The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) and its chapters are sounding the alarm over what they see as a growing assault on the rights to free speech and peaceful protest at colleges and universities across the United States. In a statement released and endorsed by over 60 AAUP chapters and other organizations, the AAUP condemns many university administrations’ “heavy-handed, militaristic response” to largely peaceful student activism in recent months.
The statement argues that even as protests and counter-protests have escalated on campuses this fall, the response by many institutional leaders has been to “invite law enforcement in riot gear to campus and condone violent arrests.” The AAUP calls this a failure of university leaders’ “duty to their institutions, their faculty, their students, and their central obligation to our democratic society.”
“When university administrators limit when, where, and how free speech may be exercised, and require advanced applications for permission of such expression, they effectively gut the right itself,” the statement reads. “To insist that harsh discipline and violent repression are necessary to combat hate on a college campus is a pretext to suppress protest and silence speech.”
The AAUP points to what it calls “shameless exertion of pressure on university leaders by the nation’s politicians, by the universities’ most powerful donors, and by other interest groups,” and criticizes institutional leaders for “abandoning long-standing principles of academic freedom and shared governance.”
The organization is calling on university leaders to “reinstate student organizations shut down in recent months for political activity, to drop charges against peaceful protesters, to observe due process in disciplinary actions, to keep armed law enforcement off campuses, and to uphold fundamental freedoms for students and faculty.”
“The way forward is through education and dialogue, not through zip-ties and fear-mongering,” the statement concludes. The AAUP says it stands with its members nationwide “who are defending free speech, the right of assembly, and associational rights for students.”
The statement reflects growing concerns among many in academia that the heated political climate and increasingly polarized debates around issues of free speech, diversity and inclusion on campus are leading to a crackdown on legitimate protest and dissent. As the country heads into a presidential election year, the AAUP’s call to protect free speech and peaceful demonstration at colleges and universities is likely to resonate both on and off campus.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul made the erroneous and what some believe is racially charged statement on Monday, May 6, at the 27th annual Milken Institute Global Conference to discuss expanding economic opportunities in artificial intelligence for low-income communities.
“Right now, we have young Black kids growing up in the Bronx who don’t even know what the word computer is. They don’t know, they don’t know these things,” Hochul said while on stage.
In a Day One Milken conference chat with newscaster Jonathan Capehart, Hochul “explained her desire to make technology more widely accessible, especially in low-income communities.” It was while she breathlessly touted spending “the money to build a phenomenal supercomputer,” something that “no other state has done,” that she harped on New York’s opportunity to be “the best” and then stumbled into her remark.
There was no pushback to Hochul’s comment in the moment, whether from Capehart himself (who is Black) or from conference attendees. The remark went unaddressed during the interview and the governor went on to explain that her goal is to provide avenues for communities of color to access emerging artificial intelligence technologies as a means to address social inequality. But the governor’s comments caused immediate backlash from officials and lawmakers in the Bronx.
Assemblywoman Amanda Septimo, a Bronx Democrat, slammed the New York politician, stating that her statements were “harmful, deeply misinformed, and genuinely appalling.”
“Repeating harmful stereotypes about one of our most underserved communities, while failing to acknowledge the state’s consistent institutional neglect, only perpetuates systems of abuse,” she said. “I would invite Gov. Hochul to visit us in the Bronx to experience first-hand the intelligence, resilience, and joy that radiate from Bronx children and residents each day.”
“Deeply disturbed by [Hochul’s] recent remarks and the underlying perception that she has of Black and brown children from [the Bronx],” said New York State Assembly Member Karines Reyes. “Our children are bright, brilliant, extremely capable, and more than deserving of any opportunities that are extended to other kids. Do better.”
“I’m deeply troubled by the recent statements made by [Hochul]. The underlying perception conveyed about Black and brown children from the Bronx is not only disheartening but also deeply concerning,” fellow Assembly Member John Zaccaro Jr. said.
Others on social media were offended by Gov. Hochul’s statements, even as she later backpedaled, explaining that she regrets her making the statement.
“What the f—k is this? This just shows how out of touch they are,” read one comment on the Hip Hop Wolf’s Instagram profile. “They be 2 years old and know how to work a iPad better than the people in the Apple Store.”
