Rep. Shomari Figures, Alma Adams Introduces Legislation to Protect Federal Funding for Land-Grant Institutions

Reps. Shomari C. Figures (AL-02) and Alma Adams, PhD (NC-12) introduced the Land-Grant Institution Parity Act, a bill to protect federal funding for land-grant colleges and universities, including the 19 historically Black 1890 land-grant institutions. 

“Earlier this year, the Trump Administration suspended funding for historically Black land-grant colleges, but did not pause the same funding for the predominately white land-grant institutions,” said Rep. Figures. “That is simply wrong, and that decision sent a clear message about the vulnerability of programs designed to uplift underserved communities. Under this bill, funding for land-grant institutions will be treated equally and funds cannot be paused, cut, or eliminated without congressional approval. I’m committed to protecting our HBCUs and the students that they serve.”

“The Land-Grant Institution Parity Act is an important step to protect funding for our land-grant HBCUs and build equity in higher education,” said Congresswoman Adams. “1890s schools have always punched above their weight and provided outsized benefits to their students, their research, and their communities. They know how to do more with less, but they shouldn’t have to. It’s time we ensure these institutions of excellence always receive the funding they deserve.”

Under this legislation, federal officials are prohibited from reducing, eliminating, or suspending funding for 1890 land-grant institutions without explicit authorization from Congress. The 1890 National Scholars Program, established in 1992, is a scholarship program for students attending historically Black colleges and universities studying agriculture, food, or natural resource sciences. This bill aims to ensure long-term stability and equity for HBCUs and other land-grant institutions that serve underserved communities.

The original cosponsors for this bill include Reps. Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Valerie Foushee (NC-04), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Glenn Ivey (MD-04), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Cleo Fields (LA-04), David Scott (GA-13), and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37).

OneUnited Bank Announces 15th Annual "I Got Bank" Contest for Youth

OneUnited Bank, an award-winning Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and America's largest Black-owned bank, is proud to announce its 15th Annual "I Got Bank!" National Financial Literacy Contest, where ten children will win a $1,000 savings account. To make financial literacy a core value for children, the Bank is offering a free "I Got Bank" E-Book.

Children between the ages of 8 and 12 are encouraged to read a financial literacy book of their choosing, and either write a 250-word essay or create an art project to show how they would apply what they learned from the book to their daily lives. Submissions must be emailed or postmarked by June 30, 2025. The Bank will choose ten winners and award each winner a $1,000 savings account at OneUnited Bank by August 31, 2025. For more information, please visit: www.oneunited.com/book.

Teri Williams, OneUnited Bank President and author of "I Got Bank! What My Granddad Taught Me About Money", wrote the book when she discovered that there weren't enough books geared toward educating urban youth about finances. "We did a survey of previous I Got Bank participants and found that 100% of them found the experience valuable to extremely valuable and 100% stated the experience increased their financial awareness," states Williams. "We want to thank the parents and schools for encouraging their children and students to participate in the contest. We continue to advocate for financial literacy to be taught in K-12 schools across America!"

The 2024 winners are Alana Williams, 10, Charlotte, NC, Dylan Prakash, 11, Duarte, CA, Malia Spurlin, 12, Cerritos, CA, Zora Rae Darby, 11, Baldwin, NY, Serenity Earth, 12, Burlington, NJ, Carter M. Lang, 8, Los Angeles, CA, Laila Zellers, 10, Los Angeles, CA, Grant Booker, 11, Gardenia, CA, McKinley Sabrina Murphy, 10, Baldwin, NY, Kali Baker, 10, Hawthorne, CA.

"I Got Bank! What My Granddad Taught Me About Money" is published by The Beckham Publications Group, Inc. (Beckham House). For more information about the official contest rules, please visit: www.oneunited.com/book.

Carnegie Mellon University Professor Edda L. Fields-Black wins 2025 Pulitzer Prize in History

Carnegie Mellon University Professor Edda L. Fields-Black on has won a 2025 Pulitzer Prize in History for her book “Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom During the Civil War.”

Fields-Black is a professor of history and director of The Humanities Center at CMU’s Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences.

The Pulitzer judges named two books as winners in the History category this year. The other winner is “Native Nations: A Millennium in North America” by Kathleen DuVal, a professor of history at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

“Combee” was published in 2024 by Oxford University Press. The publisher describes the book as “the story of the Combahee River Raid, one of Harriet Tubman’s most extraordinary accomplishments, based on original documents and written by a descendant of one of the participants.”

The Combahee River Raid was an operation in the Civil War. “On June 2, 1863, Tubman and her crew piloted two regiments of Black U.S. Army soldiers, the Second South Carolina Volunteers, and their white commanders up coastal South Carolina’s Combahee River in three gunboats. In a matter of hours, they torched eight rice plantations and liberated 730 people,” the text from the publisher reads, noting that Fields-Black’s book focuses on an aspect of Tubman’s life that doesn’t get much attention: “During the Civil War, hired by the Union Army, she ventured into the heart of slave territory — Beaufort, South Carolina — to live, work, and gather intelligence.”

