MARTIN LUTHER KING PEOPLE’S CONVENTION FOR JUSTICE AND RESISTANCE SET FOR APRIL 26TH IN NEWARK, NEW JERSEY

The Martin Luther King People’s Convention for Justice And Resistance will take place Saturday, April 26, 2025, 8:30am to 4:00pm, at Essex County College, Smith Hall, 303 University Avenue in Newark, New Jersey.

The convention is sponsored by the People’s Organization For Progress (POP). It has been Endorsed by 65 organizations representing a cross section of the grassroots community.

“The purpose of the convention is to develop a people’s agenda and action for its implementation,” Lawrence Hamm, Chairman, People’s Organization For Progress stated.

“The effort to organize this convention grows out of our determination to resist all efforts, including those of the Trump administration, to erase the gains of the civil rights movement and the social progress of the past century,” Hamm said.

“There is a strong need to have a current blueprint of common issues, goals and solutions for community building. This convention can provide that framework, “ said Deborah Smith Gregory, NAACP Newark President, whose chapter has endorsed the march.

“During the first 100 days of the Trump presidency we have witnessed a direct attack on those who are the most vulnerable in our country. The people’s convention will help us find ways of working together to fight back against this onslaught,” Charles Hall, President, Local 108 Retail Wholesale Department Store Union UFCW stated, whose labor group has also endorsed the march.

The convention is open to the general public. Those who wish to attend are encouraged to register in advance. Registration for the convention is now open. There is no registration fee.

People can register for the convention online at Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-martin-luther-king-peoples-convention-for-justice-and-resistance-tickets-1292184000129?aff=oddtdtcreator.

Those who are unable to register online can call the People’s Organization For Progress at (973)801-0001 or send an email to info@njpop.org.

“The idea to have a convention grew out of our organizing effort for the Martin Luther King March Of Resistance which was held on January 18th and was endorsed by 308 organizations,” Hamm stated.

“Our planning for the march also included discussions about what we would do afterwards. That is when we collectively decided to have a convention,” he said.

“Just as we built a broad coalition for the march that included several hundred endorsing organizations we want to to the same for the convention,” he said.

“We definitely want to increase the number of endorsing groups. We would like to have many more. Organizations that would like to endorse should contact POP right away,” he said.

The 65 endorsing organizations include: Local 108 Retail Wholesale Department Store Union UFCW AFL-CIO, Newark Branch NAACP, Morris County Branch NAACP, New Jersey Black Issues Convention, International Black Women’s Congress, African Diaspora for Justice, New Jersey Poor People’s Campaign, International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District Council 21, South Ward Environmental Alliance, 350 NJ-Rockland, Greenfaith International, New Jersey Green Sustainable Group, December 12th Movement, Clinton Hill Seniors In Action, New Jersey Peace Action, Cease Fire Now NJ, Jewish Voice for Peace Northern New Jersey Chapter, SOMA Collective for Palestine, Pax Christi, Jersey City Non-Violence Coalition, Steven Institute Students for Justice in Palestine, Elombe Brath Coalition, Omega Psi Phi-Upsilon Chapter, Corey Lewis Teague, Hudson County Sierra Club, Bread Is Rising, Newark North Jersey Committee Of Black Churchmen, Hafiz Farid/Foremost Productions, Food & Water Watch, Marques-Aquil Lewis Civic Association, Black Lives Matter Elizabeth, National United Youth Council, Irvington NAACP, Make The Road New Jersey, New Brunswick Area Branch NAACP, Seton Hall University Martin Luther King Scholarship Association, Tom Paine Brigade, Jersey City Food Not Bombs, Hackensack Riverkeeper, HPAE Local 5089, Bethany Baptist Church, All Politics Are Local, National Black Political Convention, Man Village Men’s Support Group, Islay Walden Education Alliance, New Jersey Communities for Accountable Policing, New Jersey Chapter of the National Action Network, Jumpstart, Journey To Justice, Greater Newark Chapter of the National Action Network, Committee To Eliminate Media Offensive To African People, NAACP New Jersey State Conference, African- American Commission of Camden, Gregory Thomas Foundation, Grandmaster Khalil's Generation II Ippon Do School of Martial Arts, The Law And Policy Group, Mt Teman AME Church, MAPSO Freedom School, Good Neighbor Baptist Church, Newark Interfaith Alliance, The Radical Elders, The Muslim League of Voters of New Jersey, Philadelphia Black Radical Congress, and North Jersey Black Caucus for Social Justice.

