The Whitsdom Press

Tag: black women

  • 7 Essential Self-Care Rituals for the Overworked Black Woman

    The “Strong Black Woman” trope is a heavy cape, often encouraging you to pour into everyone else until your own cup is empty. Between juggling career, family, and navigating the unique stressors of racial and gender discrimination, self-care is not a luxury—it’s a necessity and an act of self-preservation.

    While a hot bubble bath can be lovely, true mental wellness requires deeper, more consistent action. Here are seven essential self-care rituals designed to help you recenter, replenish, and prioritize your peace.

    1. The Revolutionary Act of Rest

    For many Black women, rest is often seen as earned only after exhaustion. It’s time to change that narrative. Rest is productive because it’s how your body and mind repair themselves.

    • Ritual: Practice “The Nap Ministry” philosophy. Schedule time to do nothing without guilt. This doesn’t just mean sleep; it could be 30 minutes of sitting in silence, listening to calming music, or simply staring out the window. Give yourself permission to be unproductive.

    2. Setting Hard, Unbreakable Boundaries

    An open “yes” to everyone else is often a closed “no” to your own well-being. Healthy boundaries are a cornerstone of mental health, especially when you are constantly expected to be the caregiver and support system.

    • Ritual: Choose one area of your life—work, family, or social—and establish one unapologetic “no.” Maybe it’s “No, I cannot take on that extra project,” or “No, I am not available for calls after 7 PM.” Saying “no” without a long explanation is a powerful act of self-respect.

    3. Deep Breathing as a Daily Anchor

    Stress and anxiety often manifest as shallow, chest-level breathing. Taking a moment to breathe deeply is a free, immediate, and powerful tool to interrupt stress and recenter yourself.

    • Ritual: Implement a “3×3 Minute Rule.” Three times a day (maybe when you wake up, on your lunch break, and before bed), stop everything for one minute. Practice the 4-7-8 technique: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7 seconds, and exhale slowly for 8 seconds. This calms your nervous system instantly.

    4. Curating Your Digital Diet and Community

    What you consume digitally profoundly impacts your mental state. Constantly being exposed to negative news cycles or toxic social feeds drains your emotional energy.

    • Ritual: Perform a “Digital Detox Cleanse.” Unfollow accounts that make you feel inadequate, angry, or anxious. Replace them with voices and content that affirm, inspire, and celebrate Black womanhood. Also, schedule specific times for news and social media to limit constant exposure.

    5. Connecting with Your Sister Circle

    Community connection is a traditional and vital form of self-care. Having a safe space with people who get it—the unique joys and challenges—is invaluable for emotional processing.

    • Ritual: Create a “Sacred Connection Check-in.” This doesn’t need to be a formal support group. Text three trusted friends with an open-ended question: “How are you really doing?” or schedule a no-agenda, low-pressure virtual or in-person hangout just to laugh and share life updates.

    6. Engaging in Joyful Movement

    Movement shouldn’t just be about burning calories; it should be about boosting your mood and releasing pent-up tension. Find movement that genuinely brings you joy.

    • Ritual: Institute a “5-Minute Dance Break.” Put on your favorite high-energy song and just dance in your living room. Shake off or twerk away the day’s stress and allow yourself to be silly and completely free. Other joyful options could be a nature walk or a gentle yoga session specifically for stress relief.

    7. Journaling for Emotional Unloading

    Unprocessed emotions can weigh heavily on your spirit. Journaling offers a private, non-judgmental space to unload thoughts, fears, and frustrations without having to filter them for anyone else.

    • Ritual: Try a “Brain Dump & Gratitude Refill.” Take 10 minutes to write down everything stressing you out—just dump it all onto the page. Then, immediately follow with a list of five things you are genuinely grateful for right now. This shift in focus is an effective way to release negativity and anchor yourself in the positive.

    Here are some excellent directories and organizations dedicated to connecting Black women with culturally competent mental health care:

    💜 Directories for Black Therapists

    These national directories allow you to filter by location, specialty, and insurance to find a mental health professional who is culturally affirming.

