The Blue & White Flash February 16, 2023

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2nd Annual Black History Month Cultural Explosion features Fisk Jubilee Singers

Tatyana Ross

Editor-in-Chief

Jackson State University held the 2nd annual Black History Cultural Explosion on Feb. 14. This year, the Fisk Jubilee Singers were featured along with several JSU performance arts organizations. The event was sponsored by the College of Liberal Arts and the Institute for Social Justice and Race Relations.

Despite sparse attendance, the student participants all performed as if the house was packed. Students showcased their talents in Western classical music, music and dance from Africa, spoken word, and presentations by student and university leadership.

Chair of the Department of English, Foreign Languages, and Speech Communication Eboni Lumumba, Ph.D., served as program guide for the event.

The event began with greetings from the Interim Dean of the College of Liberal Arts, Mister JSU and the Student Government Association president after the singing of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” led by a senior music major and accompanied by the JSU Wind Ensemble.

Dean Bessie HouseSoremenkun, Ph.D. said, “Indeed, we owe a great deal to the vison and fortitude of the very brilliant black scholar, the late Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who initiated the very first Black History Week in 1926 and it was later expanded to become Black History Month. He believed that opportunities should be created to discuss and identify the multifarious ways in which

African-American people have made significant contributions in the development of this country. There is no doubt that these impacts have traversed virtually every aspect of American life, including politics, entrepreneurship, economic development, the legal arena, sports, academia, the arts, the non-profit sectors, and beyond. The data is clear, that when AfricanAmericans have been given the opportunity to participate and learn, that they can do as well as, and in some cases, better than anyone else.

She added, “I am aware that we are in a very unique historical moment, not only here in the United States, but also globally. There are numerous opportunities that have opened up for people of color and people of every persuasion to do the best, to go beyond, and it was certainly very different in the old days when things were dramatically different. So, I want to challenge all you to go the step beyond and push that envelop forward and to keep marching towards success.”

Filling the auditorium with music and dancing, the JSU African Dance and Drum Ensemble gave a lively performance that had members of the audience visualizing scenes from the motherland as the dancers swayed, gyrated and clapped in beat with the drummers.

Chair and Associate Professor of Ethnomusicology

the forefront for people of African descent. Artists are the storytellers in our community so it is only fitting that we host this celebration of the history of African Americans here at JSU.”

Mark Henderson, Ph.D., introduced the MADDRAMA Performance Troupe, which did a tribute to the black church. Henderson stated that this tribute recognized the strong foundation the church has played in black culture.

Next up was the amazing Fisk Jubilee Singers.

“Like the rich history that JSU has and the place within American history that Thee I Love holds, Fisk and the Jubilee Singers have such an amazing history, legacy, and future,” said Beckley-Roberts in the press release. “Our departments and the work of our institutions center our students and fostering them becoming artist activists. It is my hope that this will be the first of many collaborative efforts to do that work!”

Assistant Professor of Music Ramon Jackson, DMA, had this to say about the Fisk Jubilee Singers.

“This is a very prestigious group of musicians who have paved the way for so many. We need to celebrate the history of African Americans and the lineage that has shaped us today. The singers are performing spiritual songs that influenced modern gospel,” said Jackson in a press release.

Mister JSU, had this to say about why celebrations like these are needed.

“Black history is filled with the vision of many heroes who desired to elevate and change the environment they inhabited. Their vision and willingness to make it a reality is a power that was and is successful despite the racism, injustices and oppression that we have encountered,” said Edwards, a senior journalism and media studies major. “In 1976, President Gerald Ford expanded Negro History Week into a full month however, black history is more than a month. It is designed to highlight and celebrate the innovative, creative, revolutionary, influential and life changing contributions blacks have contributed to society. It does not only acknowledge the past, but also the current 365 days of the black experience. It is not struggle; it is strength.”

Jackson, who served as the Cultural Explosion committee chair, thanked all that organized and participated in the event.

Jackson. “Therefore, we pause to remember their efforts and realize that each day we stand on their broad shoulders as we endeavor to make our own indelible marks in history.”

