Support Your Girlfriends Pow(H)er Experience + Awards Is A Movement For The Greater Good

by Ida Harris

November 28, 2024

Support Your Girlfriends Pow(H)er Experience + Awards Is A Movement For The Greater Good

Nikkia McClain continues to evolve and elevate those who are doing good in the community

Thanksgiving came early for the 2024 attendees and honorees of Tene Nicole’s Support Your Girlfriends Pow(H)er Experience + Awards. The event, founded by Nikkia McClain, is in its sixth year. It has provided a space for networking, professional development, and resources for entrepreneurs through a series of panels and workshops. The Pow(H)er Awards ceremony continues to celebrate Black excellence and leadership supported by Grow with Google, Novartis, Barbados Tourism, and Chase for Business among others.

The Pow(H)er Experience kicked off at Jay Suites in the Bryant Park section of New York City and offered visitors health activations around preventative and restorative care. The Black Heart Association was on site with mobile services offering genetics testing and information about heart diseases that plague Black communities at an alarming rate, and URAWarrior was on hand to share details about the newly released app and facilitate onboarding for users to access mental health resources.

The robust programming was preceded by opening remarks from Dr. McClain, who encouraged participants to lean into the sessions that consisted of a wealth of topics:

Building a Network of Navigating Your Cash Flow
Sisterhood & Community
The Power of Getting Your Ask Together Turning Your Passion into Profit
How to Invest with Less Emotions Even in a Viable Market
Empow(H)ering Leaders to Transform Adversity into Opportunity
Seen & Paid: Transform Your Story into Media, Speaking & Sales Success
Support Her: Men Advocating for Women’s Personal Success
How to Pitch Your First VC
Transitioning from Corporate to Purposeful Entrepreneur
Balancing Act: Navigating Women’s Health & Wellness Strategies
Get to Know Your Money

Day one concluded with “The Power of YOU” fireside chat between Desiree Perez and social justice advocate Tamika D. Mallory.

The awards dinner went down on day two and was the culmination of all things pink, empow(H)ering, supportive, and celebratory among attendees, honorees, and the notable Glossy Posse. Mistress of Ceremonies Lyndsay Levingston wowed audience members with her emcee prowess by giving an honoree roll-call over Lil Kim’s “Jump Off.” Six women were honored with the 2024 UnapologeticallyHER honor.

Cheryl Stallings: Business
Sharene Wood: Entrepreneurship
Tara Robinson: Health
Shaquanna “Ms. Business 101” Brooks: Finance
Nit Reeder: Social Impact
Amber Sabathia: Philanthropy

Sharene Wood, founder of Harlem Haberdashery, gave a heartfelt acceptance speech to family members who were in attendance: “I honored, I’m here because my mother loved me,” Wood said.

“I’m here because my brother loves me. To my husband and friend, thank you for your support. Thank you to my beautiful baby girl.”

Wood continued: “You are everything I dreamed of and I work just for you. Just so you know, when I talk about legacy, I talk about you. When I talk about legacy, I talk about my brother.”

The 2024 Pow(H)er Women of the Year and Power (H)IM Man of the Year awards went to music icon and cultural powerhouse Queen Bee Kimberly “Lil Kim” Jones and CBS News Correspondent Nate Burleson.

Burleson could not be present for his award but sent a thoughtful virtual message, and his wife, Atoya Burleson, accepted the honor on his behalf. Lil Kim was extremely grateful for the honor and thanked McClain directly, along with the attendees.

“Everyone in here made a difference in my life because when I look at all my girls who are doing it, y’all are the people. I’m talking about them bosses,” Kim said.

“I want to thank y’all for supporting me for all these years because I couldn’t do it if you guys didn’t keep elevating me and pushing me … I just want to say, I see all of y’all and thank you so much for all these beautiful years.”

Dr. McClain, who also balances multiple businesses while completing her PhD, took to the stage to honor her personal support team—her staff, her grandparents, and her husband and children. After a sweet twerk session with her grandmother, the Support Your Girlfriends founder posed a rhetorical question to the room on how she’s able to accomplish all that she does.

“I’m able to show up the way I do for you now because these people over here are holding me down,” McClain said, referencing her family.

“Y’all get a small piece of me when they get all of me. But even in that small piece of giving it to you all, I give as much as I can so even it feels like 100%.”

“I just want to thank you all for sharing me. I love y’all. I couldn’t be here without you. Thank you a lot of you for believing in me.”

