AT&T Refuses To Follow Verizon In Rolling Back DEI Policies Amid Federal Pressure
AT&T's CEO John Stankey indicated that the company is not obligated to amend any policies to assuage the federal government's assault on DEI.
After Verizon capitulated to the Trump administration’s Federal Communications Commission’s demands regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion before its forthcoming $20 billion purchase of Frontier Communications, one of Verizon’s chief competitors, AT&T, signaled that it would make no such concessions.
As Yahoo Finance reports, AT&T’s CEO John Stankey indicated that the company is not obligated to amend any policies to assuage the federal government’s assault on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
“We don’t have to roll back anything. Our policies and our approach at AT&T have always been that we progress people on merit. That any employee that comes to work here should have an opportunity to grow their career, work on building their skills, have an opportunity to succeed and earn a living,” Stankey told the outlet in an interview.
Stankey continued, “And our goal is to make sure that every employee that walks through the door of AT&T feels like they belong here and it’s a good place for them to work. And I’m pretty confident that anybody who examines our practices and how we run the business is going to come to that same conclusion.”
Stankey also admitted that despite the bluster from the Trump administration regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion, the $5.75 billion deal to acquire Lumen Technologies in a bid to expand its fiber optic network does appeal to Trump’s stated goal of creating jobs for Americans.
To Stankey’s point about AT&T’s meritocracy, the company has featured several Black Americans as executives over the years, including Jerome B. Holland, Cynthia Marshall, William Kennard, Chuck Smith, and Michelle Jordan, the telecommunications company also has not backed down from celebrating Black History Month, unlike Google and several other companies.
“AT&T is committed to driving diversity, equity, and inclusion, not just within our organization but across the tech industry. One of the greatest barriers that must be overcome is the understanding that the industry’s struggle with diversity is oftentimes not a pipeline problem or a legacy problem—it’s the result of numerous gaps and longstanding inequities that collectively keep underrepresented talent from finding success. From getting diverse talent interested in technology as a career path to ensuring equitable access to programs, mentorship, and entry-level and advancement opportunities,” Jordan said.
As a nod to this commitment, in February, AT&T issued the 32nd edition of its Black History Month Digital Calendar, which the company described as “a symbol of our respect for the distinguished Black leaders who have shaped the world we live in,” and “Our digital calendar serves not just as a testament to the honorees’ accomplishments, but also as an engaging tool to educate, inspire, and celebrate their legacy.”
Tariff Fallout: Here Are The Companies Raising Prices Amid New Trade Policies
Companies from a variety of sectors from cars to apparel have already told customers to expect price hikes.
As Trump’s tariffs impact the U.S. and global economy, these companies have already prepared for the increased production costs with new prices.
Trump’s tariff demands have faced their own shifts, including fluctuating numbers to main production hubs like China. However, as the current U.S. administration remains adamant in the growing trade war, many Americans will now bear the burden of covering these costs.
Currently, Trump has imposed a 10% tax on imports, with 30% tariffs on goods imported from China. Now, America’s biggest retailers and companies, ranging from cars to toys, have announced price hikes to combat this new barrier.
Walmart has already shared price increases over the “too high” tariffs, especially on goods made in China. The retailer has initiated the new price changes, with many more noticeable hikes coming in the next few weeks. A Reuters report confirmed the retailer sourced 60% of its products from China in 2023.
“We will do our best to keep our prices as low as possible. But given the magnitude of the tariffs, even at the reduced levels announced this week, we aren’t able to absorb all the pressure given the reality of narrow retail margins,” Walmart CEO Douglas McMillon said in an earnings call, as reported byCNN.
Mattel, the owner of Barbie, also confirmed this month that the toy manufacturer expects to raise prices in light of the tariffs. Despite undergoing price changes due to the “current scenarios we are considering,” Chief Executive Ynon Kreiz hopes to keep 40% to 50% of products within a $20 or less range.
According to Yahoo Finance, the company earned over 5.4 billion in revenue in 2022, making it among the top toy companies in the world. However, Mattel has faced backlash from President Trump over its stance against tariffs on children’s products like toys and games. Trump has threatened to place “100% tariffs,” pricing Mattel out of the U.S. market. Despite the claims, no tariffs such as this have been enacted.