He added, “Let us continue building on the legacy of our ancestors as we break barriers, build bridges, change and challenge lives each and every day. I challenge each of you to continue to work hard to achieve at highest level. Be strong in your conviction. Insist on being treated with the fairness you deserve and continue always to keep justice.”

Assistant Provost of Academic Affairs Consandra McNeil, Ph.D., gave closing remarks about the program as she applauded the work of the talented students and committee that put the celebration together. She also spoke on the student attendance.

Lisa Beckley-Roberts,

Ph.D., said in a press release about the event, “In every period of resistance, triumph, or achievement musicians and artists have been at

The group gave two heartfelt songs that drew a standing ovation from the attendees.

Jackson State student leaders also contributed to the program.

Joshua Edwards, the 6th

“This month of February is dedicated to celebrate Black History Month. The annual commemoration honoring the many varied contributions of African-Americans to U.S. history. Starting as Negro History Week by Carter G. Woodson, the observance has evolved to an entire month with every president since 1976 designating February as Black History Month. I believe every day is worthy to honor our black heritage because our members have made enumerable contributions to society that have made advancements in science, medicine, technology, politics and education,” said

“We would all like for more students to have been here today to see this. But I thought about something, I said ‘If we stop, what would happen, if we stop,’ said McNeil. “We cannot stop. If only 5 students, 10 students, 20 students, 30 students (attend)... one day we will get to that 100 students. But we are not going to stop having this event and not express our culture here at Jackson State. I leave you with the words of Mary McLeod Bethune, ‘The drums of Africa still beat in my heart. They will not let me rest while there is a single Negro boy or girl without a chance to prove his worth.’ McNeil reiterated, “We will not stop. Let the drums of Africa continue to beat in our hearts.”

Amaya Baker contributed to this article.

Photo by Charles A. Smith

The JSU African Dance and Drum Ensemble presents lively performance during the 2nd annual Black History Month Cultural Explosion.

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JSU’s 7-Day

African-American history should be celebrated 365 days a year

It is an amazing milestone and I won’t discredit that however I don’t feel as Black History Month should be restricted to just one month.

My entire school life I have been forced to take general American History that blatantly glosses over the impact African-Americans have made in the U.S.

Personally, I don’t believe it’s fair that black people are practically only allowed to learn black history during one month of the year as if it is not part of true American History.

a true mark of the racial oppression of black people across the U.S.

The worst part about it is I think it works because the education system blatantly ignores the existence of black people until February. And it is so watered down. Students are limited to learning the same thing about the same people each year.

who are important to black history than just Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Malcom X, Fredrick Douglas, or Harriet Tubman.

There should be more lessons on people like Angela Davis, Ida B. Wells or even Zora Neale Hurston. All three women were overlooked in their efforts to help improve the quality of living for African-Americans.

Tatyana Ross

Editor-in-Chief

Many people don’t know that Black History Month started off as Negro History Week and has since become a national observance recognized in other countries and cultures around the world.

It always feels like American History leaves out pivotal movements and accomplishments from the African-American community. But I know it’s just to push the agenda that there is no race that will be better than their own.

I will say that I think the main cause is that our true oppressors don’t want us to know or understand black history in fear of losing control. And to me it shows

Even now, Florida will not allow a new Advanced Placement course on African American studies to be offered in its high schools, stating that the course is not “historically accurate” and violates state law.

The study of AfricanAmerican contributions are still being limited. Not only to the shortest month of the year, but to be excluded all together.

Unless you were one of the kids interested in learning black history or your own or had parents that encouraged the subject the topic was and remains obsolete.

There is more to people

For instance, Davis was often mistaken as being a part of the Black Panther Party because of their shared beliefs but she was actually a member of the Communist Party.

Wells was a pioneer for African-Americans in journalism; she was unafraid to speak her mind and continued to challenge authority and eventually became co-owner of the Memphis Free Speech and Headlight.