“Governor Kathy Hochul saying black people don’t know what a computer is. Hope every Black American remembers this on November 5th when they vote!” another tweeted.
A third comment said, “I guarantee she ain’t had a conversation with a young black kid from the Bronx to know that.” Another Instagram user added, “Correction… Half of the kids in the Bronx don’t know who you are miss thing. She tried it.”
In a statement later Monday, Hochul said “I misspoke and I regret it.”
“Of course Black children in the Bronx know what computers are,” Hochul said. “The problem is that they too often lack access to the technology needed to get on track to high-paying jobs in emerging industries like AI. That’s why I’ve been focused on increasing economic opportunity since Day One of my Administration.”
Rapper, actor, television producer, and businessman 50 Cent clearly was not moved and after catching wind of her statement, he took to Instagram on May 8 to say, “I don’t know, any black kids that don’t know what a computer is in the Bronx. WTF They know how to work a iPad better than me.”
“Black Americans like me are often guilted into defaulting to supporting the Democratic Party — but with friends like the Democrats, who needs enemies?” Adam B. Coleman, author of “Black Victim to Black Victor” and founder of Wrong Speak Publishing wrote in his column in the NY Post.
Statue near McKissick Museum recognizes desegregation trailblazers Robert Anderson, Henrie Monteith Treadwell and James Solomon Jr.
The University of South Carolina (USC) unveiled a monument Friday, April 19th honoring the first Black students admitted since Reconstruction — Robert Anderson, Henrie Monteith Treadwell and James Solomon Jr. — whose enrollment six decades ago changed the course of university history.
Commissioned by the Board of Trustees, the 12-foot bronze monument now stands near McKissick Museum on the historic Horseshoe. Treadwell, Solomon and representatives from Anderson’s family were joined by Board Chairman Thad Westbrook, USC President Michael Amiridis and other university and civic leaders for the unveiling.
“Robert Anderson, Henrie Montieth Treadwell and James Solomon Jr. are an important part of the university’s past, present and future. Through their courage and sacrifice to challenge the status quo of their time, they helped pave the way for the University of South Carolina to grow into the diverse campus we experience today. This monument will serve as a reminder of how far we’ve come as an institution and as a place for future generations to reflect on the legacies of these three pioneers,” Julian Williams, vice president of access and opportunity shared.
In 2022, the university announced the selection of Jamaican-born sculptor Basil Watson, whose past work includes tributes to Martin Luther King Jr. and Rep. John Lewis. Watson’s vision for the statue was inspired by the now-iconic photograph of the three students stepping out of the Osborne Administration building after meeting with university officials on Sept. 11, 1963.
“This inspiring monument, standing tall at the heart of our historic Horseshoe, will bear witness every day to the university’s unwavering promise to provide educational opportunities for all,” said Amiridis. “This is our responsibility to the people of South Carolina.”
“It has been a long journey but a gratifying one that gives a sense of pride, knowing that my contribution will be a lasting monument to the building of a legacy that represents values of equality and justice,” said sculptor Basil Watson.
Treadwell, at just 16 years old, filed the lawsuit that led to USC’s integration. She went on to earn a bachelor’s in biochemistry in 1965, becoming the university’s first Black graduate since Reconstruction. Her education didn’t end at USC — she also earned a master’s from Boston University, a Ph.D. from Atlanta University and completed postdoctoral studies at the Harvard University School of Public Health. She has enjoyed a long career in public health and is founding executive director of Community Voices at Morehouse School of Medicine, where she has advanced health care for underserved populations.
Anderson, a political science major and Greenville native, transferred to USC from Clark College. After graduation, he served a combat tour in Vietnam, then became a social worker in New York City, where his public service efforts included helping Cuban refugees and running an alcohol counseling program. He died in 2009.
Solomon was a faculty member at Morris College who transferred into USC’s mathematics department as a graduate student. In addition to his career in higher education, he was elected to the Sumter District 17 School Board and held various administrative positions in South Carolina state government, eventually retiring as commissioner of the Department of Social Services. When ground was broken on the monument in September, Solomon was honored with a plaque in LeConte College, home of the university’s math department.