Best Buy also deemed price increases due to tariffs “highly likely.” While some electronics the retailer distributes remain exempt from the tariffs, customers should not expect this to last. Popular electronic devices, such as Nintendo Switch gaming consoles, have already delayed their release dates due to unclear tariff regulations.
Unsurprisingly, Chinese e-commerce hubs like Shein and Temu have also noted that price adjustments will take place. Although these companies were initially able to bypass tariffs over a “de minimis” exemption for goods less than $800, Trump’s recent retraction of that ruling has the companies leaning on customers to make up the cost difference.
“Due to recent changes in global trade rules and tariffs, our operating expenses have gone up. To keep offering the products you love without compromising on quality, we will be making price adjustments starting April 25, 2025,” Temuwrote in a notice similar to Shein’s announcement.
However, car companies like Ford and Subaru also face issues as imported cars and car parts now hold a 25% tariff. Ford expects to raise its prices by 1.5% over these price regulations. As for Subaru, it will change its pricing by an unknown margin due to “market conditions.”
Customers of household products and goods should also get ready to pay more at the register. Popular product makers like Procter & Gamble and Stanley Black & Decker expressed their intentions to raise prices over “inherent” inflation surrounding the tariffs. In the apparel sector, Adidas prepared customers for new price hikes despite the final number for the tariffs remaining unclear.
Ex-Wife Of William Barber Claims NC Civil Rights Leader Used Nonprofit Funds To Pay Alimony
The former Mrs. Barber also deemed the funds in the nonprofit's bank accounts should be considered in their divorce litigation.
The ex-wife of Bishop William J. Barber II has accused the civil rights leader, known widely in North Carolina and across the United States, of misusing funds from his racial justice nonprofit to make alimony payments.
Rebecca Barber stated the allegations in court documents recently in Durham County. She suggested that Barber’s control of the nonprofit, Repairers of the Breach, helped him to pull the money.
“[Barber] maintains de facto control over the financial accounts associated with Repairers of the Breach, Inc., thereby suggesting that Repairers of the Breach, Inc., is being used as an instrumentality of [William Barber’s] personal financial affairs,” detailed the legal filing according toWRAL. “Repairers of the Breach, Inc., is functionally an alter ego of [William Barber] and may possess or control assets that are marital in nature or otherwise relevant to this Court’s equitable distribution determination.”
The estranged couple has engaged in ongoing divorce proceedings after officially ending their relationship last November. The at-odds duo continues to legally battle over dividing assets acquired in the marriage, including their property and alimony payments. They tried to resolve these matters during a mediation in April, but the talks failed.
The leader of the Greensboro-based organization called the woman’s claims “baseless.” Barber has also denied the misuse of funds, as stated by the community leader’s lawyer.
“Reverend Barber categorically denies [the allegations],” explained Barber’s attorney, Tamela Wallace. “We believe the claims were filed for the sole purpose of gaining a tactical advantage in his pending property division litigation with his former spouse. We look forward to having these false allegations addressed in the proper forum, which is the court of law.”
The former Mrs. Barber has made damaging claims against her ex-husband’s integrity with this accusation. The former North Carolina NAACP leader garnered fame by establishing the state’s “Moral Mondays” movement, becoming an advocate for racial equity in the U.S. Barber also delivered the prayer service at Joe Biden’s presidential inauguration in January 2021.
Furthermore, the divorcée claims that the millions of dollars reported in the nonprofit’s earnings warrant discussion in their divorce settlement. She also proclaimed that the organization funnels money to Barber to cover his expenses. The organization also dismissed these assertions.
“The governing board of Repairers of the Breach is aware of baseless accusations against our organization in a civil property dispute between our president, William J. Barber II, and his former spouse. We have the greatest confidence in Rev. Barber and our organization. We trust the court to quickly resolve this issue and have no further comment.”
Repairers of the Breach reportedly had $8.3 million in bank accounts in 2023, its last tax filing year reported. Barber’s ex-wife claims the group’s funds have become entangled with the marital couple’s personal accounts and are part of their marital assets. Her legal team now asks for a thorough examination of these funds for a potential portion granted to the woman.
10 Black-Owned BBQ Brands To Kick Off Your Memorial Day Grilling
Bring a whole new level of flavor to the cookout.
