Tennessee sheriff plans apology after admitting he used the n-word in a recording

Lauderdale County, Tenn., Sheriff Steve Sanders has admitted to using the n-word after a tape recording of him using the racist slur surfaced when a local recording artist played the tape during an Instagram live session.

“I did. I won’t tell you no lie about it,” Sanders told News Channel 3 Memphis on Wednesday. Despite his use of the n-word, Sanders said he isn’t a racist, and the word, “just slipped out.”

The sheriff also said he doesn’t remember when the conversation took place and that he was unaware he was being recorded.

READ MORE: Memphis woman’s violent police arrest draws outrage

“I got a lot of Black friends, I got a lot of enemies, as any sheriff would, but I apologize to all of them,” Sanders said in the interview. “I’m going to apologize Friday to all the citizens in the county because they’re good people.”

Sanders has been sheriff of Lauderdale County for 16 years, and is the area’s longest-tenured sheriff.

The audio was also posted on Facebook and has prompted some citizens to demand his resignation. One Lauderdale Country resident, Tiffany Driver, told New Channel 3 Memphis that it was “heartbreaking” and “a slap in the face” after the country is still dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.

White people using the n-word is a phenomenon that continues to make headlines. On Thursday, Oregon State freshman tight end Rocco Carley was dismissed from his football team after an audio recording where he used racist language recently surfaced.

READ MORE: Oregon State athlete uses n-word, calls Black people ‘field workers’ in rant

The recording was made when Carley was in high school. In the video, which was posted to Twitter, the freshman football player can be heard saying horrific, racist statements against Blacks, homosexuals, and Muslims.

“I’d like to get all the Blacks in a chamber, and burn the sh*t out of them,” Carley says.

In the video, Carley sounds as if he is using a southern accent. In an apology post on Instagram, he said that the video was “satire.”

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Ivanka Trump removed as commencement speaker, due to ‘insensitive’ timing of George Floyd

Witchita State University in Kansas cancelled a virtual commencement address from Ivanka Trump on Thursday.

The decision was made mere hours after news of her speech went public, People reports.

Trump, the daughter and senior advisor to President Donald Trump, pre-recorded a video address for the graduates of Witchita State’s Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech) on Saturday, June 6.

The move to remove her as the headlining speaker came from WSU Tech President Dr. Sheree Utash, who released a statement on June 4.

READ MORE: Trump says George Floyd is looking down in awe of economy, draws outrage

Dr. Utash said that Trump was invited in February to headline the ceremony as a speaker, but recognized that her presence wouldn’t be appropriate during the current civil unrest in America.

“In light of the social justice issues brought forth by George Floyd’s death, I understand and take responsibility that the timing of the announcement was insensitive,’ Dr. Utash said the statement. “For this, I’m sorry that was never the intent, and I want you to know I have heard you and we are responding.”

Signs, artwork and flowers were placed by people showing up to pay their respects and to protest at the intersection of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue in South Minneapolis, in front of the CUP Foods where George Floyd died earlier in the week, Saturday, May 30 2020. (Scott Takushi / MediaNews Group / St. Paul Pioneer Press via Getty Images)

Trump’s father has come under fire for incendiary commentary regarding the nationwide protests for Floyd, who was killed while being violently detained by Minneapolis police, with one officer putting a knee on his neck for nearly nine minutes.

READ MORE: George Floyd’s brother says Trump wouldn’t let him speak during phone call

The president tweeted “when the looting starts, the shooting starts” in response to the rioting, and was flagged by Twitter for words that incited violence.

Dr. Utash has stated that WSU Tech nursing graduate Rebecca Zinabu would be the lone speaker for the school’s commencement in order to keep the focus on the “graduates and celebrating their accomplishments.”

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After Stating ‘No Good Person of Color’ Has Been Killed by Police, California Mayor Resigns

A Southern California city mayor has resigned after apologizing for an email that he wrote that stated he didn’t “believe there’s ever been a good person of color killed by a police officer” according to The Press-Enterprise.

Temecula Mayor James Stewart was responding to an email where he was asked what he was doing about racism and police violence.

This was the content of the email according to The Press-Enterprise:

“As you know the City of Temecula does not have its own Police Department. We contract with Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. And I don’t believe there’s ever been a good person of color killed by a police officer. So I’m kind of confuse what you are looking for. Of course racism is not excepted or tolerated in the City of Temecula. Or any other of the surrounding areas that I know of for sure. I have several good friends who are African-Americans, and they love living here because how safe it is for them and their families.”

Stewart claims he didn’t ‘write’ the word “good” in front of “person of color” instead, blaming “voice texting” to inserting the word.

