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Joe Biden is doing all he can to help himself in this year’s Presidential election and those who borrowed money for college. President Biden announced Monday that his highly anticipated Plan B for student loan debt cancellation nearly a year following the U.S. Supreme Court denied his original program will move along. Biden’s announcement relayed that it would provide “significant relief” for Black and Latino borrowers, according to The Grio. “We know there are big racial disparities in the student loan program, and students of color are more likely to borrow larger amounts and are more likely to struggle to repay [their loans],” James Kvaal, U.S. Under Secretary of Education, said to TheGrio. Additionally, he said, the program would have a “positive impact on the racial wealth gap." “Most Black borrowers owe more 10 years out of school than they originally borrowed because of interest outstripping payments,” Kvaal explained. “We need to bring relief to everyone who’s struggling with their student loans.” What exactly is Biden’s Plan B? Well, the announcement includes five methods to "fix" the federal student loan program, which include providing debt cancellation “for borrowers who owe more today than they did when they entered repayment, who have owed for 20 years or more and who are experiencing financial hardship.” According to the Biden-Harris administration, the plan is designed to “provide meaningful relief to Black borrowers who rely more heavily on student debt than white families and who take longer to pay off loans.” Along with the federal government’s existing programs that have already canceled $140 billion in student loan debt for four million borrowers, the administration anticipates that north of 30 million Americans will benefit from some form of relief. Those who owe more than their original balance when they began repayment due to interest will be eligible for federal student loan forgiveness, and Kvaal said that is about 25 million borrowers. This will be especially meaningful for Black borrowers who more than likely will owe an increased balance, according to the Brookings Institution. For the debt relief program for borrowers who have hardships, Kvaal stated the administration would consider health care costs or other “unusual family expenses.” “We have a number of programs to cut payments or offer loan forgiveness for people who are struggling to afford their loans for any number of reasons,” he said. “But there are still a lot of people who slip in between these programs and are struggling on their loans. The hardship is intended to give us the flexibility to help additional people who really need it.” Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com

The nation’s largest African American organization is still reinventing itself. 100 Black Men of America, Inc., announced a few days ago the launch of its “Real Men Vote” campaign as well as the 13-city tour. The tour started in Cleveland, Ohio on April 1 at Premier Barbershop. According to a press release, the main purpose is to deliver critical voter education and engagement ahead of the 2024 Presidential election. Chairman of the 100 Black Men of America, Milton H. Jones, expounded on this movement. “We are an organization with more than 4,000 members, all of whom are registered to vote in the upcoming national and local elections,” Jones said. “Further, all of these men are committed to helping men and women in their communities register to vote, learn about the election issues and see the importance of casting their ballots at every opportunity to vote.” But it’s not just about the Presidential election, though that is imperative. There are 435 seats in the House of Representatives, as well as over 30 Senate seats up for this year’s election. Just ahead of one of the most consequential election seasons, the Real Men Vote” campaign “is dedicated to combating an onslaught of misinformation and voting dissuasion campaigns. The goal of the tour is to equip Black men across the country with accurate information about issues and policies at the federal, state, and local levels.” Chair of the Public Policy Committecommittee of the 100 Black Men of America, Inc., Dr. Wes Bellamy, said the Black man’s vote is crucial. “Black men and their potential to shape future elections have increasingly gained national attention,” Bellamy said. “However, with that attention has come an influx of misinformation tactics directly targeting them. The “Real Men Vote” campaign was created to provide Black men with the information and tools they need to make informed civic decisions that allow them to leverage their voting power to better our communities and protect our vision for the future.” The multi-city tour will feature town halls hosted and curated by 100 Black Men, Inc. chapters in each respective city to speak on- the importance of voting and how voting builds power. The town halls will be jointly hosted by the Coalition of 100 Black Women and the 100 Black Men of America, Inc. The “Real Men Vote” tour will be hosted in the following cities: Mobile, AL Charlotte, NC Cleveland, OH Philadelphia, PA * Pittsburgh, PA Macon, GA Las Vegas, NV * Atlanta, GA * Detroit, MI Milwaukee, WI South Florida * Jacksonville, Florida * Baton Rouge, LA *

One historical chess Black player is using his platform to change lives. Maurice Ashley, the first Black chess grandmaster in 1999, is using the game of chess to teach life lessons, according to CBS News. It all started for Ashley when he was 14 when he was a high school student immigrating to the U.S. from Jamaica. For him to achieve this status as the highest title in chess, Ashley said he needed to learn one important lesson: He said he needed to “To become, be.” "To become you first have to be, and that means if you are always chasing a goal, you're thinking 'I have to this, this, this, so I can get there,' but you first have to be that person that can be successful. Whatever it is that you want to be in life," Ashley said. The one piece of advice that he conveys to those who want to follow in his footsteps is the following: "So you have to get in the mindset of the champion, the training that you need, the focus that you need, the kind of commitment that you need," he said. "When you get in that place where you're practicing as hard as you can and doing all those things necessary to master your craft, then when the time comes for you to take that test or to win that game, it will just happen. Don't worry about the results. Worry about the process." What is the platform that Ashley uses to change lives? Ashley has a new book, Move by Move: Life Lessons on and off the Chessboard, which conveys real-life advice straight from the wisdom of chess. Ashley said the most important thing is to have a beginner’s mindset. "That's the beauty of the approach when you look at it from the viewpoint of a child, of a beginner, that there is so much to learn,” Ashley said. “Even those who master any sport, or any activity in business. You could be the biggest millionaire. You could be a Super Bowl winner. There's always stuff that you keep on learning."