Memorial Day is just around the corner, and that means summer is basically here. It’s time we dust off those grills, text the group chat, and get ready for some seriously good BBQ. But hey, instead of the same old routine this year, why not shake things up a bit? There are some incredible Black-owned BBQ brands out there that’ll bring a whole new level of flavor to the cookout, we’re talking deep soul, rich history, and taste that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. These folks are crushing it in the BBQ world, with items that range from tangy sauces to secret-recipe rubs, and we can’t leave out smoked meats. Get into these 10 Black-owned BBQ brands that will take your Memorial Day spread from good to mouthwatering.
Uncle Dell’s Mambo Sauce
This Washington D.C. gem is insane. It’s sweet, tangy, and has just enough heat to take basic chicken or ribs to the next level. Straight outta D.C.’s go-go culture, Uncle Dell’s Mambo Sauce works on everything. Slap it on thick and marinate overnight. This sauce will have you shook.
Jones Bar-B-Q is an institution in Kansas City, Kansas, under the ownership of sisters Deborah and Mary Jones, who have been serving delicious BBQ with love for many years. The Jones sisters have bottled their signature BBQ sauces, bringing Kansas City flavor to your backyard cookout. The combination of their signature burnt ends with slow-cooked pulled pork creates an unforgettable dining experience.
Kevin Bludso is the genius behind the sauces and rubs. Bludso mixes Texas BBQ with Cali vibes, and it’s insane. This grill master also has a cookbook with recipes for his beef brisket, which is rumored to be smoky, tender, and cooked to perfection, as well as his BBQ chicken sandwiches.
Paul Ford and his family run Big Red’s Hot Sauce, a Black-owned gem tucked away in Phoenix, Arizona. Their lineup of hot sauces and BBQ concoctions isn’t just spicy, they’re bursting with flavor that’ll make your taste buds backflip. Grill masters across the region swear by these sauces when they’re looking to kick their backyard cookouts up a notch.
This sauce was created by Tyla-Simone Crayton when she was just 14 years old. It’s blown up so much that you can now grab a bottle at H-E-B, Wegmans, and other stores nationwide. Tap into the Smokey Brown flavor, or the Sweet & Tangy and Lemon Pepper, which are equally mouthwatering.
The family recipe of Scott’s Barbecue Sauce from 1917 provides a sugar-free and fat-free alternative for people with dietary needs. The vinegar-based flavor profile of this BBQ sauce follows the traditional methods of Eastern North Carolina BBQ. Use this BBQ sauce to flavor both pulled pork and grilled chicken.
Bobby Brown Foods operates as a Black-owned business under the leadership of singer Bobby Brown. The company provides all-natural BBQ sauces together with seasonings, hot sauces, and fry mixes. The company’s sauces stand out because they deliver intense flavors while containing less sugar and sodium. The Sweet & Spicy BBQ Sauce, Boston Blend Seasoning, and Straight Fire Hot Sauce represent some of their most well-known products.
Five Years Later: George Floyd’s Murder And The Creeping Tide Of Regression
Five years after Floyd’s tragic and preventable murder, the struggle for authentic accountability and equitable justice is far from concluded; indeed, in many respects, it feels like it is recommencing, with exigencies more pressing than ever.
Half a decade. Five years ago.
Five years have now passed since global consciousness was seared by the agonizing demise of George Floyd beneath disgraced former police officer Derek Chauvin’s knee on a Minneapolis street. May 25, 2020, remains a stark inscription in our shameful shared history, igniting a worldwide insurrection against racial inequity and law enforcement malfeasance that only a fundamental reckoning could fix. Yet, as this somber anniversary arrives, the initial fervor of outrage and the urgent calls for systemic overhaul have yielded mainly to a troubling stillness, a creeping tide of regression that leaves many to question if the very conditions leading to Floyd’s death are being tacitly allowed to re-emerge.
Floyd’s harrowing final moments, captured with unblinking fidelity by a bystander’s lens, starkly illuminated the ingrained biases of racialized policing for a global audience. His frightened plea, “I can’t breathe,” was a visceral truth, mobilizing millions into the streets across the United States and internationally.
Cities grappled with fervent demands for police reform, genuine accountability, and a fundamental reimagining of the paradigms of public safety. Legislative proposals were drafted, law enforcement agencies scrutinized extant protocols, and corporations committed significant resources to the cause of racial equity. It was a period of profound collective trauma, undoubtedly. Yet, it also felt imbued with the potential for substantive transformation, a critical juncture to finally confront the deep-rooted systemic racism that has shadowed this nation since its inception.
