Barack Obama nominated for first Emmy Award

Former president Barack Obama is now an Emmy nominee.

Obama was nominated for outstanding narrator for the Netflix documentary series "Our Great National Parks." Each episode tells the story of a national park through the lives of its wildest residents while exploring our relationship with the wilderness.

This is the first Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Obama, though the "Yes We Can" music video released as a promotional tool for the Obama campaign in 2008 was honored with the first-ever Daytime Emmy Award for Best New Approaches in Daytime Entertainment. Obama was also featured in the documentary David Attenborough Meets President Obama, which was nominated for a News and Documentary Emmy in 2016, but was not for Obama personally. The former president has won a Grammy with a win in 2008 in the Spoken Word Album category as the narrator of The Audacity of Hope: Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream. He was recently nominated again for a Grammy in the same category for A Promised Land.

Others nominated in the category are Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (Black Patriots: Heroes of the Civil War), David Attenborough (The Mating Game), W. Kamau Bell (We Need to Talk About Cosby) and Lupita Nyong’o (Serengeti II).

Barack Obama reunites with boy from ‘Hair Like Mine’ photo

Former US President Barack Obama has shared his virtual reunion with Jacob Philadelphia, the boy who famously touched his head in the 2009 photo Hair Like Mine. Check out that video below:

Jacob Philadelphia was five years old when he visited the Oval Office and asked if his hair was like mine. That photo became one of our favorites – a reminder of the power of seeing yourself in your leaders.

Today, he's graduating from high school! Check out our recent reunion. pic.twitter.com/gB39hFS3Wp

— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) May 27, 2022

Barack Obama statement on the Buffalo Massacre

Former President Barack Obama released the following statement on the Buffalo massacre in which 10 inncocent Black people were gunned down by an 18-year old white supremacist:

This weekend’s shootings in Buffalo offer a tragic reminder of the price we pay for refusing to curb the easy access to guns. It should also serve as a wakeup call for all Americans of goodwill, regardless of party.

We need to repudiate in the strongest terms the politicians and media figures who — whether for political gain or to boost ratings — have used their platforms to promote and normalize “replacement theory” and other starkly racist, anti-Semitic, and nativist conspiracy theories.

It’s despicable, it’s dangerous — and it needs to stop.

Barack Obama statement on the confirmation of Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court

Former President Barack Obama released the following statement after the confirmation of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court:

Congratulations to Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson for her appointment to the Supreme Court. This is a great day for America, and a proud moment in our history.

Lawsuit to block Obama Presidential Center tossed out

A federal judge has dismissed the latest attempt to block construction of the Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park.

Protect Our Parks filed a second lawsuit last year attempting to stop the presidential center from being built in historic Jackson Park, arguing the years-long federal review of the project's environmental impact on the site was flawed.

They also argued that state and federal regulators should have considered sites other than Jackson Park, which they argued would have been "much less harmful to protected resources."

But U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey on Tuesday ruled the city "did not abdicate control or ownership" of the Obama Center site, and that presidential centers provide clear public benefits, including "furthering human knowledge and understanding, educating and inspiring the public, and expanding recreational and cultural resources and opportunities."

Construction of the Obama Presidential Center began last summer, and is expected to be completed in 2025.

The Obama Foundation has estimated the center will cost approximately $500 million. Once it is built, the city would own the campus, but the center would pay to maintain it. The Obama Presidential Center will be privately funded, and the foundation will pay the city $10 to lease the land for 99 years.

The center will include a 235-foot stone tower housing the site's museum; a Chicago Public Library branch; a multipurpose space on top of the museum, a program, activity, and athletic center for community programs and events; a Great Lawn for social gatherings, barbecues, a nature center; and new walking and biking trails; a children's play area; and a fruit and vegetable garden and teaching kitchen.

The center will not include a formal presidential library operated by the National Archives and Records Administration. Rather, Obama's collection of presidential documents and artifacts will be stored in existing NARA facilities, and non-classified documents will be available online.

[SOURCE: CBS NEWS]

President Obama Statement on Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson nomination to the Supreme Court

Former President Obama released the following statement on Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson's nomination to the Supreme Court:

I want to congratulate Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson on her nomination to the Supreme Court. Judge Jackson has already inspired young Black women like my daughters to set their sights higher, and her confirmation will help them believe they can be anything they want to be.

