. Hart claimed to take his role seriously when speaking to a reporter on the green.

Hart insisted that he only had one job for the day, and that was to be DeChambeau’s caddy.

“To be the best caddy that’s ever caddied,” Hart tells the reporter. “Guys, I am not Kevin Hart, the global superstar today. Please get that out of your mental. Not the movie star, the stand-up comedian, and everybody knows around the world. Throw it in the bag. Today, I am Bryson’s catdd, OK?”

Hart goes on to say that he just started playing the game several months ago, and now he has the bug.

“I am bit by the bug, and I’m bit bad. So me being able to be here, experience this, the fans, uh, really be attached to pros like Bryson and the rest of the phenomenal group here is an amazing experience, and I’m very thankful to be a part of it.”

https://twitter.com/espn/status/2041945900134621223

by Jameelah Mullen

April 9, 2026

Chicago’s First Black‑Owned Chick‑fil‑A Partners With Local Sustainable Farming Group To Fight Food Insecurity

The restaurant is located in Chicago's South Loop neighborhood in 2021.

A Chicago Chick-fil-A has partnered with an urban farming organization to help expand access to fresh food across the city.

Earlier this year, Kareem Edwards, the owner of the city’s only Black-owned Chick-fil-A, donated $50,000 to Just Roots Chicago, a nonprofit that supports community farms in the city and nearby suburbs. The organization also provides educational programs, including cooking, nutritional workshops, and gardening classes.

“Really, what we are all about is trying to make sure that the food we’re growing is as fresh as it can be, and it’s staying in the community,” Just Roots Co-Founder Sean Ruane told CBS News.

Edwards noted that he met Raune after he and his family had regularly attended Just Roots Farms’ community events. He noted their shared passion for supporting the community and a desire to help advance the organization’s mission.

Additionally, Edwards’ company partners with a local food bank to donate leftover meals and to address food insecurity, a rising problem in the Chicago area.

Edwards and his wife, Janelle, also spearhead an annual back-to-school breakfast to support teachers and staff in local schools.

The Far Rockaway, Queens, native entered the restaurant business in an unconventional way after spending years on Wall Street. The entrepreneur notes that he felt unfulfilled and decided to explore options.

“If I go to business school, I understand even more about business, and then maybe I go down entrepreneurship or find something that I truly like,” the father told Essence.

After earning an MBA, Edwards landed a position at Kraft Heinz, where he led their breakthrough innovation team. He moved on to Google, where he worked as a tech maven by day and at Chick-fil-A at night to learn the business. In 2021, he opened his own franchise at 1101 South Clinton Street.

Anyone interested in learning more about or supporting Just Roots’ mission can visit the organization’s website.

trial, Kanye West, Malibu lawsuit, dress code

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

April 9, 2026

Ye Sued By Former Bodyguard For Unpaid Wages

Jonathan Monroe is suing for nearly $850,000

A former bodyguard for Ye, the artist formerly known as Kanye West, is suing him for nearly $850,000 in unpaid wages and damages, alleging violations of labor laws and wrongful termination.

According to TMZ.com, Jonathan Monroe, who worked as a full-time bodyguard for the “Diamonds from Sierra Leone” rapper, is seeking approximately $850,000, claiming he wasn’t paid all his wages.

In the legal paperwork, he is requesting damages, including $7,725 for unpaid overtime, $37,620 for lost wages, $500,000 for lost earnings, $100,000 for pain and suffering, and an additional $100,000 in punitive damages.

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Monroe claims that in a previous attempt to get his money, Ye did not respond. He also said that he filled up Ye’s Lamborghini. When he requested reimbursement for the gas, Ye allegedly ignored him.

“When I asked for cash or use of his credit card to cover the expense, [Kanye] walked away from me without a response.”

Hot 97 reported that Monroe initially filed a claim against the rapper in October 2024. He said in that lawsuit that he worked for the mercurial recording artist between 36 and 50 hours per week.

The former bodyguard claims that Ye violated several labor code violations, including “misclassification of him as an independent contractor, unpaid overtime, and unlawful withholding of wages.” He alleged that Ye wrongfully terminated him for “engaging in a protected activity.”