However, as history consistently reminds us, the path to justice is rarely linear. The nascent impetus for comprehensive police reform at the federal level largely stalled, with legislative efforts failing to gain bipartisan traction. While some local reforms were enacted, many have been piecemeal or have faced significant resistance. The potent energy that galvanized the summer of 2020 has, in many ways, been met by a persistent counter-current, a discernible pushback against the very conceptualization of systemic racism and the demands for accountability.
This juncture compels us to examine the present moment and the unsettling influence of the incumbent administration in cultivating an atmosphere where the very precursors to another tragedy like Floyd’s feel alarmingly present.
The discourse emanating from the apex of governmental authority often foregrounds a “tough on crime” and “law and order” narrative that, while ostensibly concerned with public welfare, frequently emboldens aggressive policing tactics and diminishes calls for accountability. When political leadership consistently disavows the reality of systemic racism, a recurrent motif in certain ideological viewpoints, it effectively lends credence to the very prejudices that underpin racial profiling and excessive force. This creates an environment where officers may feel less constrained by oversight and more empowered to act with impunity, knowing their actions will likely be defended rather than scrutinized.
Consider the lexicon employed. When demonstrations advocating for racial equity are branded as “riots” or “anarchy,” and those articulating the need for accountability are dismissed as “radical” or “anti-police,” a clear signal is transmitted. This form of rhetoric not only demonizes legitimate dissent but also subtly, yet powerfully, reinforces the idea that concerns regarding police malfeasance are unwarranted. Such narratives can erode public trust and undermine the instrumentalities to ensure law enforcement accountability. This isn’t just about harsh words; it’s about setting a tone that can trickle down to everyday interactions between police and Black communities, increasing the likelihood of escalation and tragic outcomes.
Examining the current policy landscape reveals further cause for concern. The Trump administration’s recent decision to terminate endeavors aimed at securing federal oversight agreements for police departments in Minneapolis and Louisville, notwithstanding prior governmental findings of routine civil rights violations against Black people, constitutes a salient rollback of federal civil rights enforcement. The Justice Department is also concluding investigations and rescinding prior determinations of misconduct concerning six other police departments, characterizing these inquiries as “overreaching.”
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon articulated, “Federal micro-management of local police should be a rare exception, and not the norm,” thereby underscoring a laissez-faire approach that critics contend enfeebles accountability mechanisms.
Efforts to abrogate or resist federal superintendence of police departments, to fortify qualified immunity (which shields officers from civil lawsuits), or to appoint officials demonstrably skeptical of racial justice initiatives all contribute to the attenuation of accountability structures. When the federal government, which ideally would incentivize or mandate reforms, instead signals a detached posture or even a predilection for unfettered police authority, it creates a void where abuses can flourish. This pattern, evident in administrations prioritizing a “law and order” agenda, can effectively undo the fragile progress achieved in the wake of public clamor. For instance, reports from civil rights organizations have consistently underscored concerns regarding the federal government’s role in either fostering or impeding police reform efforts (e.g., American Civil Liberties Union, https://www.aclu.org/; NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, https://www.naacpldf.org/).
The prevailing social ethos fostered by such an administration is also troubling. When racial grievances are consistently downplayed, when discourse concerning historical injustices is branded as divisive, and when the very existence of systemic racism is refuted, it cultivates a society less adept at comprehending, let alone precluding, racialized violence. This denial can precipitate a hardening of ideological positions, rendering empathy and genuine dialogue exceedingly arduous. It fosters an environment wherein the fundamental societal issues that precipitate incidents such as Floyd’s homicide are not redressed, but instead disregarded or even exacerbated. This is not to impute sole culpability for deeply entrenched societal problems to any singular administration, but rather to underscore the profound influence of political leadership on the conditions under which these problems either ameliorate or deteriorate.
A quinquennium after the murder of George Floyd, the visceral anguish of that fateful day persists, a stark memento of lives extinguished and justice still awaited. The widespread demonstrations of 2020 evinced a collective yearning for a divergent future wherein Black lives are genuinely valued and safeguarded. Yet, as we appraise the current political panorama, the behaviors and policies fostered by the Trump administration, including the abrogation of federal police oversight, generate grave concerns regarding the nation’s not-so-urgent commitment to averting another such tragedy.