“So you all are going to hear about this. I sent a voice text last night to a person concerned about our police officers and their sensitivity training. I am very well known for my dyslexia so I voice text everything. Unfortunately I did not take the time to proofread what was recorded. I absolutely did not say that. What I said is and I don’t believe there has ever been a person of color murdered by police, on context to Temecula or Riverside county.”

Stewart has released a statement via his Facebook account.

“City of Temecula, I hear you, I agree with you, and I am deeply sorry.

“I owe everyone an apology including our citizens of all backgrounds and ethnicities, City staff, and my respected colleagues on the City Council. You have every right to be hurt and offended. My typos and off-the-cuff response to an email on a serious topic added pain at a time where our community, and our country, is suffering. I may not be the best writer and I sometimes misspeak, but I am not racist. I deeply regret this mistake and I own it, entirely. I am truly sorry.

I understand that even my sincerest apologies cannot remedy this situation. Because actions speak louder than words, I will step down as your Mayor and City Council Member effective immediately. It has been a true honor to serve this great City and its citizens. My love for Temecula and its residents is beyond expression.”

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Ava Duvernay says ‘Selma’ was snubbed for Oscar over ‘I Can’t Breathe’ t-shirts

Ava Duvernay has confirmed that Selma was denied votes for the Academy Awards after she and the cast wore “I Can’t Breathe” t-shirts to the 2014 film’s premiere in the wake of the police killing of Eric Garner.

The film director’s confirmation backs up claims from actor David Oyelowo, who portrayed Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in the film about the 1965 march for Black voting rights. Oyelowo told Screen Daily in a story published Thursday that the movie’s studio and producers received backlash for the demonstration.

“I remember at the premiere of Selma us wearing ‘I Can’t Breathe’ t-shirts in protest,” he explained. “Members of the Academy called in to the studio and our producers saying, ‘How dare they do that? Why are they stirring S-H-I-T?’ and ‘We are not going to vote for that film because we do not think it is their place to be doing that.'”

READ MORE: Streaming films eligible for Oscars, but for 1 year only

When the story was posted on Twitter, Duvernay retweeted the post with the caption, “True story.”

The Academy responded to Duvernay’s tweet with a message for both the director and British actor saying, “we hear you. Unacceptable. We’re committed to progress.”

Ava & David, we hear you. Unacceptable. We’re committed to progress. @ava #DavidOyelowo https://t.co/1LoriTfYva

— The Academy (@TheAcademy) June 5, 2020

Selma was nominated for two Oscars, receiving a nod for Best Picture and winning the prize for Best Original Song for “Glory” by Common and John Legend.

READ MORE: Black excellence brings #OscarsSoWhite to life

Duvernay says the cast was snubbed for Best Picture. That award went to Birdman. The event was a catalyst for the #OscarsSoWhite hashtag.

American civil rights leader Martin Luther King (1929 – 1968) (centre) with his wife Coretta Scott King and colleagues during a civil rights march from Selma, Alabama, to the state capital in Montgomery. (Photo by William Lovelace/Express/Getty Images)

Promises to diversify the Oscars have come before.

Former Academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs vowed changes in the voting process. In 2016, the Academy Awards had a record 18 Black nominees. In 2019, there was a record seven Black winners, however, there were zero Black nominees in the acting categories.

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NFL Commissioner: “We, The NFL Admit, We Were Wrong for Not Listening to NFL Players Earlier”

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell released a video clip condemning racing and admitting that the NFL was wrong to not listen to the players who were protesting against racial injustice and police brutality against blacks according to the NFL.

“We, the NFL, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of Black People. We, the NFL, admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest. We, the NFL, believe Black Lives Matter. #InspireChange ”

We, the NFL, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of Black People. We, the NFL, admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest. We, the NFL, believe Black Lives Matter. #InspireChange pic.twitter.com/ENWQP8A0sv

— NFL (@NFL) June 5, 2020

The ongoing protests that are taking place across the country and the world have forced the NFL and many organizations and companies to address the climate that has been created by police brutality against black people and systemic racism in general.

New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees reignited that flame when he stated earlier this week, “I will never agree with anybody disrespecting the flag of the United States of America or our country.”

He immediately apologized and backtracked as the backlash to his comment was swift and was condemned by his teammates, players around the league and media outlets.

President Trump has blasted the league and the players protesting for several years and commented on Brees’s apology to “ friends, teammates, the City of New Orleans, the black community, NFL community and anyone” he hurt with his comments.

Trump feels Brees shouldn’t have apologized.