    • Therapy for Black Girls:
      • An online space dedicated to encouraging the mental wellness of Black women and girls. Their site features a robust Therapist Directory and a popular podcast.
      • Focus: Black women and girls.
    • Melanin & Mental Health:
      • A resource that connects individuals with culturally competent clinicians committed to serving the mental health needs of Black & Latinx/Hispanic communities. They offer an extensive directory and local events.
      • Focus: Black and Latinx/Hispanic communities.
    • Inclusive Therapists:
      • A directory that centers the needs of marginalized communities, including people of color, the LGBTQIA+ community, and other intersectional identities. You can specifically search for Black and African American providers.
      • Focus: Marginalized communities and intersectional identities.
    • Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi):
      • One of the largest national directories of Black mental health providers, including psychologists, counselors, and consultants.
      • Focus: Psychologists and mental health professionals.

    ✨ Organizations with Financial & Wellness Resources

    These organizations offer programs, free resources, and sometimes financial assistance to help remove barriers to care.

    • The Loveland Foundation:
      • Provides financial assistance for Black women and girls seeking therapy. Their mission is to bring opportunity, healing, and validation to communities of color.
      • Focus: Therapy financial assistance.
    • BEAM (Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective):
      • A collective focused on removing the barriers that Black people experience to emotional health and healing. They have a Black Virtual Wellness Directory that includes therapists, doulas, yoga teachers, and more.
      • Focus: Holistic wellness and healing justice.
    • The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation (BLHF):
      • Founded by Taraji P. Henson, this foundation provides free virtual therapy sessions to the Black community and aims to eradicate the stigma associated with mental health.
      • Focus: Awareness and free therapy access.
    • Black Girls Smile:
      • Focuses on providing gender-responsive and culturally-affirming mental wellness education, resources, and support geared toward Black women and girls.
      • Focus: Education, resources, and support for Black women and girls.

    Self-care for the overworked Black woman is an ongoing commitment, a conscious choice to honor your humanity over the pressure to be a superhero. By integrating these deeper, intentional rituals into your life, you are not just surviving—you are building a foundation to truly thrive.

    Your well-being is worth the effort.

  • The Digital Plantation: Black Women & YouTube’s Toxicity

    Let’s keep it 100, no chaser.

    YouTube gave us a microphone when the world often muted our voices. We built incredible spaces for natural hair journeys, financial literacy, cultural commentary, and unfiltered joy. We became the architects of our own narratives, building businesses and communities from our brilliance. But with that power has come a painful, self-inflicted darkness.

    While we rightfully call out injustice everywhere else, we often turn a blind eye to the venom. We hurl this venom at each other in our own digital backyards. It’s heartbreaking. It’s toxic. And it has to stop.

    From Sisterhood to Sabotage: The Ugly Flip Side of Our Success

    As Black women, I see our creativity, humor, and sheer dominance on this platform every day. But the flip side is a corrosive toxicity that twists celebration into jealousy and community into a battlefield.

    The triggers are almost always the same. It could be a disagreement over a man. Sometimes it’s jealousy about who’s the “number one” content creator in a niche. Other times, it’s simply the inability to handle another sister’s shine. Instead of using our platforms to uplift, we drag each other down for views, clicks, and super chats. We’ve gone from healthy competition to a crab-in-a-barrel mentality, digitized and on steroids.

    The New Age of Bullying: When “Drama” Becomes Dangerous

    This isn’t the messy comment sections of years past. Cyberbullying in our community has evolved into a coordinated, malicious campaign with real-world consequences.

    We’ve weaponized the internet’s darkest tools, and we’re aiming them squarely at each other:

    • The Art of Doxxing: You disagree with somebody? Suddenly, her home address and private phone number are “exposed.” This isn’t winning an argument; it’s putting her physical safety at risk.
    • Weaponizing the System: The go-to move is no longer to create better content. It’s to make false reports to the FBI, police, or CPS. You’re not just trying to get her demonetized. You’re using systems steeped in bias against a fellow Black woman. This can potentially threaten her life. It can also endanger her children and her freedom.
    • Digital Blackface with AI: The latest low? Using artificial intelligence to create images to taunt or make fun of someone or deepfake compromising images. This is the modern-day digital lynching, stripping a sister of her dignity because you can’t stand her success…or HER period.
    • Wishing Ill on Innocents: The comments have moved beyond “I hope you fail.” They have escalated to “I hope your kids get ____.” We are speaking curses onto each other’s children. When did we become f**ked up women?

    This isn’t “YouTube streets.” This is destructive, dangerous behavior that causes real mental health struggles and can spill over into real-life violence.

    Why Are We Doing the Oppressor’s Work For Him?

    We know the world doesn’t love us. We fight systemic racism, bigotry, and misogyny every single day. So why are we so eager to do their work for them?

