TODAY IN BLACK MEDIA (7/03/25)

TODAY IN BLACK MEDIA is a platform that highlights African American news and cultural discussions, focusing on often underreported global black achievements. It encourages conversations about race, culture, and identity, promoting unity and engagement with societal issues. The platform fosters reflection and dialogue, with the goal to inspire action and solidarity within the African American community to shape a more inclusive narrative.

Today, Dr. Rashad Richey and Jackson White discuss a British author named Toni Tone, who describes her nightmare encounter with a racist couple during her vacation on a Virgin Voyages cruise ship.

A Black British author recounted a deeply unsettling racist encounter with a white couple on a cruise ship who accused her of trading sexual favors for VIP access, a baseless claim that not only shocked her but also revealed the troubling prejudices still present in society. This couple, seemingly oblivious to the absurdity of their accusations, went so far as to complain about her to the staff members, further attempting to undermine her dignity and experience. In an effort to bring her story to light, Toni Tone took to TikTok to discuss the incident, which she described as “the most racist encounter” of her life during a mid-June vacation on a Virgin Voyages cruise ship. She shared her emotional turmoil and frustration at being stereotyped and dehumanized in such a blatant manner, emphasizing the need for awareness and change in how society addresses racism in all its forms. The situation served as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized individuals, even in seemingly idyllic settings like a cruise vacation.

Read more about it here: https://atlantablackstar.com/2025/07/…

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY, SOMALIA!!!

Somalia’s Independence Day in 2025 is today, July 1st, 2025. This significant date marks the formation of the Somali Republic in 1960 through the unification of British Somaliland and the Trust Territory of Italian Somaliland, a historical event that reshaped the identity and governance of the region. While June 26th is also recognized as the independence day of British Somaliland, which gained sovereignty from the United Kingdom on that date in 1960, the national holiday celebrating the formation of the Somali Republic is July 1st. This day is not only a reminder of the struggle for freedom but also an occasion for Somalis worldwide to reflect on their rich cultural heritage and the journey towards unity and independence.

The celebration commemorates the unification and the Somali people’s pursuit of sovereignty and self-determination. In 2025, Somalia will be celebrating its 65th anniversary of independence, marking a significant milestone in its journey toward nationhood. This important day is not only a time for reflection on the struggles and triumphs of the past but also serves as an opportunity to envision a brighter future for the country.

Typically, the day involves various festivities, such as parades, flag-raising ceremonies, and cultural events that showcase the rich heritage of the Somali people. These activities foster a sense of unity and national pride among citizens, as families gather to celebrate together. International partners often extend congratulations to Somalia on this day, recognizing the achievements and resilience of the Somali people in their ongoing quest for peace and stability. The vibrant atmosphere of the celebrations embodies the hopes and aspirations of a nation as it looks forward to continuing its development and strengthening its sovereignty.

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY, BURUNDI!!!

Burundi’s Independence Day in 2025 is today, July 1st. It is a significant public holiday in Burundi, marking the anniversary of the country’s independence from Belgium in 1962. This day is not only a celebration of national pride but also a time for reflection on the struggles and sacrifices that led to this hard-won freedom.

Festivities across the nation include cultural performances, parades, and ceremonies that honor the heroes of the independence movement. Schools and communities come together to organize events that educate the younger generation about the importance of independence and the country’s rich heritage. It is a day filled with unity, hope, and a renewed commitment to building a prosperous future for all Burundians.

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY, RWANDA!!!

Rwanda’s Independence Day is celebrated on July 1st, a significant date in the nation’s history that marks the achievement of freedom from Belgian colonial rule in 1962. This day not only honors the struggle and sacrifices made by Rwandans in their quest for self-determination but also serves as a reflection of the country’s journey towards unity and progress since gaining independence.

Festivities typically include various events such as parades, cultural performances, and speeches by government officials, all aimed at promoting national pride and a sense of community among Rwandans. The celebration also highlights the importance of continued growth and development in the nation, as Rwandans come together to remember their past and look forward to a brighter future.

Rwanda also celebrates Liberation Day on July 4th, marking the end of the Rwandan genocide, a day that symbolizes resilience and unity for the nation. This significant event commemorates the victory of the Rwandan Patriotic Front in 1994, which put an end to a period of devastating violence and suffering.