I am a big fan of Drew Brees. I think he’s truly one of the greatest quarterbacks, but he should not have taken back his original stance on honoring our magnificent American Flag. OLD GLORY is to be revered, cherished, and flown high…

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 5, 2020

This is the full statement from Goodell:

“It has been a difficult time in our country, in particular, black people in our country. First, my condolences to the families of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and all the families that have endured police brutality. We, the National Football League, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of black people. We, the National Football League, admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest. We, the National Football League, believe Black Lives Matter. I personally protest with you and want to be a part of the much needed change in this country. Without black players there would be no National Football League. And the protests around the country are emblematic of the centuries of silence, inequality, and oppression of black players, coaches, fans, and staff. We are listening, I am listening, and I will be reaching out to players who have raised their voices, and others on how we can move forward together for a better and more united NFL family.”

 

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U.S. Unemployment Falls In May, Black Unemployment At Highest Rate In A Decade

The Department of Labor announced Friday 2.5 million jobs were added in May, however, unemployment among African Americans has hit its highest rate in a decade.

According to The New York Times, the numbers defied the expectations of economists, who were predicting unemployment to exceed 20%, but were hopeful the recovery would be faster than originally expected. However, The Hill reported African American unemployment hit its highest rate in a decade in May, despite an economy-wide reduction in unemployment.

For African Americans, the unemployment rate rose from 16.7% to 16.8%. The new rate is the highest rate in more than a decade, according to an analysis of statistics by Bloomberg.

Unemployment for Latinos fell from 18.9% to 17.6% but is still the highest among all racial and ethnic groups surveyed by Bloomberg. Many are pointing to states reopening as a reason for the rise in employment, even as coronavirus cases rise in many states.

Still, job openings are far below normal despite talks of another coronavirus relief package having all but disappeared as the protests surrounding the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor have become the country’s biggest topic.

The report noted “employment rose sharply in leisure and hospitality, construction, education and health services, and retail trade,” even as government jobs continued their decline.

“What this is telling us is that at least part of the pain in April was due to people being laid off or furloughed who still had very strong connections to their employers,” Ernie Tedeschi, an economist at Evercore ISI in Washington, told the Times. “As good and surprising as this report was, this may just be the low-hanging fruit. These may have been the easiest workers to bring back.”

Economists are unsure if the unemployment peak created by the coronavirus is over. Between the rash of protests going on daily across the country and people venturing out more often due to the warm weather, many are now wondering not if, but when we will see a significant rise in cases.

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California mayor resigns after racist email on police brutality goes viral

A California mayor has resigned his office after coming under fire for sending out a racially insensitive email regarding police violence.

James Stewart, who was elected mayor of Temecula, California in November 2016, resigned the seat Thursday after he was called out for a reply email to a Temecula resident, who asked what was being done about police violence, according to Too Fab.

“I don’t believe there’s ever been a good person of color killed by a police officer,” Stewart said in the message that went viral.

READ MORE: California police kill unarmed man who was kneeling with hands up

People flooded the internet with criticisms and accusations of racism on the southern California city’s official Facebook page. Stewart, who led the conservative-leaning city of about 115,000, posted an initial apology the day before issuing his resignation, stating that he uses “voice text” due to his dyslexia, and didn’t proof-reading before sending.

“I absolutely did not say that,” he wrote in the post. “What I said is and I don’t believe there has ever been a person of color murdered by police, on context to Temecula or Riverside county. I absolutely did not say ‘good’ I have no idea how that popped up. Please forgive me for this egregious error.”

The mayor of Temecula, CA Stew James Stewart sent this email in response to a concerned constituent in which he said, “I don’t believe there’s ever been a good person of color killed by a police officer” THIS RACIST NEEDS TO RESIGN. Please make this known @cityoftemecula @ABC7 pic.twitter.com/8nFs63fpoB

— gabriella morales (@gibriella_) June 4, 2020

However, the backlash continued, prompting him to make a follow-up statement to insist those aren’t his beliefs.

READ MORE: White teens start ‘George Floyd challenge’ mocking his death

“My typos and off-the-cuff response to an email on a serious topic added pain at a time where our community, and our country, is suffering,” he said. “I may not be the best writer and I sometimes misspeak, but I am not racist. I deeply regret this mistake and I own it, entirely. I am truly sorry.”

Stewart addressed the bad timing and turmoil the email took on the community and elected to resign, anyway. 

https://ift.tt/2AaZ481

“I understand that even my sincerest apologies cannot remedy this situation. Because actions speak louder than words, I will step down as your Mayor and City Council Member effective immediately,” he wrote.

The news comes as nationwide protests against racism and police brutality continue in the wake of the police killing of George Floyd, an unarmed Black Minneapolis man whose last words were “I can’t breath” as four officers held him in custody in public.

