The Urban League of Union County Celebrates 80th Anniversary Milestone Celebration

(L-R) National Urban League President and CEO Marc Morial, and Crystal A. Orr, President/CEO of the Urban League of Union County, at Urban League of Union County's 80th Anniversary Gala

Since its establishment in 1944, the Urban League of Union County has remained steadfast in its mission to uplift African Americans and other marginalized communities, striving for economic self-reliance, equal opportunities, and social justice. Through its comprehensive programs, the non-profit has empowered countless individuals and families, creating positive change within a community that has done nothing but reinvest into the ULOUC what it has gained from the organization's work.

Recognizing that its impressive legacy would not be possible without the support of key individuals, the Urban League of Union County took advantage of its 80th Anniversary Gala - hosted on October 4, 2024 - to celebrate the collaborators who have helped the organization serve its North Jersey community over the past year. In addition to treating guests to a night of dancing, dining and entertainment, the ULOUC honored and spotlighted individuals who have either gone above and beyond in their support of the organization, or excelled in community-centered work that echoes the ULOUC's mission of "Empowering Communities & Changing Lives."

The ULOUC presented a total of six awards during this year's Anniversary Gala, including the Whitney M. Young Award, which was presented to Clarence Bauknight, Esq. - the organization's longest-serving board member, John Harmon, Sr.- I Am Empowered Award, Harris Freir-Donna Lowe Alexander Urban League Award, A Corporate Partner Award and Community Partner Award will also be presented to Elizabethtown Gas/South Jersey Industries and City of Elizabeth Housing Authority, respectively. This year's celebration featured a passion filled speech by the National Urban League CEO, Marc Morial, reminding guests of the incredible past accomplishments of the branch and its incredibly bright future.  American Water, Kean University, and Elizabethtown Gas/South Jersey Industries served as key sponsors.

"I'm so happy we concluded our 80th anniversary celebrations with such an incredible gala. It was our biggest event yet, with overwhelming support from so many new sponsors and our community. I'm especially grateful that Marc Morial, National Urban League President & CEO, could join us—not only to inspire us with his words of encouragement but also to honor one of our 50-year members with a special pinning ceremony. This gala was truly the perfect culmination of all the work we've been doing at the Urban League of Union County. It also gave us a chance to celebrate our honorees and our former CEO, Ella S. Teal, whose legacy continues to inspire us. Reflecting on this year, I'm so proud of everything we accomplished: hosting our first-ever Legacy Breakfast to honor our elders and guild members, holding our annual meeting, co-sponsoring the Juneteenth Festival, and finally capping it off with this milestone gala. I'm beyond grateful to my board, my team, all the attendees and our sponsors for making this year such a tremendous success." - Crystal Orr, President and CEO of the Urban League of Union County.

In recent years, the ULOUC's key programs have shifted to better address the modern needs of Union County Residents. The organization's current slate of services include Housing Services, offering housing counseling and financial support to prevent evictions and uplift low income households; the Reconnections Program, which aids formerly incarcerated individuals in reintegrating into society with essential support; a Mental Health and Wellness Program addressing the mental health needs of individuals affected by incarceration and the COVID-19 pandemic; the Financial Opportunity Center, providing financial coaching and career development services; multiple Youth Programs, inspiring entrepreneurship and STEM education among young people; Community Engagement and Outreach, strengthening community bonds through events like our College Fair and Juneteenth Festival. "I am truly humbled to witness the profound impact we have made in the lives of thousands of individuals and families throughout the years," said President and CEO Crystal A. Orr in a letter to supporters.

About Urban League of Union County:
The Urban League of Union County (ULUC) is a non-profit community service organization founded in 1944 and incorporated in 1952. We are one of 90 affiliates of the National Urban League. The Urban League supplies information on the minority population, conducts surveys, training programs, secures jobs, motivates youth, and provides essential services in education, housing, health, employment, and advocacy.

Jahnay Bryan Is Missing!

Jahnay Bryan, 23, was reported missing on Oct. 16, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.

Bryan was last seen near the 2000 block of West 8th Street in the L.A.’s Westlake neighborhood.