The penumbra of retrenchment casts a long shadow, necessitating unremitting vigilance, unwavering advocacy, and a renewed dedication to dismantling the very systems that permitted Floyd to perish, which continue to imperil Black lives. Five years after Floyd’s tragic and preventable murder, the struggle for authentic accountability and equitable justice is far from concluded; indeed, in many respects, it feels like it is recommencing, with exigencies more pressing than ever.
Maryland Legislators Believe They Can Override Gov. Moore’s Veto Of Reparations Bill
The response to Moore's veto of the bill also stirred up civil rights groups, like the National Black Justice Collective.
Following Maryland Gov. Wes Moore’s veto of a bill that would have established a commission to study reparations, legislators in Maryland’s Black Caucus are still sure that they have the necessary votes to overturn Moore’s veto, which made national news and stirred up more conversations about reparations.
According to Maryland Matters, the bill would have created a commission to study federal, state, and local policies from 1877 until 1965, and both the post-Reconstruction era and Jim Crow eras which “led to economic disparities based on race, including housing, segregation and discrimination, redlining, restrictive covenants, and tax policies.”
Delegate Aletheia McCaskill (D-Baltimore County), who was instrumental in helping to pass both the Senate and House versions of the bill, told the outlet that the goal for the bill is still to have it become a law regardless of the governor’s veto.
“We’re not done in getting this bill into a law. That is the ultimately goal, no matter what hurdles are in front of us,” McCaskill said.
Although McCaskill certainly seems confident in the chances of the bill becoming law, legislators in other states worry that if Maryland, which has Black people in power in key positions, is struggling to pass a bill establishing a reparations commission, their states, which don’t have that luxury, will likely suffer setbacks.
“Gov. Moore needs to realize that he’s not only impacting Maryland, but he’s impacting South Carolina and many other states with the veto,” Rep. John King (D-SC) told Maryland Matters.
King, who called on the South Carolina Democratic Party to cancel an invitation it extended to Gov. Moore, also explained that move, telling the outlet, “I will still support [the] governor, if he decided to run for president,” however, he maintained that in light of the reparations veto, despite there being no similar legislation in the works in his state, “I don’t think the timing is right for him to come to South Carolina.”
As WBAL reported, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, also a Democrat, voiced his support for federal reparations shortly after Moore’s veto. While he did not want to speak for the Speaker and the Senate president, he did speak to the historical record of the lasting impact of slavery on Black Americans.
“Whether the speaker and the Senate president go for override, that’s up for them to determine, not for me. I’ve never done that, even for a bill of mine that was vetoed in the past. I won’t do that to them. But what I will say is that this country has to acknowledge that the impacts of slavery still are present today, and for me, I think that conversation should be had at the federal level,” Scott said.
The response to Moore’s veto of the bill has also stirred up civil rights groups, like the National Black Justice Collective and its CEO and Executive Director, Dr. David Johns, who issued a statement expressing his disappointment with the veto.
“Governor Wes Moore’s veto of Maryland’s reparations bill is not only deeply disappointing — it is a painful rejection of the very communities that helped make his historic election possible,” Dr. Johns said. “As the first Black governor of Maryland, Gov. Moore had an opportunity to lead with moral clarity, political courage, and historical awareness. Instead, his decision represents a dangerous step backward in the long and necessary march toward racial justice.”
Dr. Johns continued, framing the veto as “more than an abandonment — it’s a betrayal of generational efforts to pursue truth, healing, and repair.” Before continuing his explanation, “Black Marylanders deserve more than platitudes about ‘action’ while the very process required to define what justice looks like is being blocked. This isn’t just about another study. This is about honoring lived experiences, understanding harm, and crafting a path forward rooted in community input and historical accountability.”
Indiana University Closes DEI Office To Comply With Federal Mandates
The change echoes across all nine of IU’s campuses.
Indiana University has shut down its diversity, equity, and inclusion office in response to new federal mandates that harshly target programs and entities that continue to uphold DEI-aligned policy. IU’s DEI office closed its doors May 22, according to IU Today.