    There’s a deeper issue here. Many of us grew up in environments where women were pitted against each other. The idea that another Black woman’s success means there’s less for you—is a lie we’ve internalized and digitized. Instead of breaking the cycle, we teach other Black women that hate and sabotage are the price of success. These women are aspiring or rising content creators.

    A Call for Accountability: Reclaiming Our Digital Space

    This isn’t about being perfect or never disagreeing. It’s about realizing that we don’t have to destroy each other to create content. We can disagree, debate, and critique without threatening lives and livelihoods.

    It’s time to hold up a mirror and ask ourselves, as creators and consumers:

    • Am I building my platform on positivity and authenticity and REAL CONTENT—or on bullying and tearing down other women?
    • Am I teaching the younger ones to stand tall or to stoop low for views?
    • Am I adding value to the culture, or am I contributing to its destruction?

    Every time we attack each other, we hand power back to the very systems that silence us. While we’re busy calling the FBI and CPS on each other, brands and real opportunities pass us by. The algorithm may thrive on negativity, but it comes at the cost of our collective soul.

    Our Path to Healing: Choosing Community Over Clicks

    We are powerful, resilient, and brilliant. Our ancestors dreamed of a day we could have our own platforms and our own economy. We are living that dream, but we’re using it to play a toxic, high-stakes game.

    Let’s commit to doing better, starting today:

    • Check Your Motives: Before you post, ask: “Am I building up, or am I tearing down?”
    • Withhold Your Click: Stop feeding the beast. Don’t engage with these channels dedicated to destruction. Starve them of the currency they crave.
    • Practice Radical Support: Actively support the Black women creators you love. Share their content. Defend them respectfully. Create a counter-culture of love.

    There are so many things happening that are affecting us and we’re so busy online attacking each other. It is disgusting. We as black women need to be nicer to each other on these social media platforms. It is okay if we don’t like or don’t agree with someone. However, channeling that anger into getting people fired, doxxed, or getting their children taken is evil. This behavior needs to be studied because what the hell is the point! Log off and be mothers. Log off and go outside and live your life that you claim you have. If and or when they get rid of these social media platforms, then what do you have? NOTHING.

  • What Happened to Jade McKissic?

    The University of Houston community is grieving. They are mourning the tragic discovery of Jade “Sage” Elise McKissic. She was a 20-year-old University of Houston student. Her body was found in Brays Bayou. Her death has raised many questions. Friends, family, and classmates are mourning the loss of a young woman who was active, kind, and full of potential.

    Who Was Jade McKissic?

    Jade McKissic was a junior at the University of Houston. She studied Strategic Communications and Advertising in the Honors College. She was well known on campus for being active in student life. She served as an orientation guide. She worked as a front desk assistant. She also helped manage social media for different student groups.

    Friends and classmates described her as thoughtful, encouraging, and creative. She was the type of person who lifted others up and made them feel welcome. Many who knew her remember her smile and her willingness to help others succeed.

    Posted on IG page @houstontips on 9/17/2025

    What Happened to Jade?

    Jade was last seen on September 11, 2025. She was leaving a restaurant called LA Burgers and Daiquiris near MacGregor Way in Houston. She was reported missing three days later on September 14 when no one had heard from her. On September 15, Houston Police recovered her body from Brays Bayou. This location is near Spur 5 and not far from the University of Houston campus. On September 18, the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences confirmed her identity. At this time, the cause of death has not been released. The medical examiner is still working on the case; as of 9/19/2025 at 11:57am CST, the case status is pending. Houston Police have said there is no confirmed sign of foul play, but the investigation is ongoing.

    Source: KPRC Click 2 Houston evening newscast
    Update with surveillance footage

    Concerns About Safety

    Jade’s death has shaken the University of Houston community. Some student groups have raised concerns about campus safety. They point out the need for better lighting. More transportation options are necessary. Faster communication is essential when students go missing. The group Deeds Not Words at UH was especially vocal. They said the university could have responded faster. The university could have done more to protect students. University officials have since offered support services for students and staff who are grieving.

    Jade’s case is especially alarming because she is not the only one found in Houston’s waterways. In the same week, at least four bodies were recovered from bayous around the city. This brings the total to 13 bodies found in Houston Bayous this year. While police say these cases are not connected, it has made many residents more concerned about safety in the area.