“It is appropriate that the Board of Trustees led the effort to recognize the bravery and determination of our students who desegregated the university,” said Westbrook. “The Board pays tribute to Dr. Henrie Monteith Treadwell and James L. Solomon Jr. and to the memory of Robert G. Anderson. The Board appreciates the leadership that Chair Emeritus Smith and Trustee English demonstrated in the effort to conceptualize and finalize the desegregation monument. The Board is grateful for the incredible talent of sculptor Basil Watson and for the patient oversight of university architect Derek Gruner.”
A statue unveiling Friday, April 19, 2024 honors the first three Black students to enroll in the University of South Carolina post-reconstruction. Greenville native Robert G. Anderson joins Henrie Monteith Treadwell and James L. Solomon Jr., on the desegregation monument near the McKissick Museum.
[ALEX HICKS] JR./STAFF
The monument’s location outside McKissick Museum is significant not only because of its proximity to the Osborne Administration building, but because it is prominently displayed near the university’s Visitor Center. For Treadwell, it will serve as a symbol of the university’s progress to all who come to campus.
“I want them to see a place where all are welcome that has embraced the fact that we are different people,” Treadwell says. “I want them to see in my colleagues, but also in myself as a woman, someone who said, ‘I can do this. This should be done so that you can also come.’ That doesn’t mean you as simply African American, but you as a member of society. Everybody is welcome here. And that’s really what I want people to think about. This university took a huge step that day, and it is continuing to walk forward.”
The Grammy Award winning rapper calls out George Latimer, AIPAC and others, tosses in a Drake diss while calling out the silence of other recording artists.
Macklemore released a powerful protest track, “Hind’s Hall” on social media May 6 supporting pro-Palestinian protesters at college campuses across the country, calling for an end to Israel’s war in Gaza. He calls out politicians backed by AIPAC including CD-16 Congressional candidate George Latimer and others including President Biden.
You can pay off Meta, you can’t pay off me Politicians who serve by any means AIPAC, CUFI, and all the companies You see, we sell fear around the land of the free
County Executive George Latimer’s image appears on the screen as Macklemore raps, “Politicians who serve by an means, AIPAC, CUFI and all these companies,” alluding to Latimer being recruited to run against Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC)’s PAC who has infused over a million dollars into Latimer’s campaign. AIPAC and others have invested millions to challenge Bowman, a member of the Squad who has called for a Gaza ceasefire.
The song’s accompanying video (see below) is made up of clips of people protesting and showing support for Palestinians, plus various clips of police officers and politicians. As I write this, it had received 24.7 million views on X, formerly Twitter, and more than 75 million views on Instagram. However, the video has been age-restricted on YouTube, where it has been viewed 714,476 times and counting, prompting social media users to accuse the company of limiting the song’s reach.
I’m sure when Latimer was talked into primarying Bowman, he had no idea he would be mentioned in such a powerful protest and pro-Palestine song. He will not be the first elected official or candidate to receive pushback for being on the wrong side of history. Over the years, there have been a number of Hip-Hop songs that have addressed political issues such as police brutality, oppression, war, racism, and poverty, among others. This song is bigger than Hip-Hop. Hine’s Hall by Macklemore is just the latest in a long list of anti-war protest songs in Hip-Hop, Rock, R&B, Soul Music, and several other musical genres.
The Seattle rapper released “Hind’s Hall” and says once it’s up on streaming services, he’ll donate all proceeds to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), an independent 501c3 nonprofit organization that provides support for humanitarian work of the United Nations Agency for Palestine Refugees. The song’s title is a reference to the new name protesters at Columbia University gave to Hamilton Hall when they occupied it last month, re-naming it after Hind Rajab, a six-year-old likely killed by the Israeli military in February.
The people, they won’t leave What is threatenin’ about divesting and wantin’ peace? The problem isn’t the protests, it’s what they’re protesting It goes against what our country is funding (Hey) Block the barricade until Palestine is free (Hey) Block the barricade until Palestine is free When I was seven, I learned a lesson from Cube and Eazy-E What was it again? Oh yeah, fuck the police (Woo)
In one of the most notable quotables of the song, Macklemore who defeated Kendrick Lamar in the Best Rap Album category at the 56th Annual Grammy Awards in 2014 calls out his fellow recording artists for their silence and a image of the unapologetic Tupac Shakur graces the screen. Formerly known as Professor Macklemore, he also takes a shot at the infamous Kendrick/Drake beef that has literally stopped the world waiting for the next response instead of addressing broader social issues.
