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.