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Public Statement by The Westchester Coalition for Police Reform in Response to the Death of Robert Brooks

AJ Woodson
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Public Statement by The Westchester Coalition for Police Reform in Response to the Death of Robert Brooks

We are deeply disturbed by the recent video showing the horrific beating of Robert Brooks by corrections officers, medical staff, and state employees which caused his death. This violent act is not only unacceptable but also inhumane and barbaric. Robert Brooks, a man of small stature, was handcuffed at the time and posed no threat or danger. These individuals—who should be entrusted with the care and safety of others—chose instead to assert their power through violence, and for reasons unknown, they decided to make an example of him. Regardless of their motivations, such actions are indefensible and must never be tolerated.

The unfortunate truth is that such incidents are not isolated. While many instances of abuse, excessive force, and state-sanctioned violence may go unrecorded, they are no less severe. Incarcerated individuals—or anyone who comes into contact with law enforcement—should never endure violence or mistreatment, regardless of the circumstances. Whether someone is convicted, awaiting trial, or accused of a minor infraction, they are entitled to be treated with dignity and respect by those entrusted to uphold the law.

Sadly, complaints of abuse often fail to result in meaningful consequences for those responsible. Rarely are perpetrators held accountable for their actions, despite the widespread outcry and public condemnation. The outrage sparked by the tragic killing of George Floyd led many to hope for systemic change, but the same behavior continues to plague our justice system, only to be swept under the rug once more.

We want to make it clear, unequivocally, that we are watching. We will continue to bring these awful incidents to light and work tirelessly until true accountability is achieved. Constitutional and civil rights are being violated right before our eyes, and we will not remain silent. We will not stop until the victims and survivors of this violence are heard and justice is served.

It is imperative that we prevent further systemic violence and harm, particularly toward those who are most vulnerable. We must ensure that every individual, regardless of their status or circumstance, is treated with respect, dignity, and care. No one is above the law, and the humanity of all must be upheld.

We will not rest until we see real, lasting change, and until the abuses of power that continue to haunt our justice system are eradicated.

NR NAACP Will Be Hosting MLK Day Program & Annual Jubilee Celebration

AJ Woodson
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NR NAACP Will Be Hosting MLK Day Program & Annual Jubilee Celebration

The New Rochelle Branch of the NAACP will be hosting a Community Martin Luther King Day Program at St. Catherine AME Zion Church, 19 Lincoln Avenue New Rochelle, NY on Monday, January 20th, 2025. Both its H.S. Youth Chapter and its Youth Council are coming together to honor Dr. King’s Legacy with a morning of reflection, music, and poetry. A continental breakfast will be served from 8 am-9 am. The program will commence at 9:30. 

On Sunday, January 26th, 2025 The New Rochelle Branch of the NAACP will host its Annual Community Jubilee Celebration at Bethesda Baptist Church, 71 Lincoln Avenue, New Rochelle, NY at 4 pm. The Jubilee Celebration is done in remembrance of the implementation of the Emancipation Proclamation, which ended slavery in the United States on January 1, 1865, except in specified circumstances. The newly elected branch officers and executive committee members will be sworn in by New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert during this celebration.

Admission is free to both events and all are invited to attend.

John Allen Announces Campaign for Westchester County Clerk

AJ Woodson
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John Allen Announces Campaign for Westchester County Clerk

JOHN ALLEN ANNOUNCES CAMPAIGN TO SUCCEED COUNTY CLERK IDONI

“We must finish the job” declares long-serving Deputy County Clerk

The race for Westchester County Clerk just got a little more crowded when Deputy Westchester County Clerk John Allen, an active Port Chester Democrat announced his candidacy to succeed his mentor Tim Idoni as Westchester County Clerk.

“These are challenging times for government, public service, and our democracy,” said Allen. “For the last 19 years, it has been my honor to serve as Deputy County Clerk here in Westchester and to help Tim Idoni implement a vision for truly collaborative and transparent government – a model for how county government should operate and frankly, a testament to Democratic leadership in Westchester.

“We should continue to build on this legacy of innovation and progress. That is why I am officially announcing my campaign for Westchester County Clerk.”