What happened to the artist? What d’you got to say? If I was on a label, you could drop me today I’d be fine with it ’cause the heart fed my page I want a ceasefire, fuck a response from Drake (Woo) What you willin’ to risk? What you willin’ to give? What if you were in Gaza? What if those were your kids? If the West was pretendin’ that you didn’t exist You’d want the world to stand up and the students finally did, let’s get it (Woo)
I echo Macklemore’s sentiment, “what happened to the artist? What d’you got to say? Why did it take a white rapper to call it out, to call them out. I too have gone down the rabbit whole of this battle between Kung Fu Kenny and Drizzy Drake, I also echo, “I want a ceasefire, fuck a response from Drake.” Since its earliest days, Hip-Hop has been inherently political – a powerful vehicle to deliver messages society needs to hear. Through the spoken word, emcees have often conveyed the politics of hip-hop even more directly than those of their rock and folk predecessors. Reflecting and commenting on the world around them, the most gifted and charismatic emcees have taken the politics of Hip-Hop into the mainstream for years.
But I am also perplexed by the silence of the leaders in the Black Community, but that’s an essay for a later day! Lastly I had a recent conversation with someone close to Latimer and texted a link to the video who wrote this off to “celebrities getting paid to record stuff,” I told him this is not that, he donating the proceeds to UNRWA, it’s not even about the money for him. Macklemore has a long track record for speaking up on issues and has been standing on business for awhile. This isn’t even the first time he has spoken on this issue. This song is the very essence of what Hip-Hop and musical compositions of anti-war and protest from Bob Dylan and Marvin Gaye to Macklemore today have always represented. Like we remember those songs of the 60s this will be remembered as well, its already gone viral and is just scratching the surface. In response to all that the Latimer associate still not taking it seriously replied, “So Latimer is losing the Hip-Hop/Rapper vote.” I felt no need to continue the conversation and decided to write this instead!
Macklemore has spoken out against the war in Gaza before, releasing a statement last October and then speaking at a demonstration in Washington, D.C., the following month. “They told me to be quiet,” he said at the time. “They told me to do my research, to go back, that it’s too complex to say something, right? To be silent in this moment. In the last three weeks I’ve gone back and I’ve done some research … I’m teachable. I don’t know enough. But I know enough that this is a genocide.”
Macklemore voiced his support of LGBT rights and same-sex marriage in the song “Same Love” released in 2012, which also condemns homophobia in mainstream hip-hop, society, and mass media. Macklemore is an outspoken critic of Donald Trump. In July 2016, he was featured on the song “FDT (Fuck Donald Trump), Pt. 2” by YG and Nipsey Hussle, alongside G-Eazy. In January 2021, after the presidential inauguration of Joe Biden, he released “Trump’s Over Freestyle”. Macklemore attended the 2017 Women’s March on Washington. On May 16, 2019, Macklemore received the Stevie Ray Vaughan Award from MusiCares, in recognition of his support of MusiCares and the addiction recovery process. For those who think someone paid him, he is not new to this.
Latimer and his supporters have called out Jamaal Bowman for calling for a ceasefire and for an end to the innocent lives lost in Gaza at the hands of Israel. Now he shifts calling for a temporary ceasefire. To all who criticized those who have called for a ceasefire from almost the beginning, I say to you all, History Is Watching. What side of history do you want to be remembered for? Thanks to Macklemore’s track Latimer will be remembered by many more people and not for the good work he has done in his 30 plus political career. I ask Latimer is this the hill you want to die on?
I end leaving you the words of Macklemore,
The problem isn’t the protests, it’s what they’re protesting It goes against what our country is funding
And to George Latimer you may have shifted your opinion, but Macklemore addresses your shift as well;
But it’s too late, we’ve seen the truth, we bear witness Seen the rubble, the buildings, the mothers and the children And all the men that you murdered, and then we see how you spin it Who gets the right to defend and who gets the right of resistance Has always been about dollars and the color of your pigment, but White supremacy is finally on blast
Let’s hope for your sake these words are not how history remembers you! And that’s Real Talk!