As a protégé of Justice Breyer, Judge Jackson earned a reputation for pragmatism and consensus building. It’s part of why I nominated her twice – first as a district judge, and then to the U.S. Sentencing Commission, where she earned praise from both Democrats and Republicans.

Like Justice Breyer, Judge Jackson understands that the law isn’t just about abstract theory. It’s about people’s lives. @POTUS Biden has made an excellent choice, and I look forward to seeing Judge Jackson confirmed.

Barack Obama statement on passing of legendary actor Sidney Poitier

Former U.S. President, Barack Obama released the following statement on the passing of the legendary and Oscar winning actor, Sidney Poiter at the age of 94:

"Through his groundbreaking roles and singular talent, Sidney Poitier epitomized dignity and grace, revealing the power of movies to bring us closer together. He also opened doors for a generation of actors. Michelle and I send our love to his family and legion of fans."

Barack Obama statement on January 6 anniversary of attempted insurrection

Former U.S. President, Barack Obama released the following statement on the 1-year anniversay of the January 6 attempted insurrection:

One year ago, a violent attack on our Capitol made it clear just how fragile the American experiment in democracy really is. And while the broken windows have been repaired and many of the rioters have been brought to justice, the truth is that our democracy is at greater risk today than it was back then.

Although initially rejected by many Republicans, the claims that fanned the flames of violence on January 6th have since been embraced by a sizeable portion of voters and elected officials – many of whom know better. State legislatures across the country have not only made it harder to vote, but some have tried to assert power over core election processes including the ability to certify election results. And those remaining Republican officials and thought leaders who have courageously stood their ground and rejected such anti-democratic efforts have been ostracized, primaried, and driven from the party.

Historically, Americans have been defenders of democracy and freedom around the world – especially when it’s under attack. But we can’t serve that role when leading figures in one of our two major political parties are actively undermining democracy at home. We can’t set an example when our own leaders are willing to fabricate lies and cast doubt on the results of free and fair elections.

Our system of government has never been automatic. If we want our children to grow up in a true democracy – not just one with elections, but one where every voice matters and every vote counts – we need to nurture and protect it. Today, that responsibility falls to all of us. And on this anniversary, nothing is more important.

Barack Obama New Years Message

Former United States President, Barack Obama released the following New Years message via Twitter:

I’m hopeful about 2022. This year will undoubtedly have its challenges, just like 2021 did. But we’ve made it this far—and I still believe we can build a brighter future together. Happy New Year!

Barack Obama statement on the passing of Desmond Tutu

Former United States President, Barack Obama released the following statement via Twitter on the Passing of Archbishop Desmond Tutu:

Archbishop Desmond Tutu was a mentor, a friend, and a moral compass for me and so many others. A universal spirit, Archbishop Tutu was grounded in the struggle for liberation and justice in his own country, but also concerned with injustice everywhere.

He never lost his impish sense of humor and willingness to find humanity in his adversaries, and Michelle and I will miss him dearly.

Obamas announce groundbreaking for the Obama Presidential Center

Barack and Michelle Obama announced that the groundbreaking ceremony for his long-awaited presidential library will be held on Tuesday in Chicago.

We've got big news!

Our virtual groundbreaking festivities for the Obama Presidential Center will take place on Monday, Sept. 27 and Tuesday, Sept. 28.

Watch a special message from @BarackObama and @MichelleObama now. pic.twitter.com/yJ6M4DLL2A

— The Obama Foundation (@ObamaFoundation) September 24, 2021

Barack Obama makes campaign ad in support of Newsom ahead of California recall

Former President Obama is appearing in a TV ad backing California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) as part of his campaign's final efforts to boost Democratic turnout in next Tuesday's recall election.

Watch that ad below:

Here it is: the ad Obama just cut for the Gavin Newsom anti-recall campaign. Focuses on covid, specifically vaccines mandates, and hits Elder for being close to Trump.