In the aftermath, the country has made remarkable strides in rebuilding itself, fostering a sense of national pride and commitment to peace and reconciliation that is palpable in every corner of the nation. On this day, the Rwandan people participate in various activities, including memorial services, cultural performances, and community gatherings, which serve as a vital reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. Families and friends come together to share stories of love and loss, ensuring that the memories of those who were lost are not forgotten. Through art, music, and dance, they express their hopes for a united future, reflecting on the past while looking forward to a brighter future filled with opportunities for all. This day is not just a moment of remembrance, but also a celebration of progress, unity, and the commitment of every Rwandan to build a peaceful society where diversity is cherished and embraced.

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY, DR CONGO!!!

On June 30, 1960, the Democratic Republic of Congo gained its independence from Belgium – a historic moment marked by the powerful speech of Patrice Lumumba, the country’s first prime minister and symbol of African liberation. Lumumba’s oration resonated not only within the borders of Congo but also across the continent, as he passionately called for unity, self-determination, and the rightful ownership of the nation’s resources by its people.

This monumental day was a culmination of years of struggle by the Congolese people, who had endured colonial exploitation and oppression. The excitement in the air was palpable, as citizens celebrated newfound freedom and hoped for a brighter future free from foreign dominance. Unfortunately, this historic achievement was soon overshadowed by political turmoil and conflict, highlighting the immense challenges that lay ahead for the newly independent nation.

Those who killed Patrice Lumumba cannot bring peace to Congo. Period.

MALANDROS IN ACTION (6/30/25)

This series explores the modern malandro in urban society, highlighting their resourcefulness, charm, and adaptability while addressing issues like economic disparity and social justice. It showcases their unique experiences, resilience, and clever tactics, reflecting the complexities of city life. Through vivid storytelling and in-depth character studies, the series delves into the daily struggles faced by these individuals, shedding light on their ingenuity in navigating a world filled with challenges. Additionally, it emphasizes their role as both outliers and contributors to the vibrant tapestry of urban culture, showcasing how their cleverness and streetwise demeanor often lead to unexpected solutions and community bonding. By intertwining personal narratives with broader societal themes, the series paints a compelling picture of the malandro as not just survivors, but as influential figures in the ongoing dialogue about equity and belonging in modern cities.

In Today’s installment, We follow Conor Woodman in a show named scam city, a series where he gets scammed, so we don’t have to.

Today, Conor is in Rio de Janeiro, a vibrant city known for its stunning landscapes and rich culture. Every year, millions of tourists descend on this Brazilian city for the biggest party in the world – Carnival, a dazzling festival filled with music, dance, and colorful parades, attracting people from all corners of the globe. The streets overflow with joyful revelers dressed in extravagant costumes, embodying the spirit of celebration that defines this incredible event.

However, with so many tourists out reveling on the streets, it’s also party time for Rio’s scammers too, who take advantage of the festive atmosphere, employing various tactics to capitalize on the distraction and excitement of the crowds. With their cunning strategies, these scammers often blend seamlessly into the vibrant scene, making it difficult for unsuspecting visitors to distinguish between genuine revelers and those with less honorable intentions. Whether it’s through pickpocketing, counterfeit tickets, or opportunistic salesmanship, they create an environment that can quickly turn the joyous celebration into one marked by stress and loss.

Therefore, it is crucial for visitors to remain vigilant, attuned to their surroundings, and aware of the common scams that may arise, ensuring that their experience of Carnival remains joyous and memorable, free from the pitfalls that can accompany such a bustling celebration. Observing the people around them, keeping their valuables securely stored, and being cautious when engaging with strangers can go a long way in preserving the magic of this iconic event.

TODAY IN BLACK MEDIA (6/29/25)

Welcome to TODAY IN BLACK MEDIA, a vibrant platform that highlights news and cultural discussions from an African American perspective, focusing on important global black achievements and stories that often go underreported in mainstream media. By showcasing the diverse narratives and voices within the African American community, it fosters conversations about race, culture, and identity while promoting unity and engagement with societal issues. This platform serves as a crucial space for reflection and dialogue, encouraging individuals to explore the complexities of their heritage and the ongoing struggles for equity and justice. By connecting audiences with relevant content, TODAY IN BLACK MEDIA aims to inspire action and solidarity within and beyond the African American community, helping to shape a more inclusive narrative in our society.