After six years, the Support Your Girlfriends movement and Pow(H)er Experience + Awards continue evolving and elevating those doing good in the community. To learn more about the initiative, check out the website.

by Keka Araújo

November 28, 2024

UNESCO Study Reveals Most Influencers Fail To Verify Information Before Sharing

UNESCO warned that the “low prevalence of fact-checking highlights influencers’ vulnerability to misinformation, which can have far-reaching consequences for public trust and discourse.”

According to a study published Tuesday by UNESCO, the UN’s scientific and cultural agency, most social media influencers fail to verify the accuracy of the content they share. The report underscores the growing risks of misinformation in an era where influencers play a pivotal role in shaping public opinion.

The study, conducted in August and September 2024, surveyed 500 influencers from 45 countries with at least 1,000 followers. It found that 62% of respondents admitted they did not fact-check their content. While 37% occasionally consulted fact-checking sites, many relied on subjective measures, such as a source’s popularity or input from trusted friends, rather than documented evidence.

UNESCO warned that the “low prevalence of fact-checking highlights influencers’ vulnerability to misinformation, which can have far-reaching consequences for public trust and discourse.”

Influencers’ Role in Shaping Public Perception

The findings are particularly concerning given that nearly 40% of young Americans aged 18 to 29 “regularly” get their news from influencers, according to a Pew Research Center study. These influencers often lack the formal training of journalists, relying on personal experiences or social media trends as their primary sources of information.

Notably, 42% of influencers surveyed said they judged a source’s credibility by the number of likes or views received, while only 17% prioritized documentation and evidence. Despite this, 69% believed they were promoting “critical thinking and digital literacy” among their audiences.

Misinformation’s Real-World Impact

The report comes from the 2024 U.S. presidential election, where social media influencers were crucial in disseminating information. President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris leveraged influencers and podcasters with massive followings to appeal directly to voters.

UNESCO noted that the lack of rigorous fact-checking by influencers has real-world implications. Earlier this year, false claims about migrants in Springfield, Ohio, stealing and eating pets went viral, fueled by right-wing influencers. Despite local officials’ attempts to debunk the rumors, the misinformation led to bomb threats, school closures, and widespread fear in the community.

Governments and social media platforms have struggled to combat such misinformation. Platforms like X (formerly Twitter) rely on “Community Notes” features for fact-checking but often fail to remove false content. Similarly, YouTube banned the monetization of election-related misinformation and profited from such videos.

Opaque Funding and Sponsored Content

Another concern is transparency in influencer funding. According to the UNESCO study, 53% of respondents said they created sponsored content, but 7% admitted they did not disclose sponsorships, presenting such content as unsponsored.

This lack of transparency can further erode trust in the information influencers share, especially as some unwittingly promote divisive narratives funded by foreign actors. In September, a U.S. Justice Department indictment revealed that Russia unknowingly paid several conservative influencers to spread misinformation, although they were not accused of wrongdoing.

Calls for Media Literacy

UNESCO emphasized the need to enhance media literacy among influencers, advocating for tools and training to help creators identify credible sources and verify facts. “The prevalent lack of rigorous critical evaluation of information highlights an urgent need to enhance creators’ media and information literacy skills,” the organization said.

While some influencers, like UK journalist Kassy Cho, use mainstream media as a baseline for content creation, many others, like China-based influencer Zhang Zhaoyuan, rely solely on personal experiences. This disparity illustrates the broader challenges in ensuring accuracy across the digital content landscape.

As social media continues to dominate the information ecosystem, the need for accountability and transparency among influencers has never been greater.

by Kandiss Edwards

November 28, 2024

Black Friday Streaming Deal And The Black Shows That Make It Worth The Subscription

If you cut the cord on these streaming services it might be time to re-enroll.

It’s time to break out the credit cards and cash in on the 2024 Black Friday deals. If you are a cord-cutter who has opted out of traditional cable television service, now is the time to save some coins.

According to Forbes, 99% of households have at least one active streaming service “paying an average of $46/month.” If you are between services or refused to subscribe due to cost, now is the time. These Black Friday deals can save an average subscriber hundreds of dollars yearly. There are multiple streaming bundles, add-ons, and yearly deals averaging less than $5/month.

HULU

If you don’t have a HULU account, you are missing out. Reasonable Doubt is the reason to renew or join HULU. For the low price of $0.99/month, you can watch Emayatzy Corinealdi, Sean Patrick Thomas, and Morris Chestnut engage in messy relationships and Black lawyer excellence.