The Combahee River Raid was meant “to attack the major plantations of Rice Country, the breadbasket of the Confederacy.”

Fields-Black has made her academic career at CMU, joining the university in 2001 after completing her Ph.D. at the University of Pennsylvania. She became a full professor in the Department of History in 2024, assuming the leadership of the Dietrich College Humanities Center at the same time.

Check out COMBEE: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom during the Civil War here: https://amzn.to/4iMX30Y

Invesco QQQ Named Title Partner of the Orange Blossom Classic

The Orange Blossom Classic Committee proudly announces that Invesco QQQ has signed on as the Title Partner in a new multi-year agreement, ushering in a dynamic new era under the name Invesco QQQ Orange Blossom Classic.

This partnership marks more than just a naming rights milestone—it represents a shared commitment to innovation, empowerment, and financial education. As part of the agreement, Invesco QQQ will also serve as the exclusive partner in the asset, wealth, and investment management products and services category, strengthening its position as a national leader in financial empowerment and collegiate engagement.

"The Orange Blossom Classic is more than a football game—it's a celebration of education, culture, and community impact," said Kendra Bulluck, Executive Director of the Orange Blossom Classic. "We're proud to partner with Invesco QQQ to bring these values to life through meaningful programming that equips students and student-athletes for success on and off the field. Together, we're building a legacy that's rooted in empowerment, access, and long-term growth."

A leading investment management firm, Invesco is dedicated to delivering value and long-term positive outcomes for clients through a broad range of investment strategies and a culture of innovation. As the official ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) of the NCAA, Invesco's presence within college athletics continues to grow. Through this expanded relationship with the Orange Blossom Classic, Invesco deepens its commitment to students and student-athletes of all backgrounds by promoting investment education and championing financial independence.

Beyond the football field, Invesco QQQ will also serve as the title partner of two cornerstone OBC professional development programs that empower the next generation of leaders. Through the Professional Business Combine, participants will engage in immersive sessions with top business executives and industry leaders focused on financial planning, innovation, and market insights.

In addition, Invesco QQQ will be the title partner of the Careers in Sports & Entertainment Symposium, a marquee experience designed to expose students and early-career professionals to the business side of the sports and entertainment industries—including marketing, management, media, and operations—through networking, mentorship, and career exploration.

Now entering its fifth year since re-establishment, the Invesco QQQ Orange Blossom Classic continues to serve as a premier HBCU football and cultural celebration. The 2025 edition will feature Howard University and Florida A&M University, two of the most storied institutions in HBCU history, as they face off at Hard Rock Stadium on Saturday, August 30, 2025, during Labor Day Weekend. Official ancillary events begin on Tuesday, August 26.

For details on tickets, hotels, and official events, visit The Orange Blossom Classic | Orange Blossom Classic Returns | Purchase Tickets Today. You can also connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter at @OrangeBlossomFC.

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center announces 2025 International Freedom Conductor Awards

This spring, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center will bestow its highest honor to modern-day freedom heroes and equity advocates during their International Freedom Conductor Awards program, presented by Procter & Gamble. The program coincides with the Freedom Center’s 30th anniversary and will be a celebration of three decades of social justice education, advocacy and heroes who are leading the fight for justice today.

The Freedom Center’s International Freedom Conductor Awards will be presented during the honors program May 24 at the Aronoff Center. The program will feature live music performances and reflections from award honorees. Limited seats will be available, but the honors program will be taped live and rebroadcast nationally.

The International Freedom Conductor Award is the Freedom Center’s highest honor, awarded to recognize the contributions of contemporary individuals who, by their actions and personal examples, reflect the spirit and courageous actions of conductors on the historic Underground Railroad, the nation’s original social justice movement. Award recipients reflect positive impact on contemporary freedom issues and inspire others to act.

“Freedom calls to each of us. For generations, individuals have answered the call, risking their lives to light the way for the oppressed and the unfree. But as freedom conductors persist, so, too, do old systems and hardened hearts rise to challenge them,” said Woodrow Keown, Jr., president and COO of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. “Our International Freedom Conductors remind us that we are all worthy of being torchbearers and we must all answer the call to lead through the darkness, moving ever closer to the brilliant light of freedom.”

The 2025 International Freedom Conductor Award will be presented to:

Opal Lee, the Grandmother of Juneteenth

Opal Lee campaigned for decades to make Juneteenth a federal holiday – the date news reached Galveston, Texas that the Civil War was over and enslaved African Americans were now free on June 19, 1865. Each year, she walked 2.5 miles, representing the 2.5 years it took for news of the Emancipation Proclamation to reach Texas. At the age of 89, she conducted a symbolic five-month walk from Fort Worth to Washington, DC. Largely through her efforts, Juneteenth was recognized as a federal holiday in 2021. She was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden in 2024 and was a Nobel Peace Prize nominee in 2022. She is just the second African American to have her portrait hung in the Texas State Senate.