Allen brings unmatched experience and knowledge to the position. As Deputy County Clerk for Technology Initiatives, Allen helped to lead a transformation in responsiveness, accessibility, accountability, and transparency in how our county government operates as the Clerk’s office worked to eliminate paper and increase electronic transactions that reduce costs while improving speed and quality of services for residents and professionals alike. 

“These are dangerous times for those of us who believe in building trust in government,” said Allen. “We in Westchester have been building a stronger relationship with the residents of the county over the last two decades. I do not undertake this campaign lightly, and I know there are other candidates who will make persuasive political cases for the Democratic nomination – but I urge our Democratic committees and district leaders to consider experience, vision, and accomplishment in the office.”

Per his announcement statement, under Allen’s leadership, the Office of the County Clerk has used new technology to improve efficiency and has spearheaded legal e-filing through the NYSCEF system, which has expanded and improved throughout the State due largely to the early participation and feedback from the Westchester County Clerk. After County Clerk Idoni successfully lobbied the State Legislature to pass an eRecording law, Westchester County was the first county in the state to record a land record that was electronically transmitted, enabling the Westchester County Clerk’s Office to record documents within minutes of being received. Under Allen’s leadership, the office expanded the scanning of legal records. It developed a new portal, Westchester Records Online, to enable residents to access records from anywhere in the world easily.

“As my colleagues in government know, this has saved the County significant funds, allowing for expenditures elsewhere and zero tax increases,” said Allen. “I intend to continue to implement efficiencies through professional management and innovative technology initiatives.”

Allen is a native of the County, and a longtime resident of Port Chester, where he serves as an elected Trustee. For two decades, he has worked to preserve voting rights and ballot access as a leader of the New York Democratic Lawyers Council.

“Our County Clerk’s office is recognized by our peers as the best in New York State,” said Allen. “I am very proud of that record, and we need to make sure that it continues. As we’ve seen elsewhere in County government, this is a real opportunity for an experienced and fully vetted Deputy to step up into the leadership role without any interruption of service or changes in policy.”

Allen has been meeting with Democratic committees and district leaders in anticipation of next month’s Democratic nominating convention. He will appear with other candidates before the Executive Committee at the Democratic Party’s January 15th meeting.

Other candidates for County Clerk include longtime White Plains Mayor Tom Roach, who announced via a statement that he will not run for re-election for Mayor but will be running for Westchester County Clerk on Wednesday, January 8th, and Democratic State Assemblyman Nader Sayegh who formally declared his candidacy for Westchester County Clerk on Friday, December 13, 2024. Crystal Collins officially withdrew from the County Clerk race, on Wednesday, January 8th. Black Westchester has been told Yorktown Town Clerk Diana Quast and North Castle Town Clerk Alison Simon will also be joining the race.

Stay tuned to Black Westchester for more coverage of this race!

The California Fire Crisis: A Failure of Prevention and Budgeting

DAMON K JONES
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The California Fire Crisis: A Failure of Prevention and Budgeting

California’s history with wildfires is well-documented. These destructive events are not recent; they are an inherent aspect of the state’s landscape. Yet, the ongoing wildfire crisis is not an inevitable environmental occurrence but rather a significant failure in prevention and budgeting. Poor planning and misplaced priorities have intensified the risks, transforming what could be manageable events into devastating catastrophes.

The escalating wildfire crisis has resulted in a breakdown of California’s homeowners insurance market. Major insurers such as State Farm and Allstate have ceased issuing new policies in the state, citing uncontrollable risks and skyrocketing costs. Insured damages from wildfires now surpass $20 billion annually, a financial burden that insurers can no longer bear. California’s regulatory framework exacerbates this issue. Proposition 103, intended to protect consumers from excessive insurance rates, restricts insurers from adjusting premiums to reflect the true risks posed by wildfires. Consequently, insurers are exiting the market, compelling homeowners to rely on the California FAIR Plan—a last-resort insurer providing limited coverage at higher costs. This situation has left many residents vulnerable and financially strained.

While California has made considerable investments in firefighting resources, these efforts have predominantly concentrated on suppression rather than prevention. Recent budget cuts to wildfire prevention programs underscore this imbalance. Over $100 million was cut from prevention initiatives, including $5 million designated for CAL FIRE’s vegetation management and fuel reduction teams. Such reductions undermine the state’s ability to address risks at their source, such as clearing dry vegetation and conducting controlled burns. Despite these cuts, California has doubled the number of firefighters and invested in advanced equipment, but these measures primarily respond to immediate crises rather than preventing them. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Chief Kristin Crowley has also criticized the city’s leadership for underfunding and understaffing firefighting units, leaving communities ill-prepared to handle the growing threats of wildfires.