As the case moves forward, the lawsuit adds to a growing list of legal and public challenges facing Ye, with Monroe’s claims centering on broader issues around labor practices and worker protections. Whether the court sides with the former bodyguard or not, the outcome could have implications beyond this dispute, particularly as conversations around employee classification and fair compensation continue to evolve.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

April 9, 2026

High School Freshman JJ Crawford Offered Scholarship To North Carolina Central University

Crawford is the son of former NBA player Jamal Crawford

High school basketball phenom, JJ Crawford, son of former NBA player Jamal Crawford, has been offered an athletic scholarship from North Carolina Central University (NCCU).

Although Crawford has been getting offers from many schools, this one is the first from an HBCU. In a social media post, the 15-year-old thanked Coach LeVelle Morton and the university’s staff after visiting the school.

Thanks to Coach Moton and the NC Central staff for offering me! #13AGTG pic.twitter.com/TWQ3Uxk6tt
— JJ Crawford (@JJ1Crawford) March 30, 2026

According to HBCU Sports, the rush to entice Crawford, who is just a freshman, to commit to play when he is scheduled to graduate from high school in 2029 reveals the talent scouts see in him. So far, he has gotten 12 offers from Division I schools, including the University of Kansas, the University of Missouri, the University of Southern California, the University of Oregon, and the reigning NCAA champion, the University of Michigan (where his father played his collegiate career).

Crawford has been playing under his father’s tutelage for the Northwest Rotary Rebels on the Nike EYBL grassroots circuit.

The young basketball player recently attended the USA Basketball Men’s Junior National Team April minicamp, held at the Pacers Athletic Center in Westfield, Indiana, on April 4. He was invited, along with 64 other high school players from the graduating classes of 2027, 2028, and 2029. The athletes participated in various activities together, including one-on-one matchups, shooting drills, and scrimmages.

“It means a lot to me to play against the best players in the world, to see how good everybody else in the country is and to work on my game and see where I’m at,” Crawford said.

His father and his mother, Tori, were at the facility with him. Jamal spoke about his son’s involvement and what it will do for him as he prepares for the basketball competition.

“It’s so cool because you know that the next great American players are coming through this pipeline, right?” Jamal said. “You get a chance to see them early, kind of follow their journey. Being invited, being one of the youngest ones in camp, has been really, really cool and a great experience for him. After he leaves and goes home, you can always tell his workouts are more serious, more intentional, so it’s been a blessing.”

Jackson 5, Top 10, 40 years, Christmas album

by Kandiss Edwards

April 9, 2026

Taj Jackson Urges Fans To Ignore ‘Sabotage’ Of ‘Michael’ Movie

The filmmakers have maintained that the intent is to humanize the global icon rather than provide a sanitized version of history.

Taj Jackson addressed what he believes is an attack on the upcoming biographical film Michael.

In the film, Jaafar Jackson stars as his famous uncle, Michael Jackson. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, ‘Michael’ is garnering criticism for its portrayal of the King of Pop’s publicly fraught legal battles. While the production aims to provide an expansive look at the singer’s career and personal history, some media outlets and public figures have expressed concern regarding how the script handles allegations of child sexual abuse.

Taj Jackson, one of the singer’s nephews, spoke out on X, asking fans to ignore the negative noise. Taj accuses the media as a whole of attempting to undermine the film before its release. The elder Jackson nephew argues that there is a concerted effort to sway public opinion and sabotage the biopic’s success. According to Taj, media publications are spreading “BS stories and lies” regarding the film.

“Can’t help but notice that the negative press, trolls, and tabloids are desperately ramping up their BS stories and lies about my uncle to try and sabotage all the positive publicity the “Michael” Movie is getting around the world. Please don’t contribute to their failing agenda. Don’t help them or their algorithm by clicking or reposting their lies,” Taj wrote.

Can’t help but notice that the negative press, trolls, and tabloids are desperately ramping up their BS stories and lies about my uncle to try and sabotage all the positive publicity the “Michael”Movie is getting around the world.
Please don’t contribute to their failing agenda.…
— Taj Jackson (@tajjackson3) April 7, 2026

In response, the production team has stated that the movie will cover all aspects of Jackson’s life. This includes the professional triumphs, personal highlights, and legal battles. The filmmakers have maintained that the intent is to humanize the global icon rather than provide a sanitized version of history.