Disney+ (HULU Bundle)

The Disney+ Hulu Bundle will be on sale for $2.99/month. Rewatch Disney’s own New Orleans Princess, Tiana. Or New Orlean’s own superhero, Anthony Mackie. Mackie’s portrayal as Captain America began in the Marvel Universe. Catch up on the character’s journey before the release of the new Captain America: Brave New World.

MAX

MAX is not one of the cheaper options on the list. The elite streaming services, formerly HBO, can be bundled with HULU and Disney+ for $16.99/month. The bundle is a 3-for-1 that is well worth the money. Subscribing to MAX gives you access to Micheal K. Williams and Idris Elba in their critically acclaimed roles on The Wire.

Starz (HULU add-on)

For $0.99/month added to your Hulu account, you can enjoy 50 Cent’s Power Verse. Though the Power spin-off, Power Book 1, is ending, critically acclaimed Raising Kanan and BMF are going strong. If that isn’t your cup of tea, you can always go down to P-Valley when it finally returns for the long-awaited fourth season.

Peacock

Bel Air, the dramatic adaptation of The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, is excellent. In a world of stale reboots, it is a breath of fresh, innovative air.

BET+

If you’re saved and sanctified or just want a little wholesome humor, Churchy on BET+ is for you. This Black Friday, BET+ is being offered as an Amazon add-on for $2.75/month. Conceptualized by comedian KevOnStage, Churchy will give you an absurdly hilarious and nostalgic glance at Sunday service.

AMC

Actor Harald Perineau stars in the psychological thriller From, which is approaching its third season. AMC+ will be offered for $1.25/month with ads or $2.25/month ad-free.

Black Friday streaming service deals are already available from Nov. 27 through Dec. 2 on the official streaming sites.

by Kandiss Edwards

November 28, 2024

Slutty Vegan Is Searching For A New President

Slutty Vegan wants its next president to be an innovator.

The Slutty Vegan is looking for a new face to run its empire, according to the vegan restaurant’s Instagram.

The chain is seeking a candidate to take over the top lead position. The first president of the establishment, Jason Crain, was hired in 2022. According to LinkedIn, Crain left the position in March 2024. The solicitation for applicants cites the need for an eclectic candidate with understanding, 10 years of experience, and a creative disposition that looks toward the future.

“This isn’t just a job….it’s a movement. If you’re a visionary leader passionate about innovation and the strategic chops to grow a brand with purpose, we want YOU.” The post continues, “As the President of Slutty Vegan, you’ll be the driving force behind our operations, growth, and impact. You’ll work directly with our CEO to shape the future of the brand.”

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A post shared by Slutty Vegan ATL (@sluttyveganatl)

Slutty Vegan’s CEO and Founder, Pinky Cole Hayes, has been working hard to build both the Slutty Vegan brand along with her personal brand. BLACK ENTERPRISE reported on Cole Hayes’s recent appointment as REVOLT’s Creative Visionary In Residence. In a press release, the 36-year-old entrepreneur spoke about what she hopes to contribute to Black culture during her residency.

“As someone deeply committed to challenging norms and amplifying Black voices, this is an incredible opportunity to collaborate with like-minded creatives and bring dynamic projects to life. Together, we will continue pushing boundaries, inspiring change, and shaping the cultural landscape for generations to come.”

Since opening the flagship Slutty Vegan restaurant in 2018, Cole Hayes has been steadily scaling her empire. The restaurant boasts 11 locations across the South and East U.S. She is the author of I Hope You Fail and consistently engages in philanthropic endeavors through The Pinky Cole Foundation.

Wendy Williams, Guardian, Manhattan Penthouse

by Kandiss Edwards

November 28, 2024

Wendy Williams Is ‘Permanently Incapacitated’ According To Court Filing

Wendy Williams's attorney claims her dementia is permanently debilitating.

According to the New York Post, Wendy Williams will not return to daytime TV. On Nov. 12, Williams’s attorneys filed suit against the Lifetime network, revealing that the Wendy Williams TV show host is permanently debilitated.

Sabrina Morrissey, attorney for Williams, reveals the former daytime television star is experiencing severe cognitive decline. The decline inhibits Williams from conducting business and making decisions with a sound mind. Morrissey filed suit against the Lifetime Network for creating the Where Is Wendy Williams? documentary.

