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West Virginia is the First State to Commit to Holistic Healing: Governor Morrisey and RFK Jr. Announce Health and Wellness Initiative

DAMON K JONES
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West Virginia is the First State to Commit to Holistic Healing: Governor Morrisey and RFK Jr. Announce Health and Wellness Initiative

In a bold and deeply personal commitment to statewide wellness, Governor Patrick Morrisey, alongside U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., unveiled the Four Pillars of a Healthy West Virginia — a transformative, whole-person health initiative set to reshape the state’s future. More than a policy platform, the pillars represent a healing path for West Virginians — not only physically and mentally, but economically.

From a Health Crisis to a Holistic Comeback

Addressing a packed auditorium at St. Joseph’s, Governor Morrisey openly acknowledged West Virginia’s dire health rankings: leading the nation in obesity, diabetes, heart disease, ADHD diagnoses, and low life expectancy. Yet his tone was one of resolve, not resignation.

“We can change this,” he said. “And I will walk this journey with you. I’m committing to follow the Four Pillars of Health — not just as policy, but in my own life.”

He pledged to lead by example, embracing healthier habits and a lifestyle rooted in purpose, movement, and clean eating.

The Four Pillars: A Wellness Framework for the Future

  1. Clean Up the Food
    West Virginia has become the first state to ban harmful synthetic dyes and additives in school meals — substances linked to learning disorders, hormone disruption, and cancer. “Our kids deserve better,” Morrisey said. “And now, they’re going to get it.”
  2. Find Purpose, Find Health
    With the nation’s lowest workforce participation rate, the state is expanding training and education requirements for SNAP recipients to promote purpose, work ethic, and long-term health. “Work is moral. It strengthens mind and body,” the governor emphasized.
  3. Move Your Body, Change Your Life
    Through the new Mountaineer Mile initiative, residents are challenged to walk at least one mile a day. “Exercise is medicine — for your body, your spirit, and your community,” Morrisey said, joking that RFK Jr. may now be his “personal trainer.”
  4. Reward Healthy Choices
    West Virginia will seek federal waivers to realign SNAP benefits to favor fresh produce, lean meats, and whole foods — while removing soda and ultra-processed foods from taxpayer subsidies. “Let’s make sure public funds support health, not harm,” Morrisey said.

RFK Jr.: Health Is the Foundation of Economic Strength

Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. called the initiative “visionary,” praising the governor’s courage in standing up to powerful corporate lobbies. But he also made clear that the stakes go beyond health — they’re economic.

“We now spend $1.3 trillion a year on chronic disease,” Kennedy said. “That’s 90% of our health care budget. It’s the largest driver of national debt. And if we don’t reverse course, it will bankrupt us.”

He cited alarming trends: skyrocketing rates of obesity, infertility, diabetes, mental illness, and cancer — all linked to ultra-processed diets. “When my uncle was president, only 3% of Americans had chronic disease. Today, it’s 60%,” he noted.

Kennedy warned that without radical change, America will soon spend more on debt service — much of it tied to health care costs — than on national defense. “You can’t have a strong country with a sick population,” he said. “Fixing food is a patriotic act.”

A Unified Front: Policy, Community, and Purpose

Legislators across both chambers backed the initiative, inspired by grassroots advocacy from local groups like the “Maha Moms.” Chairwoman Laura Chapman pointed to the urgency of food deserts, especially for children. “We’re doing this for the next generation,” she said.

House Health Chair Evan Worrell, a father of seven with one on the way, shared how his wife’s leadership at home led him to champion reform in the legislature. “We’re not done. We’re just getting started,” he said.

A Moment of National Significance

The event culminated in the ceremonial signing of a letter of intent to request multiple SNAP waivers. Surrounded by schoolchildren and community leaders, Governor Morrisey issued a clear call to action:

“In West Virginia, we’re not just climbing mountains. We’re moving them. We’re embracing the Four Pillars — not just to feel better, but to live better, work better, and build a stronger future for our families, our economy, and our state.”

AJ Rok of JVC Force talks LI & 914 Hip Hop on Tha’ T-Money Podcast Joint Episode #58

AJ Woodson
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AJ Rok of JVC Force talks LI & 914 Hip Hop on Tha’ T-Money Podcast Joint Episode #58

I had the pleasure of being interviewed by my brother T-Money and his lovely co-host Staxx Cordero on the latest episode of Tha’ T-Money Podcast Joint. We talked about everything from our group JVC Force’s groundbreaking single, ‘Strong Island,’ WBAU & Long Island Hip-Hop, and my journey from rap artist to advocate, activist, journalist, and now author. We discussed my latest book, celebrating Hip-hop in the 914, ‘We Got Our Own Thang—A Look At Hip-Hop From The 914.’

