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In a stunning turn of events, President Joe Biden has pardoned his son, Hunter Biden, for firearms and tax convictions, defying his previous commitment not to use presidential clemency for family matters. Biden described Hunter as a victim of “selective” and “unfair” prosecution, claiming that political motivations tainted the justice process.

He expressed deep concern over the treatment his son faced and highlighted Hunter's remarkable recovery journey, being five and a half years sober. The pardon spurs renewed debate on justice system impartiality, especially as President-elect Donald Trump criticized it as an "abuse of power.

" Biden maintains that the principles of fairness should guide such decisions, noting that people rarely face severe penalties for similar offenses. Hunter Biden expressed gratitude for the clemency, vowing to support others battling addiction.

This controversial move marks a significant moment in U.S.

political history, echoing past instances where familial ties influenced presidential pardons.

The Black Panther Ten-Point Program, crafted in 1966 by Bobby Seale and Huey P. Newton, stands as a powerful manifesto of the Black Panther Party, significantly influencing the Black nationalist movement.

First published in 1967, it combines the demands for civil rights and socio-economic justice, framing them as essential goals for the Black community. The program's central tenets include calls for freedom, empowerment, decent housing, quality education, and an end to police brutality.

Originally presented as two separate lists—“What We Want Now” and “What We Believe”—the Ten-Point Program aimed to articulate the aspirations and rights of African Americans in a way that was accessible to all. Over time, the party adapted its language to encompass a broader Marxist ideology known as intercommunalism, emphasizing collaboration among oppressed communities against corporate imperialism.

This document remains a potent symbol of the struggle for equality and justice in America.

Gravitas Ventures has secured the U.S.

and Canadian distribution rights for "Twenty Pearls: The Story of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.," a compelling documentary that delves into the rich legacy of America's first sorority for Black college women.

Directed by Deborah Riley Draper and narrated by acclaimed actress Phylicia Rashad, this film chronicles the impactful history of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, founded in 1908, highlighting its significant contributions to social movements such as Civil Rights, Women's Rights, and public health. Featuring powerful interviews, including Vice President Kamala Harris, the documentary aims to amplify the sorority's story as an essential part of American history.

Set to launch on February 22, 2022, across multiple platforms, "Twenty Pearls" not only celebrates sisterhood but promises to resonate with diverse audiences seeking inspiration from the past.

Discover your roots with the International African American Museum’s “Getting Started with Genealogy” presentation! Join us for an enlightening 20-minute session, followed by a 10-minute Q&A, designed for both beginners and seasoned researchers. This engaging overview will unveil essential steps and proven methods for tracing your family's history, including tips for navigating online databases and traditional archives.

Offered Tuesday through Friday at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM in the Center for Family History, this class is included with your museum admission. Don’t miss this chance to connect with your ancestors and bring their stories to life—a thrilling journey awaits! Come uncover your heritage and embark on an exploration that could change how you see yourself today.

In an insightful podcast episode, filmmakers Matthew Sheffield and Maura Ugarte dissect the Democratic Party's shortcomings in engaging disillusioned voters amid a rising Trump-led political noise. As dissatisfaction grows—particularly around economic struggles—many Democrats seem oblivious, failing to listen or effectively communicate their policies.

Ugarte argues that the Democratic focus on "everything is fine" rhetoric weakens their message, while Republicans excel at creating a cohesive ecosystem that draws in diverse voter groups. They emphasize the crucial need for solidarity, particularly through the lens of labor history, to unite against divisive tactics.

Both guests suggest that without addressing real suffering and crafting aspirational messages, the Democrats risk further alienating voters, many of whom chose not to participate in the 2024 election. The dialogue underscores urgency for Democrats to listen and evolve if they hope to navigate these turbulent political waters successfully.

In the wake of the 2024 election, Black male voters in Milwaukee displayed a notable shift towards Donald Trump, raising eyebrows among community leaders. With a decrease in Democratic support, particularly since Barack Obama’s candidacy, leaders like Rob “Biko” Baker attribute this change to dissatisfaction with the Democrats.

They argue that failures during the COVID-19 pandemic and perceptions that Democrats have taken their support for granted have fueled discontent. Activist Tory Lowe highlighted frustrations over local politicians and the feeling that the Democratic Party does not prioritize the needs of Black communities.

Economic concerns were pivotal, as many voters cited job security and financial well-being as primary issues. While there remains significant loyalty to the Democratic Party among Black voters overall, this changing dynamic signals a call for greater engagement and a need for politicians to genuinely respond to the concerns of the Black community.

Mildred Crump, a revered trailblazer for Black women in politics, passed away at the age of 86, leaving behind a remarkable legacy. As the first Black woman elected to the Newark City Council in 1994 and its first female council president in 2006, her groundbreaking achievements broke barriers and inspired countless others.

Known affectionately as "Mother Africa" for her dedicated service, Crump's advocacy focused on uplifting the vulnerable in her community, championing women, children, and families, as well as residents with disabilities. Her leadership was recognized by many, including Governor Phil Murphy, who praised her unwavering commitment to improving lives.

A former braille teacher and founder of several pivotal organizations for Black women, Crump’s influence extended far beyond Newark. Her passion and dedication will be deeply missed, but her impact will forever resonate in the lives she touched and the paths she paved for future leaders.