Lonnie G. Bunch III – First African American Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution
Lonnie G. Bunch III is the 14th Secretary of the Smithsonian, a position that oversees 21 museums, 21 libraries, the National Zoo, numerous research centers and several education units and centers. Previously, Bunch was the founding director of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture. When he started as director in 2005, he had one staff member, no collections, no funding and no site for a museum. Driven by optimism, determination and a commitment to build “a place that would make America better,” Bunch transformed a vision into a bold reality. The museum has welcomed more than 11 million visitors since it opened in September 2016 and has compiled a collection of 40,000 objects that are housed in the first “green building” on the National Mall. In 2019, the creation of the museum became the first Smithsonian effort to be the topic of a Harvard Business Review case study.

Toni Morrison*, Pulitzer Prize- and Nobel Prize-winning author of Beloved
Toni Morrison was one of the most celebrated authors in the world. In addition to writing plays and children’s books, her novels earned her countless prestigious awards including the Pulitzer Prize and the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama. As the first African American woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, Morrison’s work has inspired a generation of writers to follow in her footsteps. Her award-winning novel Beloved is inspired by the true story of Margaret Garner who, after escaping enslavement in Northern Kentucky, crossed the Ohio River in Cincinnati with her young children. Pursued by slave catchers, Garner killed one of her children before capture, an act of love to spare her child from enslavement, a fate worse than death.

Isabel Wilkerson – Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and best-selling author
Isabel Wilkerson, the winner of the Pulitzer Prize and the National Humanities Medal, has become a leading figure in narrative nonfiction, an interpreter of the human condition and an impassioned voice for demonstrating how history can help us understand ourselves, our country and our current era of upheaval. Through her writing, Wilkerson brings the invisible and the marginalized into the light and into our hearts. Through her lectures, she explores with authority the need to reconcile America’s karmic inheritance and the origins of both our divisions and our shared commonality. Her debut work, The Warmth of Other Suns, won multiple awards including the National Book Critics Circle Award and the Lynton History Prize from Harvard and Columbia universities.

 

*Awarded posthumously.

 

The 2025 honorees will join a legacy of International Freedom Conductors that includes:

• Rosa Parks, 1998
• Archbishop Desmond Tutu, 2000
• Dorothy Height and the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Center for Human Rights, 2003
• President George H.W. Bush, 2007
• President Bill Clinton, 2007
• His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama, 2010
• Fred Shuttlesworth, 2013
• Nicholas Kristof, 2013
• Lech Walesa, 2014
• Nelson Mandela, 2014
• Nathaniel R. Jones, 2016
• Amal Clooney, 2021
• George Clooney, 2021
• Congressman John Lewis, 2021
• Bryan Stevenson, 2021

Tickets for the 2025 International Freedom Conductor Awards will go on sale April 11. For more information visit freedomcenter.org/ifca25.

National Bar Association President Issues Statement Condemning Trump Administration’s Attempt to Erase Black History

Wiley S. Adams, President of the National Bar Association, issued a firm and unequivocal statement condemning the Trump administration’s directive to remove pivotal artifacts from the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

“The National Bar Association is outraged and deeply disturbed by Trump Administration’s attempt to erase Black History. This decision is more than a bureaucratic act—it is a deliberate assault on truth, history, and the dignity of Black Americans,” said Adams. “We are deeply disturbed by the effort to strip from public view the very items that chronicle our nation’s long, painful, and triumphant journey toward justice.”

Adams underscored that museums are not political tools, but spaces of collective learning and remembrance.

“The African American Museum preserves artifacts that bear witness to generations of struggle and progress. Removing them is an attempt to silence the voices of those who fought to shape this country.”

He further emphasized the connection between this act and a broader erosion of democratic values.

“At a moment when the rule of law, free expression, and institutional independence are under attack, this move represents yet another effort to marginalize Black Americans and distort the narrative of who we are as a nation.”

President Adams reiterated that The NBA stands in full solidarity with the Smithsonian, its curators, and all Americans who recognize the urgent need to protect historical truth.

“We call on the public to demand the immediate restoration of these cultural artifacts. The full story of America must be preserved—not selectively edited.”

Adams closed with a powerful affirmation:

“History cannot be hidden. The legacy of Black Americans cannot be erased, and we will not stand idle as our stories, struggles, and triumphs are pushed into the shadows.”

Bishop T.D. Jakes Announces Plan to Install Touré Roberts and Sarah Jakes Roberts as Next Senior Pastors of The Potter's House

In a deeply symbolic Sunday announcement, Bishop T.D. Jakes—globally recognized faith leader, cultural influencer and founder of The Potter's House—unveiled his plans to appoint Pastors Touré Roberts and Sarah Jakes Roberts as senior pastors of the Dallas-based megachurch. This milestone moment signifies a sacred generational handoff within one of the world's most influential churches, while affirming Bishop Jakes' commitment to evolving ministry leadership for the future. Their appointment will happen later in 2025.