Championing Clean Air in Westchester County: Dr. Courtney Williams Leads the Charge Against Waste Incineration in Peekskill
Dr. Courtney M. Williams, Co-Founder of Westchester Alliance for Sustainable Solutions (WASS)Peekskill, NY — Dr. Courtney Williams, is at the forefront of a critical environmental battle in Westchester County. As the Founder of the Westchester Alliance for Sustainable Solutions (WASS), she is rallying residents and local leaders to confront the alarming air quality issues posed by the Peekskill waste incinerator.
For years, the incinerator, operated by Wheelabrator Technologies, has been a contentious fixture in the community. Officially termed a “waste-to-energy plant,” it has recently come under scrutiny for its prolonged operation beyond its expected lifespan and for operating with an expired Title V Air Permit since December 2021. Dr. Williams highlighted that the facility, now marking its 40th year, is set to become the nation’s oldest incinerator by 2029.
On a recent appearance on Black Westchester’s People Before Politics Show last Sunday, Dr. Williams shared disturbing data about the pollutants being emitted by the incinerator. “We’re talking about over 600 million pounds annually of harmful pollutants like Lead, Cadmium, Carbon Monoxide, and Mercury—substances that are severely compromising the health of our residents,” she stated.
These emissions are not just numbers on a page; they translate into real health crises. Peekskill, a vibrant community along the Hudson River, is witnessing rising rates of asthma and other respiratory ailments, particularly troubling in a county already battling significant environmental justice issues.
The Westchester County Industrial Development Agency (IDA), which renewed a 10-year contract for the incinerator in 2019, has been criticized for its lack of action in fostering sustainable waste management solutions. Advocates like Dr. Williams argue that the county’s inaction not only perpetuates environmental degradation but also overlooks the voices of Peekskill residents who bear the brunt of these policies.
Dr. Williams, who also serves on the City of Peekskill’s Conservation Advisory Council, has been a vocal advocate for environmental justice, drawing attention from multiple media outlets including LoHud, ABC News, and the River Journal. Her activism is fueled by her scientific background and a deep commitment to her community.
The efforts of Dr. Williams and WASS highlight a growing movement towards sustainable solutions that prioritize public health and environmental integrity over outdated and harmful practices. As Peekskill and similar communities nationwide face the challenges of aging infrastructure and environmental inequity, the resolve and activism of individuals like Dr. Williams are vital in steering the conversation towards cleaner, healthier futures.
As this issue continues to unfold, all eyes will be on Peekskill and the actions of Westchester County’s leaders. Will they finally heed the calls for change, or will the smokestacks of Wheelabrator continue to cast a shadow over the community’s health and environmental well-being? Only time will tell, but with advocates like Dr. Williams, the fight for clean air is far from over, especially with Waste Incineration being an issue impacting Black & Brown communities such as Newark, New Jersey; Colfax, Louisiana; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; and El Dorado, Arkansas.
In a significant diplomatic move, Jamaica has officially recognized the State of Palestine, aligning itself with approximately 140 other UN member states and 11 Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries. This decision reflects Jamaica’s commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter, including mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and the right to self-determination.
Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister Kamina Johnson Smith emphasized Jamaica’s support for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, advocating for the dignity and rights of Palestinians while ensuring Israel’s security. The recognition of Palestine demonstrates Jamaica’s nuanced approach to the complex geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, despite Prime Minister Andrew Holness’s previous expressions of solidarity with Israel.
For Palestine, Jamaica’s recognition represents a diplomatic victory, strengthening its position on the global stage and providing hope for its aspirations of statehood. However, the move may strain Jamaica’s relations with some Western allies who have traditionally supported Israel, potentially impacting business ties.
The recognition also raises questions about the broader implications for Palestinians, who continue to face challenges such as displacement, economic hardship, and restricted access to basic services. Without widespread recognition from Israel, the United States, and other Western powers, achieving a just resolution to the conflict may remain difficult.
Nonetheless, Jamaica’s decision underscores the importance of multilateralism and adherence to international law in addressing complex global challenges. As the international community grapples with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Jamaica’s recognition of Palestine serves as a reminder of the ongoing quest for justice, peace, and security in the region.