She is described as a Black female standing 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighing about 125 pounds. She has black hair and brown eyes.

Anyone who may have seen the woman or knows of her whereabouts is urged to call LAPD Detective Avalos at 213-996-1800. The public can also call the LAPD at 1-877-527-3247.

Anonymous tips can be provided to L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at lacrimestoppers.org.

Monique Guillory, a New Orleans native, named Dillard University’s ninth president

Dillard University’s Board of Trustees has named Monique Guillory, a native New Orleanian who has served as interim president for the last seven months, as the ninth president of the 155-year-old historically Black university.

Guillory posted the following letter about her appointment as Dillard's ninth president:

Dear Dillard University Community,

I cannot adequately articulate my gratitude for the outpouring of support and encouragement I have received following yesterday’s announcement from the Board of Trustees to appoint me as the ninth President of Dillard University. Your confidence in my leadership fills me with humility and excitement. I look forward to working with you as we embark on this journey of renewal, undeterred by the formidable challenges which characterize the current higher education landscape. 

Thank you for your steadfast support and dedication to this illustrious institution. Over the past seven months as I served in the interim role, I was inspired by the profound passion so many of you possess for Dillard’s mission, as well as a genuine commitment to the students this institution has served for the past 155 years. I am privileged to have been called to join you in this vital work, and I am eager to channel our shared vision into tangible outcomes for Dillard’s future.

As we stand at this crossroads, I am reminded of the powerful words from Jeremiah 29:11 we have all found solace in during difficult times: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope for the future.” This verse resonates deeply with me as we navigate the uncertainties ahead. It serves as a reminder that we are never alone; and whenever we might be tempted to despair, that crisis comes with divine purpose guiding us toward a hopeful future.

The challenges we face—shifting enrollment trends, financial constraints, and the questionable future of higher education, nationwide—demand more than resilience, but also bravery and boldness. Together, we can seize this moment to innovate, to think beyond conventional boundaries, and work to create an institution that is not only sustainable but also transformative. I believe that the plans we forge together will address our immediate needs while leading us into a future filled with promise and possibility – an exemplar for the world of the critical need for education in times such as these.

I envision a collaborative agenda that invites all voices within our community to play a role in shaping our future. We must engage in open discussions that ignite creativity and inspire new ideas. Let us harness the extraordinary talent and passion present among our faculty, staff, students, trustees, and alumni. Together, we can explore new academic programs and pedagogical approaches, forge meaningful partnerships in our community, and enhance the student experience in ways that resonate with today’s learners.

Our mission as a liberal arts HBCU is more important than ever. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that Dillard University remains a beacon of hope, learning, and opportunity for generations to come. In the days ahead, I am eager to roll up my sleeves alongside each of you. I invite you to join me for our first town hall of the new year on Tuesday, January 28 at 11 a.m. CT in Georges Auditorium, or via livestream. At this time, I will share with the Dillard community more insights into our institutional priorities, plans, and expectations for the future. 

Thank you once again for this remarkable opportunity. I am excited for the journey ahead and look forward to working closely with all of you as we reimagine Dillard. I wish you all a blessed and joyous holiday season. 

 Fair Dillard Forever,

Monique Guillory, Ph.D.

President 

Senate Passes Jackie Robinson Ballpark Commemorative Site Act

On Friday December 20, the U.S. Senate passed the bipartisan, bicameral Jackie Robinson Ballpark National Commemorative Site Act, introduced by Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA). The House version, introduced by Congressmen Mike Waltz (FL-06) and Darren Soto (FL-09), passed the House of Representatives earlier this week. The bill now goes to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.

The Jackie Robinson Ballpark National Commemorative Site Act honors the stadium where Jackie Robinson played his first professional game and broke the color barrier in baseball. Under this legislation, the Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach, Florida, home of the Daytona Tortugas, would be designated as a National Commemorative Site and direct the Secretary of Interior to conduct a feasibility study to give the site the designation of National Historic Landmark. The bill is co-sponsored by the entire Florida House delegation and has the support from both Major and Minor League Baseball.