"For nearly 50 years, I've had the honor of connecting with and serving the local and global community as a pastor, global faith leader and unwavering truth teller," Jakes said. "As I enter my 50th year in the public spotlight, I recognize the urgent need to address more challenges of our time, particularly the looming threat of a disappearing middle class, social unrest and closing opportunity gaps. This pivotal moment calls me to focus on a legacy of economic empowerment, serving as a bridge between community, culture, and corporate alliances to help position our nation for a stronger future. Elevating Pastor Touré and Pastor Sarah as the new senior pastors of The Potter's House, we will honor our rich history while embracing a future that demands innovative, ministry for the coming age. This elevation is not a departure but a rebirth. I will never stop preaching and will continue to minister. This moment isn't an ending, it's an expansion. We are not only passing a mantle we are multiplying impact. Leadership is not static, it is dynamic. It demands the courage to evolve."

Bishop Jakes and Pastor Touré and Pastor Sarah released a public letter available here, expressing the spiritual and strategic thought behind the transition.

Sunday's announcement follows a season of profound transition for Jakes, including a widely publicized health emergency he suffered in November 2024, which he spoke about in detail during an exclusive on The TODAY show and the culmination of the International Leadership Summit (ILS), a signature global gathering he launched over two decades ago. Themed "Changing of the Guard," this final ILS served as a prophetic prelude to this very moment. Held April 10–12, 2025, in Orlando, the summit gathered visionaries across industries and generations to address one of the most critical questions of our time: how do we prepare the next generation to lead?

Jakes will remain Chairman of the Board and spiritual overseer of The Potter's House, providing vision, counsel, and legacy leadership as the next generation steps into their senior pastoral roles.

Years in the Making

Sunday's announcement reflects the fulfillment of a multi-year strategy designed to ensure the continuity, integrity, and innovation of The Potter's House legacy. Highlights of this journey include:

2022: The Roberts family officially relocated from Los Angeles to Dallas, to take on the roles signifying a deep commitment to the ministry's growth.

2022: The historic farewell of the annual Woman, Thou Art Loosed conference to continuing the global Woman Evolve movement, led by Pastor Sarah.

2023: Pastor Touré and Pastor Sarah were installed as assistant pastors of The Potter's House, taking on significant leadership responsibilities.

Generational Leadership for a New Era

Pastor Touré, visionary leader, entrepreneur and founder of ONE | A Potter's House Church and Pastor Sarah, New York Times bestselling author, media influencer and founder of Woman Evolve, have emerged as vital voices for this moment. Their leadership model bridges generational divides and reimagines what modern spiritual leadership can look like, faithful to its foundation yet responsive to cultural shifts.

"We are committed to building a ministry that carries the heart of Bishop Jakes into a future that is both faithful and forward-thinking," said Pastor Touré. Pastor Sarah added, "This is not just a call to serve. It's a mandate to lead with compassion, clarity, and courage."

Their elevation reflects the belief that legacy is not something to preserve, it's something to propel. By entrusting this next chapter to leaders who carry both the heart of the house and a clear-eyed vision for the future, Bishop Jakes affirms what thriving institutions have always known: when successors are prepared with purpose, the mission doesn't just continue, it multiplies.

As they continue to build and foster community throughout the region, Pastor Touré and Pastor Sarah will also look to have presence and activate ministry within North Dallas as well.

Beyond the Pulpit: A Legacy Reimagined

While transitioning daily pastoral duties, T.D. Jakes will expand his global footprint and continue his work as Chairman of the T.D. Jakes Group, which consists of T.D. Jakes Real Estate Ventures, T.D. Jakes Enterprises and T.D. Jakes Foundation.

Chairman Jakes' businesses, social impact companies and partnerships will amplify his efforts to address critical social and economic issues, including workforce readiness, entrepreneurial investment, and community development. This evolution underscores his lifelong commitment to blending ministry with actionable solutions for systemic change.

Expanding his reach and deepening his impact beyond the pulpit, Jakes will soon speak to millions more daily through a new partnership with iHeartMedia, in which he will launch his own slate of shows with iHeartPodcasts.  The slate will kick off with his new podcast "My Next Chapter" where he will explore the shifts happening in our world and our lives and how we, together, can rebuild what's been broken, especially during this time of national uncertainty. T.D. Jakes has long been at the forefront of this transformation bringing faith into boardrooms, soundstages, underserved neighborhoods, and now, into a future of greater strategic influence.

As part of his continued commitment to building economic opportunity, T.D. Jakes will lead the return of the Good Soil Forum  to Dallas this June—a signature forum he founded to convene investors, entrepreneurs, and cultural leaders to equip small business owners with resources, capital access, and mentorship needed to thrive. Additionally in August 2025, the T.D. Jakes Group will curate a multi-day global exchange summit designed to catalyze economic empowerment, innovation, and cross-continental collaboration on Martha's Vineyard, known for its historic significance as a safe haven and incubator of cultural excellence.

Pamela Simms-Mackey: First Black Woman President of the American Board of Pediatrics

Pamela Simms-Mackey, an HBCU alumna and leader in the field of pediatric medical education, has been named the first Black woman president of the board of directors of the American Board of Pediatrics.