The argument that climate change is solely to blame for California’s wildfire crisis overlooks a key point: wildfires have always been a part of California’s ecosystem. The real issue lies in inadequate planning and resource allocation. Expanding urban development into fire-prone areas without proper safeguards has increased risks. Additionally, decades of fire suppression policies have allowed fuel loads to accumulate, creating the perfect conditions for catastrophic fires.

The withdrawal of major insurers from California should serve as a wake-up call. When insurance companies—whose business models depend on accurately assessing risk—deem a market unsustainable, it indicates systemic failure. This crisis underscores the urgent need for better land-use policies and proactive risk management to ensure communities are prepared for future wildfires.

Addressing California’s wildfire crisis requires a shift in priorities. The state must invest in prevention by increasing funding for vegetation management, prescribed burns, and other proactive measures to reduce fuel loads. Smarter planning is essential, including stricter land-use policies to prevent unchecked development in high-risk areas. Modernizing insurance regulations, such as reforming Proposition 103, is necessary to allow insurers to adjust premiums based on actual risks while safeguarding vulnerable homeowners. Local fire services must also be adequately funded and staffed to meet the growing demands of wildfire response.

California’s wildfire crisis is not an unavoidable environmental calamity but a preventable disaster exacerbated by poor planning and budgetary mismanagement. Wildfires are a known and predictable threat in the state, and the failure to adequately prepare for them reflects a broader lack of foresight. To protect its residents and preserve its economy, California must prioritize prevention, adopt smarter land-use policies, and allocate resources effectively. The time for excuses is over; it’s time for action.

Crystal Collins Officially Withdraws From 2025 Westchester County Race

AJ Woodson
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Crystal Collins Officially Withdraws From 2025 Westchester County Race

Westchester County Director of Faith-Based Initiatives and Urban Affairs Crystal Collins officially withdrew her name as a candidate for the 2025 Westchester County Clerk race.

“While seeking the nomination from the Westchester County Democratic Committee for the position of County Clerk, I encountered some unforeseen challenges. After discussing these concerns with my children and family, I decided to withdraw my name from consideration. Now is not the right time,” Collins shared via video (see below) on Wednesday, January 8th.

Collins states she will “remain a dedicated public servant leader and advocate for my community. I plan to continue serving as a bridge builder engaging with the community and uplifting and empowering the residents of Westchester County. This isn’t the end, it’s just the beginning. I am inspired by the people who have supported me throughout the past and who have ignited a fire in me to continue serving my community with dedication, experience, and integrity.”

Macy’s Is Closing 66 Stores Nationwide, Cross County Is Not Among 9 NY Locations

AJ Woodson
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Macy’s Is Closing 66 Stores Nationwide, Cross County Is Not Among 9 NY Locations

Macy’s is closing several dozen stores nationwide as part of a previously announced turnaround plan to save the beleaguered retailer. Last year, Macy’s announced it was closing 150 underperforming stores by 2026, shrinking its footprint to about 350 locations when the plan is finished. The 66 store closings revealed Thursday are included in that multiyear initiative. But, until now, Macy’s had not publicized which stores were set to close. But have no fear Westchester shoppers the Cross County location is not on the chopping block at least not yet.

The nine locations in New York closing include 422 Fulton St. (Brooklyn), 2027 Emmons Ave. (Brooklyn), 404 East Fordham Rd. (Bronx), 88-01 Queens Blvd. (Queens), 834 Walt Whitman Rd. in Melville Mall (Huntington), 1526 Union Turnpike (New Hyde Park), 400 Sunrise Mall (Massapequa), 397 Greece Ridge Center in Greece Ridge Center (Rochester), and 98 Richmond Hill Rd. (Staten Island).

In a press release, Macy’s CEO Tony Spring said that closing “any store is never easy.” Still, the locations chosen are “underproductive” for its so-called Bold New Chapter strategy, which includes a shift to chasing wealthier shoppers with its higher-end brands including Bloomingdale’s and Bluemercury.