One officer, who was seen pinning Floyd down by pressing his knee into his kneck for almost 9 minutes, has been charged with second-degree murder. The other three officers assisting in the arrest have been charged with aiding and abetting in the alleged murder.

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Drew Brees responds to Trump criticism: ‘This is not an issue about the American flag’

Just two days after Drew Brees infuriated the masses when he said he would never support kneeling during the national anthem at football games, the NFL quarterback is offering a mea culpa and schooling President Donald Trump on the #TakeaKnee movement.

The New Orleans Saints superstar issued an apology on Thursday after his Wednesday remarks drew major backlash from the Twittersphere and prompted prominent figures like LeBron James to speak out. Simultaneously, Brees is encouraging POTUS to listen to what protesters are saying.

The QB did an about-face and apologized for the “insensitive” comments.

“They lacked awareness and any type of compassion or empathy. Instead, those words have become divisive and hurtful and have misled people into believing that, somehow, I am an enemy,” Brees said. “This could not be further from the truth, and is not an accurate reflection of my heart or my character.”

READ MORE: Saints’ Drew Brees blasted after saying he’ll never agree to anthem protests

When the commander in chief caught wind of the mea culpa, he took to Twitter to chastise the Saints star for the apology. Trump said Brees should have stood his ground “honoring our magnificent American flag” adding that people can protest, “but not our Great America Flag – NO KNEELING!”

…We should be standing up straight and tall, ideally with a salute, or a hand on heart. There are other things you can protest, but not our Great American Flag – NO KNEELING!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 5, 2020

Brees doubled down on his newfound wokeness when he responded to Trump’s comments on Friday evening in a post titled “To President Trump.”

“Through my ongoing conversations with friends, teammates, and leaders in the black community, I realize this is not an issue about the American flag. It has never been,” Brees wrote on Instagram. “We can no longer use the flag to turn people away or distract them from the real issues that face our black communities.

“We did this back in 2017, and regretfully I brought it back with my comments this week,” he continued. “We must stop talking about the flag and shift our attention to the real issues of systemic racial injustice, economic oppression, police brutality, and judicial & prison reform. We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s history! If not now, then when?

“We as a white community need to listen and learn from the pain and suffering of our black communities. We must acknowledge the problems, identify the solutions, and then put this into action. The black community cannot do it alone. This will require all of us.”

View this post on Instagram

To @realdonaldtrump Through my ongoing conversations with friends, teammates, and leaders in the black community, I realize this is not an issue about the American flag. It has never been. We can no longer use the flag to turn people away or distract them from the real issues that face our black communities. We did this back in 2017, and regretfully I brought it back with my comments this week. We must stop talking about the flag and shift our attention to the real issues of systemic racial injustice, economic oppression, police brutality, and judicial & prison reform. We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s history! If not now, then when? We as a white community need to listen and learn from the pain and suffering of our black communities. We must acknowledge the problems, identify the solutions, and then put this into action. The black community cannot do it alone. This will require all of us.

A post shared by Drew Brees (@drewbrees) on Jun 5, 2020 at 7:10pm PDT

The back and forth between the president and quarterback stems from NFL free agent Colin Kaepernick’s decision to take a stance against police misconduct and social justice in a peaceful way that proved controversial. In his last season as a quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, Kaepernick took a knee during the national anthem at every 49ers game in the 2016 season.

RIVERDALE, GA – NOVEMBER 16: Colin Kaepernick looks to make a pass during a private NFL workout held at Charles R Drew high school on November 16, 2019 in Riverdale, Georgia. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)

Some athletes, from amateur to professional leagues, joined Kaepernick in support, while others denounced his actions. The protest kneel came in the wake of the police shootings of two Black men, Terence Crutcher in Tulsa, Oklahoma and Keith Lamont Scott in Charlotte, North Carolina.

READ MORE: Ex- NFL exec admits Colin Kaepernick’s career ended because of activism

The most recent police killing of a Black man, George Floyd, in particular, has sparked nationwide protests and revived conversations about Kaepernick’s national anthem protests. Kaepernick’s actions drew the ire of both the NFL and Trump, who urged NFL owners to kick protesting players off the team.

“Wouldn’t you love to see one of these NFL owners, when somebody disrespects our flag, say, “Get that son of a b—- off the field right now. Out, you’re fired!'” Trump said in referring to Kaepernick’s actions without calling him by name.

Brees, however, is not the only one grabbing headlines for finally accepting the underlying purpose of the anthem protests. The NFL, who for years denounced the apparent war Kaepernick was raging, has also reversed course.

Commissioner Roger Goodell on Friday said “we were wrong for not listening to players” and that the league stands with its African-American players.

“We, the National Football League, admit we were wrong for not listening to players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest,” he said in the statement. “We, the National Football League, believe Black lives matter. I personally protest with you and want to be part of the much-needed change in this country.”