“Jackie Robinson Ballpark in Daytona Beach has been a landmark in the history of the Civil Rights movement and of Florida,” said Waltz. “On March 17th, 1946, Jackie Robinson changed professional baseball forever when he stepped out onto the field and broke the color barrier in the sport. His courage that day not only redefined the game but also signaled a profound step forward in the fight for civil rights in America. This bill preserves and honors Jackie Robinson’s legacy, the pivotal role he played in Daytona Beach’s history, and the lasting impact he made on America as a whole. I’m deeply thankful for Senator Rubio and Senator Warnock’s leadership on this bill in the Senate, and I call on President Biden to sign it into law.”

HBCU Knoxville College Appoints Dr. Rotesha Harris New President

The Knoxville College Board of Trustees is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Rotesha Harris as the 32nd President of Knoxville College. With a steadfast commitment to education and a proven record of excellence in leadership, Dr. Harris will continue to guide the college in its efforts to regain full accreditation and expand its legacy of academic distinction.

This announcement comes at a pivotal moment in Knoxville College’s history as it prepares to celebrate 150 years of existence. Founded in 1875, Knoxville College has remained a cornerstone of educational empowerment, especially for historically underserved communities.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Harris at the helm during this transformative time,” said Dr. Eric Barnes, Chair of the Knoxville College Board of Trustees. “Her unmatched skill set, dedication to academic excellence, and strong work ethic make her the perfect leader to usher Knoxville College into its next chapter of growth and achievement.”

With nearly two decades of distinguished experience in higher education, Dr. Harris brings a wealth of expertise in administration, accounting, compliance, and audit. Her leadership will enhance Knoxville College’s efforts to expand academic programs, strengthen partnerships, and further its mission of fostering a transformative educational environment.

“I am deeply honored to serve as the 32nd president of Knoxville College,” said Dr. Harris. “As we approach this historic milestone of 150 years, I am committed to ensuring that Knoxville College continues to be a beacon of opportunity and excellence. Together, we will strengthen our foundation and work diligently to regain accreditation, ensuring a vibrant future for generations to come.”

Under Dr. Harris’s leadership, Knoxville College will continue its legacy of creating opportunities for students to excel in academics and beyond while renewing its commitment to delivering a world-class education.

About Knoxville College

Knoxville College, founded in 1875, is East Tennessee’s only historically Black college. For nearly 150 years, it has been a cornerstone of leadership and excellence, dedicated to providing access to quality education and fostering a strong sense of community. Knoxville College remains steadfast in its mission to empower students and shape future leaders.

Janet Damon named 2025 Colorado Teacher of the Year

Janet Damon, a history teacher at DELTA High School in Denver Public Schools, was announced as the 2025 Colorado Teacher of the Year in a ceremony at her school on Oct. 3, 2024. Damon, a graduate of DPS, has been teaching in the district for more than 25 years, serving as a teacher, literacy interventionist, library specialist and trainer, and K-12 librarian. Damon will be Colorado’s National Teacher of the Year competition nominee.

Rep. Jasmine Crockett statement on not attending Trump's inauguration

Rep. Jasmine Crockett made the following statement on not attending Trump's inauguration:

"I don't think that this is a time for celebration. I think that if we had a traditional Republican where there were disagreements, then, yeah, I would most likely be there, I would feel more obligated to be there, especially as a sitting member of Congress. But considering this is also Martin Luther King Day, it just seems like the worst way to spend the day knowing that I would be celebrating someone who really is going to work very hard to tear down the legacy in which literally he lived and died for," Crockett told Axios.

Jackson State wins Celebration Bowl & HBCU National Championship

The Jackson State Tigers have won their first Celebration Bowl in program history and are now HBCU National Champions. The Tigers beat South Carolina State 28-7. The game was a rematch of the 2021 bowl game, Jackson State's 21-point victory was the same point total they lost by to the Bulldogs three years ago (31-10).