“Michael’s life was epic, but you have to still focus on the human being to understand who he was, and it was a real opportunity to be making a film with people that really love Michael,” Fuqua told The Grio.

Production for the film took place throughout early 2024, with various images of Jaafar Jackson in costume circulating online. The resemblance between the young actor and his uncle has generated significant interest among fans. Lionsgate and Universal Pictures International are handling the distribution of the movie, which is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release in 2026.

Kevin Durant, Maryland, after-school program

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

April 9, 2026

Kevin Durant Joins Investor Group To Transform Six Flags Property Into Entertainment Sector

Durant, a Maryland native, will spearhead the transformation of the property.

Kevin Durant is joining an investor group to transform a defunct Six Flags into an entertainment hub.

The Maryland native will help revitalize the property in Prince George’s County, providing residents with new amenities. Durant’s 35 Ventures firm teamed up with Atlanta-based TPA group to bring a mixed-use development to life.

News4 confirmed the future of the Six Flags America park after it closed in November. The property immediately went up for sale, with Durant and others capitalizing on the opportunity.

While Marylanders wondered what would happen to the 515-acre space, Durant and the investment team will spearhead the project. The investor group expects to create an entertainment destination, complete with upscale dining options.

Given its NBA superstar investor, the space may also include a sports activity. County Executive Aisha Braveboy shared that the sports-focused element remains a possibility.

The project will also be a family affair, with Durant’s mother, Wanda, also joining as an investor. Braveboy confirmed the news about the Durant family’s inclusion in the reimagining of the property.

“This is a new chapter for Prince George’s County and one that will be guided by a son of Prince George’s County, NBA legend Kevin Durant,” Braveboy said. “We are excited about being able to work collaboratively with Wanda Durant (Kevin Durant’s mother) and the team to really have an inclusive vision for the Six Flags site.”

As for what residents envision for the property, many have varied thoughts on the matter. While excited that a native is leading the transition, they want the space to serve the needs of the community.

“Kevin [Durant is] from here. Kevin from PG County,” one man shared with News4. And I know he’ll do the right thing because he was raised that way.”

Some called for a senior-citizen residence, while others approved the current idea of a mixed-use entertainment hub. Although many Marylanders have thoughts on the space’s future, no timeline has been revealed for when the development will break ground.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 9, 2026

Elderly Virginia Bus Driver Accused Of Strangling Child

A 73-year-old Virginia school bus driver has been arrested and charged with child neglect after allegedly choking an elementary school student.

A 73-year-old Virginia school bus driver has been arrested and charged with strangling an elementary school student on her bus.

Effie Wynn was taken into custody following a March 30 incident where the Lynchburg Police Department responded to Linkhorne Elementary School following reports of a “disorderly individual” involving an adult and a child, 13 WHAM reports.

“Upon arrival, officers began an investigation that revealed a bus driver, while parked in the school parking lot, allegedly assaulted a student on the bus,” LPD said. “LPD worked with Lynchburg City Schools and determined the student had been strangled during the encounter.”

Wynn was arrested on April 4 and faces charges of strangulation and child neglect. Police say the investigation remains ongoing, with more updates expected, and confirmed the child is safe and did not suffer life-threatening injuries.

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The case reportedly ignited outrage across the community, with parents demanding tighter oversight and increased monitoring of school bus staff. School officials say they are fully cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation continues.

However, on social media, some have come to Wynn’s defense, speculating that the child may have acted in a way that provoked the elderly driver.

“She 73 she’s probably been doing this 40-50+ years before something like this happened. WHAT DID THE KID DO,” one Instagram user wrote.

“It was legal back in her day #freegranny,” another user jokingly added.

“She probably told that child to sit down about fifty-eleven times,” said someone else.

There was even one user who blamed it on the current generation of children, saying, “If you been around these new generation kids you definitely understand.”

Authorities are expected to release more details about the case involving Wynn and the events leading up to the incident on the bus.