We, the NFL, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of Black People. We, the NFL, admit we were wrong for not listening to NFL players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest. We, the NFL, believe Black Lives Matter. #InspireChange pic.twitter.com/ENWQP8A0sv

— NFL (@NFL) June 5, 2020

Meanwhile, Kaepernick is still without a job in the NFL, despite being years ahead of the curve.

 

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Archaeologists Discover the Largest, Oldest Maya Monument Yet

The structure, believed to have served as a ceremonial center 3,000 years ago, was discovered in Tabasco, Mexico.

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NJ Gov. Phil Murphy Names First Black Woman To State Supreme Court

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy has named attorney Fabiana Pierre-Louis to the state Supreme Court on Friday, making her the first black woman to sit on the state’s highest court.

An NBC News report Friday states Pierre-Louis, 39, will succeed Walter Timpone, who will reach the mandatory retirement age of 70 in the fall. Pierre-Louis is a Cherry Hill-based partner specializing in white-collar crime and government investigations in the firm of Montgomery McCracken.

“Many years ago my parents came to the United States from Haiti with not much more than the clothes on their backs and the American dream in their hearts,” Pierre-Louis told NBC. “I think they have achieved that dream beyond measure because my life is certainly not representative of the traditional trajectory of someone who would one day be nominated to the Supreme Court of New Jersey.”

Pierre-Louis also spent nine years in the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey according to her page on Montgomery McCraken’s website. Pierre-Louis worked as a federal prosecutor, responsible for supervising all aspects of criminal matters handled by the Camden Office.

Pierre-Louis has worked on a litany of cases including criminal trials, investigations, and prosecutions of large-scale mail and wire fraud offenses, healthcare and government fraud matters, and narcotics, firearms, and violent crime offenses.

Murphy said Pierre-Louis will carry the legacy of John Wallace, the last black judge on the state supreme court. Pierre-Louis knows Wallace well as she clerked for him previously. Murphy said it still bothers him that Wallace was not renominated when his first term expired in 2010—the first time that had happened under the state’s current constitution.

Murphy tweeted Friday that he was honored to appoint Pierre-Louis to the position.

“Her humility, empathy, and character will serve the people of New Jersey well,” Murphy said.

“Across this country, there are 33 states which do not have a woman of color on their highest court,” said Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver in a press release. “I cannot wait to see New Jersey leave that list with Fabiana’s confirmation to the Supreme Court.”

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India Is Using More Solar Energy—but It Carries a Lead Risk

In rural areas, solar power is stored in lead batteries. If they aren't properly recycled, contamination can cause health problems.

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'Dune' Is One of the Most Influential Sci-Fi Books Ever

Originally published in 1965, Frank Herbert's classic novel has continued to help shape works from Star Wars to 'Game of Thrones'.

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China and Iran Tried to Hack the Biden and Trump Campaigns

Plus: An iOS zero day, surveillance planes, and more of the week's top security news.

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10 Best Electric Bikes (2020): Lightweight, Affordable, Folding, and More

We've tested ebikes for commuting, mountain biking, gravel, and even a few that can fold up. These are our favorites.

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Sony Xperia 1 II Review: A Surprise Hit

After years of punching below its weight, Sony finally found the formula for making an excellent phone. Too bad it costs $1200.

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14 Best Weekend Deals: Tablets, Phones, Laptops, and More

Need a new laptop? Or an affordable phone? We've rounded up some sales that might help.

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Signal Tips: Get the Most Out of Your Private Messaging

The best end-to-end encrypted messaging app has a host of security features. Here are the ones you should care about.

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Police Tactics Could Turn Protests Into Covid-19 Hot Spots

Sure, large crowds already carry a risk of transmission. It's just worse when you teargas people, make them cough on each other, and bus them to jail.

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White teens start ‘George Floyd’ challenge mocking his death

The death of George Floyd has sparked outrage and protest but some white teens have created a challenge in which they mock his death.

READ MORE: Police looking for cyclist who attacked teens posting George Floyd posters

Floyd died on Memorial Day after now-former Minneapolis officer Derek Chauvin placed a knee on his neck for 8 minutes and 46 seconds. He’s since been charged with second-degree murder and the three other former officers involved have been charged as well. The country has been beset with nationwide protests with marchers from all backgrounds, but some teens on social media have been making fun of the 46-year-old’s final moments.

The teens, who are mostly white and male, step on the necks of another person,  film it and post it to social media as the “George Floyd challenge.”

“Racists are now doing the George Floyd “challenge.” This is what we’re up against, folks. It’s a privilege to make sarcasm about racism instead of experiencing it your whole life,” Mohamad Safa, Permanent Representative at United Nations, tweeted.