One well-known hip-hop figure is doing what she can to help the culture. La La Anthony, the ex-wife of former NBA player Carmelo Anthony, is creating change in her hometown of New York City through her foundation, supporting incarcerated young men aged 18 to 21, according to Afrotech. Anthony launched the program to “provide legal services including connecting the men with lawyers and making court appearances on their behalf," according to the ThreeSixty website. Additionally, the program has workshops that focus on resume-building, work training, as well as life skills. A People interview revealed that Anthony’s initiative has created life-changing opportunities, including an individual who was recently released from Rikers Island and was mentored by ThreeSixty, eventually receiving a full scholarship to study at Columbia University. “It’s really amazing to see that when you take them out of jail and put them in the right environment, with the right opportunities and love and support, incredible things can happen,” Anthony said, according to the outlet. One part of Anthony’s commitment and passion for her rehabilitation program is her understanding of the young men’s unfortunate reality in the system because of uninformed, poor decisions. “At this age they are still so young,” Anthony said. “When you talk to them, especially if you have your own kids, you just become so much more compassionate. It feels like any one of our kids could be one bad decision away from being in a similar situation.” The goal for Anthony and her nonprofit is for “incarcerated men to have a successful reentry into society.” A huge factor is assisting formerly incarcerated folks in landing jobs so they can provide for themselves. To make it an even smoother transition, ThreeSixty partnered with Reform Alliance, which is a nonprofit that helps transform probation and parole folks, offering job fairs and job opportunities, according to the website. “We want them to be prepared with certain skills so they can really get out there and back into life and into the workforce after release,” Anthony shared with People. Also, the ThreeSixty website states that the nonprofit offers mental health support, as well as leadership and enrichment programs. Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com

Ja Rule is making good on his commitment to opening a school in Accra, Ghana. In January, the rapper posted on X (formally Twitter) that he would be opening a school in Ghana. In the post, he shared his excitement to build a school and couldn't wait to break ground. Today, Ja Rule took to his Instagram to share that he has touched down in the African country. He will attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the primary school block at Nuaso Anglican Primary School. Ja Rule's latest education venture is in partnership with Pencil of Promise, a US non-profit organization that builds schools and increases educational opportunities in the developing world. The Thug Lovin' rapper's latest move follows in the footsteps of other celebrities who have invested in education in Ghana. Notably, comedian Michael Blackson made headlines last year with the inauguration of the "Michael Blackson Academy" in Agona Nsaba, located in the Central Region of Ghana. The academy, a three-story complex fully furnished and open to the public, aims to provide free education opportunities to Ghanaian youth. Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com

Electric vehicles offer an excellent way to tackle the alarming issue of rising pollution and climate change. With the advancement of technology, electric vehicles offer high range which further reduces the overall range anxiety and promotes its adoption globally. The electric vehicle battery can last from 10 to 20 years. However, like all electric batteries, these batteries also age and wear with time. In this article, we will give you some top tips that will help you maintain the battery of your electric vehicle and elongate its life. So, without any further ado, let us dive into the details. Top Tips To Elongate The Life Of Your Electric Vehicle Battery Reduce Ultra-Rapid And Rapid Charging Rapid and ultra-rapid charging has a rate of 50kW and above which can charge your vehicle in just 20 to 40 minutes. You can use these charge points to charge your vehicle quickly and get back on the road in no time. However, with rapid charging, the battery of your EV faces a lot of strain which can reduce its overall health in the long run. So, you should rely on rapid and ultra-rapid chargers for emergencies only. You can charge your EV daily through a home electric charger that is rated at 3.6kW, 7kW, 11kW, or 22kW. Avoid Extreme Temperature Exposure Make sure that you park your EV in the shade to avoid direct sunlight for long hours. Avoiding direct sunlight on your EV will prevent the battery from overheating which will preserve its performance. Moreover, extreme cold weather can negatively impact its health too. So, make sure that you protect your EV from extreme temperatures by parking it in close quarters or garages to elongate its battery life and health. Try To Keep Your Charging Level Between 20% To 80% If you take your EV battery below 20% regularly, then you will see a decrease in