“Closing any store is never easy, but as part of our Bold New Chapter strategy, we are closing underproductive Macy’s stores to allow us to focus our resources and prioritize investments in our go-forward stores, where customers are already responding positively to better product offerings and elevated service,” Spring said in the statement.

Macy’s turnaround strategy reflects a shift in retail and US shoppers. As the middle class has shrunk in recent decades, the retail market has split: Lower-end stores focused on cost-savings, such as Walmart, have done particularly well. But so have luxury brands, as shoppers with means have been able to keep up their spending, despite higher prices.

So Macy’s is chasing wealthier shoppers with luxury brands such as Bloomingdale’s and Bluemercury, and it’s pulling back on some of its full-scale department stores that cater primarily to more middle-class customers.

“Building on that success, Macy’s enters 2025 well-positioned to build momentum with a stronger store fleet and remains focused on bringing this enhanced customer experience to more locations nationwide and through its digital channels,” Macy’s stated.

The affected 66 locations are a mix of the flagship department store, its furniture-focused spinoff and Backstage, Macy’s bargain-priced rival to Marshalls and T.J. Maxx. Liquidation sales will begin in the coming days and some stores have already closed.

These are the locations Macy’s plans on closing:

Arizona

6535 E. Southern Ave. in Superstition Springs Center (Mesa)

California

2015 Birch Rd. in Otay Ranch Town Center (Chula Vista)

6000 Sunrise Mall (Citrus Heights)

1400 Redwood Highway (Corte Madera)

750 W 7th St. (Los Angeles)

200 Newpark Mall (Newark)

1555 Camino De La Reina in Mission Valley Home (San Diego)

2838 South El Camino (San Mateo)

300 Westminster Mall (Westminster)

414 K St. (Sacramento)

Colorado

6797 South Vine St. (Centennial)

8298 E. Northfield Blvd. in the Shops at Northfield (Denver)

Florida

820 West Town Parkway (Altamonte)

9339 Glades Rd. (Boca Raton)

801 N. Congress Ave. (Boynton Beach)

4501 N. Federal Highway (Fort Lauderdale)

13640 Pines Blvd. (Pembroke Pines)

3501 S, Tamiami Trail in Westfield Siesta Key (Sarasota)

13251 South Dixie Highway (Miami)

298 Westshore Plaza in West Shore Plaza (Tampa)

Georgia

3360 Ventura Parkway (Duluth)

2100 Pleasant Hill Rd. in Gwinnett Place Mall (Duluth)

3630 Peachtree Parkway in Johns Creek Town Center (Suwanee)

Idaho

200 W. Hanley Ave. in Silver Lake Mall (Coeur d’Alene)

Illinois

104 White Oaks Mall (Springfield)

Louisiana

5733 Johnston St. in Acadiana Mall (Lafayette)

Maryland

600 Baltimore Pike in Harford Mall (Bel Air)

6901 Security Blvd. in Security Square Mall (Baltimore)

Massachusetts

101 Kingston Collection Way (Kingston)

Michigan

4600 Miller Rd. in Genesee Valley Center (Flint)

14200 Lakeside Circle in Lakeside Mall (Sterling Heights)

3400 S. Airport Rd. W. in Grand Traverse Mall (Traverse City)

500 W. 14 Mile Rd. in Oakland Mall (Troy)

Minnesota

14251 Burnhaven Drive (Burnsville)

3001 White Bear Ave. (Maplewood)

Missouri

400 NW Barry Rd. in Metro North Mall (Kansas City)

10 S. County Center Way in South County Center (St. Louis)

New Jersey

495 Prospect Avenue West (West Orange)

New York

422 Fulton St. (Brooklyn)

2027 Emmons Ave. (Brooklyn)

404 East Fordham Rd. (Bronx)

88-01 Queens Blvd. (Queens)