The SWAC champions seemed to be in control throughout the contest. Even after a scoreless first quarter due to unnecessary roughness penalty that took away Jackson State's punt return touchdown, the Tigers (12-2) scored 14 points in both the second and fourth quarter. Quarterback Jacobian Morgan threw for 233 yards and two passing touchdowns — both to wide receiver Joanes Fortilien.

Jackson State out-rushed South Carolina State 153-30, putting together 383 total yards of offense to the Bulldogs' 211.

NAACP Condemns Jury Verdict in Trial of Daniel Penny

A jury acquitted Daniel Penny, a white man who killed Jordan Neely, a 30-year old Black man that was experiencing a mental health crisis on the New York City subway before Penny placed him in a chokehold, leading to his tragic death.

NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson released the following statement, condemning the decision, warning of the dangerous precedent it sets:

"The NAACP is deeply disappointed by today's jury decision in the tragic death of Jordan Neely. This case sets a dangerous precedent by embracing vigilantism and disregarding the sanctity of human life. Let's be clear - mental health crises are medical emergencies, not crimes. America has yet again criminalized our community and subverted accountability. We remain resolute in our commitment to ensure that Black Americans receive the mental healthcare they deserve and our humanity is respected under the law."

Shirley Chisholm Honored With Congressional Gold Medal

Vice President Kamala Harris, joined by U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (CA-12) and U.S. Senator Laphonza Butler (D-CA), signs the Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act at the U.S. Capitol, Monday, December 9, 2024, in Washington, D.C.

U.S. Representative Barbara Lee (CA-12) and U.S. Senator Laphonza Butler (D-CA) today celebrated the passage of Lee's bipartisan legislation to honor the life and work of the late Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress in 1968. The Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act would instruct Congress to posthumously bestow Chisholm with a Congressional Gold Medal – the highest award Congress can bestow – in commemoration of her accomplishments, activism, and legacy.

Alongside Congresswoman Lee, the Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act was led in the House by Democratic Leader Jeffries (D-NY-8), Congressmembers Maxine Waters (D-CA-43), Yvette Clarke (D-NY-11), and Byron Donalds (R-FL-19). The Senate companion to the bill was introduced by Senators Laphonza Butler (D-CA) and Raphael Warnock (D-GA).

“The Congressional Gold Medal serves as the nation’s highest expression of gratitude for distinguished service and achievements, and I see no one more deserving than Shirley Chisholm,” said Congresswoman Lee. “It is critical for the next generation of leaders to see the first Black woman elected to Congress get the recognition that she deserves. Congresswoman Chisholm made history as the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress and the first Black woman to run for President of the United States. To Mrs. C, thank you for being unbought and unbossed, for paving the way, and for being a catalyst for change.”

“Shirley Chisholm lived an honorable life of service and was a trailblazer who opened doors for generations of Black women and opened the imagination of what leadership looked like for our entire nation,” said Senator Butler. “Her extraordinary contributions to American history and progress deserve recognition, and today I am proud to stand with my colleagues in both chambers and on both sides of the aisle to have taken this step to celebrate her legacy, ensuring that future generation of leaders never forget her courage, sacrifice, and patriotism.”

During her seven terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, “Fighting Shirley” introduced 50 pieces of legislation and was a champion for racial and gender equity, low-income communities, and the end of the Vietnam War. In 1972, Chisholm became the first woman and Black candidate to seek the nomination for president of the United States from one of the two major political parties. After a lifetime of service, Shirley Chisholm died at the age of 80 in Ormond Beach, Florida, on New Year’s Day 2005.

“Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm broke barriers for Black women, Black Americans, and anyone who refuses to be confined by injustice. As an educator, trailblazing public servant, and presidential candidate, she fought for an inclusive democracy that lives up to our nation’s highest ideals of equity and justice under law,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “I am proud to have passed this bill alongside Senator Butler to honor Chisholm’s legacy with a Congressional Gold Medal, and I will continue working to carry on her fight through my work in the Senate.”

“Shirley Chisholm broke barriers as the first African American woman elected to Congress, paving the way for future generations of women leaders,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “I’m proud I helped pass this bill in the Senate to honor her legacy and continue the fight for representation and opportunity for everyone across the country.”