its performance over time. Moreover, the lithium batteries degrade quickly if you charge them to 100% continuously. So, try to keep your battery charge level between 20% and 80%. The sweet spot will not induce any range anxiety in your mind and the battery will be able to perform properly in the long run. One of the best ways to keep the battery charge level between this level is to invest in a smart EV charger. You can use it at your home for convenience and keep the charge level between the 20% and 80% zone without any unnecessary hassle. Yes To Full Charge For Long Trips Only Try to charge your EV to full range only when you wish to plan a long trip on it. If you charge it to full capacity frequently then it can have a negative impact on its health and performance. One of the best practices for EV battery charging is to charge It to full capacity when you plan a long journey on it. Consistent full charging will degrade its health and you will not need it regularly. So, follow the smart practice of charging the vehicle to the required level and elongate its life in the long run. Avoid Charging Your Vehicle When Battery Is Hot Try to avoid indulging in EV charging when the battery is hot. For example, you have been driving your vehicle on a long journey and you need to charge your vehicle. Make sure that when you reach the charging station, you let your vehicle cool down for some time and then connect the charger to it for charging. Besides this, you should try to charge your EV when the temperature is lowest for the whole day. It will not overheat the battery and preserve its life in the long run. You can use a smart charger and set it to charge the vehicle when the temperature of the surroundings is at the lowest. Overnight charging is also good for maintaining the health of EV batteries. Here are some of the top tips to elongate the life of the battery of your EV. Make sure that you take your EV for short rides and avoid keeping it sitting in your parking for a long time.  A smart charger can help you follow best practices without causing a lot of stress.

BET+ is exploring a “ghosting” mystery in its new series Diarra from Detroit. The series follows Diarra as she explores the mysterious underworld of Detroit, trying to find the man she met on Tinder who has gone missing. Along the way, Diarra is helped by colleagues and friends, including Mr. Tea played by Bryan Terrell Clark. Clark has been appearing in films and shows for over the last twenty years, including Queen Sugar, When They See Us, Inventing Anna and performances on Broadway such as Motown: The Musical, Hamilton and Thoughts of A Colored Man. Having known Diarra Kilpatrick, the show's creator and star, for over 15 years, Clark reveals that the character of Mr. Tea was crafted with his voice in mind. “As a matter of fact, in that first episode, there are lines that I said in real life that ended up in the script,” Clark said in an interview with The Quintessential Gentleman. “What attracted me to the project first was the script. I think pilots are really hard. Those first episodes... some of my favorite shows on television and in television history, I hated the pilots. When I read this one, it was probably the best pilot in the last 10 to 14-15 years that I've read. And I can almost name the pilots. There's only been like a couple other ones that I was like this pilot is insane. I love this so much. I loved how funny it was. But at the same time, I love that, like it had a drive to it because the mystery felt like it was a real thing you had to follow. So it is kind of smart.” Clark said. “You do have to pay attention to the show because every single episode is giving you clues on top of clues to what's going on with this guy. Stepping into the role of Mr. Tea, Clark said, “Tea is Diarra’s work gusband and, you know, everybody needs a little gay husband to have your back and tell you the truth every now and then. He's a science teacher who loves his friend, and he sees her kind of go off the rails when she goes on this Tinder date and he ghosts her.” The uniqueness of Diarra from Detroit lies in its mystery, according to Clark, who emphasized the show's commitment to portraying Black culture authentically and defying stereotypes. “We rarely have TV shows that center us, and literally, the cast itself and the world itself is thrown into the culture that is Black culture. In cities like Detroit, Philly, and Baltimore, there's an urban cultural aspect that has very specific nuances to what that setting is, but also who those characters are that come from those spaces. And so for me, it's about refacing that genre. It's about centering a Black woman in that genre, and in that world, and also kind of like turning the stereotypes of these characters on their heads. I mean, the person that's the most gully in this friend group is married with two kids. My name is Mr. Tea because I got a lot of tea but he's not big and sassy,” Clark said about showing representation on the show that doesn’t fall into stereotypes. “I'm so thankful for the work and I'm thankful for the lexicon of the work that we've put into the industry,” Clark mentioned the progress in Hollywood concerning queer character representation. “It's magical when I feel like we can