Racists are now doing the George Floyd “challenge.” This is what we’re up against, folks. It’s a privilege to make sarcasm about racism instead of experiencing it your whole life pic.twitter.com/LmS1mnqCcj

— Mohamad Safa (@mhdksafa) June 4, 2020

Others also shared their disgust.

“I don’t truck with “Cancel Culture” but someone needs to cancel these little bastards doing a “George Floyd Challenge” … This is the root of the sickness. These boys require an education; once they’re identified, perhaps they get one. Do your thing Twitter,” another tweeted.

I don’t truck with “Cancel Culture” but someone needs to cancel these little bastards doing a “George Floyd Challenge” … This is the root of the sickness. These boys require an education; once they’re identified, perhaps they get one. Do your thing Twitter. pic.twitter.com/5jBkcZSJ7D

— Bravo Golf Lima (@Benjamin_G_Lund) June 3, 2020

Three teenagers in the U.K. have been arrested on suspicion of sending communications causing anxiety and distress according to the BBC. They’ve been released on bail.

“We can confirm we are investigating after an image was shared on social media which showed two men imitating the recent death of US citizen George Floyd,” a spokesperson said.

In the United States, the students are dealing with repercussions as it relates to their schooling according to NBC News. Marquette University rescinded the enrollment of an incoming freshman after he made a post that made fun of Floyd’s death and compared it to the protests that took place in the NFL.

“Some ppl think it’s ok to f—— kneel during the national anthem so it’s ok to kneel on someone’s head,” the post read, according to The Sentinel. “come at me. y’all brainwashed.”

While most of the images featured males, girls were also active participants in the gruesome challenge. In one clip, a girl has her knee on her neck on another who screams that she can’t breathe, a play on Floyd’s last words. The clip continued with laughter and someone cheering them on off-camera.

The seniors were set to attend the University of Missouri and Missouri State University in the fall. However, they have now withdrawn since their actions went viral.

“Given the similarity to the recent death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, the video is both shocking and disturbing,” wrote Mun Choi, president of the University of Missouri System and interim chancellor of MU, in an email to the campus community.

“University leaders and I remain committed to combating discrimination and racism in all its forms,” Choi wrote.

In 2015, there were racial protests at the University of Missouri leading to hashtag #blackoncampus. It led to the resignation of the president.

Clif Smart, president of Missouri State University, addressed the controversy in a blog post. He wrote that despite being “horrified”, he was going to lean toward allowing the students to continue enrollment. They would have to take part in, “additional education and training to assist them in both understanding the impact of their actions and in developing cultural competence.”

READ MORE: Klobuchar draws ire of social media for appearance at George Floyd’s memorial

Most of the videos have been taken down from Snapchat and TikTok where they were shared.

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Da Brat feels ‘weight has been lifted’ since coming out as a lesbian

Da Brat publicly came out as a lesbian in March but wants to made it clear it was her own choice to wait until now to confirm speculation about her sexuality.

READ MORE: LisaRaye reveals she played matchmaker for sister Da Brat and girlfriend

Da Brat, born Shawntae Harris, burst onto the music scene in 1994 with her album “Funkdafied” and has the distinction of being the first female rapper to have an album go platinum.

Throughout her career, there has been speculation about her personal life.  At one time in the 90s, she publicly dated basketball star Allen Iverson, who said she was a good friend, but ultimately he married his high school sweetheart.

DaBrat never confirmed or denied her sexuality, but earlier this year revealed her relationship with Kaleidoscope Hair Products CEO Jesseca Dupart in an Instagram post in honor of her birthday.

Da Brat and Jesseca Dupart (Credit: Jesseca Dupart)

Da Brat recently explained to Variety why the time was now right to publicly claim who she is.

“I’ve always felt like being private is the better way to go, because then you don’t have so many people in your business,” Brat says.

“I was fine staying quiet, but my partner is a social media mogul — that’s how she became who she is. And when you get with somebody, you have to meet in the middle. So to me, the middle was just letting everybody know: ‘Hey, she’s the one.’”

Brat said that making her relationship public wasn’t planned. It was a spontaneous gesture that came about she and Dupart were looking at pictures.

“Jesseca was showing me some pictures and we were going back and forth, joking ‘I’ll post it,’ ‘No, I’ll post it.’ So when she did, I was like, ‘Oh s—! I just came out after 20-something years!’ But it feels good to share with the world when you’re happy.”

Da Brat (Credit: Da Brat)

Brat added that she never felt pressured by her record label, So So Def, to hide her sexuality but has said in the past that  it wasn’t “cool” back in the day.