“Shirley Chisholm was a pioneering figure in American politics, serving as a source of inspiration for millions throughout our country,” said Senator Collins. “I am proud to join this effort to recognize her historic contributions to our nation.”

“Shirley Chisholm was a true champion for a better America. She deserves the Congressional Gold Medal honoring her legacy working for racial and gender equality of opportunity, and reminding us that we can all be catalysts for progress,” said Senator Sinema (I-AZ).

“Shirley Chisholm never wavered in her life’s mission to be ‘a catalyst of change.’ As a Congresswoman and a co-founder of the National Organization for Women and National Political Congress of Black Women – among her other leadership initiatives – she was a major force for progress toward equality, economic empowerment, and justice. She is most deserving of the Congress’ highest honor – the Congressional Gold Medal – and I’m glad we were able to secure this bipartisan recognition to honor her incredible life and service to our nation,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“Shirley Chisholm was a true trailblazer and an inspiration for all Americans,” said Congressman Lawler. “She shattered glass ceilings as the first African American woman to serve in Congress and brought attention to several important causes throughout her decades of service. Few are as worthy of a Congressional Gold Medal as Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm. I was proud to join Congresswoman Lee on this resolution honoring her late mentor, along with many members of my state delegation in recognizing the legacy of a great New Yorker and a truly exceptional American.”

Congresswoman Lee celebrated what would have been Chisholm’s 100th birthday on November 30 in Barbados. Chisholm’s motto, “Unbought and Unbossed,” embodies her unwavering advocacy for women and minorities and continues to inspire a generation of leaders.

After passing the House and Senate with significant bipartisan support, the Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act will head to President Biden’s desk for a signature.

“Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated is proud of have secured the support and to endorse the legislation that will enact the Honorable Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act. The Honorable Shirley Chisholm, trailblazing Congresswoman representing New York's 12th Congressional District and the first Black woman to run for President from a major political party, was a beloved member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated having been initiated at the Brooklyn Alumnae Chapter in 1969,” said Elsie Cooke-Holmes, International President, and Chair, Board of Directors of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. “Her unbossed and unbought spirit guides the Sorority's work in social action today and is truly an inspiration for every person seeking to make an impact throughout our nation. It brings us great pride to see her legacy honored this way, as we celebrate the 100th year of her birth. We sincerely thank Senator Laphonza Butler and Congresswoman Barbara Lee for spearheading this initiative to recognize her through the Congressional Gold Medal.”

“As the Chairman of The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) the Black Press of America, we are proud to support the Shirley Chisholm Gold Medal Bill, a momentous recognition of a trailblazer who shattered barriers and paved the way for countless others,” said Bobby R. Henry Sr., Chairman of the National Newspapers Publishers Association. “This legislation not only honors Shirley Chisholm’s extraordinary legacy but also underscores the continued importance of equity and representation in our nation’s leadership. We applaud the tireless efforts of Senator Laphonza Butler and Representative Barbara Lee in championing this historic initiative, ensuring that Chisholm’s contributions are forever etched in history. NNPA remains committed to amplifying the voices and actions that celebrate and advance the progress of African Americans.”

“The National Urban League commends Senator Butler, Representative Lee, and all supporting members for their leadership in passing the Shirley Chisholm Congressional Gold Medal Act. This legislation stands as a powerful testament to Shirley Chisholm’s trailblazing legacy and unwavering commitment to justice,” said Marc H. Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League. “As the first Black woman in Congress, Shirley Chisholm shattered barriers and inspired generations. The National Urban League is honored to celebrate her indelible contributions and remain steadfast in advancing her vision of an inclusive democracy.”

REV. AL SHARPTON RESPONDS TO VERDICT IN JORDAN NEELY CASE

Rev. Al Sharpton, the Founder and President of the National Action Network (NAN), issued the following statement in response to the verdict in the criminally negligent homicide case against Daniel Penny.