"Protect California by voting NO on the Republican Recall." pic.twitter.com/OsCc2YGIHr

— Jacob Rubashkin (@JacobRubashkin) September 8, 2021

Obama: In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union to air Aug 3 at 9:00PM ET on HBO and HBO MAX

Directed by Emmy-winner Peter Kunhardt, Obama: In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union is a three-part documentary series chronicling the personal and political journey of President Barack Obama as the country grapples with its racial history. Weaving together conversations with colleagues, friends, and critics, and interspersed with his own speeches and news interviews, the series begins with Obama’s childhood and takes us through his perspective as the son of a white mother from Kansas and an African father, his spiritual formation informed by a generation of Black leaders, and his hopes for a more inclusive America.

The documentary series forms a cohesive picture of America under its first Black president. Obama’s presidency was unique in America’s history, but what was a historic step forward for the country also exposed the ever-present need to address issues about race, racial justice and the country’s history. Encapsulating both the man and the president, the documentary highlights the vision he had for the nation shaped by his own experiences and identity. Through today’s lens, the series reflects on the Obama administration with new understanding about the personal obstacles he faced and the challenging pursuit for equality in America.

series provides context, insight and critique from a vast number of insiders including: author Jelani Cobb; Representative John Lewis; political consultant David Axelrod; Rev. Alvin Love; author Michael Eric Dyson; journalist Laura Washington; Rev. Jeremiah Wright; journalist Michele Norris; New Yorker editor David Remnick; Rev. Al Sharpton; professor Cornel West; politician Jesse Jackson; author Ta-Nehisi Coates; NAACP’s Sherrilyn Ifill; political advisor Valerie Jarrett; professor Henry Louis Gates Jr.; actor Keegan-Michael Key; former government official Shirley Sherrod; journalist David Maraniss; professor Ken Mack; speechwriter Jon Favreau; advisor Broderick Johnson; and Representative Bobby Rush.

Obama: In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union is directed by Peter Kunhardt; produced by George Kunhardt, Teddy Kunhardt, Matthew O. Henderson; edited and produced by Maya Mumma, ACE; executive producers are Peter Kunhardt; Andi Bernstein and Mona Sutphen; Jelani Cobb and Jacqueline Glover.

The series is rated TV-14 and will air Tuesday August 3 at 9:00PM ET on HBO and HBO MAX. It will be available on demand August 14.

WATCH THE TRAILER BELOW

Trailer

Former President Barack Obama joins NBA Africa as strategic partner

The National Basketball Association (NBA) today announced that former President Barack Obama has joined NBA Africa as a strategic partner.

President Obama will help advance the league’s social responsibility efforts across the continent, including programs and partnerships that support greater gender equality and economic inclusion.  In this capacity, President Obama will have a minority equity stake in the new venture, which over time he intends to use to fund Obama Foundation youth and leadership programs across Africa.

NBA Africa conducts the league’s business in Africa, including the Basketball Africa League (BAL), which held its inaugural season in May featuring 12 of the top club teams from 12 African countries.  NBA Africa is focused on expanding the NBA’s presence in priority African markets, deepening the league’s engagement with players and fans across the continent, and continuing to grow Africa’s basketball ecosystem through programs like the Jr. NBA, Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Africa and NBA Academy Africa.  In addition, NBA Africa has launched several social responsibility initiatives aimed at raising awareness of gender-based violence, supporting girls’ education, and improving the livelihoods of African youth and families.

“The NBA has always been a great ambassador for the United States—using the game to create deeper connections around the world, and in Africa, basketball has the power to promote opportunity, wellness, equality, and empowerment across the continent,” said President Barack Obama.  “By investing in communities, promoting gender equality, and cultivating the love of the game of basketball, I believe that NBA Africa can make a difference for so many of Africa’s young people.  I’ve been impressed by the league’s commitment to Africa, including the leadership shown by so many African players who want to give back to their own countries and communities.  That’s why I’m proud to join the team at NBA Africa and look forward to a partnership that benefits the youth of so many countries.”

“We are honored that President Obama has become a strategic partner in NBA Africa and will support our wide-ranging efforts to grow the game of basketball on the continent,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.  “In addition to his well-documented love for basketball, President Obama has a firm belief in Africa’s potential and the enormous growth opportunities that exist through sports.  NBA Africa will benefit tremendously from his engagement.”