    Remembering Jade

    Jade McKissic is remembered as much more than a headline. She was a bright student, a loyal friend, and a leader who touched many lives in her short time. From Spring ISD, where she graduated, to the University of Houston, her impact is being felt deeply.

    The loss of Jade McKissic is heartbreaking for her family, friends, and classmates. The investigation is ongoing. Her story reminds us how valuable every life is. It is important for communities and schools to take student safety seriously.

  • The Tragic Story of Romeca Meeks: A Community Seeks Justice

    Romeca Meeks-Blackmon, a 31-year-old mother, was shot in the face and killed on Monday morning, September 8, 2025, in Chicago’s South Loop area near State Street and Cermak (South State Street near Serach Road) while dropping off her son at school. She was taken to Stroger Hospital but did not survive.

    Following the shooting, the suspect—Quadajah “Holly” Johnson—was arrested and held by Chicago police. However, as of reports published September 12–13, 2025, prosecutors announced that Johnson has been released without any charges filed.

    Romeca’s mother, Tina McMiller, has publicly demanded justice and called for stricter measures against domestic violence. She joined local leaders near the scene of the shooting and urged enforcement of Illinois House Bill 158, which treats violence as a public health crisis. A vigil was held outside Englewood STEM High School (or nearby), where hundreds of balloons were released in memory of Romeca, and her family described her as a kind, loving person who cared deeply for her child.

    Romeca’s young son is now being cared for by his grandmother. He is still trying to understand the loss of his mother.

    Many reports highlight that Romeca shared a child with a man named Carlos (sometimes referred to as Carlos Losos Way), who was present during the altercation. There are differing accounts about what triggered the confrontation. Some say Romeca had a restraining order against Carlos, and the relationship was unstable. Others—including people close to Carlos and Holly—claim Romeca may have harassed Holly, destroyed property, and initiated the fight on the day of the shooting.

    Witnesses reported that a physical struggle broke out. They allege Carlos held Romeca in a headlock, while Holly retrieved a firearm from their vehicle and shot Romeca in the face. Holly later told police she feared for her life, citing her concealed-carry license and claiming self-defense.

    Ultimately, no charges were brought against either Johnson (“Holly”) or Carlos. Police have labeled the shooting “domestic in nature,” but the exact sequence of events are still debated.

    The most heart-wrenching part of this story was the note she wrote for her son. She wrote it on the first day of school and put it in his lunch bag. As a mom, that messed me up a little. Was she expecting something bad to happen?

    What should have been a normal start to her day turned into a nightmare her child will never forget. Romeca wrote one last note to her child.

    I started thinking the other day. Most BW on BW (Black Woman on Black Woman) violence stems from either jealousy or a man. This happens whether you’re trying to impress him or keep him. Its sad because once again, kids will be missing a mother. Do you even care about your kids at all???

  • Black TikTokers Urge Sit Out for April 5th Protests

    On April 5, 2025, large protests called the “Hands Off! National Day of Action” took place across the U.S. People rallied against policies linked to former President Donald Trump and Elon Musk. They focused on issues like cuts to Social Security, threats to democracy, and unfair tax benefits for the wealthy. Organized by groups like the Human Rights Campaign, the goal was to pressure lawmakers to stop these policies.

    Why TikTok Warned Black People to “Sit Yo Black Ass Down”

    A viral TikTok trend urged Black Americans to avoid the protests, sparking widespread discussion. Many Black creators raised concerns about safety. They pointed to Trump’s history of threatening to use the military or National Guard to control protests. They worried this would lead to violence or even martial law. Others highlighted the long history of Black protesters facing harsher treatment. Police or counter-protesters treat them more severely compared to other groups.

    Critics also argued that the protests centered issues that mattered more to ‘white liberals.’ These issues included tax cuts for the wealthy. The protests did not focus (or include) on urgent priorities for Black communities, like police violence or systemic racism. Some felt Black voices were being used to support causes that didn’t tackle their specific struggles. To spread their message, Black TikTokers used humor and creativity.

    Be sure to subscribe to @PeaceOfMind-LAPC on Youtube!

    Behind the jokes, though, was a serious call to focus on safer actions with greater impact. Many suggested supporting Black-owned businesses. They also recommended practicing self-care to cope with political (or everyday) stress. Others advocated organizing locally around issues that directly affect their communities. Common folk like me will just stay home, be with the family, and hop on the video game.

    Did People Listen?