You may remember T-Money from Yo MTV Raps with Doctor Dre & Ed Lover. My old school heads might remember him as a member of the group Original Concept who dropped that underground classic, “Knowledge Me.”

Check out and follow Tha’ T-Money Podcast Joint on YouTube & Instagram.

And as always, you can cop a copy or two of any of my books today on Amazon for $30.00, or you can order an autographed copy directly from me via Venmo @AJ-Woodson-2 or PayPal http://PayPal.me/BlackWestchestackWestchesterMag or CashApp $MrAJWoodson, add $5 for postage and make sure you email me your mailing address, MrAJWoodson@gmail.com.

Also, look out for the Hardcover Deluxe Version, which will have over 100 pictures coming soon!

Follow me on YouTube, Instagram, Twitter (X), and Facebook

Follow JVC FORCE on YouTube, Instagram, Twitter (X), and Facebook

Mt. Vernon’s Bates Hudson Named March Big Deal recipient by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Westchester & Putnam

AJ Woodson
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Mt. Vernon’s Bates Hudson Named March Big Deal recipient by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Westchester & Putnam

 Big Brothers Big Sisters of Westchester & Putnam  (BBBSWP) has named Mount Vernon’s Ebonette Bates Hudson the March Big Deal honoree.  The Big Deal initiative was launched in January 2025 to recognize the invaluable contributions of their Bigs (mentors). This campaign highlights the inspiring stories of those who make BBBSWP thrive.  Ms. Bates Hudson, an attorney with the New York City Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings, mentored her Little, D.F., for seven years.

“I decided to become a Big sister because I had a strong desire to share what I’ve learned and experienced in order to make someone else’s path a little easier,” said Bates Hudson. “What this experience has taught me the most is humility. I do not have all the answers, but being supportive is what’s most important. Your Little’s interests and challenges will constantly change, but it is a rewarding ride.  The key to being a great mentor is flexibility and commitment.”

Match time includes attending D.F.’s softball games and gospel choir performances, Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day at the U.S. Open, swimming, and exploring New York City. Bates Hudson added, “New York City is so close yet so far away for so many of our Littles; exploring it is a wonderful way to expand a Little’s horizons.”

The Big Deal initiative highlights mentoring by featuring a Big from Westchester or Putnam County each month, sharing their experiences to inspire others to mentor. “We are so proud of our Bigs,” said Ann Ellsworth, CEO of BBBSWP. “They are the heart and soul of our organization, and we are deeply grateful for their commitment to their Littles and to BBBSWP.”

When asked about advice she gives to people considering becoming Big, Bates Hudson said, “Become a big! There will never be the perfect moment or enough money, or time. If you desire to make a difference, you will find ways to make it a fulfilling experience. You and your Little will expand each other’s definition of fun.”

The 2025 Economic Impact Report from Big Brothers Big Sisters highlights why mentorship matters:

Evidence-Based Impact:– Mentored youth are 10% more likely to attend college.- Alumni Littles are less reliant on social services and have stronger social connections.- Former Littles earn $56,000 more in lifetime earnings than non-mentored peers.Empowering Communities: Mentorship builds resilience, helping young people overcome adversity and fostering a more inclusive society.A Simple, Profound Solution: Connecting caring adults with youth creates transformative relationships that strengthen communities.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Westchester & Putnam is committed to one-to-one mentoring, helping children reach their potential and build brighter futures. To learn more or apply, visit bigswestchester.org or call 914-937-3779. 

Why Health Care Gaps for Black Americans Are Worsening By Gaurav Gupta

AJ Woodson
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Why Health Care Gaps for Black Americans Are Worsening By Gaurav Gupta

The longstanding disparities in healthcare outcomes for Black Americans remain a pressing public health crisis. While some progress has been made, systemic barriers continue to widen gaps and create new challenges in access to care. For many Black communities, equitable and quality healthcare, a basic human right, remains difficult to attain.

In this article, we’ll explore the worsening crisis and analyze historical injustices, socioeconomic factors, and modern challenges driving widening health disparities.

The Rise in Barriers to Affordable and Quality Health Care

High insurance costs and provider shortages disproportionately impact Black Americans. Rural hospital closures, fewer community health centers, and restrictive public assistance worsen access issues. Additional challenges like transportation, childcare, and inflexible work schedules further prevent timely and effective medical care.