Dr. Simms-Mackey began a long association with the ABP in 2009. She served on the General Pediatrics Exam Committee for 10 years and the Maintenance of Certification Committee for six years before joining the BOD in 2020. She is the Chair of Pediatrics and Chief of Graduate Medical Education at Alameda Health System. She also is a volunteer Clinical Professor of Pediatrics with the School of Medicine at the University of California, San Francisco, and Immediate Past Chair of The California Wellness Foundation’s Board of Directors.

FREESTYLE DIGITAL MEDIA RELEASES HISTORICAL DOCUMENTARY “GREENWOOD AVENUE PROJECT”

Freestyle Digital Media, the digital film distribution division of Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group, has just released the historical documentary feature GREENWOOD AVENUE PROJECT, which is now available to rent/own on all North American digital HD internet, cable, and satellite platforms, as well as on DVD, starting April 25, 2025. A portion of the documentary's proceeds will be donated to Tulsa nonprofits supporting Greenwood rebuilding efforts.

In addition, Grammy-winning music producer Madukwu Chinwah wrote and produced the original track “Do Something” for GREENWOOD AVENUE PROJECT soundtrack. His song, along with composer cues and other tracks inspired by the film, will be released on all platforms on April 17 through Londyn Town Music.

A century after the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, the documentary GREENWOOD AVENUE PROJECT follows Greenwood Avenue's ongoing fight against segregation, racism, and hate while rebuilding its Black-owned businesses and homes. In 1921, Tulsa, Oklahoma, had a population of around 2.1 million, with just over 100,000 living in the city. Back then, racism was widespread, and it was inevitable that a riot would occur. On May 31st of that year, 3,200 white residents affiliated with the Ku Klux Klan carried out an 18-hour massacre in Greenwood, a prosperous African-American neighborhood in Tulsa. This tragic event, known as the Tulsa Race Massacre, left hundreds dead and thousands homeless and cast a dark shadow over the city's history. Tulsa was experiencing economic growth, driven by the oil industry, but it was also marked by severe segregation. The city's Black population of 10,000 primarily resided in Greenwood, a thriving business district often called "Black Wall Street." This prosperous community was targeted by the white mob, resulting in one of the most severe incidents of racial violence in U.S. history. This 105-minute documentary highlights and explores the aftermath and rebirth of Black Wall Street.

Written by Todd Roberts, Terry Baccus and Karen Reese, GREENWOOD AVENUE PROJECT was directed by Karen Reese and Terry Baccus and produced by John Wayne S. III and Karen Reese. Writer/editor Todd Roberts has worked on several films about Black America and produced over 400 documentary-style TV episodes across 22 countries. As an award-winning storyteller, his work has aired on National Geographic, TLC, PBS, and The Travel Channel. Those interviewed and profiled in the documentary include Terry Baccus, George Thomas, Bishop Carlton Pearson, Heather Nash, Jennettie P. Marshall, Mayor GT Bynum, and Bryce Harris.

“GREENWOOD AVENUE PROJECT captures the allure of Deep Greenwood -- not just in its moment of destruction, but in the resilience that followed,” said filmmakers Karen Reese and Terry Baccus.

“This is a story not only of loss, but of revival -- a journey from devastation to recovery -- that shows how a united community can rebuild and stand as a lasting model of Black entrepreneurship and economic empowerment,” said Tulsa resident Jennettie P. Marshall.

Freestyle Digital Media negotiated the deal to acquire GREENWOOD AVENUE PROJECT directly with the filmmakers and Londyn Town Pictures.

THE GREENWOOD AVENUE PROJECT website: www.greenwoodaveproject.com

“GREENWOOD AVENUE PROJECT” Trailer

NAACP and the LDF sue the U.S. Department of Education

The NAACP, and the Legal Defense Fund (LDF), acting on its behalf, filed a federal lawsuit challenging the U.S. Department of Education's attempts to prohibit and chill lawful efforts to ensure that Black students are afforded equal educational opportunities. The Education Department issued a "Dear Colleague" Letter on Feb. 14, followed by a "Frequently Asked Questions" document on Feb. 28 and a certification requirement on April 3 — all of which include factual inaccuracies and misinterpretations of civil rights laws and threaten the termination of critical public education funds. The defendants named in the suit are the U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon and Acting Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Craig Trainor.  

 

The lawsuit alleges that the Education Department's communications to recipients of federal funds present a legally flawed and unsupported interpretation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The lawsuit additionally alleges that the Education Department is intentionally discriminating against Black students through its efforts to defund federal grantees based on erroneous facts and interpretations of law. The Dear Colleague Letter and related certification already have had devastating consequences for educational communities across the nation. The plaintiff is asking the federal district court to enjoin the Education Department from moving forward with its enforcement actions, as articulated in the "Dear Colleague" Letter and related certification requirement.  