834 Walt Whitman Rd. in Melville Mall (Huntington)

1526 Union Turnpike (New Hyde Park)

400 Sunrise Mall (Massapequa)

397 Greece Ridge Center in Greece Ridge Center (Rochester)

98 Richmond Hill Rd. (Staten Island)

Ohio

2727 Fairfield Commons Blvd. (Beavertown)

5001 Monroe St. in Franklin Park Mall (Toledo)

Oregon

2055 NE. Allie Ave. at the Streets of Tanasbourne (Hillsboro)

400 High St. NE. (Salem)

Pennsylvania

5580 Goods Lane in Logan Valley Mall (Altoona)

245 Exton Square Mall (Exton)

1300 Market St. (Philadelphia)

59 Wyoming Valley Mall (Wilkes Barre)

Tennessee

4545 Poplar Ave. in Oak Court Mall (Memphis)

Texas

321 State St. in Southlake Town Square (Dallas)

6101 Long Prairie Rd. (Flower Mound)

1751 River Run (Fort Worth)

100 Almeda Mall (Houston)

6209 W. Park Blvd. at the Shops at Willow Bend (Plano)

201 Stacy Rd. (Fairview)

Virginia

170 Southpark Circle (Colonial Heights)

Washington

3500 S. Meridian in South Hill Mall (Puyallup)

15340 NE 24th St. (Redmond)

10315 Silverdale Way NW in Kitsap Mall (Silverdale)

White Plains Common Council Member Justin Brasch Announces Mayoral Campaign

AJ Woodson
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White Plains Common Council Member Justin Brasch Announces Mayoral Campaign

Democratic White Plains Common Council Member Justin Brasch announced his mayoral campaign at a rally with numerous Democratic leaders and supporters Wednesday night. State Senator Shelley Mayer; Assemblymember Chris Burdick; Democratic Majority Leader of the County Legislature Tyrae Woodson Samuels; County Legislators Judah Holstein, Jewel Williams Johnson, and Terry Clements; White Plains Council Members John Martin, Rich Payne, and Victoria Presser; and White Plains Democratic Chair Tim James were in attendance. 

“Since moving to White Plains 22 years ago, I have served on the Budget Committee for Westchester County, the Planning Board for the White Plains, on the Budget Committee for the School Board, as President of the Common Council and Chair of the Youth Bureau. I am excited to announce my Candidacy for Mayor of White Plains as a continuation of this public service,” said Brasch. 

“This is a tremendous responsibility, and if the voters choose to honor me with this position, it is something that I am sincerely looking forward to because I believe that we must carry on Mayor Roach’s legacy and keep our diverse and thriving City moving in the right direction.

“I plan to lead my campaign as I will lead the city – bringing people together, creating an inclusive movement, facing challenges head-on, and uplifting the most vulnerable in our community. 

“I am committed to increasing affordable housing and making our city sustainable to build a better future for our youth.  We need to create more accessible parks and green spaces, and improve our climate resiliency,” said Brasch. 

A resident of White Plains for over 20 years, Justin is a landlord-tenant attorney. He was first elected to the Common Council in 2017 and has served as Council President and Chair of the White Plains Youth Bureau. Justin is a longtime Democratic leader and has been involved with numerous community organizations, including the White Plains Planning Board; White Plains School Board Budget Advisory Committee; Westchester County Legislature’s Citizens Budget Advisory Committee; White Plains Multimodal Transportation Center Stakeholder Task Force; NYC Sierra Club Political Committee; and Mid-Manhattan NAACP. Justin and his wife Juli have three children.

Longtime White Plains Mayor Tom Roach announced that he will not run for re-election but will be running for Westchester County Clerk. Brasch will face off with former Common Councilwoman Nadine Hunt-Robinson in the Democratic Primary in June.

Soul Work: Healing Black Relationships Through Mental and Spiritual Transformation

DAMON K JONES
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Soul Work: Healing Black Relationships Through Mental and Spiritual Transformation

In 2025, the conversation around mental health in the Black community is evolving, but the challenges run deeper than individual wellness. The fracturing of Black families and relationships has created a crisis that reverberates through our communities, with Black marriage rates at historic lows and the emotional distance between Black men and women growing wider. This relational divide both stems from and contributes to the mental health challenges facing our community.

The statistics paint a troubling picture: Beyond the disproportionate rates of anxiety and depression, the Black family structure is under unprecedented strain. Less than 30% of Black adults are married, compared to rates nearly double that in previous generations. This breakdown in partnership doesn’t just affect individuals – it reshapes entire communities, has lasting effects on our children, and weakens the foundation of mutual support that has historically helped our people survive and thrive.