The filing claimed the defendants — Lifetime’s parent company, A&E Television Networks, Lifetime Entertainment Services, EOne Productions, Creature Films, and the doc’s executive producer, Mark Ford — ‘cruelly took advantage of [Williams’] cognitive and physical decline by creating and publishing a documentary at a time when [Williams] was highly vulnerable and incapable of consenting to be filmed,’” the New York Post reported.

The defendants filed a countersuit claiming Williams negotiated, signed, and gave creative direction on the docu-series production before her diagnosis. The co-defendants claim Morrissey’s filing is an attempt by the attorney to deflect her personal responsibility as a guardian.

They claim Morrissey filed suit in a “misguided effort to attempt to excuse her failure to protect her ward.”

In 2022, Williams was placed under a controversial court-ordered guardianship due to her alleged alcohol abuse and mental decline. The star’s finances and bodily autonomy were placed under the care of an independent guardian at the behest of Wells Fargo Bank. The banking institution claims William’s financial transactions became erratic and raised concerns, leading the bank to freeze the radio hosts’ assets.

Wells Fargo’s intrusion into WIlliam’s financials led to the star being diagnosed with alcohol-related brain damage and frontotemporal dementia. The diagnosis prompted Morrissey’s appointment as manager of William’s estate and personal medical care. Williams’ family claims Morrissey’s guardianship led to familial alienation from her immediate family, including her son Kevin Hunter Jr. The family claims Williams’s location is kept a secret from her family, and her contact with them has been limited.

Lil Wayne, Lawsuit, Rob Sweeney, 20 million,

by Kandiss Edwards

November 28, 2024

Lil Wayne Honored On ‘NOLA Walk Of Fame’

Lil Wayne may not have received a slot at the Super Bowl but New Orleans still showed him love.

New Orleans is set to add a new attraction to the historically rich Southern city. The “NOLA Walk Of Fame” is being commissioned to celebrate the native artists and advocates who helped shape the perception of the Crescent City.

Its inaugural class will feature rap icon Dwayne “Lil Wayne” Carter Jr. The NOLA Walk of Fame is the brainchild of New Orleans rapper, businessman, and rap legend Percy “Master P” Miller, who serves as the city’s entertainment ambassador.

According to Channel 4 New Orleans, the construction of the Walk of Fame comes amid New Orleans hosting the 2025 Super Bowl. As the event draws closer, New Orleans is making its best attempts to make a good presentation on the world stage. Mayor LaTonya Cantrell spoke about the “importance” of the walk and its honorees.

“As we continue preparations to host Super Bowl LIX, it is of huge importance that we honor and recognize the diverse group of notable individuals who make up the beautiful fabric of our city.”

https://twitter.com/Orleans_Ward8_/status/1861603474481336325

Wayne is one of 50 New Orleans natives who received the honor. At the inaugural Weezyana Fest, Mayor Cantrell awarded the Mr.Carter rapper the key to the city. During the presentation, Feb. 6 and 7 were named Lil Wayne Day.

A founding member of the Hot Boys, Wayne was visibly emotional as Mayor Cantrell professed the city’s love and reverence for their native son.

“This is your city saying to you, you matter for generations to come. For the work you have done, what you are doing and what you will continue to do.”

At this year’s @LilWeezyanaFest, @LilTunechi received all the love and respect as the Mayor of New Orleans surprised him with the key to the city and @MasterPMiller announces February 6th & 7th will be #LilWayne day & they are starting a New Orleans walk of fame. pic.twitter.com/Y4jchYzHir
— Mula (@youngmoney) November 3, 2024

Though the Mr. Carter emcee is a proud New Orleans native, he has recently held a public grudge against the city. Wayne felt slighted after the NFL announced Kendrick Lamar as the half-time performer for the Super Bowl. At the Weezyana Fest, where he was honored, the rap icon took to the stage to express his dismay for not receiving the primetime slot.

“It was ripped away from me,” he said.

Lil Wayne once again addresses the Super Bowl snub at Lil Weezyana Fest:

"It was ripped away from me. But this muthaf*cking moment right here? They can’t take that, man."pic.twitter.com/CrwmliexMk
— Complex Music (@ComplexMusic) November 3, 2024

Even though he may feel slighted, the lyricist’s hometown is showing its love and fondness for his contributions. Weezyana Fest will hopefully be a staple for the city, like Essence Fest, and his name will be paved into the foundation of the city for generations.
Wayne’s Fluer De Lis plaque will be on Canal Place and Rampart St.

by Daniel Johnson

November 28, 2024

Research Suggests Religion Boosts Interest In Life Extension For Black Americans

The interest in life-extending technology among Black Americans is usually related to community-centered motivations in contrast to white Americans’ individualistic motives.