“Today’s verdict in the Jordan Neely case does not change what we have known to be true in our hearts since the very beginning: Jordan Neely’s life was brutally taken away because of unnecessary vigilantism. This kind of behavior was inexcusable 40 years ago when Bernhard Goetz opened fire in a subway car, and it remained the case more than a year ago when Daniel Penny took Jordan’s life. Jordan was in the middle of a mental health crisis, but instead of being offered a helping hand, he got an arm around his neck.

This verdict represents the blatant legalization of civilian vigilantism, sending a dangerous message that citizens can now take matters into their own hands, even if it leads to someone’s death. That is a threat to all of us. We fought this 40 years ago with Goetz, we fought it when Eric Garner was killed, and we will continue to fight it today. When I eulogized Jordan in Harlem last May, I made it clear that his family wasn’t asking for favors – they wanted justice. Jordan’s loved ones were denied justice today.

Throughout this process, NAN stood firmly by Jordan’s family. We covered his funeral expenses, shared stories of his humanity, and stood with his loved ones every day of the trial. Jordan’s uncle was present at NAN’s rally on Saturday. We understand that Jordan’s life mattered.

Today’s acquittal should still serve as a reminder that we cannot fear or ignore those who are struggling but must instead recognize their equal humanity. Jordan, famous for the smiles he brought to people’s faces with his Michael Jackson impersonation, had dreams, passions, and love in his heart too. Our brothers and sisters in crisis deserve our compassion and understanding, not violence. While this verdict may not bring the closure Jordan’s family deserves, his legacy will continue to demand compassion and action from all of us.”

Six Triple Eight: Official Trailer

An army captain (Kerry Washington) leads her historic battalion of all Black female soldiers as they face a mission unlike any other: to restore hope to WWII’s frontlines by delivering over 17 million backlogged letters. Witness their courage and determination in The Six Triple Eight, only on Netflix on December 20, 2024. The movie stars Kerry Washington, Ebony Obsidian, Milauna Jackson, and is directed by Tyler Perry.

Watch the official trailer below.

OneUnited Bank, the Nation's Largest Black-Owned Bank, Named to Inc. Magazine's 2024 Best in Business List in Financial Services

OneUnited Bank, the nation's largest Black owned bank, has been named to Inc.'s 2024 Best in Business list in Financial Services, which recognizes companies that, through exceptional execution, have achieved significant milestones and core business wins, customer expansion, key product launches, increased market share and industry-defining accomplishments, like OneUnited Bank. Companies from a wide range of industries – such as technology, business, finance, health care, and retail – have been recognized for their success and their positive influence on the business world. The full list can be found on Inc.com and in the upcoming winter print edition of Inc. magazine.>

"We are incredibly proud to have been recognized by INC Magazine for our accomplishments in the financial services industry. Every day we witness the transformative power of financial empowerment and the difference it makes in people's lives", states Kevin Cohee, Chairman and CEO, OneUnited Bank. "This drives our passion and commitment to continue our mission"

OneUnited Bank is nationally known for its use of state-of-the-art technology to create unique financial products that serve the needs of low-to-moderate income communities and historically underserved minority populations. At OneUnited, banking isn't just a service, but a technology-driven, personalized experience to help customers make more informed financial decisions. The Bank is renowned for its innovative use of artificial intelligence and data aggregation technology to boost financial literacy, offer payday loan alternatives, improve users' financial health, and bridge nationwide economic and opportunity gaps.

For more than 50 years, OneUnited has been focused on fostering better financial wellness for the communities it serves. This clarity of vision and mission is reflected in its products and services. Its goal is to unite communities to share ideas, technology, and management resources to better meet the banking needs for all.

"For over 40 years, Inc. has been committed to recognizing America's most dynamic businesses and honoring the great work they do. These businesses have had a profound impact on their industries, solving important problems, and shaping the future of business in ways that will have lasting effects," says Inc. editor-in-chief Mike Hofman.

Inc.'s Best in Business Awards are open to companies of all sizes and types, in all industries and locations. Public, private, nonprofit, subsidiary, U.S.-based, and international companies. Inc. editors hand-review every application and select Best in Business honorees that, in each of the award categories, have had an outstanding influence on their communities, their industries, the environment, or society as a whole. 

For more information or to see the complete list, please visit inc.com/best-in-business.