New York Knicks All-Star guard Jalen Brunson has scored 47, 41, 40 and now 43 points over his past four games. Brunson has become the fourth player to score 40 or more points in four consecutive postseason games, the first since Michael Jordan in the 1993 NBA Finals.
“The little things can go a long way,” Brunson said. “So yeah, the 40 points are cool and all, but it’s the little things that help us win games like that. So I’m just happy I have the group of guys that I do. I just know that we’re going to fight every single day. That’s all I’m thinking about.”
Jalen Brunson has scored 47, 41, 40 and now 43 points over his past four games. Lakers Hall of Famer Jerry West holds the record with six consecutive games of 40 or more points, set during the 1965 postseason. Bernard King had four straight for the Knicks in 1984 and Jordan did it en route to his third straight championship.
Brunson erupted for 21 in the fourth quarter of Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals and finished with 43 overall as New York rallied from nine points down late to beat Indiana 121-117.
Brunson has scored or assisted on 321 points in his past five games, the second most over a five-game span in NBA postseason history. He trails only Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic from last postseason (329 over five playoff games).
The final assist in Game 1 was the biggest. Just as he did in the last two victories over the 76ers, Brunson took advantage of defenders rushing at him to fire a laser to Donte DiVincenzo. His former Villanova teammate nailed a 3-pointer to break a 115-115 tie with 40 seconds left and provide the separation the Knicks rode to victory.
DiVincenzo, his college roommate, made the biggest plays on both sides of the ball, including a clutch trey with 40 seconds left to give the Knicks the lead for good. He took a pass from Brunson and buried the shot in rhythm.
“I felt it,” DiVincenzo said. “I believe every shot that I shoot is going in.”
DiVincenzo scored 21 of his 25 points in the second half, making 8 of 10 shots.
The third member of the Villanova Trio, Josh Hart added a playoff career-high 24 points and added 13 rebounds and eight assists.
And of course, OG Anunoby put his stamp on the game, including a steal and power slam in the ending moments of the game, much to former Knick point guard Stephon Marbury who was at the garden cheering on the hometown team.
Obi Toppin return to his hometown and first franchise when the Pacers faced off against the Knicks.
The Indiana Pacers forward returned to Madison Square Garden on Monday night to start a second-round series against his former team, the New York Knicks. The former Slam Dunk champ made a thunderous statement with a highlight dunk.
Toppin went between his legs and dunked with one hand.to give Indiana an 84-77 lead. The Brooklyn native and Ossining High School grad who started his career with the Knicks, returned to New York for Game 1 in the Eastern Conf. semifinals, Monday night. Obi finished the night with 12 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assist in a losing effort to steal one against his former team.
Turner scored 23 points for the sixth-seeded Pacers, who got strong play from their bench and were in good shape to follow their first-round ouster of Milwaukee by jumping to the lead against the Knicks.
But Brunson guided New York through another tight finish, after it outscored Philadelphia by one total point over six games in the first round.
Brunson soundly outplayed fellow All-Star point guard Tyrese Haliburton, the NBA’s assists leader who finished with six points and eight assists after being listed as questionable with back spasms.
Pascal Siakam scored 19 for Indiana and McConnell added 18, leading a bench that finished with a whopping 46-3 advantage over its New York counterparts.
This is the renewal of a fierce Easter Conference rivalry.
The Knickz lost Eastern Conference finals to the Pacers in rivalry that began in the 1990s. The teams met three straight times from 1993-95 and again from 1998-2000 — when Thibodeau and Indiana’s Rick Carlisle were assistants with their current teams.
I think it’s safe to say the renewal is off to a pretty good start, and the Knicks are once against tough competitors to like they were in the 90s.
In the final episode of Good Times, titled ‘The End Of The Rainbow that aired, August 1, 1979, a whirlwind of good fortune hits the Evans household when Keith is offered another football contract. JJ gets a job at a comedy company, and Willona moves to the same fancy apartment building as Keith, Thelma and Florida.
Now 45 years later in April 2024 in the new animated reboot on Netflix, the Evans family is back in apartment 17C.