Dr. Dre, hip hop artists, Brain Aneurysm

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

April 9, 2026

Dr. Dre Speaks On Becoming Hip-Hop’s Second Billionaire

The legendary hip-hop producer is only the second one, behind JAŸ-Z

After finally achieving billionaire status, as reported by Forbes, multi-platinum music producer Dr. Dre discusses his thoughts on reaching the coveted title.

Forbes bestowed that title on the former N.W.A. member when it released its latest list of billionaires on March 10. The publication said that his fortune came mostly from his record label, Aftermath Entertainment, and Beats Electronics, which he and co-partner Jimmy Iovine sold to Apple for more than $3 billion over 10 years ago.

Before that sale was approved, a bit of controversy arose, leading to Dre narrowly missing the billionaire tag in 2014. R&B singer Tyrese was partly blamed for that situation when he blurted on social media that the impending Apple deal would give Dre the money to achieve that status.

The Washington Post captured the video and posted the interaction on YouTube.

Dre recalled the moment in a conversation with Forbes and said, “That’s not one of my proudest moments.”

Apple decided to lower its acquisition price by $200 million, which placed $500 million in Dre’s bank account (along with almost $100 million in stock), denying him the magic number to wear that title.

It took more than a decade to achieve that, but now that he is one, he attributes his success to betting on himself and ending up on top.

“I don’t chase money—I try to make the money chase me,” said Dre. “I’ve always been able to bet on myself, and whatever I do and wherever I go, I know I have my talent with me.”

Dre has never stopped working. With the success of many ventures he’s been involved in over the years, including his most recent, Gin & Juice canned cocktails, he still dabbles in music.

“Who knows if something is gonna happen to make me come up with the best thing I’ve ever done in my life? The exciting part is there’s the potential of that. It’s exciting and depressing at the same time because I know it’s there, and what if I don’t find it?”

WNBA, 2024 Season, Basketball, DICK BARNETT, BIG3

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

April 9, 2026

WNBA Celebrates 30 Seasons Of Women’s Basketball With ‘Legacy Trail’ And Other Initiatives

The WNBA's 30th anniversary campaign will feature films, a Top Plays series, and exclusive merchandise.

The WNBA is celebrating 30 seasons of professional women’s basketball.

The league has launched several initiatives to commemorate its official start in 1996. As the WNBA prepares for its landmark season to begin in May, the organization has put out all the stops to recognize three decades of women’s sports.

According to Hot97, the WNBA will release a Legacy Trail merchandise program, alongside a Top 30 plays series, campaign films, and a Court Origins programming featuring WNBA Court Origins Nights. The vast programming will promote the WNBA’s enduring legacy as an evolving women’s sports league.

With The W’s impact still reaching new heights, the tagline for this 30-year celebration stands as “There’s More Where Thirty Came From.” As the league explores lucrative opportunities for players and introduces two new franchises, the WNBA has much in store for fans as they kick off a new era.

“Season 30 arrives at the perfect transformational moment in our league’s history. Marking both a defining milestone and the beginning of a new era for the WNBA,” shared WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert in a statement. “The unprecedented growth and momentum we’re experiencing today is the result of three decades of commitment.”

As for its signature merchandise offering, the Legacy Trail launches this April with exclusive drops that champion the league as a driver of sports and fashion.

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Each month of the season will feature a new partner for the merch drops, so fashion collectors and WNBA fans can own a part of history. The league already announced the first three partner brands, Nike, La Crema, and Mitchel & Ness, which will reveal their collaborations this month. Longtime fans of the WNBA have witnessed the league’s growth within and beyond sports, while its players and fans have become platforms for unity and justice worldwide. Now, the WNBA is celebrating its greatness while shaping its legacy for decades to come.

Engelbert added, “From players, teams, fans, partners, and investors. As we step into this next dynamic era together, Season 30 is tracking to be our most memorable yet. Celebrating both how far we’ve come while highlighting the limitless opportunities ahead as we continue to elevate women’s basketball to new heights.”

To boost the hype for this historic season, the league and the NBA also posted a shared video featuring “G.O.A.T.” Sheryl Swoopes. Swoopes, the first woman to sign with the WNBA, hinted at what’s to come from the league’s biggest initiative yet.

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Lovers of the game can witness the first jump ball of the season on May 8.