    While the April 5th protests drew crowds in cities like New York and Washington, D.C., many Black activists chose to stay home. The TikTok movement revealed a divide in how people view activism. Some still believe mass protests are powerful tools for change. Others argue that marginalized groups, like Black Americans, need to prioritize safety. They should adopt strategies that directly benefit their communities. May I remind you that WE Black people went to the polls? We constantly educated ourselves about this administration. Yet, we still got fade? Yep, we are sitting this one out.

    The TikTok-driven April 5th Protest reflects a growing sentiment among Black communities. It shows that participation in activism doesn’t have to look the same for everyone. Whether through protests, mutual aid, or rest, the goal remains fighting systemic inequities while safeguarding mental and physical well-being.

    Watch this live feed. Not a speck of us out there. Someone even shouted “Black Lives Matter” but that someone didn’t look like me.

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    Source: Kat Gabrielle, Founder of The Well Work, a community-rooted organization committed to advancing Black women and Non-binary founders in business by providing access to funding, growth, and opportunities. 

    👉🏽 The Well Work x Justworks – Just Thrive Program | Up to $6,000 to existing businesses that have at least 50% ownership by marginalized founder(s) + 2 employees, Deadline: Rolling | https://lnkd.in/gCEybcgV

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  • Enough Is Enough: The Toxic Online War Among Black Women

    I’m sick and tired of the mess happening on YouTube and across social media. This is especially true when it comes to how Black women are treated. This isn’t just “internet drama” anymore—it’s a full-blown attack on Black women’s lives, mental health, and safety. Every day, we see sistas tearing each other down by becoming bullies. They get harassed by trolls. They are dragged into toxic wars fueled by envy, jealousy, and rage. And now, we’ve crossed a line that should have never been crossed.

    Last week, a Black woman YouTuber in the “Black Tea Sector” tragically took her own life. Why? Because she was doxxed. Her private life was exposed for the world to pick apart, and the constant harassment became too much to bear. Let that sink in. She was involved in the beef as well. However, she, like others, simply wanted to build a platform. She wanted to share her voice. Unfortunately, she was driven to suicide because of the cruelty she faced online.

    This isn’t just a wake-up call—it’s a scream that something has to change NOW.

    Why Are Black Women Targeting Each Other?

    Let’s be real: Women get hated on because they’re strong and talented and refuse to dim their light for anyone. For some women, that’s threatening. Some women do not deal with their insecurities. Instead, they lash out with hate, gossip, and schemes to bring fellow Black women down. It’s jealousy, plain and simple. These people see Black women shining. Whether it’s through their careers, families, or social media platforms, they can’t handle it. So, they resort to the dirtiest tactics imaginable.

    The Dirty Tactics of Online Bullies

    This bullying isn’t just petty name-calling—it’s vicious, calculated, and dangerous. Here are the most common methods these cowards use to attack Black women:

    Doxxing: They dig up your address, phone number, or workplace and post it online for everyone to see. It’s not just invasive—it’s life-threatening. Imagine living in constant fear that someone will show up at your door.

    False CPS Calls: Black mothers are being falsely reported to Child Protective Services out of spite. This isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it’s an attack on their families. These false reports can traumatize children and disrupt entire households.

    Swatting and Police Reports: Some trolls call the cops with fake accusations. This action sends armed officers to someone’s home. For Black women, this isn’t a prank—it’s a death threat.

    Public Shaming and Lies: They spread fake scandals. They drag Black women’s names through the mud. They do this all for clout and clicks. These attacks aren’t harmless—they ruin reputations and destroy livelihoods.

    And let’s not forget the coordinated efforts to demonetize or flag channels of Black women. This is done by mass-reporting their accounts or harassing their followers.

    The Black Sectors of YouTube: Breeding Grounds for Hate

    The Black Sectors of YouTube, once a space for commentary and entertainment, has turned into a toxic battlefield. Instead of uplifting each other, creators are tearing each other down in the most vicious ways possible. The recent suicide of a Black woman YouTuber should make everyone stop and reflect on the damage being done.

    She was doxxed, dragged, and humiliated by people who didn’t care about the human being behind the screen. They didn’t care that she was a mother, a friend, and a woman with feelings. They just wanted to destroy her, and they succeeded. Unfortunately, this happens every day in these sectors. Even on Christmas day, they’re on Streamyard panels. They argue and say the nastiest things to and about each other. This isn’t entertainment anymore. This is a sick and twisted game that’s costing people their lives.