The Kaiser Family Foundation reports that the US has advanced toward universal health coverage since the Affordable Care Act. However, millions remain uninsured, with rates varying across racial and ethnic groups. In 2023, 9.7% of Black Americans were uninsured, compared to 6.5% of their white counterparts, which highlights persistent disparities. 

Racial Disparities in Preventive Care and Chronic Disease Management

Racial disparities in preventive care and chronic disease management remain a major concern. Black Americans have lower rates of screenings like mammograms and colonoscopies. It leads to delayed diagnoses and higher mortality from preventable diseases.

These inequities also affect chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Limited access to specialists, effective treatments, and culturally competent care worsens health outcomes. Additionally, the stress of systemic racism and discrimination further impacts both mental and physical well-being.

According to the American Heart Association, Black Americans experience some of the highest rates of high blood pressure worldwide. It often develops at a younger age and with greater severity. These communities also face disproportionate obesity rates, often due to limited access to healthy foods. Obesity increases risks for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer. 

Bias in Medical Treatment and Provider Shortages

Implicit and explicit biases within the medical field significantly contribute to healthcare disparities. These biases can influence diagnosis, treatment recommendations, and pain management, which leads to unequal care for these patients. Moreover, a severe shortage of healthcare providers, particularly in underserved communities, exacerbates these issues. 

This shortage restricts access to timely and culturally competent care, which means many individuals must depend on emergency rooms or skip treatment entirely.

Are there specific medical conditions where racial bias is most evident in treatment?

Racial bias is evident in pain management, maternal health, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease. These patients receive less pain medication, face higher maternal mortality, and are undertreated for hypertension. They also experience disparities in dialysis referrals, which results in poorer health outcomes and preventable complications.

Post-Surgery Care and Medical Device

Disparities in post-surgical care contribute to higher complication rates and poorer recovery outcomes for Black patients. Research shows that these individuals are less likely to receive timely follow-up care, which increases the risk of postoperative infections and complications. Also, implicit bias can lead to inadequate pain management, further delaying recovery.

Many patients are also unaware of medical device-related lawsuits that highlight potential risks in surgical care. Among these lawsuits, the Bair Hugger lawsuit highlighted concerns that forced-air warming blankets used in surgery may increase deep joint infection risks. Limited awareness of such issues prevents patients from making informed decisions about their care.

TruLaw reports that in March 2025, the Bair Hugger MDL decreased by 48 cases, from 7,873 in February to 7,971 in March. February saw an increase of 146 cases. In contrast, March recorded 98 new filings.

The lack of legal advocacy and awareness disproportionately impacts Black communities. It limits their ability to address medical negligence or device-related complications. Without adequate resources, many such patients face challenges in seeking justice for harmful medical practices. 

Why are post-surgery complications more common in Black patients?

These patients face higher post-surgery complications due to disparities in follow-up care, infection risks, and inadequate pain management. Provider bias and limited access to quality post-operative care delay recovery. Also, lower awareness of medical device risks and legal advocacy worsen these health disparities.

Maternal Health Crisis and Higher Mortality Rates

Systemic racism, implicit bias in healthcare, and unequal access to quality prenatal and postpartum care drive this disparity. Racial discrimination, chronic conditions, and limited culturally competent providers further worsen these alarming health outcomes. The lack of adequate postpartum care further compounds the risks for these mothers.

A ScienceDirect study found persistent ethnic disparities in maternal mortality. Black women face a 3.3-fold (330%) higher risk of maternal death than white women, even after adjusting for health factors. After accounting for demographics and social deprivation, the risk remains 2.4 times (240%) higher. 

Are there specific hospitals or programs addressing Black maternal health disparities?

The Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act aims to improve care and address disparities in maternal health. The Birthing-Friendly Hospital Initiative works to reduce bias and enhance patient outcomes. Organizations like Black Mamas Matter Alliance focus on expanding access to quality maternal health services for these women across the US.

Addressing the Crisis: Steps Toward Health Equity

Expanding Medicaid nationwide, increasing Black healthcare providers, and enforcing anti-bias training are essential steps. Strengthening preventive care access, patient advocacy, and community health initiatives can help reduce disparities. Policy changes that include better hospital oversight, maternal health protections, and legal support for malpractice victims are crucial for meaningful healthcare reform.