For more information or to endorse the convention call 973 801-0001.

Dr. Ron K. Patterson named Murray State University President

The Murray State University Board of Regents Presidential Search Committee has announced Dr. Ron K. Patterson as Murray State University President. Currently Chadron State College President, Patterson will commence his role as the 15th President of Murray State on July 1, 2025. He will succeed President Dr. Bob Jackson, who will retire on June 30, 2025. The selection of Patterson follows an extensive process and national search.

Patterson serves as president of Chadron State College, one of three state college institutions within the Nebraska State College System and an institution with approximately 2,300 students and 600 full-time faculty and staff. In his role, Patterson launched and chaired the college’s new five-year strategic plan, established strategic enrollment partnerships, commenced new academic programs and partnerships, furthered external relationships with federal, state and local government leaders, and fostered an environment of success within the college’s Division II athletic programs. 

Prior to Chadron State College, Patterson served at the University of North Alabama. His administrative progression at the University of North Alabama included service as associate vice president for enrollment management, chief enrollment officer, and chief enrollment officer and special assistant to the president for diversity and inclusion with responsibility for both enrollment management, academic programs and centers, and diversity and inclusion. 

Prior to the University of North Alabama, Patterson served for 14 years as an administrator at Marietta College, University of Central Arkansas, University of Tennessee Health Science Center and Christian Brothers University in Memphis. He also spent four years as an assistant men’s basketball coach and head men’s golf coach at Tusculum College and Marietta College. 

With 25 years of higher education experience, Patterson has developed a collaborative, servant leader approach who values accessibility and affordability, education and innovation.

Patterson earned a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration and Leadership at Creighton University, an Education Specialist degree with a concentration in Community College Administration at Arkansas State University, a Master of Arts at Marietta College, a Bachelor of Science at the University of Tennessee – Southern and an Associate of Arts at Northeast Mississippi Community College. He recently completed professional development offered by the American Academic Leadership Institute and Penn State University’s Academic Leadership Academy for Academic Administration.

Patterson hails from Corinth, Mississippi. He and his wife, Jenny, have two children, Olivia and Braylon.

“I am truly humbled and honored to be selected as President of Murray State University,” Patterson said. “I would like to thank the Presidential Search Committee, Board of Regents, campus community and alumni for entrusting me to lead this historic university. 

“My family and I are honored and privileged to join the excellent students, faculty, staff and city of Murray to continue the great momentum of Dr. Bob Jackson and the leadership team, capital improvement projects, and rich tradition of Murray State University in its second century.”

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Ron K. Patterson as the 15th President of Murray State University,” Murray State Board of Regents Chair Leon Owens said. “Dr. Patterson brings considerable experience in numerous areas of higher education, all of which are necessary, to continue the upward trajectory of our institution. Dr. Patterson is a servant leader and a proven collaborator who has a commitment toward excellence. We welcome Dr. Patterson, along with his wife Jenny and children Olivia and Braylon to our campus and broader community.

“I am grateful to our Board of Regents Presidential Search Committee as well as Academic Search for their hard work and assistance during the search process.

“I would like to also thank Dr. Jackson for his continued wonderful leadership, excellence and many years of service to Murray State as his retirement approaches on June 30, 2025.”

“I am excited to welcome Dr. Ron K. Patterson, his wife Jenny and children Olivia and Braylon, to Murray State University, and am confident that the future of Murray State is in excellent hands with Dr. Patterson,” Murray State President Dr. Bob Jackson said. “As I’ve said many times, Murray State University is truly a special place. Dr. Patterson’s experience, vision and passion for higher education will continue to advance this special place that is shared by our many students, faculty, staff, alumni and supporters.”

Sisters Network® Inc. & Black Girl Vitamins Team Up To Elevate Black Women’s Breast Health

Sisters Network® Inc. (SNI), the only national African American breast cancer survivorship organization, is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Black Girl Vitamins (BGV). This collaboration solidifies BGV as the official “Health and Wellness Partner of SNI” for 2025. The partnership unites both organizations in their shared mission to support the health and well-being of Black women nationwide. Among the partnership activities includes Black Girl Vitamins at Sisters Network Inc. 15th Annual Stop The Silence on Saturday, April 5th at Tom Bass Park in Houston, TX. Over 4,000 women will come together for this annual celebration and fundraiser for Black women courageously fighting breast cancer.

To join the cause, please visit Stop the Silence Walk Registration.