The original “Good Times” premiered on CBS, making history as the first Black American family sitcom to feature a two-parent home. The show was created by Eric Monte and Mike Evans and the late Norman Lear executive produced. It ran for six seasons, airing its final episode on Aug. 1, 1979. Today, it remains a cultural staple within the Black community for spotlighting the struggles working-class and marginalized communities face.
Like its predecessor, Netflix attempts to tackle the similar themes with its own dyn-0-mite version. But has the new version continued to push boundaries or has it gone too far. After the original ended with The Evans family finally getting out of the ghetto, the new animated reboot puts their decedents back in the same apartment James and Florida tried to escape. Sounds like hustling backwards to me.
A lot of people feel the new Good Times animated series on Netflix is a glorified stereotypical show that has damaged the image of the original Good Times family show that started in 1974 through 1979. The New Good Times animated series promotes violence, culture destruction of the Black community and alcohol abuse. They feel it’s time to put a stop to this nonsense that is portraying Black Americans in a negative light through these shows; could lead to bad outcomes towards our youth potential Police brutalities and an increase of the prison population industry.
There is a petition has been circulating to have the New Good Times animated show to be banned on Netflix.
Israel’s shuttering of Al Jazeera’s offices and confiscation of the news network’s equipment on Sunday has drawn sharp condemnation from the United Nations and human rights groups. The move, which comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces allegations of possible genocide from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), is widely seen as a blatant attempt to control the narrative and stifle press freedom.
The situation takes on an even more disturbing tone as Israel threatens a full-scale military operation on Rafah, a city in the Gaza Strip. Analysts believe these threats are designed to pressure Egypt, depopulate Gaza, and bolster Netanyahu’s grip on power as he navigates the ICJ accusations and domestic political challenges.
Al Jazeera, the Qatari-based outlet renowned for its impartial, on-the-ground reporting of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, denounced the closure as a “criminal act.” Critics argue that banning the network sets a dangerous precedent for other international media operating in Israel and raises alarming questions about the government’s commitment to transparency and free speech.
The suppression of press freedom becomes particularly concerning in the context of alleged genocide, as it appears to be a deliberate attempt to obscure the truth and evade accountability. By silencing independent voices, the Israeli government undermines the pursuit of justice and prolongs the suffering of those affected by the alleged crimes.
As tensions reach a boiling point, with the looming threat of a military offensive in Gaza, the international community must take a firm stand against any attempts to muzzle independent journalism. Pressure must be applied to ensure that impartial investigations can proceed, those responsible are held accountable, and the voices of victims and witnesses are heard.
The banning of Al Jazeera is not only a grave assault on press freedom but also a troubling sign of the Israeli government’s growing intolerance for dissenting perspectives. It is crucial for the global community to unite in condemning such actions and defending the fundamental principles of free speech and transparency.
This critical moment demands that the world remain vigilant and unwavering in its commitment to protecting press freedom and holding those in power responsible for their actions. Only by upholding these values and adhering to international law can we hope to prevent atrocities, achieve justice, and work towards lasting peace in this conflict-torn region. The international community must act swiftly and decisively to address the allegations of genocide, prevent further escalation in Gaza, and ensure that the truth is not obscured by the suppression of independent media.
Black Westchester presents the People Before Politics Radio Show Episode 394 with hosts Damon K. Jones & AJ Woodson. This week we discuss the Antisemitic Awareness Act that could deam the Bible antisemitic and illegal, Racism By Zip Code and Peekskill’s Wheelabrator plant at Charles Point that burns most of Westchester’s trash and will become the the oldest incinerator in the country in 5 years and its affect on the Black and brown communities, alleged HIPPA Violation and Discrimination. At the county jail and much more
To support the Black Westchester and the People Before Politics Radio Show, that provides the News With The Black Point Of view and gives you the real talk for the community for free, make a donation via PayPal at www.PayPal.me/BlackWestchesterMag. In the words of Ray Charles, “One of these days, and it [might not be] long, You’re gonna look for [us], and [we’ll] be gone.” Support independent, Black-free media!
Black Westchester presents the People Before Politics Radio Show every Sunday night 6-8PM, streaming live on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube and archived on BlackWestchester.com. Giving you that Real Talk For The Community since 2014.