 

"The Department of Education's recent "Dear Colleague" letter and other communications are not only deeply misleading — they are a gross distortion of reality that attempts to erase the lived experiences of millions of Black and Brown children in this country," said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP. "The Department of Education, tasked with a responsibility to protect the civil rights of all children, has instead claimed systemic racism doesn't exist — effectively sanctioning the very discrimination that our civil rights laws were designed to prevent. Meanwhile, children of color consistently attend segregated, chronically underfunded schools where they receive less educational opportunities and more discipline. Denying these truths doesn't make them disappear — it deepens the harm. We are asking the court to act swiftly to our request and will continue to advocate for students of color to be treated fairly and equitably." 

 

"For decades, the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights has worked to ensure that all students — including Black students who have historically faced and continue to face barriers that deny them equal educational opportunities — can receive the necessary support, tools, and resources to thrive academically," said Michaele N. Turnage Young, Senior Counsel and Co-Manager of the Equal Protection Initiative at the Legal Defense Fund. "Yet, in direct conflict with its mission, the Office for Civil Rights has baselessly characterized vital efforts to advance racial equality to themselves be racially discriminatory, thus weaponizing the anti-discrimination laws against the very communities they are meant to protect. These threats have incited a wave of chaos, uncertainty, and fear within our classrooms, cultural centers, and student and parent groups across the country, and run afoul of our nation's ideals. We ask the Court to enjoin these actions by the Department of Education — and will continue to fight until the constitutional promise of racial equality in education, set forth in Brown v. Board of Education,has been fulfilled."  

 

"Every student should have an equal opportunity to receive a quality education," said Katrina Feldkamp, Assistant Counsel at the Legal Defense Fund. "The current Administration's attacks are a threat to longstanding efforts to ensure truthful, inclusive curricula and instruction; equal access to selective programs; affinity groups where students of various identities can find support and belonging; and policies and programs that eradicate bias in discipline and hiring. These threats seek to undo decades of progress towards equality for all in public education. We proudly represent the NAACP, whose members include Black parents and students in every state of our nation, to protect and uphold Black students' rights to equal educational opportunity." 

 

The filing today follows the previous advocacy challenging the U.S. Department of Education's recent efforts to dial back progress towards racial justice, including another lawsuit filed to stop the Trump Administration from dismantling the Education Department. 

 

Read the full lawsuit here. A virtual media briefing will be held today at 1pm, registration link here.  

 

Hampton University Wins 2025 Honda Campus All-Star Challenge National Championship

After more than 122 rounds of intense gameplay, Hampton University emerged victorious at the 36th Honda Campus All-Star Challenge (HCASC), America's premier academic competition for Historically Black College and University (HBCU) students, securing a $100,000 institutional grant from Honda. Over 200 students and coaches from 32 HBCUs competed in the HCASC National Championship Tournament, which was held near the American Honda corporate headquarters in Torrance, California.

"Congratulations to the scholars from Hampton University for their incredible achievement in winning the 2025 Honda Campus All-Star Challenge championship title," said Jasmine Cockfield, Honda Campus All-Star Challenge project lead at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "HCASC provides HBCU students with a national platform to pursue their passion for learning and love of knowledge, while building leadership skills, and forging lifelong friendships. We applaud the tremendous dedication and academic talent shown by all the students who participated in this year's program."

Honda Campus All-Star Challenge is a dynamic, year-round program that highlights the academic talents of HBCU students nationwide. Each four-student team competes in an exhilarating head-to-head showdown, rapidly answering questions on topics ranging from history and science to math and pop culture. HCASC encourages students to broaden their knowledge across diverse subjects while honing their leadership and teamwork abilities. Competing against peers from other HBCUs, participants build networks, receive mentorship from HCASC alumni and Honda associates, and create "Friends for Life." Beyond the competition, Honda offers development seminars to equip students with the skills they need to thrive after graduation.

Hampton University Clinches First HCASC National Championship

In a two-game sweep during the HCASC National Championship final match, Hampton University triumphed over Tennessee State University by accurately answering questions on history, science, literature, religion, the arts, and pop culture. Hampton University outperformed teams from 31 HBCUs at the National Championship Tournament, after winning regional competitions throughout the academic year. This year, 60 HBCUs participated in the annual HCASC program.

The winning team was coached by Stella Nelms and includes team captain Miles Cross, a freshman majoring in History and Pre-Law from Douglasville, Ga.; Jaron Haynes, a freshman majoring in Business Administration from Snellville, Ga.; Skai White, a sophomore majoring in Mathematics from Stockbridge, Ga.; and Donte Wyatt, Jr., a sophomore majoring in Biology from San Diego, Calif. This marks Hampton University's 30th appearance in the HCASC National Championship Tournament and its first win.

"I am so proud. Seeing our Hampton team grow together and develop, trusting each other to get to this point is amazing," said coach Nelms. "Knowing everyone can see how they've come together as a team and a family, that's what HCASC is about."

Runner-up Tennessee State University received a $40,000 grant from Honda. The third and fourth place finishers – Morehouse College and Tuskegee University – were each awarded a $26,000 grant from Honda. Howard University, Lincoln University-Pennsylvania, North Carolina A&T State University, and Prairie View A&M University rounded out the "Great 8" teams in the HCASC Finals. Honda is providing more than $500,000 in institutional grants to the participating schools.