    What Needs to Change

    1. Accountability: Social media platforms need to do better. They allow this toxic behavior to thrive by failing to enforce their own rules. It’s time for real consequences for doxxing, harassment, and bullying.
    2. Community Support: Black women need to be nicer to each other. Stop supporting the drama and start calling out the mess. If you see someone being attacked, speak up. Also, leave people alone when they tell you to. Why continually pick at them?
    3. Stop Glorifying the Bullies: Too many people tune in for the tea and act like it’s all fun and games. But when someone’s life is on the line, it’s not funny anymore. Stop giving clout to the people who thrive on destruction.
    4. Mental Health Awareness: We need to talk about the mental health toll this takes. Therapy, support groups, and self-care aren’t just luxuries—they’re necessities. And also, turn off the app and get some help!

    Final Thoughts

    To everyone who thinks this is just drama: wake up. This can be life or death. Black women are targeting each other, harassing, and arguing, and it’s not okay. To the bullies hiding behind keyboards: you’re not just trolls. You’re abusers. You’re destroying lives for likes and views, and there’s blood on your hands. And to my fellow Black women: protect your peace. Guard your energy. Enough is enough.

  • Remembering Cat Glover: The Dance Icon Behind Prince

    The world has lost yet another legendary artist. Cat Glover, an extraordinary dancer, choreographer, and creative force, has passed away. Cat was known for her iconic collaborations with the late singer Prince. Her unique style and raw talent forever transformed the landscape of dance and music.

    Born Catherine Vernice Glover. She began her career as a professional dancer in the early 1980s. She quickly rose through the ranks of the entertainment industry. Cat was renowned for her high-energy moves, street dance influence, and ability to combine precision with improvisational flair. These qualities caught the attention of none other than Prince. She would go on to share some of the most memorable moments in music history with him.

    Cat Glover in dance group ‘Pat & Cat’ performing on Star Search semifinals in 1986.

    Cat’s introduction to the Purple One came in the mid-1980s. This was during a time when Prince was solidifying his legacy as a musical genius and cultural icon. Their partnership began when she became one of his principal dancers.

    Cat Glover with Prince

    She captivated audiences on his Sign o’ the Times tour in 1987. Her fierce performances in the accompanying concert film, also titled Sign o’ the Times, made her an instant fan favorite. She became particularly popular during her solo dance sequence in “Hot Thing.” This film immortalized Glover’s ability to command the stage, and her chemistry with Prince was electrifying.

    Prince performs ‘Hot Thing’ with Cat Glover in background on Sign O’ the Times tour.

    Beyond her undeniable dance skills, Cat’s influence extended into the realm of choreography. She helped craft some of the distinctive movements that made Prince’s stage shows legendary. She added her own flavor to his concerts and videos. Their collaboration was not only professional but deeply artistic. Cat embodied the creative energy that made Prince’s performances so iconic.

    Prince and Cat Glover perform ‘Erotic City’ with Sheila E. on Lovesexy tour.

    Though best known for her work with Prince, Cat Glover’s talent was boundless. She worked with other prominent artists and left her mark on the entertainment industry with her choreography and performances. She helped bridge the worlds of street dance and pop culture. She contributed to the evolution of dance styles that continue to influence performers today.

    Cat Glover in 2006

    The loss of Cat Glover is profound. She was a beacon of creativity. She was also a dancer who lived fully in her art. Fans of Prince, the music community, and dance aficionados alike will remember her for her dynamic energy. They will honor her trailblazing spirit. Her everlasting contributions to the world of entertainment will never be forgotten.

    Rest in power, Cat Glover. You were truly one of a kind, and your legacy will continue to inspire future generations of dancers and artists.

  • Seeking Justice: Recent Heartbreaking Incidents That Demand Our Attention

    In recent days, our news feeds have been flooded with heartbreaking stories—each one a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for justice. From police shootings and homicides on Black children to mass violence, these events demand our attention and collective action. It is imperative that we come together as a society to discuss these pressing issues and work towards creating a safer and more just world for everyone. These stories serve as a call to action, prompting us to advocate for meaningful change in our communities and beyond.

    Sonya Massey’s Assassination: A Shocking Police Shooting

    In Springfield, Illinois, the tragic death of Sonya Massey has sent shockwaves through the community. On July 6, 2024, Sonya Massey, a 36-year-old Black woman, called 911 to report a suspected prowler near her home in Springfield, Illinois. Two deputies from the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office, including Sean Grayson, responded to her call. The situation escalated rapidly, leading to a tragic outcome.