The change echoes across all nine of IU’s campuses, which are being urged to follow in the footsteps of the university due to recent federal policies.
The announcement stated that all campuses have been instructed to comply with President Donald Trump’s push to eliminate DEI nationwide.
The university said in its May 22 statement, “As Indiana University prioritizes initiatives to provide students with universal access to resources, programs, and services that support their success, it is also taking steps to ensure the university is fully compliant with state and federal laws and guidance regarding diversity, equity and inclusion.”
IU alleged that it would continue to ensure all students are supported adequately to succeed both in their classrooms and post-graduation, but did not detail how it would compensate for the hole left by the closing of the DEI office.
IU continued in the statement, “The university continues to update and enhance student success initiatives. This includes efforts related to academic advising, engagement, and student well-being, among other efforts to make a robust array of resources available to all students.”
The Office of the Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Indiana University previously offered students a wide range of services. The DEI office provided scholarships and on-campus resources and helped to retain diversity on campus.
The IU stated, “To further ensure compliance with state and federal guidance, the Office of the Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will sunset, effective today. The university is also directing campuses, schools, and units to take necessary steps to ensure compliance with state and federal policies and guidance.”
They additionally announced that the university’s Office of Institutional Equity would transition into the Office of Civil Rights Compliance.
“Where necessary, the university will communicate directly with relevant students, faculty, staff, and other stakeholders to provide additional information and support. IU will continue to affirm its fundamental goal of ensuring every student is equipped to thrive in the classroom and after graduation.”
The DEI office closed on May 22, but a timeline for the dissolution of its more widespread services was not outlined.
Academic advising for individuals affected will continue to be provided, and the student programs in the office will be shifted to different offices.
Black Doctors Question Eliminating Diversity From Medical School Accreditation Criteria
Doctors warn removing DEI standards may harm efforts to improve healthcare equity.
On May 19, the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) voted to remove diversity partnerships and programs from its evaluation criteria for medical schools awarding “MD” degrees, citing growing state-level crackdowns on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
According to USA Today, the committee indicated that those crackdowns conflict with the accrediting body’s standards, and dropping the diversity standards would allow them to establish “a single set of accreditation expectations with which all schools, regardless of their location and current legislative environment, must comply.”
A liaison committee spokesperson also told the outlet that the committee arrived at the decision following “thoughtful and careful consideration and discussion,” but regardless of what facilitated their arrival to eliminate diversity from their evaluation criteria, doctors who have been working to increase diversity in the medical field told the outlet that it represents a setback in their efforts.
Dr. Virginia Caine, the president of the National Medical Association, an organization representing Black physicians, said the decision left her “dumbfounded.”
“We’re just dumbfounded by this decision made by LCME,” she said, before pointing to studies that indicate that Black patients often have better health outcomes and engage more when treated by Black primary care physicians.
“We have such a rich and incredible history of talented Black physicians,” Caine, who is also the public health department director of Marion County, Indiana, told the outlet. “If we knock out the access before they even are entering medical schools or academic schools, we’re just going to be a nation that’s not as creative, not as innovative, and not as successful.”
To her point, although the percentage of Black doctors has risen from 2.6% in 2019 to 5.2% in 2022, according to numbers from the Association of American Medical Colleges, it still lags behind Black Americans’ 13.7% share of the American population.
On May 22, the National Medical Association also released a statement condemning the federal government’s attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
“The federal administration’s orders to cut diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is negatively impacting access to medical education for the next generation of Black physicians. The Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME), an accrediting body for medical education programs leading to a Doctor of Medicine degree, and jointly sponsored by the Association of American Medical Colleges and the American Medical Association, voted to eliminate its diversity programs and partnerships. These changes will have detrimental effects on qualified students, further limiting their access to a career in medicine,” the association said.
There are more than 150 medical schools in the U.S., but to this day, two HBCUs, Howard & Meharry medical schools, still produce the MOST Black physicians. It’s past time for PWIs to step up & commit to educating a diverse workforce. HBCUs can’t continue to do the heavy lifting.
In addition to this, although there are over 150 medical schools in the United States, medical schools at four HBCUs, the Howard University College of Medicine, the Morehouse School of Medicine, the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, and Meharry University outperform predominantly white institutions when it comes to producing Black doctors, which further underscores Caine’s point.