Congressional Black Caucus Elects Executive Committee for the 119th Congress

Chair-elect Yvette D. Clarke

The Congressional Black Caucus held member elections for the CBC Executive Committee for the 119th Congress. The CBC will begin the 119th Congress on January 3, 2025, with 62 members – the largest membership in the caucus’ history.

Here is the CBC Executive Committee Leadership for the 119th Congress:

Rep. Yvette D. Clarke will serve as Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. Rep. Clarke represents New York’s 9th district and currently serves as a senior member on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and the House Committee on Homeland Security.

Rep. Troy A. Carter, Sr., will serve as First Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. Rep. Carter represents Louisiana’s 2nd district and currently serves on the House Homeland Security Committee where he is the Ranking Member of the Emergency Management and Technology Subcommittee. Rep. Carter also serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

Rep. Lucy McBath will serve as Second Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. Rep. McBath represents Georgia’s 7th district and currently serves on the House Judiciary Committee and the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.

Rep. Marilyn Strickland will serve as Secretary of the Congressional Black Caucus. Rep. Strickland represents Washington’s 10th district and currently serves on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, as well as the House Committee on Armed Services.

Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove will serve as Whip of the Congressional Black Caucus. Rep. Kamlager-Dove represents California’s 37th district and currently serves on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and House Committee on Natural Resources.

Chair-elect Yvette D. Clarke made the following statement after being elected:

“I want to thank my peers for electing me to serve as Chair. In my capacity as Chair, I will ensure that our Caucus' goals are accomplished by focusing on voting rights, education, criminal justice reform, women’s rights, healthcare equity, and economic equality. We must be attentive in completing our purpose of addressing and enacting policy to uplift our community and keep our promises. Since its formation in 1971, the CBC has constantly pursued its mission of supporting and enforcing laws that protect and enrich the Black community. The CBC will have a record 62 members in both the United States Senate and the United States House of Representatives during the 119th Congress. And for the first time in history, two Black women will serve together in the Senate—elevating our position in Congress to combat blatant racism and policies intentionally overlooking more diverse and minority communities—proving our diversity is our strength, and our unity is our power,” said Chairwoman Clarke.

“Make no mistake. In this volatile political landscape, the CBC must stand as the resistance to the extremist ideologies of Project 2025 as the consciousness of Congress to advocate and advance the Black diaspora. The authors of Project 2025 will write America’s story for the next four years, and we must be prepared to use every legislative and communicative tool to oppose their agenda. I am committed to working with my colleagues to call out this extremist agenda and fight like hell for a pathway forward."

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries calls for Biden to give more pardons

Washington, DC – Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries released the following statement:

Throughout his life, President Joe Biden has fought to improve the plight of hardworking Americans struggling to live paycheck to paycheck. Many of these people have been aggressively prosecuted and harshly sentenced for nonviolent offenses, often without the benefit of adequate legal representation. Countless lives, families and communities have been adversely impacted, particularly in parts of Appalachia, Urban America and the Heartland.

During his final weeks in office, President Biden should exercise the high level of compassion he has consistently demonstrated throughout his life, including toward his son, and pardon on a case-by-case basis the working-class Americans in the federal prison system whose lives have been ruined by unjustly aggressive prosecutions for nonviolent offenses. This moment calls for liberty and justice for all.

Mildred Crump a Newark political pioneer and icon has died

Mildred Crump, a longtime Newark councilwoman and pioneer for Black women in city politics, has died at age 86.

Crump became the first Black woman elected to Newark City Council in 1994 and the first Black woman named council president in 2006. She served as a Councilwoman from 1994-1998, and again from 2006-2021.

Crump became the first Black braille teacher in Detroit, her hometown, before relocating to the Garden State. She was also a founding member of the New Jersey Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., the National Political Congress for Black Women of Newark, and the Global Women’s Leadership Collaborative of New Jersey, dedicated to women’s issues in Africa.

[SOURCE: NJ.COM]

Thomas Brown named interim head coach of the Chicago Bears

The Bears announced Friday that Matt Eberflus has been relieved of his duties as head coach. Thomas Brown has been elevated to interim head coach.

