CNN is taking heat for its national title game headline and photo. Credit: X
Whitewashing Black excellence
Let me be clear: Iowa State women’s basketball player Caitlin Clark deserves ALL the accolades she’s been getting for an amazing college career….but the way the media treated the ACTUAL winners is a slap in the face to those ladies….and a prime example of the continual whitewashing of Black excellence. CNN was among the many media outlets coming under fire after the Women’s College Basketball championship game when South Carolina defeated Iowa. More than 18.7 million people watched South Carolina win that nail-biting game. So why then was the picture we saw in much of the media, a joyous picture of Caitlin and her Iowa team???? The predominantly Black South Carolina squad’s moment of excellence was eclipsed by whiteness… something we see all too often. CNN did end up changing the pictures after outraged fans called them out. But this is an example of how we are continually pushed to the side. This is Coach Dawn Stanley (who is Black) and her team’s moment. They hadn’t lost one game all year and THAT should’ve been the focus.
Charlamagne Tha God is known for his controversial statements. But his latest comments about DEI has some HBCU leaders speaking up. Credit: Getty
HBCU leaders respond after Charlamagne Tha God calls DEI ‘Garbage’
Charlamagne Tha God has sparked controversy once again by labeling workplace diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts as “garbage” during his guest hosting on “The Daily Show.” His remarks criticize DEI initiatives as well-intentioned but ultimately ineffective, likening them to the Black little mermaid—rejected by racists yet not inherently beneficial. Charlamagne’s skepticism toward DEI stems from concerns about tokenism, reverse discrimination and the failure to produce tangible results in increasing Black representation in positions of power within corporations.
He argues that rather than fostering genuine equity, DEI efforts may fuel resentment and division while providing a shield for openly racist behavior. Charlamagne contends that many companies implement DEI programs for public relations purposes and legal protection rather than a genuine commitment to diversity.
Spelman College President Dr. Helene Gayle highlighted the complexities and challenges inherent in DEI initiatives. Charlamagne’s critique underscores ongoing debates surrounding the efficacy and authenticity of diversity efforts in the workplace.
Donald Trump, left, and Nelson Mandela. Trump is being criticized for insulting remarks about Mandela attributed to him by his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, in a new book. (Jamie Squire/Getty Images, Alexander Joe/AFP via Getty Images)
Donald Trump is no Jesus… or Nelson Mandela
Former President Donald Trump has a penchant for grandiose comparisons, previously likening potential real estate losses to Jesus’ crucifixion. However, his recent comparison of himself to Nelson Mandela proves there is no level of ridiculousness this man won’t reach for. Trump’s Truth Social post vented frustration over a gag order ruling, suggesting potential jail time akin to Mandela’s political incarceration. Mandela endured 27 years in prison fighting for Black Africans’ rights, while Trump faces charges related to concealing payments to Stormy Daniels and election interference (taking away Black people’s right to have their votes counted). Social media users echoed disapproval, one noting Mandela’s resemblance to those denied housing by Trump and his father. Trump’s attempt to align himself with Mandela rings hollow, provoking condemnation for trivializing Mandela’s legacy while facing charges antithetical to Mandela’s struggle for justice. I would say the former president needs to do better… but there’s no such thing.