“I was always told you want to be f—able to men and women to sell records — you don’t want anybody to discriminate,” she says. “It was absolutely my decision. I mean, you saw what happened to people like Ellen: Remember when she lost her TV show, and all these horrible things were happening? People were totally against it.”

READ MORE: Da Brat explains keeping sexuality private: ‘It wasn’t cool back in the day’

The star has since crossed over to radio and is part of the Rickey Smiley Morning Show in Atlanta and a co-host of Fox’s syndicated entertainment show Dish Nation. She is also the executive producer of WE tv’s reality show Growing Up Hip-Hop Atlanta. Given the changing social landscape, she no longer has to fear her sexual identity will threaten her career.

But she did say her respect for a beloved family member also held her back from being forthcoming.

“My grandmother has passed away, but she was sanctified,” says Brat. “I would not want anyone in the church to judge her because of what I do. You never want to hurt the people that raised you; you don’t want to disappoint them.”

She added that her mother loves her unconditionally despite her reservations.

“She’s not going to condone it, but she loves me unconditionally. No one in my family has said anything bad or degrading.”

Brat received an outpouring of support from friends, fans, and those in the industry. The rapper is very much so excited about attending her first Pride event.

“If I can inspire someone or help somebody to deal with their issues and their sexuality, then I’m here for it,” she said.

She added, “It feels like a weight has been lifted.”

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The NFL says they were wrong about anthem protests

Apparently, nationwide protests, the online thrashing of one of its premiere white quarterbacks, and the recently released clip from some of its marquee players— including biracial Super Bowl-winning Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes — has led to a change of heart for the NFL.

READ MORE: Ex- NFL exec admits Colin Kaepernick’s career ended because of activism

This evening, NFL commissioner Roger Gooddell made a surprising announcement on the NFL’s official social media account. He expressed his condolences to the family of George Floyd and then unequivocally stated the NFL stands with its African-American players.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell speaks to the media during a press conference prior to Super Bowl LIV at the Hilton Miami Downtown on January 29, 2020 in Miami, Florida. The San Francisco 49ers will face the Kansas City Chiefs in the 54th playing of the Super Bowl, Sunday February 2nd. (Photo by Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images)

“It has been a difficult time in our country particularly Black people in our country,” Goodell said in the 2-minute plus video. “First, my condolences to the families of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and all the families who have endured police brutality.

“We the National Football League condemn racism and the systematic oppression of Black people,” Goodell continued.

“We, the National Football League, admit we were wrong for not listening to players earlier and encourage all to speak out and peacefully protest. We, the National Football League, believe Black lives matter. I personally protest with you and want to be part of the much-needed change in this country. Without Black players, there would be no National Football League and the protests around the country are emblematic of the centuries of silence, inequality and oppression of Black players, coaches, fans and staff. We are listening, I am listening and I will be reaching out to players who have raised their voices and others on how we can improve for a better and more united NFL family. ”

Well said Roger ✊🏾 https://t.co/IwqNZKGcY0

— Michael Thomas (@Cantguardmike) June 5, 2020

This would appear to be a direct response to the video that was released by a number of NFL players including Mahomes, New Orleans Saints’ wide receiver Micheal Thomas, Cleveland Browns’ Odell Beckham Jr., New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson and others widely viewed as some of the top stars of the future in the league. They asked for the NFL as a league to say exactly what Goodell said in the video.

 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by NFL (@nfl) on Jun 5, 2020 at 2:59pm PDT

 

This also followed the controversial comments of Saints quarterback Drew Brees who equated NFL anthem protests to ‘disrespecting the flag. He was rebuked by his own teammates including Thomas, Cameron Jordan, and Alvin Kamara, who shared an emotional Twitter thread about racial profiling and growing up as the son of an undocumented African mother.

Earlier in the day, President Donald Trump tweeted in support of Brees, once again saying that players should stand for the National anthem.

 

I am a big fan of Drew Brees. I think he’s truly one of the greatest quarterbacks, but he should not have taken back his original stance on honoring our magnificent American Flag. OLD GLORY is to be revered, cherished, and flown high…

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 5, 2020

As could be expected, the response was swift from all corners of the NFL universe after Goodell’s comments.  Many fans suggested that he apologize to Colin Kaepernick who was blackballed from the league due to the anthem protests.