The divide between Black men and women in approaches to healing reflects deeper societal wounds that demand mutual understanding rather than division. While Black women often find solace and support through therapy and spiritual communities, many Black men shoulder their pain in isolation, trapped between societal racism and cultural pressures that equate vulnerability with weakness. Yet this difference in healing styles shouldn’t be a source of conflict – it’s an opportunity for deeper empathy and partnership. Both sides carry valid hurts and hopes: Black women’s desire for emotionally available partners deserves acknowledgment, just as Black men’s need for safe spaces to express vulnerability demands recognition.

The true path forward requires moving beyond social media provocateurs and gender war profiteers who exploit these differences for clicks and engagement. These digital agitators, along with broader societal forces that have historically worked to destabilize Black families, thrive on turning natural differences in emotional processing into unbridgeable chasms. Instead, we must recognize that Black love – the sacred, healing bond between Black men and women – is revolutionary in its power to strengthen both individuals and communities. This means creating spaces where both partners can be heard without judgment, where trauma can be processed without shame, and where different approaches to emotional and spiritual wellness are seen as complementary rather than contradictory. The goal isn’t uniformity in how we heal, but unity in our commitment to support each other’s journey toward wholeness.

Mindful reflection becomes especially crucial in this context. For our community, meditation, journaling, and prayer aren’t just wellness trends – they’re tools for processing personal and relationship trauma, understanding patterns that may sabotage connections, and building the emotional intelligence necessary for healthy partnerships. Setting intentions takes on new meaning when it includes healing the divide between Black men and women.

The Black church and spiritual communities have traditionally been spaces where relationships could flourish, providing both guidance and practical support for couples and families. Today, these institutions are adapting to address the relationship crisis directly, offering counseling that bridges spiritual and psychological needs. Programs specifically designed for Black couples are emerging, creating safe spaces where both partners can voice their struggles and hopes without judgment.

Some spiritual communities are innovating further, creating mentorship programs that pair established couples with younger ones, fostering intergenerational dialogue about relationship success. These spaces recognize that strong marriages don’t just benefit the couple – they strengthen the entire community and provide crucial stability for raising children.

Rest and self-care take on additional significance when considering relationship health. The chronic stress of navigating systemic racism and gender dynamics and just trying to cope with everyday stressors leaves many Black men and women emotionally depleted, making it harder to invest in meaningful relationships. Learning to rest and recharge becomes essential for showing up fully in partnerships.

The work of healing extends beyond individual couples to address community-wide patterns. Intergenerational trauma affects how we relate to potential partners, often manifesting in trust issues, communication barriers, and attachment difficulties. Understanding these patterns is crucial for breaking cycles that have kept Black men and women disconnected.

Professional support becomes especially important in this context. Culturally competent relationship counselors who understand the unique dynamics of Black partnerships are essential allies in this healing work. They can help couples navigate both personal trauma and systemic pressures that strain relationships, while honoring cultural strengths and values.

The growth mindset must expand to encompass relationship development. This means viewing relationship challenges not as evidence of incompatibility but as opportunities for mutual growth and understanding. It requires both Black men and women to examine their expectations, heal their wounds, and learn new ways of connecting.

As we move through 2025, the path to mental and spiritual wellness for Black Americans must include healing the divide between Black men and women. This isn’t just about increasing marriage rates – it’s about creating the emotional and spiritual foundation for healthy partnerships that can sustain families and communities.

This journey requires collective effort: spiritual communities providing support and guidance, mental health professionals offering culturally competent care, and individuals committing to their own healing while remaining open to genuine connection. It means addressing both personal and systemic barriers to healthy relationships, while celebrating and learning from those couples who have found ways to build strong, lasting bonds.

The future of Black communities depends significantly on our ability to heal these relational wounds. Through intentional practice, community support, and professional help when needed, we can rebuild the bridges between Black men and women, strengthening the foundations of family and community that have always been central to our resilience and flourishing.