According to new research from Rice University, the University of South Carolina, and Purdue University, religion has the effect of increasing the desire of Black Americans to engage with life-extending technologies.

According to a news release by Rice University, interest in life-extending technology among Black Americans is usually related to community-centered motivations in contrast to white Americans’ individualistic motives.

Elaine Howard Ecklund, the study’s principal investigator, the Herbert S. Autrey Chair, Professor of Sociology, and the director of the Boniak Institute for the Study of the Advancement of Religious Tolerance at Rice University, shared that various factors make Black people’s use of religion produce curiosity about life-extending technology.

Jacqui Frost, the study’s lead author and an assistant professor of sociology at Purdue University, noted that Black and white Americans approach life extension with varying levels of suspicion.

“For instance, Black Americans’ belief in the compatibility of science and religion appears to bolster their support for life extension more than it does among white adults, where religious beliefs are often linked to skepticism toward scientific intervention in natural life processes,” Frost said.

According to Rachel Schneider, a co-author of the study and the director of the Religion and Public Life Center at the Boniak Institute, “With advancements in medical and anti-aging research, projections suggest that lifespans could extend dramatically, reaching up to 120 to 200 years by the end of the century,” Schneider said.

Schneider continued, “As the movement for life extension gathers momentum, we hope this research will encourage more work on how religious, racial and cultural factors shape public support for such technologies. Understanding the different ways Americans approach the question of life extension is critical as society navigates the potential for unprecedented changes in human lifespan.”

According to the study’s abstract, this research contradicts previous research on religion’s impact on attitudes toward life-extending technologies.

“Past research suggests that those most likely to be interested in life extension technologies are nonreligious and White. However, we draw on theories in sociology of religion to examine how race and religion might intersect to shape attitudes about life extension. We find that Black Americans are significantly more interested in life extension than White Americans, and while religiosity decreases interest in life extension among White Americans, religiosity increases interest for Black Americans. And we find that Black and Hispanic Americans are more likely than White Americans to cite other-oriented and religious reasons over self-oriented reasons for wanting to extend their lives, such as ‘divine purpose’ and a desire to contribute more to society.”

CAM’RON BET ON HIMSELF, AND IT’S THE REALEST RETURN ON INVESTMENT HE’S SEEN BY FAR

by Ida Harris

November 27, 2024

CAM’RON BET ON HIMSELF, AND IT’S THE REALEST RETURN ON INVESTMENT HE’S SEEN BY FAR

The Harlem-bred native had been running mere minutes behind but was extremely apologetic for the tardy arrival. Before he readied himself to sit in his barber’s chair for a fresh cut and shape-up, he shook hands with the production crew who were patiently waiting and — again — took full accountability for his lack of punctuality, albeit, at the mercy of cross country travel, New York City traffic, and an unexpected ruckus at the entrance of the building that left an individual knocked unconscious and waiting on an ambulance.

by Kandiss Edwards

November 27, 2024

Queen Latifah To Host Kennedy Center Honors, Apollo Theater Named Recipient

Black icon Queen Latifah will host award show honoring iconic Black American institution, The Apollo theater.

Queen Latifah, born Dana Owens, will host the 2024 Kennedy Center Honors. The legendary femcee will honor a great Black American institution–The Apollo Theater.

As a part of the 2023 Kennedy Center’s 46th recipient class, Latifah is the first female rapper to receive the honor. The Equalizer actress is only the second rapper ever after LL Cool J joined the 2017 class. A short year later, the Queen returns to bestow recognition on a new class of honorees.

The Apollo Theaters’ recognition is a pleasant addition to the lineup. Opening in 1934 on Harlem’s 125th St, The Apollo claims to be America’s largest Black performing arts institute. The nonprofit institute has hosted Black American icons—like James Brown, the Jackson 5, Beyonce, and a host of others—throughout its history.