    The 36-minute body camera footage, released by the Illinois State Police, reveals the chaotic moments leading up to Sonya Massey’s death. Here are the key details:

    The Encounter: Grayson and the other deputy arrived at Massey’s home just before 1 a.m. They found a black SUV with broken windows in the driveway. Massey opened the door and engaged in conversation with the deputies. The officers asked for her identification card and discussed the vehicle parked in her driveway.

    The Boiling Pot Incident: Grayson noticed a pot of boiling water on Massey’s stove and asked her to move it to avoid a fire risk. Massey, seemingly upset, said, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.” Grayson drew his weapon and threatened to shoot her. Massey immediately apologized and ducked behind her kitchen counter.

    The Fatal Shots: Grayson fired his pistol three times, fatally striking Massey in the head. Most of the footage was recorded by Grayson’s partner, whose identity remains undisclosed. The second deputy did not fire their weapon and is not facing charges. Grayson did not bother to render aid and told the partner it wasn’t necessary after the partner attempted to grab his medical kit to render aid.

    Sean Patrick Grayson, the deputy responsible for the fatal shooting of Massey, had worked in SIX different police departments in less than 4 years. He was fired after the shooting. Before joining the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office, he had two DUI convictions. Grayson discouraged his partner from trying to save the victim, as shown in bodycam footage released on July 22, 2024. Grayson’s lawyer recently stated that he is an army veteran with stage 3 colon cancer, diagnosed last fall. The lawyer also mentioned that Grayson surrendered himself within half an hour after his arrest warrant was issued and emphasized that he is not a threat to the community.

    2. Indianola MS Mass Shooting: A Night of Horror

    Areon Butler, 19, of Indianola, MS

    Outside a nightclub in Indianola, Mississippi, a mass shooting left three 19-year-olds dead, and more than a dozen injured. The tragedy unfolded during a birthday celebration, casting a dark shadow over what should have been a joyous occasion. According to reports, officers were putting up barriers to manage traffic flow when the shooting broke out. The three victims were Areon Butler from Indianola, Cameron Lee Butts and Marquette Bates from Greenville. Areon Butler just graduated from high school and was set to attend Mississippi Delta Community College this fall with plans of becoming an auto mechanic. The City of Indianola declared a state of emergency and placed a curfew to keep people off the streets while they continue to investigate this among many incidents related to gun violence.

    Check out this 2020 report about gun violence in Mississippi.

    3. Fort Lauderdale Birthday Party Shooting: Innocence Lost

    Three-year-old Rylo Yancy was one of the children killed in the drive-by shooting at a kids’ birthday party.

    On a fateful Sunday afternoon (July 21st), 3-year-old Rylo Yancy was attending a birthday party at Riverland Park in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The celebration was meant to honor the first birthday of another child. However, tragedy struck when gunfire erupted around 4:30 p.m. The incident was a drive-by shooting near the 900 block of Southwest 27th Avenue.

    In the chaos that followed, 911 calls captured the panic and urgency. Witnesses screamed for an ambulance, desperate to save the injured toddler. Despite swift efforts by Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, Rylo Yancy succumbed to his injuries. He had just turned 3 years old in May.

    The aftermath left family members devastated, and social media overflowed with expressions of grief. At the park, remnants of the celebration—balloons and decorations—were scattered around the scene. Food, drinks, and other items were left behind on picnic tables, a stark reminder of the innocence lost to senseless violence.

    WLPG Local 10 News in Broward County, FL

    Detectives have identified and located one of the vehicles involved, but no arrests have been made yet.

    4. Noah Burns’ Mysterious Death: A Homicide Uncovered

    Noah Bush, 8, of Jessup, GA

    In the quiet town of Jesup, Georgia, tragedy struck when 8-year-old Noah Bush was found dead in a borrow pit near his home. What initially appeared to be a heartbreaking accident soon took a dark turn, leading to a homicide investigation. On May 16, Noah was reported missing. His lifeless body was discovered the next day in the borrow pit filled with water. He had last been seen with two boys: a 10-year-old friend he had known for a few months and an 11-year-old he had just met that day.