Read: The Time is Now: Black Fatherhood’s Critical Mission in 2025

Tomatoes: A Nutritional Powerhouse for Black Americans’ Health

DAMON K JONES
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Tomatoes: A Nutritional Powerhouse for Black Americans’ Health

Tomatoes, often celebrated for their versatility in culinary dishes, are much more than a tasty ingredient. They are a nutritional powerhouse packed with health benefits that directly address many of the chronic health issues disproportionately affecting Black Americans. From reducing the risk of heart disease to improving skin health, tomatoes have the potential to be a transformative addition to daily meals. As we explore the benefits of tomatoes, it becomes clear why their inclusion in the diets of Black Americans is not just beneficial but necessary for promoting overall health and longevity.

Tomatoes are rich in essential nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K. These vitamins and minerals are vital for maintaining overall health, but it is the antioxidant lycopene that makes tomatoes particularly special. Lycopene, the compound responsible for their vibrant red color, has been widely studied for its role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Tomatoes are also low in calories and high in water content, making them an excellent food choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

One of the most significant benefits of tomatoes lies in their ability to improve heart health. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and Black Americans face an elevated risk compared to other racial groups. This increased risk is due to a combination of genetic predispositions, socioeconomic factors, and dietary patterns. Tomatoes help combat heart disease in several ways. Potassium, an essential mineral found in abundance in tomatoes, helps regulate blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium. Lycopene has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol, also known as “bad” cholesterol, and improve the function of blood vessels. Regular consumption of tomatoes, whether fresh, as a paste, or as juice, can reduce the risk of heart disease and improve cardiovascular health.

Cancer is another area where tomatoes can play a vital role, especially in reducing the risk of prostate and colorectal cancers, which disproportionately impact Black men. Black men are more than twice as likely as their white counterparts to develop prostate cancer, and the mortality rate is significantly higher. Lycopene, with its potent antioxidant properties, has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and neutralize free radicals that can cause cellular damage. Cooking tomatoes increases the bioavailability of lycopene, making it even more effective. Incorporating tomato-based dishes, such as stews and soups, into the diet can be a simple and affordable strategy for cancer prevention.

Diabetes is another chronic condition that affects Black Americans at an alarming rate. Tomatoes are a low-glycemic food, which means they do not cause significant spikes in blood sugar levels. Their high fiber content slows digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. Tomatoes also contain compounds that may enhance insulin sensitivity, making them an excellent food choice for individuals managing Type 2 diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition. Including tomatoes in meals can support better blood sugar control and contribute to overall metabolic health.

Beyond their internal health benefits, tomatoes also contribute to skin health. While Black skin is naturally rich in melanin and offers some protection against UV damage, it is still susceptible to aging and sun-related harm. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, which promotes collagen production and helps maintain skin elasticity. Lycopene also provides protection against UV-induced damage, acting as a natural sunscreen and reducing the risk of hyperpigmentation. Regularly consuming tomatoes can improve skin health from the inside out, providing a natural glow and protecting against premature aging.

Tomatoes are also beneficial for digestive health, an often-overlooked area of wellness. Their high water and fiber content help prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements. A healthy gut is essential for overall well-being, and tomatoes contribute to maintaining the balance of gut bacteria. Additionally, their anti-inflammatory properties help reduce systemic inflammation, which is linked to conditions such as arthritis and autoimmune diseases. For individuals dealing with digestive issues or chronic inflammation, tomatoes are a simple yet effective solution.

Obesity is a significant health concern in the Black community, with cultural, socioeconomic, and systemic factors contributing to its prevalence. Tomatoes, with their low calorie and high nutrient content, can play a role in addressing this issue. Their high water content provides a feeling of fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating. Tomatoes also add flavor and variety to meals without the need for calorie-dense sauces or unhealthy fats. By incorporating tomatoes into traditional dishes, individuals can make small but impactful changes that support weight management and overall health.

Cultural and dietary habits often influence food choices, and Black American cuisine, particularly soul food, is deeply rooted in tradition. Many dishes are rich in fats, sodium, and sugars, which can contribute to chronic health issues. However, incorporating tomatoes into these traditional recipes can be a practical way to enhance their nutritional value without sacrificing flavor. For example, tomato-based sauces can replace heavy gravies, and fresh tomatoes can be added to salads or served as a refreshing side dish. Tomato-based soups and stews can also be enriched with beans, lean proteins, and other vegetables, creating a hearty and healthful meal. By adapting familiar dishes to include tomatoes, Black Americans can preserve their culinary heritage while making strides toward healthier eating habits.