The Kennedy Center cited the legendary theater’s longevity and commitment to highlighting Black American culture as the reasons for its recognition:

“For nine decades, the legendary Apollo—the soul of American culture—has played a vital role in cultivating emerging artists, launching legends, and serving as a center of innovation for Harlem, the city of New York, and the world. The largest performing arts institution committed to Black culture and creativity, The Apollo is a beacon of the Harlem community recognized for celebrating, creating, and presenting performances inspired by Black American culture, which has shaped popular culture globally. “

ONLY ON #CBSMORNINGS: The Grateful Dead, Francis Ford Coppola, Bonnie Raitt, Arturo Sandoval and the Apollo Theater are this year’s Kennedy Center Honorees. #KCHonors

Watch the Kennedy Center Honors later this year on @CBS. pic.twitter.com/7JOob3Dbnq
— CBS Mornings (@CBSMornings) July 18, 2024

Latifah hosting the honors as another great Black institution, The Apollo, is recognized as fitting. The U.N.I.T.Y rapper is a foundational figure in the Black artistic community. Her career is robust and varied. Owens broke out of her female MC box and began to excel in other areas. To date, she has been acknowledged by the Grammy Awards, Emmys, Golden Globes, and Academy Awards. The Bessie actress and producer is a true example of what breaking the mold looks like.

It is unclear who will take the stage to honor the iconic American institution. The ceremony will air on CBS on Dec. 22, 2024, from 8:30 to 11:00 pm ET/PT and stream on the Kennedy Center’s official site.

T.I Kicks Off Annual Turkey Drive With Help From Atlanta Mayor And Young Dro

by Ida Harris

November 27, 2024

T.I Kicks Off Annual Turkey Drive With Help From Atlanta Mayor And Young Dro

The event was hosted by Jackson Memorial Baptist Church

Ahead of the holiday, T.I, Atlanta’s own hip-hop royalty, kicked off the 19th annual Harris Community Works Turkey Drive in Atlanta on Nov. 26. The yearly event, hosted by Jackson Memorial Baptist Church on 534 Fairburn Road NW in Adamsville, and powered by Tip’s HCW organization along with a number of sponsors, including the Atlanta Hawks, Humana, Maximum Impact, Kaiser Permanente, and Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority to name a few.

Mayor Andre Dickens, Atlanta city councilmember Andrea L. Boone, and Atlanta notables Young Dro and DC Young Fly showed up for the Westside community and rolled up their sleeves to volunteer alongside T.I., Tameka “Tiny” Harris, and family to help bag groceries and load cars with turkeys, bushels of collard greens, sweet potatoes, and other Thanksgiving Day staples.

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A post shared by Justin Miller (@fiveringsdronephoto)

BLACK ENTERPRISE caught up with Young Dro, who recalled a time in his life when food was scarce. The “Shoulder Lean” artist spoke about his contribution and how the turkey drive impacts the community’s residents.

“I’ve been here since the beginning,” Dro told BE. “When [T.I] decided to do it, it was just … heartfelt to me.”

“I remember going to school … not having no food and you know, having to get up in the morning and put my education secondary just for food.”

Dro expressed his pride in the event’s evolution over the years and said that his volunteer efforts, along with those of others who support the Harris Community Works initiative, are a must.

“The partnership is everything,” the Westside Atlanta native affirmed. “If everybody does something, one person don’t have to do a lot.”

“It wouldn’t be possible if it were[n’t] for Tip,” Dro said. “He has to be partnered with Impact and Kaiser Permanente, Fulton County Police Department, Andrea Boone, my cousin Gregory Sutton. When all of us come together, that’s how we can provide for the community because one person just can’t save the whole world; everybody gotta chip in.”

Atlanta Mayor Dickens’ commitment and sentiment for the annual food drive matched Young Dro’s.

“I had to show up once again,” the Fulton County mayor told BE. “Every year, I come out to this great food distribution by T.I and the Harris family, Tip, Tiny, and all of our sponsors, me, the city of Atlanta, councilwoman Andrea Boone, Humana.

“We are out here spreading love,” Dickens said. “It’s hundreds, I mean, hundreds of cars of people that are hungry that need to get fed for Thanksgiving and we out here spreading holiday cheer by giving food away.”

Mayor Dickens plans to spend his holiday “spreading love,” being “thankful,” and being “ in the spirit of gratitude “d among family and close friends.

Harris Community Works is a subsidiary of Us Or Else Corp (501c3), a nonprofit, social justice charity founded by Tip “T.I.” Harris. The community organization has provided meals for the Thanksgiving holiday for almost two decades. Over the last eight years, HCW has also provided a caravan for the community during the Christmas holiday. T.I. traverses the city, donating clothing and toys to individuals through community-based programs.