According to Dr. Osose Obeh, who completed her residency in internal medicine at Johns Hopkins University after completing medical school at Michigan State University, the move from the LCME, along with the crackdown on diversity, equity, and inclusion, is “disheartening.”
“There is an attack on something that is actually good,” Oboh said. “Diversity has been rebranded as giving unqualified folks opportunity, when in reality, it’s increasing exposure to qualified people.”
Corroborating Dr. Caine’s earlier statements about how Black patients engage with Black doctors, Dr. Oboh recounted an instance when she had to give her Black patients bad news.
“They (the patient’s family) were so appreciative to receive it from me,” Oboh said. “They understood why we were taking the steps we’re taking and why we were going to do the interventions we were going to do. They felt like nobody else had explained it to them.”
Special Analysis: Top 20 Franchises For Black Owners In Various Business Sectors
Understanding a franchise's upfront costs, business system, and financial performance are some critical factors to know before investing in such an enterprise.
A push to boost entrepreneurship in their communities, an appetite for self-employment, and a chance to perhaps bag more money are just some factors why Black franchising is in demand.
Per this account. the International Franchise Association (IFA) declares Black franchise ownership has risen by 40% in the last 10 years. Roughly 26% of franchises are owned by people of color, versus 17% of independent businesses.
Franchising can be fruitful for Black entrepreneurs. Those franchisees, on average, generate 2.2 times more in sales than Black-owned non-franchise businesses. Yet, potential franchise owners should be aware that running such a business is not a cinch. The reality: Franchising can come with challenges and requires ample diligence from owners.
A leading national independent market research firm serving the franchise sector, Franchise Business Review (FBR) supplied BLACK ENTERPRISE the “Top 20 Franchises for Black Owners.” All the brands were on FBR’s annual Top 200 Franchises ranking earlier this year. FBR Founder and CEO Eric Stites says the owner satisfaction data for these 20 brands was based solely on the Black franchisees within those brands.
Stites declares that the No. 1-ranked mobile shaved ice franchise, Kona Ice, has made great strides in cultivating a diverse and inclusive franchisee community. He disclosed Black franchisees recently rated the brand an impressive 93 on the Franchisee Satisfaction Index (FSI), which is 35% above FBR’s satisfaction benchmark for all franchise brands.
He added that this high level of satisfaction underscores Kona Ice’s effectiveness in creating an environment where franchisees of diverse backgrounds can thrive.
Kona Ice Founder and CEO Tony Lamb said that ownership starts to look like everyone when the barriers come down and the support shows up. He shared that 16% of franchisees who have joined Kona Ice over the past three years belong to the Black community.
“Affordable startup costs, in-place structured financing, and a franchise model that thrives outside the brick-and-mortar system remove traditional roadblocks. Add to that a culture built on mentorship, community giving, and franchisee-first support, and you’re not just creating small business owners, you’re building a movement that reflects the communities it serves.”
Stites stated that the new FBR franchisee satisfaction research was completed in May 2025. Some 1,240 franchise business owners who identify as Black or African American participated. He says the rankings were based on franchise companies with the highest satisfaction among their Black owners out of over 370 franchise brands participating.
Overall, the list revealed franchises in numerous industries with a sizeable concentration on food, real estate, senior care, and business services/technology, to name a few. Others represented include travel, child services, cleaning & maintenance, health & personal services.
“For anyone researching franchise business opportunities, satisfaction among current franchise owners is one of the most important factors to consider,” Stites says. “The brands that make our awards lists each year are some of the top franchise opportunities available today. And these 20 franchises in particular have the highest satisfaction among Black owners in the franchise industry.”
So, what good opportunities can the brands listed (see below) perhaps bring Black franchisees?
“Successful franchising is built on strong brands with solid business systems, training & support, and a proven business model,” said Stites. “The most successful franchise companies also treat their franchise owners as true business partners, and they do everything in their power to help these owners be successful. That’s a big part of the reason brands like Kona Ice, NextHome, and 360clean stand out among their Black franchisees.”
Based on FBR’s newest research, over 35,000 franchisees across nearly 350 leading franchise companies were analyzed, with about 4% Black-owned. According to Stites, after removing franchise brands with below-average satisfaction among Black franchise owners, FBR weighted satisfaction scores for more diverse brands based on the total number and percentage of Black owners.