Addressing social determinants of health, such as housing, education, and economic stability, is equally important in achieving long-term health equity for these communities.

A Call to Action: Bridging the Health Care Divide

The worsening healthcare gaps for Black Americans stem from systemic inequities, implicit bias, and structural barriers to quality care. The expansion of Medicaid, improvement in medical training, and supporting community health initiatives are crucial steps. 

True health equity requires collective action from policymakers, providers, and society to create a fairer health system.

Black Law Enforcement Group Calls Out Black Elected Officials for Inaction on Police Violence

Black Westchester
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Black Law Enforcement Group Calls Out Black Elected Officials for Inaction on Police Violence

New York, NY — In a strongly worded statement released this week, Blacks in Law Enforcement of America is calling out a growing crisis of accountability among Black elected officials, demanding immediate and unapologetic action to confront police violence in Black communities.

Read Statement from Blacks in Law Enforcement of America

The organization, composed of current and former Black law enforcement officers, issued the public rebuke in response to what it describes as ongoing failures by Black mayors, council members, state legislators, and attorneys general to implement meaningful structural reform—even in cities they control.

“We cannot continue to ignore that even with Black leadership at every level of government, the killings, beatings, and daily violations of Black people’s rights by law enforcement continue,” said Damon K. Jones, New York Representative for Blacks in Law Enforcement of America. “If we have the power, then we have the responsibility—and if we’re not going to use it to protect our people, then we are part of the problem.”

The group’s statement highlights major U.S. cities with Black leadership—New Orleans, Baltimore, Louisville, and Mount Vernon, New York—that have faced federal investigations or consent decrees over unconstitutional policing. Despite the presence of Black mayors, the Department of Justice had to intervene in each case due to local inaction.

“These cities aren’t just led by Democrats—they’re led by Black mayors,” Jones said. “And yet, the federal government had to step in to force accountability. That tells you local leadership wasn’t doing enough.”

The group also directly criticized Black state attorneys general who have declined to prosecute white police officers in high-profile shootings of unarmed Black men, including those suffering mental health crises.

“When those entrusted to uphold justice won’t even try, who do Black people turn to?” Jones asked. “When is it legal to shoot an unarmed man having a mental breakdown? It feels like the killing of Black men by police has become more American than apple pie.”

In perhaps the most pointed portion of the statement, Jones drew a sharp comparison to how other communities respond to violence against their own.

“If antisemitism were rampant under a Jewish mayor, it would be shut down with the full force of political, legal, financial, and cultural power,” Jones said. “It would not be tolerated, and any system or actor that allowed it to persist would be dismantled. The response would be swift, unapologetic, and absolute. So why is anti-Black state violence still tolerated—and even managed—by Black mayors?”

The statement also denounced the African American Mayors Association (AAMA) for not having a clear, written platform to address systemic police violence. The organization pointed out that AAMA’s policy agenda lacks any reference to abolishing qualified immunity, prosecuting police misconduct, restructuring violent departments, or creating systems of civilian and community control.

“They talk about public safety, but they don’t say how they’ll make our communities safe from the police,” said Jones. “We’re tired of symbolism. We need substance.”

With the federal government under a second Trump administration and increasingly deferring public safety to states, the group emphasized that local and state Black officials now hold more power than ever to enact reforms—but continue to fall short.

“Black leaders can’t keep pointing fingers at Washington,” Jones added. “The power is in their hands now. If they lack the will to use it, then they should step aside for those who will.”

The statement ends with a blunt call for courage in Black leadership and an end to performative politics.

“Black communities deserve more than symbolic representation. We deserve real protection. We deserve true justice. And we deserve leaders who are not just present—but prepared to lead.”

Locked Out and Left Behind: How the Black Exodus is Draining Blue States of Power

DAMON K JONES
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Locked Out and Left Behind: How the Black Exodus is Draining Blue States of Power

Black people aren’t just moving—we’re being pushed. Priced out. Locked out. And now, left behind. Across high-cost blue states like New York, California, and Illinois, working-class Black families are packing up and heading South. They’re not just chasing sunshine—they’re chasing something far more urgent: ownership, dignity, and a future. What they’re leaving behind isn’t just an overpriced rental or a city that no longer sees them. They’re also leaving behind the political power these states depend on to stay relevant in Washington. This isn’t just a migration story. It’s a warning.