    Noah’s family immediately questioned the official account. They knew their son was afraid of water and wouldn’t willingly approach it. Their doubts intensified when the sheriff’s department declared Noah’s death an accident, ruling out foul play. Noah’s mother, grief-stricken and determined, refused to accept the accident theory. She believed there was more to her son’s tragic end. Her persistence paid off when, after 55 days, authorities reversed their stance. The cause of death? Homicide.

    During the investigation, it emerged that one of the boys had pushed Noah into the deep part of the borrow pit. A borrow pit is an excavation site where materials like dirt or soil are dug out for use elsewhere. In Noah’s case, this seemingly innocuous pit became the setting for a devastating chain of events. Suddenly, what seemed like a tragic accident became a criminal act. The 10- and 11-year-olds were arrested and charged, as well as the mother of one of the boys, Natalie Hardison, for a felony charge of making false statements. It just happened to be a coincidence that Noah was Black and the two boys arrested were white.

    *sigh* I’m tired, yall. As a Black mother, wife, daughter, and sister…I am tired. Do we live in fear or…what do we do?

  • Digital Deception Chronicles: She Left Her Abusive Husband For Another Abusive Man

    In the midst of life’s chaos, sometimes the most unexpected relationships form, especially when they begin online. This is the story of Phyllicia, Deshawn, and Clinton—a tale filled with troubling twists and turns that highlight the complexities of abuse, betrayal, and the dark side of relationships. As content creators within these large online communities, they brought their personal drama back to the platform, allowing the world to witness their tumultuous journey live on air.

    The Beginning of Turmoil

    Phyllicia’s story begins with her troubled relationship with her husband, Deshawn. Phyllicia and Deshawn were married for two years, during which Deshawn’s frequent absences and deceit led Phyllicia into a state of confusion and loneliness. On one particular night, Deshawn left unexpectedly. His absence was nothing new to Phyllicia; he often disappeared without warning, leaving her to wonder about his whereabouts and actions.

    In the midst of this turmoil, Phyllicia met Clinton. Their connection was immediate and deep. Clinton, the child’s father of Sequoia—a woman in the community with a scandalous past and share of men—has a complicated and troubling life. He has 13 children under the age of 18 scattered across the country, along with an estranged wife and children on the East Coast; currently he lives in the South with an older relative. Clinton also has a criminal history of domestic violence and abuse. Despite these red flags, Phyllicia and Clinton began talking on the backend, just days after Deshawn’s latest departure. Initially, Phyllicia told Clinton that Deshawn was at work, but as their conversations grew more frequent and intimate, she revealed the truth: Deshawn was not around, and their marriage was on shaky ground.

    The Return and Confrontation

    Deshawn returned home shortly after Phyllicia and Clinton started talking. His return was not welcomed with open arms but rather with suspicion and accusations. Deshawn found messages between Phyllicia and Clinton and became increasingly paranoid. His behavior turned aggressive, leading to a physical altercation. Phyllicia described a harrowing night where Deshawn, fueled by jealousy and anger, attacked her multiple times. She managed to escape with her children, seeking refuge with Clinton, unaware that she was potentially jumping from the frying pan into the fire.

    Phyllicia’s decision to involve Clinton was not just about seeking safety but also about finding clarity in her emotions. Despite the growing bond with Clinton, she was still entangled in the complicated web of her feelings for Deshawn. She admitted to Clinton that she was confused, torn between the history she shared with Deshawn and the new relationship with Clinton, not fully aware of Clinton’s abusive past.

    Adding to the complexity, Phyllicia and Sequoia were once good friends. However, a significant fallout led to a beef between them, culminating in a physical fight. Now, Phyllicia’s involvement with Clinton, Sequoia’s baby father, raises questions about her motives. Was this relationship a genuine connection or a calculated move to get back at Sequoia?

    The situation escalated further when Deshawn, in a drunken rage, accused Phyllicia of lying and cheating. This confrontation revealed the depth of Deshawn’s issues, including his own infidelities and erratic behavior. Phyllicia, on the other hand, was candid about her mistakes and the lies she told to protect herself and her children, though she seemed unaware of the full extent of Clinton’s past.

    In the end, Phyllicia decided to move forward with Clinton. She acknowledged her confusion and the mistakes she made but also recognized the need to break free from the toxic cycle with Deshawn. Clinton, understanding the complexity of Phyllicia’s situation, decided to stand by her. However, given Clinton’s own troubling history, Phyllicia’s choice may not lead to the safety and stability she desperately seeks.

    Break the Cycle, Stop the Abuse. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1–800–799–7233.