"This morning, after meeting with [chairman] George [H. McCaskey] and [President and CEO] Kevin [Warren], we informed Matt of our decision to move in a different direction with the leadership of our football team and the head-coaching position," said Bears general manager Ryan Poles. "I thank Matt for his hard work, professionalism and dedication to our organization. We extend our gratitude for his commitment to the Chicago Bears and wish him and his family the best moving forward."

"I support Ryan and the decision that was made this morning. We understand how imperative the head-coaching role is for building and maintaining a championship-caliber team, leading our players and our organization," said Warren. "Our fans have stood by us and persevered through every challenge, and they deserve better results. Our organizational and operational structure is strong, focused, aligned and energized for the future."

Brown has led the Bears offense for each of the last three weeks, a unit that has totaled a league-high 22 third-down conversions and has scored 46 second-half points, third most in the NFL, since Week 11. Brown previously spent three seasons on the staff of the Los Angeles Rams (2020-22), serving in the role of assistant head coach over his final two seasons. In his first season as assistant head coach/running backs (2021), Brown helped lead a Rams unit that collected an NFC West Division title and ended the season with a victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl LVI.

Brown joined the Bears in 2024 as offensive passing game coordinator, one season removed from serving as offensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers (2023), where the 14-year coaching veteran contributed to offensive play-calling efforts. Brown spent the first nine seasons of his coaching tenure at the collegiate level, which included three seasons as offensive coordinator at Miami (Fla.), leading the Hurricanes offense from 2016-18.

The Decatur, Ga., native played collegiately at Georgia, where he finished his career as the fifth-leading rusher in program history, totaling 2,646 career rushing yards, along with 26 total touchdowns.

Yvonne L. Mays makes history as first Black woman to lead NJ National Guard

Colonel Yvonne L. Mays, the Adjutant General of New Jersey was promoted to Brigadier General and is now the first Black woman to lead the NJ National Gaurd. watch the story below.

https://www.africanamericanreports.com/2024/11/yvonne-l-mays-makes-history-as-first.html

Rep. Jahana Hayes receives Thanksgiving bomb threat

An investigation is underway after a reported bomb threat at Representative Jahana Hayes' house on Thanksgiving.

Hayes says she was notified by Wolcott Police Department that they received a threatening email about a pipe bomb being placed in the mailbox of her home around 7:45 a.m.

According to Hayes, no bomb or explosive materials were found.

"I thank law enforcement for their swift attention to this matter, their actions demonstrate there is no place in our country for political violence," Hayes said in a statement.

[SOURCE: NBCCONNECTICUT]

LDF Policy Director Responds to Markup of Dismantle DEI Act

Demetria McCain, Director of Policy at the Legal Defense Fund, shares the following statement in response to the markup of the Dismantle DEI Act:

“The markup of the Dismantle DEI Act is a window into the deceptive tactics and harmful policies some congressional members will deploy next year and beyond. While supporters of this bill argue that they are working toward a colorblind society, the bill is actually a thinly-veiled attempt to turn the federal government into an engine of social and economic segregation–one that will leave Black communities and other communities of color, women, LGBTQ+ communities, and other marginalized and underrepresented groups on the sidelines looking in.”

“True prosperity in America will only come if everyone has a seat at the table. It will not come from denying veterans and people with disabilities the resources needed to start a business or by keeping people in rural communities from accessing reliable internet services. And it surely will not come from keeping talented Black students and professionals out of schools and workplaces. The Dismantle DEI Act would prevent the accurate teaching of history, destroy paid internships and resource groups for workers and students from communities of color, threaten equal pay for women, and weaken the ability of our federal workforce to serve everyone in our increasingly multi-racial society. These are not conditions that will allow the country to compete globally.”

“It’s clear that the incoming administration is ready to roll back civil rights on day one. This distortion of antidiscrimination laws through misinformed bills like the Dismantle DEIA Act makes this evident. It’s going to take all of us to ward off the intensified attacks coming our way in the next few years. We stand ready.”