Today, Wongel Zelalem reports on Romanians getting targeted in Northern Ireland, shedding light on the alarming incidents of violence and racial prejudice experienced by this community.

The increasing hostility not only threatens their safety but also highlights a deeper issue within society. Furthermore, the mainstream media fails to cover the story when it is about “them folks” murdering each other, framing these incidents in a way that often overlooks the underlying cultural and socio-economic factors at play.

This selective reporting creates a narrative that diminishes the experience of affected individuals and perpetuates cycles of misunderstanding and bias, leaving many to wonder about the true nature of accountability and justice in such cases.

SPIRITUAL PRACTICES OF AFRICA, AND THE DIASPORA (6/29/25)

Greetings! This blog series explores indigenous beliefs and religions in Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on ancestral worship, Christianity, and Islam. It highlights the region’s cultural heritage through rituals and community gatherings that celebrate identity and wisdom. By showcasing ceremonies, it illustrates the symbolic meanings of practices that strengthen social ties among ethnic groups. The series also examines how these traditions adapt within the diaspora, creating a blend of ancient customs and contemporary beliefs. Additionally, it emphasizes storytelling’s role in preserving oral histories that guide future generations.

In today’s installment,

The Fon people played a key role in the development and spread of Vodou, originating from their language, where “Vodou” means “spirit” or “god”. The Kingdom of Dahomey, dominated by the Fon, was influential in popularizing Vodou in West Africa from the 17th to 20th centuries, establishing a rich cultural and spiritual legacy that resonated throughout the region.

Their traditional polytheistic beliefs, involving a complex pantheon of spirits called “loa” or “lwa”, laid the foundation for Vodou, incorporating various aspects of daily life, nature, and ancestral veneration in rituals and practices. During the transatlantic slave trade, many Fon and Ewe individuals were forcibly brought to the Americas, where they retained their Vodun beliefs, which greatly contributed to the emergence of Haitian Vodou, a unique expression of their heritage.

In the Americas, enslaved Africans blended Vodou with European and indigenous spiritual practices, leading to its syncretism and survival as practitioners adapted to new environments and social realities. This fusion not only facilitated the preservation of their culture but also gave rise to a dynamic spiritual system that reflects a rich tapestry of history and resilience, incorporating various elements such as music, dance, and ritualistic practices that serve not merely as religious expressions but also as vital pathways for community bonding and identity formation.

Thus, the Fon were instrumental in the origins and evolution of Vodou in both Africa and the Americas, ensuring that their ancestral traditions lived on through generations despite the challenges they faced, including brutal oppression and cultural erasure, which they resisted through acts of spiritual defiance and creativity, transforming Vodou into a powerful symbol of empowerment and a testament to their enduring spirit.

MARTIAL ARTS THEATER (6/27/25)

Welcome to MARTIAL ARTS THEATER, a community hub for martial arts enthusiasts offering expert interviews, instructional videos, and events for all skill levels. Dive into insights on disciplines like karate, judo, taekwondo, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu in a supportive environment that fosters growth and camaraderie. We encourage both seasoned practitioners and beginners to connect, share experiences, and embark on a journey of self-discovery through workshops, seminars, and discussion panels, while honing skills and building friendships.

In today’s installment…

Last week I posted about a sparring match between the “Karate Nerd” Jesse Enkamp and Josh Bean, where he showcased some aspects of Karate that are not really well-known or discussed in contemporary circles, namely the grappling aspect, along with a little kata training. This match highlighted the importance of understanding the versatility of Karate, which extends beyond striking techniques.

You see, in the old days, Okinawan Karate was not just about punches and kicks; it included a rich variety of techniques such as bunkai, grappling, weapons training, and throws, which made it a comprehensive martial art practiced for both self-defense and physical well-being. In fact, practitioners would often engage in rigorous training that integrated these elements, honing their skills to react to various combat scenarios effectively. By bringing attention to these lesser-known practices, we can appreciate the depth and historical significance of Karate, encouraging a more holistic approach to modern training that pays homage to its roots.

So why is Japanese Karate so different? Well, the history of Western Boxing has the answer. It all began with a riveting 1921 title fight between Jack Dempsey and George Carpentier in New Jersey, USA, a match for the ages.

Don’t believe me? Well, as the Karate Nerd says, “CHECK IT OUT!”