“We have ambitious growth plans for NBA Africa and having President Obama join our efforts is a recognition that through sport, Africa can take its rightful place on the world stage,” said NBA Africa CEO Victor Williams.  “We look forward to working with President Obama and our strategic investors to use basketball as an economic growth engine across the continent and as a platform to improve the health and wellness of one of the world’s youngest and fastest-growing populations.”

Strategic investors in NBA Africa include a consortium led by Babatunde “Tunde” Folawiyo, Chairman and CEO of Yinka Folawiyo Group, and Helios Fairfax Partners Corporation (HFP), led by Co-CEO Tope Lawani.  Additional investors in NBA Africa include NBA Legends Junior Bridgeman, Luol Deng (South Sudan), Grant Hill, Ian Mahinmi (France; ties to Benin), Dikembe Mutombo (Democratic Republic of the Congo) and Joakim Noah (ties to Cameroon).

The NBA has a decades-long history in Africa and opened its African headquarters in Johannesburg in 2010.  Since then, the league’s efforts on the continent have focused on increasing access to basketball and the NBA through social responsibility, grassroots and elite development, media distribution, corporate partnerships, NBA Africa Games, the launch of the BAL, and more.

The inaugural BAL season was broadcast to fans in 215 countries and territories in 15 languages.  On Sunday, May 30, Zamalek (Egypt) defeated US Monastir (Tunisia) 76-63 to win the first BAL Championship.  Fans can follow @NBA_Africa and @theBAL on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

Obama commends MLB for pulling All-Star Game from Georgia

Via Twitter Former President Obama commended MLB for pulling its All-Star Game from Georgia in protest of the state’s new voting restrictions.

Congratulations to @MLB for taking a stand on behalf of voting rights for all citizens. There’s no better way for America’s pastime to honor the great Hank Aaron, who always led by example.

— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) April 3, 2021

Maryland bill would rename local highway to 'President Barack Obama Highway'

State senators in Maryland recently introduced legislation that seeks to rename Indian Head Highway after former President Obama.

Senate Bill 213, introduced by Democratic state Sens. Arthur Ellis and Obie Patterson, would require the Maryland State Highway Administration to designate the highway, also known by some as Maryland Route 210, as “the President Barack Obama Highway.”

The change would cost roughly $12,500 to cover the costs for the design, construction and installation of the signs for the highway, which runs through parts of Maryland and Washington, D.C., a fiscal and policy note shows.

If passed, the legislation would take effect on at the start of October.

[SOURCE: THE HILL]

Barack Obama discusses African American Doubt About the COVID-19 Vaccine

During an interview with SiriusXM's View Channel with Joe Madison host of The Joe Madison Show, former President Barack Obama discussed the doubt about any Covid-19 vaccine in the African American community. Obama also stated that he trusted Dr. Anthony Fauci and would take any vaccine that Fauci said was safe.

Listen to that segment of the interview below:

Barack Obama speaks out on politics, life in the White House, and Donald Trump

In his first television interview since the election of Joe Biden as the 46th President, former President Barack Obama sits down with "CBS This Morning" co-host Gayle King to discuss the first volume of his memoirs, "A Promised Land." He talks about the enormous opposition he experienced as he entered the White House; the impact of his political career on his family; and why he campaigned for his former vice president – and spoke out so vociferously against his successor, President Donald Trump.

Full Speech: Former President Obama Campaigns in Philadelphia for Joe Biden

Former President Barack Obama blasted President Donald Trump’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic, his response to racial unrest and his fundamental unfitness for the job in his first in-person campaign pitch Wednesday for Joe Biden, his former vice president.

Watch his full speech below:

Barack Obama congratulates the Lakers and Seattle Storm on their championships and social justice work

On Sunday Brack Obama took to Twitter to congratulate the Los Angeles Lakers and the Seattle Storm on their championships and praised the NBA and WNBA for their work fighting for racial justice during the season.

The former United States President tweeted:

Congrats to the @Lakers and @Seattlestorm on their championship wins! Proud of all the NBA and WNBA teams and players who've been using their platforms to take a stand for racial justice and encourage civic participation this season.