New York is shrinking. Between April 2020 and July 2022, the state lost over 468,000 residents—a 5.3% drop in population. In the 12 months ending July 1, 2023 alone, another 101,984 residents left, giving New York the largest population loss of any state during that time. While some immigration has helped stabilize parts of New York City, it hasn’t been enough to reverse the exodus. And projections from Cornell University warn that by 2050, the state could lose over 2 million people, a 13% decline. The question we must ask is: who’s leaving, and why?

In cities and counties across New York, the dream of homeownership is slipping further out of reach for Black families. I recently wrote that in Westchester County, Black families earn an average income of $77,471. Yet, as of February 2025, the average home value in Westchester stands at $798,586—a 5.1% increase from the previous year, according to Zillow. Even more alarming, single-family home prices have now surpassed $1 million for the first time. This is not sustainable. It’s not fair. And it’s not accidental. You cannot build generational wealth in a system designed to keep you renting. For Black families, the gap between income and housing cost isn’t just wide—it’s structural, and it’s driving us out of the places we once called home.

I once had a conversation with a white liberal woman who asked me, “Why would you move to Atlanta or Houston? They’re racist down there.” I looked at her and said, “Black people in those so-called racist red states are living better than Black people in New York and Westchester.” Down South, Black people are homeowners. They’re business owners. They have backyards, equity, and breathing room. Meanwhile, in New York, we’re being squeezed out by rising rents, unaffordable housing, and a system that talks inclusion but practices exclusion.

We are living through a modern-day reverse Great Migration. States like Georgia, Texas, North Carolina, and Florida are attracting hundreds of thousands of Black families in search of what should be basic American rights: affordable housing, safe neighborhoods, quality schools, and a real opportunity to build a future. The South isn’t perfect—but it offers possibilities. Black people are becoming homeowners, business owners, and landowners in places where legacy can take root and generational wealth can be built.

Meanwhile, so-called liberal cities—the ones that wear progressivism like a badge of honor—offer us little more than survival. And they have the unmitigated gall to blame our struggles on racism and Republicans, when they’re the ones in charge. They’re the ones building low-income housing instead of truly affordable housing. They’re the ones charging Black families rent prices that match, or even exceed, what it would cost to pay a mortgage in the South. They’re the ones making the laws, overtaxing working families, and systematically locking us out of real estate ownership.

That’s why more and more Black families are heading South—where land is cheaper, opportunity is growing, and the American Dream feels more attainable in a red state than it does while barely surviving in a blue one.

Every 10 years, the U.S. Census determines how the 435 seats in the House of Representatives are divided among the states. That means states losing population can—and do—lose power in Congress. In 2020, New York lost a seat, missing the cutoff by just 89 people. California, Illinois, and Michigan also lost seats. And guess who’s gaining them? Southern states with growing Black populations. This is the cost of pricing out your base. When working-class Black people leave, they take more than culture and community with them. They take congressional seats, electoral votes, and political leverage. Blue states are bleeding power because they’ve failed to make space for the very people who made them matter in the first place.

What’s even more insulting is where the money is going. In New York alone, billions have been spent on housing and services for new migrants—while Black residents continue to face homelessness, rent hikes, and mass displacement. The message is clear: your labor built this city, but your legacy isn’t a priority. How can liberal states claim to champion equity while systematically erasing Black homeownership and generational wealth? How can they call themselves inclusive while locking us out of the American Dream?

If blue states want to hold on to their influence—both locally and in Congress—they must make Black homeownership a priority. That means investing in public land trusts, cooperative housing, and expanding access to truly affordable homes. It also means offering property tax relief for long-standing residents and moving beyond symbolic representation to deliver real change that helps Black families build stability and wealth.

It’s simple: blue states locking Black people out of homeownership will eventually lock themselves out of the political process—by losing representation in Washington and losing the Black vote to the South.

References

  1. Office of the New York State Comptroller – Population Trends in New York State
    https://www.osc.ny.gov/files/reports/osdc/pdf/report-15-2024.pdf
  2. Empire Center – New York’s Population Loss Remains Nation’s Worst
    https://www.empirecenter.org/publications/nys-post-pandemic-population-loss-slowed-a-bit-last-year-but-still-worst-in-u-s
  3. Cornell University – Stark Population Decline Projected in NYS by 2050
    https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2024/11/stark-population-decline-projected-nys
  4. Zillow – Westchester County Home Values
    https://www.zillow.com/westchester-county-ny/home-values

Political Firestorm and Cultural Divides: How Ideology Shadowed Disney’s Snow White Remake

DAMON K JONES
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Political Firestorm and Cultural Divides: How Ideology Shadowed Disney’s Snow White Remake

When Disney announced its live-action remake of Snow White, expectations were high for another box office triumph in the studio’s long line of animated-to-live-action adaptations. But by the time the film hit theaters in March 2025, it found itself at the center of a storm that had little to do with dwarves, poisoned apples, or fairy tale nostalgia.