see queer Black people that feel like the actual people we know. And there's some truth and authenticity to the nuance of who Mr. Tea is that he doesn't fall into the stereotypical gay Black male roles,” Clark added. “We have not seen positive, powerful brother, sister-friend relationships between queer Black people, and straight Black people, and this is something that the show just does. I'm excited for y'all to see these relationships,” Clark expressed about the show bringing a positive light in showing the connections between people of different sexual orientations. Clark also shared his advice on "ghosting," despite being married and having been out of the dating game for years. “For me, it's about communication. So even if it's not working out, if they keep blowing you up and then not getting the message, maybe just send them a message and say, 'Hey, I had a great time meeting with you. I don't really see it going any further. You’re definitely a good person. I hope you find the one.'” Check out the full interview below. Catch new episodes of Diarra From Detroit every Thursday on BET+ to see what Mr. Tea will reveal next.

Tragedy recently hit the city of Baltimore. After being struck by an out-of-control cargo boat, the Francis Scott Key Bridge suffered a complete collapse, leading dozens of lives to be lost in the dead of night. Most who witnessed the tragedy unfold on social media reacted with compassion and heartbreak. But a few others watched the video of death and destruction and saw it as an opportunity to be blatantly racist against the City’s leaders. Particularly the Mayor of Baltimore, Brandon Scott. For the last week, online racists have used the term DEI (Didn’t Earn It) to describe both Mayor Scott and the other Black members of Baltimore’s government. Not only are these claims completely irrelevant to the freak accident that the City just suffered, but they are entirely untrue. In fact, we put together a list of Mayor Scott's accomplishments that prove that he’s more than earned his position as the leader of B-More. Won the 2020 Mayoral Election by an Overwhelming Majority Probably the most damaging fact to the notion that Mayor Scott “didn’t earn it” is the fact that he won the mayoral seat by a landslide. More than 70% of Baltimore residents voted for him in 2020. The runner-up in the election barely even cracked 20%. Even the most hardcore of 2020 election deniers would have to concede that a margin that large can’t be faked. Honestly, if winning the trust of a major city isn’t “earning it” then nothing is. One of the Youngest People Ever Elected to a Baltimore City Position After a stint of working as a liaison for then-City Council President and future Baltimore mayor Stephanie Rawlings Blake, Scott ran for and won the 2nd district city council seat. Making him one of the youngest people ever in Baltimore’s history to hold an elected office at the age of 27. He would eventually be elected to be City Council President by unanimous vote in 2019. Actually Defunded the Police and Managed to Make the City Safer During the political unrest of 2020, the term “Defund the police” was being used as a rallying cry for protesters. Some left-leaning politicians joined in the calls to cut police funding in a show of solidarity with their voter base. But when it came time to put words to action, most lawmakers back-peddled their statements. Brandon Scott, however, didn’t. Instead, he helped lead the charge in his city for $22 million of police budget cuts. Not only that, but since his mayoral election Baltimore has seen a significant drop in violent crime and is on track to hit a homicide low not seen in almost 10 years. Fighting Homelessness by Building Shelters and Making Homes Affordable Instead of focusing his efforts on clearing homeless camps or installing oddly shaped benches, Mayor Scott has dedicated city resources to housing those in need. Not only has the city introduced a $1 home program similar to Detroit’s, but the mayor himself has secured a deal for the city to buy two hotel buildings and repurpose them into large homeless shelters. Though both of these resolutions are early in development, they are the biggest moves to bolster housing that Baltimore has seen in years. Introduced the Equity Assessment Ordinance Bill in Baltimore During his time as a councilperson, Scott was instrumental in creating Baltimore’s Equity Assessment Program. The bill that led to the program’s creation outlines that all City agencies must analyze how every action they make affects marginalized groups (racial minorities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, lower-class households, etc). It also codifies specific seats in City government with the responsibility of upholding the standards of the program. Scott not only supported this bill, but he also introduced it in the City council and saw it through to completion. Over the past 13 years, Brandon Scott has gone above and beyond to prove himself to the people of his city. He is not only qualified for the position he’s been elected for, but he’s utilizing his power to the fullest to better the lives of Baltimoreans. Outsiders claiming that he somehow didn’t earn the mayoral seat are either woefully uninformed or outright lying.