“Black women continue to face disparities in both breast cancer awareness and access to essential health resources. Sisters Network Inc., believes that knowledge is power, but so is action,” said Caleen Allen, Vice President, Sisters Network Inc. “Our partnership with Black Girl Vitamins is more than a collaboration—it’s a movement to ensure Black women are prioritizing their health, staying informed about their breast cancer risks and fueling their bodies with important vitamin supplements. Together, SNI and BGV are breaking barriers and creating lasting change in how Black women approach wellness.”

Black Girl Vitamins, a wellness brand dedicated to providing high-quality nutritional supplements specifically formulated for Black women, is equally excited about the collaboration. “At Black Girl Vitamins, we are passionate about ensuring Black women have access to essential nutrients that support their overall well-being,” said Jennifer Juma, Chief Strategy Officer of Black Girl Vitamins. “By partnering with Sisters Network Inc., we are taking a meaningful step toward amplifying breast health awareness and making a lasting impact on the health of our community.”

Through this partnership, Sisters Network Inc. and Black Girl Vitamins aim to bridge gaps in health education, increase awareness about breast cancer prevention, and encourage Black women to prioritize their well-being.

For more information about Sisters Network Inc. and its programs, visit www.sistersnetworkinc.org. To learn more about Black Girl Vitamins, visit www.blackgirlvitamins.com.

About Sisters Network® Inc.

Sisters Network® Inc. was founded in 1994 by Karen Eubanks Jackson, 31-year, and 4-time breast cancer survivor. Today, SNI is the largest and only national Black breast cancer survivorship organization in the United States and a leading voice in the fight against breast cancer in the Black community. Sisters Network Inc. National headquarters is in Houston, Texas. The organization has over 25+ survivor-run affiliate chapters nationwide located in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

About Black Girl Vitamins

Black Girl Vitamins (BGV) is a Black-owned health and wellness brand designed to meet the unique nutritional needs of Black women. Since 2021, BGV has partnered with experts like Dr. Standifer-Barrett, Dr. C. Nicole Swiner, and Dr. Chinyere Okpaleke to create science-backed supplements for common health concerns like Vitamin D deficiency, anemia, and PCOS.
Available on Amazon and their website, BGV is committed to bridging the health gap. The brand also gives back through collaborations with Black medical professionals, a $100,000 scholarship for Black women in healthcare, and partnerships with organizations like Howard Women’s Basketball. With over 200,000 women impacted, BGV champions health, empowerment, and representation.

CHAKA KHAN, PATTI LABELLE, GLADYS KNIGHT & STEPHANIE MILLS UNITE FOR HISTORIC TOUR!

Music history will be made as four legendary voices come together for a breathtaking evening of vocal brilliance, electrifying energy, and mutual love. The iconic Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, and Stephanie Mills will unite for an unforgettable tour, "The Queens! 4 Legends. 1 Stage." celebrating decades of timeless classics and cherished memories.

The first leg of the 11-city tour kicks off Friday, May 9, in Las Vegas and concludes Sunday, June 1, in Indianapolis. Due to high demand, a second leg featuring nine additional performances will begin Friday, September 19, in Greensboro and wrap up Sunday, October 5, in Cleveland.

Tickets

• Presale: Thursday, March 20, at 10:00 AM (local time) via BlackPromotersCollective.com.
• General On Sale: Friday, March 21, at 10:00 AM (local time).

"Sharing the stage with my amazing sisters is an absolute honor," says Chaka Khan. "Music is about connection, and this will be a celebration of the joy, power, and love that it brings to us all."

"I am so excited to join these icons, who I call sisters, on this tour! It's going to be something special. And I can't wait to see everyone there," states Patti Labelle.

"I'm thrilled to be touring with the best sisters a woman could be blessed with. We will come together in support of one another and in harmony at a time when love is most needed. Kicking it off in my hometown of Las Vegas makes it even more special," says Gladys Knight.

"I'm excited to tour with my beautiful sisters! Our different styles unite in love, compassion and understanding and it's important to come together now. Performing with Chaka, Patti, and Gladys for you will be electrifying. We can't wait to see you," states Stephanie Mills.

Produced by the Black Promoters Collective (BPC), this once-in-a-lifetime event unites four Grammy-winning and nominated icons who have shaped the sound of generations. Fans will experience a night of unmatched vocal mastery and show-stopping performances.

A Celebration of Musical Excellence

With Chaka Khan's electrifying energy, Patti LaBelle's unmatched vocal acrobatics, Gladys Knight's soulful elegance, and Stephanie Mills' heartfelt ballads, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the greatest moments in R&B, gospel, pop, and funk.