Instead, political controversy and ideological division dominated headlines, leaving the film entangled in a broader cultural war that may have dampened its commercial success.

A Tale of Two Perspectives: Zegler vs. Gadot

At the heart of the controversy were the film’s leading stars—Rachel Zegler, who played Snow White, and Gal Gadot, cast as the Evil Queen. Their off-screen political stances—particularly in relation to the Israel-Palestine conflict—sparked widespread debate and created tension that overshadowed the film’s artistic and narrative ambitions.

Zegler, known for her outspoken activism, voiced pro-Palestinian sentiments on social media during the height of the Israel-Gaza war. Her posts included calls for a ceasefire, critiques of military violence, and solidarity with civilians affected by the conflict. These statements garnered both praise and condemnation, depending on the audience’s political orientation.

Gadot, an Israeli actress and former soldier in the Israel Defense Forces, has long been vocal in her support of Israel. Her past statements, particularly those defending Israeli military actions, resurfaced in the public discourse as the film’s release approached.

The stark contrast between the actresses’ public views turned the film into a lightning rod for geopolitical tensions. What was meant to be a magical reimagining of a childhood classic became, for many, a referendum on identity politics and international conflict.

Fallout and Audience Division

The differing ideologies of Zegler and Gadot didn’t stay confined to Twitter or press conferences—they spilled over into public perception of the film. Audiences on both sides of the political divide expressed discomfort. Some pro-Israel viewers called for a boycott over Zegler’s remarks, while pro-Palestinian supporters criticized Gadot’s inclusion in the project.

These dynamics polarized the film’s potential audience base. Instead of uniting fans under Disney’s familiar banner of nostalgia and fantasy, Snow White became a symbol of deeper fractures within the global and domestic political landscape.

Internal Criticism Goes Public

Adding to the controversy was public criticism from Jonah Platt, son of Snow White producer Marc Platt, who directly blamed lead actress Rachel Zegler for contributing to the film’s underwhelming box office performance. In a widely circulated post, Jonah accused Zegler of “hijacking the conversation” away from the film’s message, pointing to her politically charged remarks and repeated critiques of the original 1937 Disney classic. Zegler had previously called the original film “weird,” criticized the prince as a “stalker,” and dismissed the love story as outdated, stating, “She’s not going to be saved by the prince and she’s not going to be dreaming about true love.” Jonah argued that these kinds of comments alienated core Disney audiences, making the film more about ideological messaging than timeless storytelling..

His statements echoed a sentiment shared by some within Hollywood: that stars’ political activism, while personally valid, can complicate marketing and alienate mainstream audiences.

Box Office Reflections

Despite opening as the number one film globally, Snow White underperformed relative to Disney’s expectations. The film grossed approximately $87.3 million worldwide during its debut weekend—a respectable figure but significantly below the benchmarks set by other recent Disney live-action releases.

Analysts point to the swirling political and cultural controversies as contributing factors. The marketing campaign was consistently derailed by media attention focused on ideological battles rather than the film itself. Instead of building anticipation for the cinematic experience, promotional efforts were forced to respond to criticism, backlash, and ideological polarization.

Lessons for the Industry

The Snow White remake offers a cautionary tale for studios navigating the modern media landscape. In an era where stars’ personal beliefs are inseparable from their public personas, and where every major release risks becoming politicized, studios must tread carefully between supporting free expression and managing brand integrity.

For Disney, a company long associated with family-friendly storytelling and mass appeal, the controversy reveals the challenges of operating in a hyper-politicized environment. As the cultural landscape continues to shift, entertainment companies must grapple with how to tell inclusive, modern stories without becoming casualties of the cultural crossfire.

The 2025 Snow White remake was meant to be a celebration of Disney’s timeless legacy, reimagined for a new generation. Instead, it became a symbol of the broader societal tensions playing out in real time. While the film may still find success through international markets or streaming, its theatrical run will be remembered as a case study in how political identity, social media, and public perception can profoundly shape a film’s journey long before the opening credits roll.