READ MORE: Nessa Diab calls out the NFL for lying that Colin Kaepernick ‘retired’ on new website: ‘Tell them to stop denying him employment’

 

pic.twitter.com/5zZcugXPQa

— RosemarieResists (@Rosemarie4311) June 5, 2020

WE the BLACK PEOPLE, are wondering why y’all didn’t have this energy when Kap was peaceful protesting!! So let Kap back in the league or WE don’t believe you

— (Raquel) KOBE 🖤🐍 (@SOULbeautifulme) June 5, 2020

Dear @NFL pic.twitter.com/LXWTWYr9uK

— Ced® (@cedfunches) June 5, 2020

Sooo y’all bringing @Kaepernick7 back or nah? pic.twitter.com/RdOz5z0Wnz

— Lecrae (@lecrae) June 5, 2020

 

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On patrol with Kenya's locust hunters

Kenya faces a race against time to tackle the swarms as the end of the insects' breeding season clashes with harvests.

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Michael Jordan and the Jordan Brand Make $100 Million Pledge to Social Justice Orgs

Michael Jordan and the Jordan Brand announced Friday a $100 million donation over the next ten years to organizations fighting to end racial inequality. The NBA legend and the Jordan Brand released a joint statement explaining their commitment to helping ensure justice and equality.

“Jordan Brand is us, the Black Community,” reads the statement, which was posted on the Nike News website. “Jordan Brand is more than one man. It has always been a family. We represent a proud family that has overcome obstacles, fought against discrimination in communities worldwide and that works every day to erase the stain of racism and the damage of injustice. The will, the work, the excellence the world has come to know is the result of one generation after another, pouring their dreams into the next.”

Although the statement doesn’t specify which organizations or initiatives will receive funding, Jordan’s spokesperson tweeted that the $100 million will go to “organizations dedicated to ensuring racial equality, social justice, and greater access to education.”

Joint Statement from Michael Jordan & Jordan Brand regarding $100m donation. pic.twitter.com/yYXWh5eBZl

— Estee Portnoy (@esteep) June 5, 2020

Earlier this week, Jordan, who notoriously remained silent on political and social justice issues throughout his NBA career, released a statement in response to the death of George Floyd. “I am deeply saddened, truly pained and plain angry,” read Jordan’s statement about Floyd, who died by the hands of Minneapolis police officers last week. The incident was recorded on video and sparked a wave of protests and riots across the calling for a stop to police brutality. “I see and feel everyone’s pain, outrage and frustration. I stand with those who are calling out the ingrained racism and violence toward people in our country. We have had enough.”

Jordan’s donation comes the same day that Washington D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser commissioned city employees to paint a giant “Black Lives Matter” sign on 16th Street in Washington, D.C., which leads to the White House. That particular section of 16th Street was also renamed “Black Lives Matter Plaza.”

 

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Police looking for cyclist who attacked teens posting George Floyd posters

Maryland police are looking for a cyclist captured on video assaulting a teen girl as she posted flyers in support of the demonstrations over the death of George Floyd. 

The Maryland-National Capital Park Police have now turned to the public for assistance identifying the aggressive white male who confronted the trio along the Capital Crescent Trail in Montgomery County on June 1.

READ MORE: Klobuchar draws ire of social media for appearance at George Floyd’s memorial

In footage that has gone viral, the cyclist maniacally approaches the girl.

The person filming the confrontation is heard shouting, “Hey, leave her alone,” before he films the cyclist snatching the flyers from the girl. The flyers that infuriated the wanted man, according to ABC News, said “Killer Cops Will Not Go Free.”

As noted by The Hill, the flyers also read “A MAN WAS LYNCHED BY THE POLICE. WHAT ARE YOU DOING ABOUT IT? Text “Floyd” to 55156 Use your privilege for good.”

 

A different female voice is also heard off-camera shouting, “Do not touch her.” However, the man ignores those warnings. He rages toward the child who stands petrified as he forcefully takes the flyers from her as while the two others plead for him “to just walk away.”

This only triggers the man more. The unnamed man charges after the teen who is filming.

The teen told NBCWashington, “He sees me recording him and sees the fact that I recorded him as he was doing that, and he grabs his bike and he runs it into me and pins me to the ground.”

The teen claims the cyclist cursed them out and accused them of inciting riots as protests continue to rage on across the nation over the killing of Floyd. 

“I’ve been putting up signs in my neighborhood and neighborhoods around mine to bring attention to the fact that a lot of these neighborhoods are in a position of huge privilege and can make a big difference in terms of both monetary donations and resources to fight against injustice,” the teen who took the video told NBC News. 

READ MORE: Trailer drives through peaceful protesters on Minneapolis interstate

Park Police tweeted Tuesday “We are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the below individual in reference to an assault that took place this morning on the Capital Creacent (sic.) trail.”

We are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the below individual in reference to an assault that took place this morning on the Capital Creacent trail. Please contact Det. Lopez at 301-929-2774 with any information. Pease reference case number 20001297. pic.twitter.com/EtC9Q0xBOp

— Park Police MC (@ParkPolice) June 2, 2020

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