Bass Reeves, born in 1838 as a slave, became legendary. A powerful lawman in Wild West days, he made history as the first black deputy U.S. Marshal far west. His brave life enforcing the law in the unruly West amazed many. Myths surround Reeves' bold actions in America's turbulent past, yet he is remembere­d for upholding justice. Bass Reeves, an iconic figure, deserves a TV series, unlike reboots or spinoffs. It would not rehash popular tales but unveil untold narratives. Though a Yellowstone Apparel spinoff sounds enticing, Reeves' heroic exploits demand their own spotlight. His life was extraordinary, defining the Wild West culture, lifestyle, and even the Western Outfits of that time like no other. In American history, Bass Reeves stands out as an inspirational figure. He went from being an enslaved worker to a legendary lawman. His life shows how resilient humans can be. Even when facing great hardships, he persevered. Reeves pursued justice for decades in the Indian Territory. His adventures offer a glimpse into a time when justice proved elusive. Bass Reeves' Legacy in the Wild West Reeves' life began in hardship as a slave, but he overcame great challenges. Reeves became a legendary lawman in the American West. His story inspires people from all backgrounds. He showed courage and determination against injustice. Reeves shattered barriers and made history. From humble beginnings, he attained great achievements. Overcoming racism and discrimination, he served with honor. Reeves embodied bravery and justice. His impact still resonates today. He paved the way for future generations. Reeves' resilience in the face of adversity is remarkable. His enduring legacy will never be forgotten. As a child, Bass Reeves faced great struggles. Sold into slavery young, he suffered through bondage's cruelties without losing hope. The Civil War brought a chance for freedom and to serve the Union Army, giving skills vital as a lawman later. Post-war, Reeves settled in Arkansas. He became a U.S. Deputy Marshal, beginning a journey to be one of the most esteemed and feared lawmen in the West. Bass Reeves was a pioneering African American law officer. He broke racial boundaries as the first black deputy U.S. Marshal west of the Mississippi River. With bravery, Reeves tirelessly hunted down wanted criminals. He faced grave dangers apprehending fugitives but upheld justice. Reeves displayed fairness and impartiality in his work. His honorable conduct earned deep respect from fellow officers and citizens alike. Reeves' name represents a remarkable trailblazer in U.S. law enforcement history. Bass Reeves had cool adventures. They became big stories. People talked about them a lot. His stories went into frontier books. He shot fast too. No one could trick Reeves. He was too smart for bad guys. People everywhere loved his stories. They showed how brave he was. They showed he never quit. Reeves always did what was right. Bass Reeves was also skilled at disguising himself. He knew how people acted and could fit in anywhere. Reeves used disguises to get close to criminals and capture them. As a cattle thief or preacher, he tricked bad guys with many clever costumes. All this made Reeves one of the smartest, most crafty lawmen ever. Distinct Setting and Context The 19th century Western America was a place with wide-open opportunities and great risks. Whether across the vast Midwestern plains or rough Rocky Mountains, the West provided a setting where countless pioneers pursued their aspirations and yet faced peril. Bass Reeves lived amidst such huge, unsettled areas and harsh terrains. In that lawless world, order is sometimes lost to brute force. However, through this mayhem, Reeves stood tall as a symbol of justice – a solitary figure holding strong against anarchy. The Indian Territory was a region where different cultures met. There were Native­ American tribes with their customs. However, white settlers kept arriving from other places. Bass Reeves, a deputy U.S. Marshal, had to keep the peace there. This was not easy. He had to understand the tribes' ways and he had to deal with the tough frontier life. Reeves learned a lot in the Indian Territory. It taught him about tribal politics, and it showed him how hard life could be on the frontier. The Wild West had lots of boomtowns and outlaw havens. These places were full of bad behavior and crime ran loose. The law did not count for much there. From Dodge City to Deadwood, these lawless towns drew in outlaws and desperados. They were looking for easy money and life without rules. Bass Reeves worked in some of the worst towns in the West. He faced off against many well-known outlaws there. His brave actions in those lawless places gave him a big reputation. People saw him as a fearless lawman who always got his man. That reputation has lasted until today. Diverse Representation The American West has largely been portrayed as a white-dominated narrative­ in popular culture. This perpetuates stereotypes, erasing the diverse voices shaping the region's history. Bass Reeves' story challenges these conventional Western Outfits narratives. It offers a counterpoint to the prevailing myths of the Wild West. As a black lawman in a predominantly white world, Reeves defied stereotypes and shattered racial barriers. He proved that courage and