Black New Jersey High School Senior Achieves Perfect SAT Score

AJ Woodson
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Black New Jersey High School Senior Achieves Perfect SAT Score

Sahli Negassi, a 17-year-old African American student from West Orange, New Jersey, earned a perfect 1600 on the SAT, achieved a perfect 1600 on the SAT, a feat accomplished by less than 1% of test-takers nationwide. Negassi managed this achievement all while balancing two sports, serving as president of two clubs, and taking multiple advanced placement classes.

“Sahli represents the best of West Orange High School,” West Orange High School Principal Oscar Guerrero shared in a news release. “His achievement on the SAT is incredible, but what’s just as impressive is how he manages to excel across so many different activities.”

West Orange Public Schools shared that Negassi hopes to attend Harvard and pursue a career in law.

“Harvard is the best school on my list to support me in that process,” Negassi said. “Give me 10 years, and I’ll be out in the world doing something more important than a standardized test!”

Born in Manhattan, New York, and raised in West Orange, Sahli’s academic journey started at Mount Pleasant and St. Cloud elementary schools. He never attended preschool but credits his older siblings’ textbooks for building his early knowledge.

Seeing his perfect score was a surreal moment for him. “I walked out of [my] first period [class] and immediately called my mom,” he told WOBOE. “I showed it to a classmate, but then I got nervous and joked that it was Photoshopped. Even now, it still doesn’t feel real. But more than anything, I was relieved — I had finally proven to myself that it was possible.”

According to Sahli, he used free resources like YouTube and Khan Academy to prepare for the SAT primarily on his own. Another important factor was his demanding AP coursework, especially in Calculus, Language, and U.S. History. It was challenging to juggle track events, AP tests, and SAT preparation, but he found time whenever he could.

“Really, the hardest part of studying was finding time. I had to make it whenever I could — at meals, during slow class periods, on bus rides. Taking it one question at a time was good enough,” he said.

Sahli participates actively in track and cross-country competitions outside of school. In addition, he is the president of the school’s National Honor Society chapter and the math team, among other groups. He also plays in the Royal Strings ensemble and is a member of the varsity chess team.

Mia Love, First Black Republican Woman in Congress, Dies at 49

AJ Woodson
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Mia Love, First Black Republican Woman in Congress, Dies at 49

After a three-year struggle with brain cancer, Mia Love, the first Black Republican woman elected to Congress, passed away on March 23 at the age of 49. According to her relatives, she died at home with her loved ones by her side.

Love was born to Haitian immigrants who had immigrated to the US a year before her birth. She was raised in Connecticut and participated actively in high school play and color guard. After receiving a scholarship to attend the Hartt School at the University of Hartford, she went on to work as a flight attendant. She married Jason Love and had three kids after relocating to Utah in 1997.

Love’s protests against a developer’s negligence in Saratoga Springs, Utah, marked the beginning of her political career. She was motivated by her activity to compete for City Council, becoming Utah County’s first elected Black woman. She rose to prominence nationally as a rising Republican leader in 2009, when she was elected mayor amid a financial crisis.

Love made history in 2014 when she defeated Democrat Doug Owens to win a congressional seat. After joining the Congressional Black Caucus, she had connections with powerful people like Elijah Cummings and John Lewis.

Love was renowned for her fervent beliefs, supporting the American Dream while opposing certain of her party’s policies. Notably, she voiced her opposition to President Trump’s disparaging remarks toward Haiti, the country where her family is from. Love continued to be involved in politics after losing her quest for reelection in 2018 by contributing to CNN and occasionally hosting The View.

Love bravely recounted her story after receiving a diagnosis of glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer, in 2022. Her faith and fortitude inspired many. Following the failure of her treatment, her family confirmed her death.

Rev. Al, Al B. Sure!, Freeway Lead Panel on Health Equity at NAN Convention – Al B. Sure!’s Story

AJ Woodson
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Rev. Al, Al B. Sure!, Freeway Lead Panel on Health Equity at NAN Convention – Al B. Sure!’s Story

Amid Growing Threats to Healthcare Access, HEiTC Leadership to Host Powerful Discussion on the Pathway to Lifting More Barriers at National Action Network Annual Convention

HEiTC Executive Chairman Al B. Sure!, Co-Founder Rachel Noerdlinger, Advisors Rev. Al Sharpton, Jennifer Jones Austin, and Council Member Justin Brannan to Lead Conversation in New York City

Leaders of the Health Equity in Transplantation Coalition (HEiTC), will convene on the first day of the National Action Network Annual Convention located at 811 7th Avenue (at West 53rd Street) in New York City, on Wednesday, April 2nd, to discuss how the nation can lift historic barriers to healthcare in general, but especially on issues of transplantation.