As a bonus for this year's tournament, Honda joined forces with Thurgood Marshall College Fund to award individual grants to the students from the winning and runner-up teams. The scholars from Hampton University each received $2,500 while the scholars from Tennessee State University each received $1,500.

REV. SHARPTON ISSUES STATEMENT AFTER MEETING WITH PEPSICO EXECUTIVES

Rev. Al Sharpton, Founder and President of the National Action Network (NAN), issued the following statement after meeting with PepsiCo leadership at the company’s global headquarters in Purchase, NY this morning.

“This morning, I and several members of NAN met with PepsiCo Chairman Ramon Laguarta and CEO of PepsiCo North America Steven Williams for more than an hour to discuss our grievances over reports they were rolling back nearly $500 million in DEI commitments. It was a constructive conversation, which PepsiCo agreed to hold within the 21 days we gave them to meet. We agreed to follow up meetings within the next few days. After that continued dialogue, NAN Chairman Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson and I, both former members of the company’s African American Advisory Board, will make a final determination and recommendation to the organization on what we will do around PepsiCo moving forward, as we continue to deal with a broader swath of corporations with whom we will either boycott or buy-cott.”

https://www.africanamericanreports.com/2025/04/rev-sharpton-issues-statement-after.html

HBCU$™ Helps Historically Black Colleges Overcome Billions in Underfunding by Supporting Alumni & Student Entrepreneurs

HBCU$™, an alumni giving and wealth building network created to help offset decades of disparities in public funding for Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) by supporting the entrepreneurs they produce, is officially launching on May 1, 2025.

Tennessee State University graduate Dorsey West created HBCU$™ after learning of a 2023 analysis by the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Agriculture that found between 1987 and 2020, HBCU land-grant institutions received approximately $12.6 billion less in state funding than other land-grant institutions, and his alma mater had been underfunded by $2.1 billion during this period.

HBCU$™ promotes HBCU alumni & student owned businesses through their free online marketing platform and business owners donate a portion of any additional revenue generated back to the college of their choice.

"With unprecedented budget cuts happening at the national and state levels, HBCUs are going to need increased financial support from the private sector, as well as their alumni. I created HBCU$™ to maximize contributions from both sources," explains West.

"Consistently patronizing companies that contribute money back to Historically Black Colleges & Universities creates a self-sustaining cycle that can help close the funding gap for these institutions and provide long-term economic growth for businesses within the HBCU$™ network," West continues. "So, it's a win-win for the HBCUs and their entrepreneurs."

Consumers can join the HBCU$ email list now at https://hbcus.biz. to receive exclusive offers and early access to their membership site. HBCU alumni & student business owners can request to have their products and services promoted at no cost including video podcast interviews, member profiles and an online directory of participating companies by sending an email to promote@hbcus.biz.

About HBCU$™

HBCU$™ is an alumni giving and wealth building network created by Tennessee State University graduate Dorsey West, to provide consistent financial support to Historically Black Colleges & Universities and the entrepreneurs they produce. HBCU$™ promotes HBCU alumni & student owned businesses through their free online marketing platform, and these entrepreneurs donate a portion of any additional revenue generated back to the college of their choice. For more information, visit https://hbcus.biz.

Andrew Jacked wins 2025 FIBO

Andrew Jacked WINS the 2025 FIBO and becomes eligible for the Mr. Olympia.

FIBO Championships Top-5

1. Andrew Jacked

2. Sasan Heirati

3. Sergio Oliva Jr.

4. Justin Musiol

5. Josef Kveton

Andrew Jacked REACTS To Winning 2025 FIBO

LDF Denounces House Passage of SAVE Act

The Legal Defense Fund (LDF) urges the U.S. Senate to reject the misleadingly entitled “Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act”, a disastrous, discriminatory, inefficient, and unnecessary bill passed by the House that would disenfranchise millions of eligible voters and upend Congress’ historic role of protecting the freedom to vote rather than suppressing it.

The SAVE Act would effectively eliminate online voter registration and severely curtail voter registration drives, methods that millions of Americans rely upon every year to register to vote or update their registrations. The SAVE Act also requires every would-be voter to arrive in person at their local elections office with the original copy of a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate in order to register to vote.

These requirements create especially harsh barriers to political participation for Black people, people of color, married people who have changed their names, rural voters, poor people, and others who may have difficulty obtaining a passport or birth certificate. Only half of the total population and only a third of Black people hold valid U.S. passports, while nearly half of all Black Americans under 30 do not have a license with their current name and address. That’s not to mention the nearly 70 million Americans who have taken a spouse’s last name that may not match the name on their birth certificate.

The law would also undercut voter registration drives, which have been essential for mobilizing political participation in Black communities. If adopted, this would be an especially troubling effect as racial disparities in voter turnout have grown in the past decade.

Legal Defense Fund President and Director-Counsel Janai S. Nelson issued the following statement in response to the House’s vote on the SAVE Act:

“The SAVE Act erects a discriminatory barrier to the ballot while pretending to ‘solve’ a problem that does not exist. Its true purpose, rooted in fear of the multiracial democracy the United States can and must become, is to limit access to the ballot and stifle the political power of our increasingly diverse electorate. It’s a misnomer to call this bill the SAVE Act when it would cause nothing but harm to Black communities, rural communities, and so many others who would be stripped of their right to vote if it becomes law.