determination transcend color. Buy all the outfits inspired by Yellowstone from The Western Outfitters. Watching characters that resemble them brings a profound, validating experience for colored audiences. Bass Reeves' story grants African American viewers a mirror, reflecting their lives through history's lens. His narrative allows diverse voices amplification, empowering depictions and deepening cultural impact. In centering Reeves' journey as a standalone series, creators wield the chance to celebrate minority contributions, offering meaningful representation. Bass Reeves' career was remarkable. As a Black lawman, he inspired many. By facing difficulties, he proved greatness was possible. Reeves' story deserves its own series. It could motivate youth with role models representing resilience and justice. Strong Character Development Opportunities Beneath a tough exterior, Bass Reeves wrestled with inner struggles. Transitioning from slavery scarred his mind. This impacted how he saw the world and his approach as a lawman. Being a deputy U.S. Marshal was tough for Bass Reeves. He had to chase bad guys and deal with danger. However, every win meant he missed out on family time. His job made it hard to connect with loved ones. A show about Reeves could explore how upholding the law comes at a personal cost. It could look at the sacrifices made to bring justice. Reeves met many people like sheriffs and bad guys. Every chat talked more about who he was deep down. His thoughts, feelings, and mistakes peeked through. A show on Reeves' friendships can show his real self. What made him brave, weak and an interesting person? Independence from Existing Franchise A Bass Reeves TV show allows more freedom than a Yellowstone spinoff tied to existing characters and plots. Creators have a blank canvas to shape their narrative. No need to follow pre-set stories or characters. This offers flexibility and creativity in crafting the series uniquely for Reeves' tale. The show can explore Reeves' world unhindered, without the constraints of an established universe. Spinoffs often face a challenge: being compared to the original show. This overshadows their unique qualities. A standalone series avoids this issue. It establishes its identity, finding its niche without living up to an existing franchise's standards. Without that burden, a Bass Reeves series can take its path, attracting an audience independently. Bass Reeves' life holds a wealth of untold stories. Imagine him stepping out in Yellowstone Western Wear, a weathered Stetson hat pulled low over his eyes, ready to face down outlaws in the dusty streets of a frontier town. As a standalone series, creators can freely explore his adventures. They are not limited by the constraints of a spinoff. Reeves' life is filled with narrative opportunities waiting to be discovered. Focusing just on Reeves allows creators to go deeper into his character, world, and exploits. They can give audiences a fresh view into the legendary lawman and his era. Spinoffs usually have to continue storylines from their parent shows. However, a show just about Bass Reeves can tell new stories in every episode. Each episode will be a full story by itself. Viewers can enjoy it without knowing everything about a bigger universe. This lets writers make great stories that grab viewers' interest. They would not need to worry about keeping up with a bigger series' continuity and lore. Exploration of Justice and Morality Bass Reeves was devoted to upholding law and keeping citizens safe since becoming an officer. His steadfast quest for justice took him through Indian Territory's vast lands. He relentlessly pursued fugitives, determined to capture them. Portraying Reeves' resilience amid hardship, a series could show audiences justice's transformative power and highlight those upholding it with unwavering spirit. The Wild West blurred the lines between good and bad. Right or wrong was hazy and justice depended on viewpoint. Bass Reeves wrestled these gray areas daily, making hard calls testing his ethics. His sense of righteousness faced thorny challenges. Exploring Reeves' moral ambiguity struggles, a standalone show could portray law and order complexities deeply. Justice proved slippery, like outlaws dodging their grasp in that untamed world. Being a deputy U.S. Marshal was difficult. Bass Reeves had to enforce laws. His actions impacted people's lives and justice in the area. A show about Reeves' job could give viewers insight into challenges of upholding law in untamed territories. The series would explore personal costs and moral conflicts Reeves faced as a lawman. Potential for Educational Value Bass Reeves had many adventures when he worked as a lawman in the American West. History books tell facts but shows help us feel the excitement. Shows can build characters we care about. We get pulled into the struggles people faced long ago. What was it like to live back then? The sights, the sounds, the challenges? We glimpse these through well-told tales. Bass Reeves' life offers rich storytelling opportunities. His experiences let us travel in our minds to another era. Shows bring history alive in an engaging, immersive way. Bass Reeves left major marks on America's story but remains largely unknown to most people. A show focused solely on Reeves could introduce