David Smith, IFA Director of Diversity Programs, shared via email some virtues franchising offers. Instead of reinventing the wheel, he says franchise owners benefit from proven business models, built-in customer recognition, and operational systems that can take years to develop on their own. As such, the established model reduces risk and allows entrepreneurs to avoid certain pitfalls because the franchisor has already tested and proven the model.
Simultaneously, Smith noted that for Black business owners, one of the biggest challenges can be accessing capital. Whether startup capital or operating capital, he says many Black business owners simply don’t know where to begin. He says the information gap inspired us (IFA) to establish educational programs like Pathways to Franchising.
In partnership with VetFran, Smith says the program ensures information reaches diverse communities. “We provide direct educational information on franchise fundamentals, selecting the right brand, and accessing capital to start your journey. The IFA Foundation is eager to help build awareness about franchising and educate motivated individuals on how to be successful and build generational wealth through franchising.”
The IFA provides more support on diverse franchising at this site and here.
Potential franchisees should also consider if they have the tenacity, the knack to manage people, and the ability to work with a franchisor, among other qualities, before taking the plunge.
Stites offered this advice: “Franchising offers a strong pathway to business owners for aspiring entrepreneurs, with the potential to build long-term, generational wealth. But it’s important to have realistic expectations of what business ownership is all about. Most franchise businesses—like any new business—require several years of hard work before they start to take off. Many franchisees tell us that building their franchise business was the hardest thing they’ve ever done.”
He added, “If you are willing to work hard and follow the proven systems that franchise companies offer, chances are very good you will be successful.
This list shows the investment range for the Top 20 Franchises for Black business owners.
Alleged Financial Misuse Prompts Investigation Into Durham Committee On The Affairs Of Black People In North Carolina
This development represents a blemish on the reputation of an organization that was created in 1935 in order to help register Black voters in the city
The Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People is reportedly being investigated by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation’s financial crimes unit, following a request from Durham District Attorney Satana Deberry to examine the committee’s use of campaign funds. Additionally, Donald Hughes, a former vice chair of the political action committee, recently explained his reasons for resigning from the organization earlier this year.
According to WRAL, Hughes indicated that he became aware of some troubling charges by the organization, like payments to a beauty supply store in Durham, and the organization’s handling of the issues he raised prompted him to resign some time later.
“It became apparent pretty quickly that there was the potential for serious financial malfeasance and potentially the embezzlement and misappropriation of the Durham Committee PAC’s tens of thousands of dollars,” Hughes told the outlet. “I was deeply disturbed upon finding out.”
Hughes continued, “Knowing a little bit about campaign finance law, those charges do not align with what should be happening with campaign finance dollars. There were payments made to makeup artists, to hair stylists. There were payments made at local beauty supply stores…There is no way that I could remain in that position without having the ability to review that report. I think it was imperative that I spoke out publicly to warn other organizations, but to also show that as an individual, I value transparency, I value integrity, and that no one, no matter your political affiliation, is above the law.”
Floyd McKissick Jr., who took over as the organization’s chair in January, told the outlet that although he could not comment specifically on an ongoing investigation, which the political action committee initiated, he remains hopeful that those who participated in unlawful acts will be held accountable.
“We are optimistic that any person or persons that engaged in criminal wrongdoing will be held accountable, but we cannot discuss it any further because of an ongoing investigation, which we initiated, based upon the findings in a report prepared by a CPA,” McKissick told WRAL.
As of May 23, there has not been any clarification provided by District Attorney Deberry, nor have there been any charges filed, and the Bureau of Investigations has not confirmed any names or any reported persons of interest in the investigation at this time. However, this development represents a blemish on the reputation of an organization created in 1935 to help register Black voters in the city, which eventually led to the first Black policemen hired by the city and the establishment of recreational facilities for Black people in Durham.
According to the Durham County Library, although young Black people determined that the group was too conservative for their tastes by the 1950s, opting instead to join the NAACP and the Congress of Racial Equality, the group remained an important aspect of the Civil Rights movement. It helped desegregate schools in the 1950s and 1960s and exert its influence in the 1980s to elect Black people to local offices in Durham. It remains an important influence on Durham’s political scene; the group hosted Vice President Kamala Harris in 2019 as its keynote speaker at its Founders Day Banquet during her campaign for president.