We urge lawmakers to reject this catastrophic bill and to rightfully turn their attention to advancing proposals that protect our fundamental right to have a voice in free and fair elections.”

National Pan-Hellenic Council, Inc.® Joint Statement Opposing Censorship of the National Museum of African American History and Culture

The Council of Presidents of the National Pan Hellenic Council® (NPHC®), representing the nine historically Black Greek-lettered Organizations and more than 2.5 million members worldwide, strongly opposes any attempt to censor, distort, or dismantle the telling of America's full and inclusive history. Efforts to withhold funding from the Smithsonian complex, especially the National Museum of African American History and Culture, threaten not only a vital educational resource but also the very integrity of our national narrative.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture serves as a cornerstone in the preservation and celebration of African American history and culture. This history is American history. From slavery to civil rights to the cultural innovations that continue to shape the world, the museum ensures these stories are not forgotten, denied, or politicized.

NPHC® also commends the outstanding leadership of Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III. As the founding director of the museum and the first African American Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, Secretary Bunch has championed the power of historical truth to unite, educate, and heal. His dedication to scholarship, accessibility, and equity has elevated the Smithsonian mission and broadened its relevance to all Americans.

The NPHC® was founded on May 10, 1930, at Howard University in Washington, DC.  The purpose of the NPHC® is to foster cooperative actions of its members in dealing with matters of mutual concern. Thus, NPHC® promotes the well-being of its affiliate fraternities and sororities, facilitates the establishment and development of local councils of the NPHC®, which collaboratively work together across the United States and provides leadership training for its constituents. We believe that knowledge uplifts communities, empowers individuals, and strengthens democracy. Secretary Bunch continues in that tradition and reminds us that museums are not merely repositories of the past. They are tools for building a better future.

The NPHC® calls on policymakers, educators, and citizens across the country to reject false narratives that seek to divide us. We must support institutions that honor our collective past and protect our shared future. The National Museum of African American History and Culture plays a vital role in that mission, and we will continue to advocate for its preservation and advancement.

The National Pan-Hellenic Council, Incorporated® (NPHC®) is currently composed of nine (9) International Greek letter Sororities and Fraternities: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.®, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.®, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Iota Phi Theta® Fraternity, Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi® Fraternity, Inc., Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. For more information, visit www.nphchq.com.

NBCA Hall of Fame Extends Nominations Deadline for 40th Annual Hall of Fame Induction and Legacy of Leaders Awards

The National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame Foundation, Inc. (NBCAHOF) is thrilled to announce the extended nomination deadline for the 40th Annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Legacy of Leaders Awards, taking place during Hall of Fame Week, September 21–28, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

Due to overwhelming interest and the historic significance of this year's celebration, the new nomination deadline is April 15, 2025.

This milestone 40th anniversary honors four decades of excellence, leadership, and legacy across Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). We are calling on HBCU alumni, presidents, chancellors, alumni affairs directors, and alumni association leaders to submit nominations for two powerful opportunities to uplift those who continue to make an impact:

Hall of Fame Inductions

The Hall of Fame Inductions honor individuals affiliated with HBCUs or Predominately Black Institutions (PBIs) who have made outstanding cultural, educational, or economic contributions to the Black community. This prestigious recognition celebrates those who have paved the way, uplifted others, and demonstrated excellence in their fields.

View over 300 past inductees and see how they've shaped our legacy at www.nbcahof.org.

Legacy of Leaders

The Legacy of Leaders Awards recognize unsung heroes—alumni leaders, chapters, and national alumni associations—who have demonstrated unwavering commitment, vision, and integrity in service to their institutions and communities. Nominations should reflect impact, leadership, and legacy.

Help Us Spread the Word

Whether you're a proud alum, part of an alumni chapter, or simply passionate about uplifting our stories—now is the time to nominate and celebrate those who deserve to be seen and honored. This is more than a ceremony; it's a tribute to the changemakers who carry the spirit of HBCUs forward.

Nomination Deadline: April 15, 2025
Submit nominations and learn more at: www.nbcahof.org

Let's make the 40th year the most powerful one yet.
Honor the past. Celebrate the present. Inspire the future.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL BLACK COLLEGE ALUMNI HALL OF FAME FOUNDATION, INC.

The National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to recognizing and honoring outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions in their fields of expertise and have emerged from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Through scholarships, the Hall of Fame Inductee Awards Gala and community outreach programs, the foundation supports the educational aspirations and achievements of HBCU students while preserving and celebrating the rich legacy of these esteemed institutions. For more information about the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame Foundation and its upcoming events and initiatives, please visit our website at www.nbcahof.org

NBCA Hall of Fame Foundation
info@nbcahof.org
Atlanta, GA
www.nbcahof.org
@nbcahof (Instagram | Facebook | Twitter)