many viewers to this forgotten hero. It could honor his triumphs in life's difficulties. Reeves reminds us that many unsung heroes shaped history. Learning about him gives a fuller, more inclusive grasp of the past. Bass Reeves' history highlights issues still faced today. Through racial struggles, justice fights, and perseverance tales, it reflects humanity's trials and triumphs. His path from slavery's bonds to liberty's embrace, clashes against wrongs, and unshakable pursuit of fairness holds timeless wisdom. Depicting this journey in a series sparks thoughtful insights spanning generations. Potential for Cultural Impact Bass Reeves was someone important in the past. His life showed the fight for equality. He is a reminder of justice struggles. An entire show could highlight his courage and fighting spirit. It could inspire people to create change where they live. Reeves proved one person can make a difference worldwide. This gives hope to those still fighting for fairness. Bass Reeves' story goes against the usual way people talk about the Old West. His life shows the problems African Americans faced back then. It reminds us of slavery and unfair treatment. A television show on Reeves could change how we see that time period. It would make people think hard about America's difficult history. The show would not sugarcoat the racism and violence of the Wild West era. Instead, it would give an honest, detailed look at Reeves' experiences as a Black man in those days. Seeing history from his viewpoint is important. It challenges the exaggerated, make-believe stories we often hear about cowboys and outlaws. Bass Reeves' tale shines bright for marginalized folks. It is a beacon of hope; a tale of strength overcoming hardship. From enslavement to freedom, his brave steps left an imprint. Overcoming obstacles, he blazed a trail as a lawman. This source of inspiration shows resilience can conquer adversity. Showcasing his life on-screen empowers communities. It reminds them dreams are possible, however daunting the climb. Reeves' journey as an African American law enforcer inspires generations. His story rekindles the fire within, urging underrepresented people to chase their passions. Bass Reeves lived an incredible journey. As a former slave, he became a famous lawman. Telling his story gives a rare chance to explore­ an amazing figure in American history. The series can follow Reeves' path from slavery to legendary law enforcer. It offers a gripping narrative beyond entertainment. Additionally, by highlighting overlooked parts of the Wild West era, it might challenge typical stories. The series can also educate about cultural understanding and social change.  Bass Reeves' story is not just a tale of the past; it is a timeless saga of courage and determination that continues to resonate with audiences today, inspiring us to confront injustice, celebrate diversity, and strive for a more equitable future.

A couple of well-known New York rappers have taken a stand when it comes to healthcare restrictions. Jim Jones and Jadakiss have taken a stand with healthcare workers protesting the new Medicaid restrictions, which were imposed by New York Governor Kathy Hochul. In January, the 1199SEIU healthcare workers union called out the governor to stop underpaying hospitals on Medicaid claims, according to HipHopDX. Under the current administration, just 70% of all Medicaid hospital bills are paid. Well now, the union is calling for an end to stop this. According to the union, “over seven million New Yorkers rely on Medicaid services, the majority of whom come from Black and Latino communities. Despite the fact that Medicaid provides vital coverage to these New Yorkers, the state pays hospitals 30% less than the actual cost of needed care.” On March 22, Jim Jones and Jadakiss marched in solidarity with the union to the governor’s NYC office, hoping that their high profile would bring attention to the situation at hand. “Special shout out to all the #1199Healthcare workers who show up for the cause today and march to fight for what’s right,” Capo wrote on his Instagram caption, with a video showing the pair marching alongside the healthcare workers. He continued: “The government is only covering 70 percent of Medicaid cost at our new York hospitals n clinics #this 30 percent gap is causing underfunding wit cause the hospitals to b understaffed then eventually havin to close there doors, To prevent this from happening we jeee everyone to let th governor know we need th 30 percent to b implemented immediately. Shouts to @hot97 n @funkflex for keeping th city united when we need it th most @jadakiss.” Hochul in January unveiled a consumer protection and affordability agenda, the first plank of her 2024 State of the State, according to governor.ny.gov. The goal: to amend New York’s consumer laws to strengthen consumer protections against unfair business practices, among other business. “The first plank of the 2024 State of the State is our Consumer Protection & Affordability Agenda – one that combats the effects of illness, disability, unfair business practices and low wages,” Governor Hochul said. “If the last two years have been about putting more money in New Yorkers’ pockets, this year is about keeping it there and that starts with safeguarding people’s hard-earned cash.”