Accessibility is another critical factor in promoting healthier dietary practices. Tomatoes are widely available and affordable in various forms, including fresh, canned, and frozen. For communities with limited access to fresh produce, canned tomatoes can be a valuable alternative, often fortified with additional nutrients. Community initiatives such as urban gardening programs and farmers’ markets in predominantly Black neighborhoods can also play a crucial role in increasing access to fresh, locally grown tomatoes and other fruits and vegetables.

Tomatoes are more than just a dietary addition; they are a tool for health empowerment. They address many of the chronic health issues disproportionately affecting Black Americans, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and obesity. Their benefits extend beyond physical health, promoting better skin, digestion, and overall vitality. Incorporating tomatoes into daily meals is a simple yet transformative step toward better health.

As the Black community continues to navigate the challenges of health disparities, embracing nutrient-dense, accessible foods like tomatoes can help bridge the gap. Whether consumed fresh, cooked, or in sauces, tomatoes offer a delicious and affordable way to nourish the body and support long-term well-being. By prioritizing tomatoes and other wholesome foods, Black Americans can take proactive steps toward a healthier, more vibrant future.

Read: The Underappreciated Green That Could Help Address Black America’s Health Disparities

Read: The Importance of Physical Exercise for Quality of Life After 50

White Plains Mayor Tom Roach Announces He Will Be Running For County Clerk

AJ Woodson
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White Plains Mayor Tom Roach Announces He Will Be Running For County Clerk

Longtime White Plains Mayor Tom Roach, who became acting mayor in 2011 and is currently serving in his third full term in office, has announced via a statement that he will not run for re-election but will be running for Westchester County Clerk.

“Today, I am announcing that I will not be seeking reelection as Mayor of the City of White Plains and will be running for the office of Westchester County Clerk. I still have a year remaining in my term and look forward to spending the next year continuing the work we have started.

Over the last 14 years, it has been my distinct honor to serve as the Mayor of this great city. When I took office White Plains faced significant fiscal obstacles. Today, our financial future is secure. We have increased city budget reserves, improved our credit rating to AA1 stable, and developed innovative ways to raise new revenue and save taxpayer money. We have added services for our residents and visitors, invested in our police and fire departments, and introduced new and innovative technologies to make it easier for our residents to access city services. Our downtown is thriving and our train station has been transformed. We have stayed under the tax cap in every budget. 

White Plains is a true community. During difficult times like Superstorm Sandy and the pandemic, we pulled together proving our strength. I am proud to have been a part of that.

Now, I wish to take my passion for public service to the County Clerk’s office and build on the tremendous legacy that Tim Idoni will leave behind. My accomplishments as Mayor provide me with the skills to manage this office in an efficient, transparent and responsible manner. My vision for the Clerk’s office is to make it accessible to all residents of Westchester County through continued modernization and proactive community outreach. Over the next several months I am looking forward to introducing myself to the people of Westchester to present my qualifications for the office and ask for their votes.

I am grateful to the people of White Plains for placing their faith in me to serve as their Mayor and for the support they have shown me during my tenure. I am appreciative of the great work done by my colleagues in city government who provide the services we all rely on.  I have had the good fortune to lead the city I love and it has been the honor of my life. I look forward to continuing to serve them and all residents of this County as the next Westchester County Clerk.“

Nadine Hunt-Robinson who made history on November 4, 2014, by becoming the first African-American woman elected to serve on the White Plains Common Council and again six years later on January 6, 2020, when the Common Council voted unanimously to appoint Hunt-Robinson as its president, making her the first African American Woman to serve as Council President is attempting to make history again, this time as the first African American and the first Woman elected as the Mayor of White Plains. But first, she will have to face off with White Plains Councilman Justin Brasch, who confirmed to Black Westchester at the Westchester Dems Watch Party, his intention to run for mayor as well. He is supposed to formally launch his campaign this week.

In the crowded race for Westchester County Clerk Mayor Tom Roach will face NYS Assemblyman Nader Sayegh who announced his candidacy in mid-December 2024, and Deputy County Clerk Josh Allen in the June Democratic Primary. Black Westchester has been told Yorktown Town Clerk Diana Quast and North Castle Town Clerk Alison Simon will also be joining the race.

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