"To have these four legendary women together on one stage is historic," says Gary Guidry, CEO of Black Promoters Collective. "Each of them has left an indelible mark on the industry, and this tour is a celebration of their artistry, resilience, and legacy."

Tour Dates & Cities

"The Queens! 4 Legends. 1 Stage." will travel to major U.S. cities. A second leg will be announced this summer:

• Friday, May 9 – Las Vegas
• Saturday, May 10 – Oakland
• Sunday, May 11 – Los Angeles
• Friday, May 16 – Columbia, SC
• Saturday, May 17 – Birmingham
• Sunday, May 18 – Nashville
• Friday, May 23 – Baltimore
• Saturday, May 24 – Brooklyn
• Friday, May 30 – Chicago
• Saturday, May 31 – Cincinnati
• Sunday, June 1 – Indianapolis

A Night of Unforgettable Hits

Fans can look forward to live performances of chart-topping classics, including:
 🎶 Chaka Khan – Ain't Nobody, I'm Every Woman, Through the Fire
 🎶 Patti LaBelle – Lady Marmalade, If Only You Knew, New Attitude
 🎶 Gladys Knight – Midnight Train to Georgia, Neither One of Us, Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me
 🎶 Stephanie Mills – Never Knew Love Like This Before, Home, I Feel Good All Over

Sadiaa Black Beauty Guide To Host Panel On Legacy Building For Black Beauty Brands AT IBS NYC

As the beauty industry continues to shift and major retailers scale back their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, the need for independent growth in Black beauty has never been more urgent. Sadiaa Black Beauty Guide is convening industry leaders to address these critical issues at the International Beauty Show (IBS) NYC Powerhouse Pavilion on March 24, 2025.

The panel, "Building Legacy Brands: The Future of Black-Owned Beauty Businesses," will explore the challenges and opportunities Black beauty professionals and entrepreneurs face in an evolving market. Experts will discuss strategies for navigating retail shifts, securing funding, and creating brands that thrive beyond corporate DEI cycles.

Moderated by Sadiaa founder Stephenetta (Isis) Harmon, panelists include:

• Rodney Barnett – Trichologist and CEO, Innovations Today
• Corey Huggins – Founder/CEO, Ready to Beauty
• Autumn Yarbrough – Founder/CEO, Nu Standard

Despite Black consumers spending $10.2 billion in 2024 on beauty in the U.S., Black-owned brands account for less than 3% of sales in the industry. And, with traditional retail spaces becoming increasingly competitive, Black beauty brands must rethink their approach to growth.

Huggins urges entrepreneurs to focus on self-reliance and collective strength:

"While systemic inequities are real, we must also take ownership of how we navigate and overcome them. That means shifting our focus to building internal strength—pooling resources, creating our own distribution channels, and leveraging our collective power to set industry standards. By being on the panel, I hope to highlight the internal power we already possess and make it clear that we are not waiting for permission, validation, or access—we are creating our own paths."

As beauty professionals play a critical role in connecting products with consumers, Barnett underscores the importance of education in retailing:

"One of the hardest challenges for a Black manufacturer is securing the right distribution for its brand," said Barnett. "Cosmetologists and barbers are the best choices for educating the public, yet they were never properly taught how to retail. If professionals generate six figures in services, they should also generate six figures in retail. That would preserve the Black brand."

While Yarbrough has experienced challenges in both retail and direct-to-consumer sales, she emphasizes green beauty as a key factor in long-term success:

"Building sustainable Black-owned beauty brands is essential because it places us at the forefront of environmental stewardship and economic empowerment. By prioritizing waste reduction, we're not just cutting costs; we're also fueling innovation that directly benefits our communities."

Sadiaa invites IBA attendees to join these thought leaders in conversation as they provide actionable strategies to build legacy brands that extend beyond trends and corporate initiatives. Beauty professionals, stylists, and entrepreneurs alike will gain key insights into creating long-term business success in an ever-changing industry.

"Building Black beauty brands isn't just about the entrepreneurs behind them—it's about building generational and communal wealth, as well as championing representation with products that serve diverse consumers," said Stephenetta (Isis) Harmon. "We want attendees to walk away with actionable strategies to build and maintain visible, profitable, and influential businesses -- no matter the market conditions."

IBS New York takes place March 23-25, 2025, at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in NYC. "Building Legacy Brands" panel will be hosted on Monday, March 24 at 2 PM.