One of the greatest talents to come out of the City of Brotherly Love was commemorated last Sunday. Kevin Hart, who is from Philly, received the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor at a gala performance Sunday at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, according to The Grio. Hart at 44, has mastered his style that combines his height – or lack thereof – with his facial expressions and his personal way of delivering jokes into a successful sand-up act and movie career that spans more than two decades. Hart actually made his movie debut in Hollywood in the 2002 movie “Paper Soldiers” before coming to the mainstream fame through some cameos in classics such 2005’s “The 40-Year-Old-Virgin.” Hart’s movies have grossed more than $4.23 billion globally. Hart has done enough to be honored with the Mark Twain Prize, which is in its 25th year. The award honors performers who have made a longstanding impact on humor and culture. Honorees will get to receive a bronze bust of Tain, who is the iconic American writer and satirist whose name was actually Samuel Clemens. The Mark Twain honorees are commemorated with an evening of testimonials and video tributes, which often highlight previous award recipients. Other comedians that received the lifetime achievement award were George Carlin, Whoopi Goldberg, Bob Newhart, Carol Burnett and Dave Chapelle. Hart embarked on his comedic career as a teenager, performing at venues such as The Laff House in Philly under the name Lil Kev. He said his first performances were epic failures, which included being booed off the stage on multiple occasions, and even having a piece of chicken thrown at him, according to the Associated Press. Still, Hart stuck with it, and honed his signature style. Hart said the launch of the Mark Twain Prize in 1998 with inaugural recipient Pryor coincided with the start of the his comedic career. “To be honored in this commemorative year feels surreal,” Hart said. “Comedy is my outlet for social commentary and observations on life. I am grateful to the Kennedy Center for recognizing my voice and impact on culture.” Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com

It is no surprise that when Forbes released its 2023 highest-paid actors in Hollywood, the only Black person on the list is arguably the greatest actor of all time. The illustrious Denzel Washington is the only person of color on that list. Still, marginalized groups compared to white counterparts is never a new social justice issue. But because of the public knowledge when it comes to celebrity salaries, it is very hard to turn the head another way when it comes to the substantial differences in pay that Black actors and actresses get. The most noteworthy of that gap is the gender inequalities between actors who identify as men or women. Black actresses make an estimated 64 cents for every dollar white, non-Hispanic actors make, according to the National Partnership for Women and Families. That number increases to 68 cents for Black women producers and directors, according to Yahoo. Taraji P. Henson is a recent example of a renowned actress advocating and highlighting pay discrepancies. In fact, amid the press tour for the musical adaptation of the 1985 film The Color Purple, Henson told the truth about the challenges she faced in the industry. “I’m just tired of working so hard, being gracious at what I do, getting paid a fraction of the cost,” Henson said to TV personality Gayle King in a SiriusXM interview. “I’m tired of hearing my sisters say the same thing over and over. You get tired. I hear people go, ‘You work a lot.’ I have to. The math ain’t mathing. And when you start working a lot, you have a team. Big bills come with what we do. We don’t do this alone. It’s a whole entire team behind us. They have to get paid.” The substantial differences between the different groups make Washington’s presence on the Forbes list even more eye-popping. Obviously, Washington has an accomplished resume as an actor and producer, and, of course, he deserves his accolades and salary. Washington grossed $28 million in 2023, according to Forbes. But his only representation makes the absence of Black actors even more evident. According to Afrotech, actor Terrence Howard felt he’s been lowballed for his work compared to non-POC entertainers. Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com