The panel – which will focus on the state of healthcare as well as its impacts on Black America – will feature HEiTC Executive Chairman Al B. Sure!, Co-Founder Rachel Noerdlinger, Senior Advisors Rev. Al Sharpton, Jennifer Jones Austin, and NYC Council Member Justin Brannan, as well as Hip Hop artist and advocate Freeway. The conversation is scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Sheraton New York Times Square, where Rev. Sharpton will gather thousands of National Action Network (NAN) members to hear from leaders in Civil Rights, business, government, academia, and other fields on the most pressing issues in Black America.

Health is, of course, one of the foundational issues for these communities. HEiTC was formed with this principle in mind, as its advocacy began with pushing to restore Medicare coverage on life-saving blood tests for regular surveillance use. Since the rare decision by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to restore that coverage, HEiTC has since expanded its advocacy to address other barriers to transplantation, notably non-clinical barriers such as income support or job protections for those donating the gift of life.

HEiTC continues to advocate on these issues at the federal level, while also working with its partners in state governments. Most recently, the organization worked with Texas state Rep. Josey Garcia on two pieces of legislation that would guarantee unpaid leave and income support for living donors. The legislation was announced as Rep. Garcia and the Texas Legislative Black Caucus honored Al B! with the Outstanding Texan Award in recognition of his work to lift barriers to healthcare.

Mount Vernon native Al B. Sure! has emerged as one of the nation’s leading advocates for equity within transplantation. He has dedicated his life to fighting for his transplant family because he has lived the same experiences as them. The global recording artist and wellness ambassador’s own transplant journey began in July 2022 when he collapsed during a studio session in Houston, TX. 

Doctors at the initial hospital thought hospice care was his only option due to the severity of his overall condition, as he experienced Multiple System Organ Failure (MSOF). Al B!’s good friend and mentor, Rev. Dr. Al Sharpton, along with global communications strategist Rachel Noerdlinger and family members, urged them to cancel those thoughts and keep the faith. Subsequently, Dr. Uday Khosla of Remix HQ had him transferred to Houston Methodist Hospital, under the care of Dr. Constance M. Mobley, MD PhD, who agreed that hospice was definitely not an option. 

In the months to come, the legendary, multi-Platinum R&B music singer, songwriter, producer and social activist, endured MSOF, over 50 plasma and blood transfusions, being put on a ventilator for 38 days, a tracheotomy, septic, being placed on kidney dialysis, a 2-month-plus medically induced coma, and a successful liver transplant.

Al B! Awoke on purpose, with a purpose. He has since used his own platform to fight for equal justice and healthcare equality for all, including his new transplant family. This is not a political issue for Al B! — it is one of human rights, because organs don’t vote.

Doctors at the initial hospital thought hospice care was his only option due to the severity of his overall condition as he experienced Multiple System Organ Failure (MSOF). Al B!’s good friend and mentor, Rev. Dr. Al Sharpton, along with global communications strategist Rachel Noerdlinger and family members, urged them to cancel those thoughts and keep the faith. Subsequently, Dr. Uday Khosla of Remix HQ had him transferred to Houston Methodist Hospital, under the care of Dr. Constance M. Mobley MD, PhD, who agreed that hospice was definitely not an option. 

In the months to come, the legendary, multi-Platinum R&B music singer, songwriter, producer and social activist, endured MSOF, over 50 plasma and blood transfusions, being put on a ventilator for 38 days, a tracheotomy, septic, being placed on kidney dialysis, a 2-month-plus medically induced coma, and a successful liver transplant.

Al B! Awoke on purpose, with a purpose. He has since used his own platform to fight for equal justice and healthcare equality for all, including his new transplant family. This is not a political issue for Al B! — it is one of human rights, because organs don’t vote.

HEiTC was established in November 2023 by global recording artist Al B. Sure!, Rev. Al Sharpton, and Rachel Noerdlinger to address the critical challenges that more than 100,000 Americans face every day as they wait for an organ transplant and to ensure they then have access to innovative tools to protect their gift of life. Our mission transcends partisan politics: to remove barriers to organ transplants and post-procedure care to improve health outcomes. 

The Health Equity in Transplantation Coalition (HEiTC) is a non-partisan advocacy organization focused on addressing the organ transplant crisis to help thousands of Americans who are in need of, but cannot access, an organ transplant or quality post-procedure care. 

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