Author: DAMON K JONES
Albany, NY – “It’s no fun when the rabbit got the gun.” For most of her career, New York Attorney General Letitia James has aggressively pursued former President Donald Trump, earning both praise and fierce criticism. Now, the political tides are shifting as Republicans call for investigations into James, accusing her of weaponizing the New York legal system against conservatives. The latest challenge to James’s authority comes from Representative Elise Stefanik, who recently filed a formal complaint alleging that James’s prosecution of Trump was politically motivated and violated ethical legal standards. Stefanik argues that James’s investigation into Trump’s business dealings…
Last night, Kendrick Lamar delivered a groundbreaking and politically charged performance at the Super Bowl LIX Halftime Show, solidifying his status as one of hip-hop’s greatest storytellers. The event, held at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, was a mesmerizing blend of music, culture, and social commentary, leaving an unforgettable mark on the biggest stage in sports. Lamar’s 13-minute set was nothing short of spectacular. He opened with his Grammy-winning hit “HUMBLE.”, setting the tone for an electrifying show filled with cinematic visuals and intricate choreography. The rapper seamlessly transitioned into “DNA.”, a song that speaks to his personal journey and the…
In an age where social media dictates so much of our daily experiences, it’s easy to overlook an uncomfortable truth: our lives operate under a similar algorithm. Just as social media learns our behaviors, rewards our engagement, and feeds us what it thinks we want, our real-world experiences, beliefs, and even our faith are shaped by what we consume, who we surround ourselves with, and our choices. If you’ve ever found yourself trapped in a cycle of negativity, bad habits, or spiritual emptiness, chances are your life algorithm is broken. But just like resetting your social media feed, you can…
Health disparities in Black communities continue to be a pressing issue, with higher rates of heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension compared to other racial groups. While systemic factors like healthcare access and socioeconomic conditions play a significant role, one powerful tool for improving health is our diets. Among the many nutrient-dense foods that can help combat chronic illness, one stands out as a simple, accessible, and delicious option—grapes. Whether red, green, or purple, grapes are packed with essential nutrients and bioactive compounds that can support heart health, regulate blood sugar, and even promote longevity. It’s time for Black America to…
In a world where Black children must navigate unique societal challenges from an early age, equipping them with the tools to handle stress and develop emotional intelligence isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential. From systemic inequalities to racial microaggressions, Black youth face stressors that many of their peers simply do not. Yet, traditional education often neglects the emotional well-being of Black children, leaving them vulnerable to the long-term effects of unaddressed trauma. It’s time we change that. Emotional intelligence, or the ability to recognize, understand, and manage emotions, is a crucial skill that improves mental health, academic success, and resilience. For Black…
Former President Donald Trump has unveiled a new tax proposal aimed at benefiting middle-class Americans by eliminating taxes on tips, overtime pay, and Social Security benefits and extending the 2017 tax cuts. While the plan has sparked nationwide debate, a key question remains: How will these tax changes impact Black Americans? Given the racial wealth gap, disparities in wages, and historical economic barriers, understanding the specific effects of these tax cuts on Black households, entrepreneurs, and workers is crucial. Key Tax Cuts and Their Impact on Black Americans 1. Elimination of Taxes on Tips Many Black Americans work in service…
In Black culture, the kitchen has always been more than just a place to prepare food. It is a sacred space—where stories are passed down, traditions are honored, and families gather to nourish both body and soul. But beyond its cultural significance, our kitchens hold something even more powerful: the key to our health. Every ingredient we choose and every meal we prepare has the ability to either sustain our well-being or contribute to the chronic illnesses that disproportionately impact our community. Culinary Medicine: A Return to Food as Medicine Culinary medicine—the practice of using food intentionally for healing and…
I remember speaking on a panel once, and someone asked me, “What would you cook for your wife?” I smiled and said, “I do cook, but the best thing I can make for her is a salad.” The ladies in the audience laughed, but I was dead serious. If you love someone, you make your kitchen a place of health, and you present to the one you love food that’s alive, vibrant, and nourishing. It’s not just about filling a plate—it’s about feeding the body and soul with God’s bounty. For many in the Black community, salads have long been…
The Case for Consolidation and Vocational Education Mount Vernon’s public school system is facing a critical juncture. With the steady expansion of charter and private schools, enrollment in our public schools is projected to decline even further. As these alternative education options continue to grow, they pull students—particularly those from families with greater resources or higher-achieving students—out of the public system. This shift threatens to further strain our district’s budget and resources. To navigate these changes, we must adopt a new mindset in how we do business and how we provide the best educational advantages for the children of Mount Vernon.…
For decades, Black leaders have championed Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) as a means to correct systemic inequalities. Yet, after more than 50 years, DEI has failed Black communities while reinforcing White power structures. If DEI was truly about dismantling systemic oppression, why have White women been its greatest beneficiaries while Black families and generational wealth continue to fall further behind? The Trump administration recently moved to dismantle federal DEI programs, prompting strong opposition from Black leaders who have rushed to defend these initiatives. But the harsh truth is that DEI has never served Black people the way it has…