Hurston was more than just an author but she worked as an anthropologist studying all aspects of black people everywhere. Even in the

countries some of us dream of visiting today. Black history consists of events other than just the Civil Rights Movement, The Selma to Montgomery March, or the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

And black history definitely yielded more Supreme Court Cases than just Dred Scott v Sanford (1857), Plessy v. Ferguson (1896), or Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas. All in all, it is time to change up the content and learn black history over the course of the year to help prevent history from repeating itself. It is ultimately your choice on what you want to learn in regards to African-American history. You should be living it daily as shining examples of what our ancestors fought and died for.

The views expressed in the commentary are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.

Rico Anderson Junior Entrepreneurship Chicago, Ill.

“I don’t really have a problem with it because we kind of get celebrated every month.”

“I

Jadon Thomas Sophomore Marketing St. Louis, Mis.

“Black History Month is BS because it only reminds me of what we’ve been through and only talks about the same people every year.”

Jaylyn Smith Freshman Healthcare Admin. New Orleans, La.

“I think we need a longer month but I’m going to celebrate every month.”

Sydnie Huddleston Sophomore Social Work Chicago, Ill.

“I feel like Black History Month is every day but to have it during the shortest month of the year to me is anti-black.”

Za’meek Sparks Junior Entrepreneurship Albany, Ga.

“I don’t have a problem with it but I’m going to celebrate my roots any time of any month regardless.”

Emily Vorchae Freshman Entrepreneurship Chicago, Ill.

“It used to be a week, now it’s a month and I feel like that’s good.”

Aryonia Hale Freshman Social Work St. Louis, Mo.

“Black History Month is and should be 365 days a year.”

“I

Jayla Jones Freshman Political Science/English Pine Bluff, Ark.

“Honestly, Black History Month shouldn’t be more than one month but it should be taught and celebrated on the same level as white history and white holidays.”

Camille Charter Chemistry/Pre-med Sophomore Memphis, Tenn.

“Black History Month should be every day, week, and month so we all can learn about where we come from.”

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Compiled by: Elizabeth Duncan & Joel Murchison

Mason Rollins Political Science Freshman Baltimore, Md.

“We need a longer month and our voices should be heard more during this month.”

Heaven Lomotey Freshman Marketing Long Beach,

Calif.

think Black History Month is just a way to pacify black people.”

Taylor Carson Freshman Biology/Physical Therapy Detroit, Mich.

think we should have more than one month because we built America.”

“How do you feel about Black History Month being restricted to one month and the shortest month of the year?”

JSU students react to passing of Mississippi House Bill 1020

The Mississippi House of Representatives passed House Bill 1020 on Feb. 9, 2023. Under the bill, the Mississippi Supreme Court has the ability to appoint judges to hear civil and criminal cases.

While the Attorney General will be appointing prosecutors to hear those cases, some believe that ultimately it is taking away citizen’s rights to elect judges.

According to WLBT, over 60 percent of the House of Representatives voted in favor of House Bill 1020, and the bill passed 76-38, with only one member of the Jackson delegation supporting it.

The lawmakers spent nearly five hours in debate of the bill and it has yet to receive a ton of positive support. In fact, some residents of Mississippi feel like the justice system has taken a humongous step in the wrong direction and has received a wave of negative feedback.

Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba looked on from the House gallery during the debate and described it as a reminder of the apartheid.

“They are looking to colonize Jackson,” Lumumba said in a press conference. “They are trying to put

their military force over Jackson and they are trying to dictate who has province over Jackson, while they’re simultaneously introducing a bill about how they can remove elected officials in Jackson. It reminds me of colonial power where they dictate who is our leadership.”

The mayor added, “They put military power over us and we are just supposed to pay taxes to the king. That’s all we are supposed to do is pay taxes to the king.”

Nicolette Jones, a Jackson resident said she does not know how to feel about the House 1020 Bill.

“They know exactly what they are doing to us. And in any way they can, they will continue to keep black people down,” Jones said. “As a matter of fact, this will only lead to the further breakdown of modern laws and putting black people right back under another race’s thumb.”

Jackson State students feel that the 1020 House Bill is too restrictive and seem disappointed by the decision overall.

Javin Cole, a sophomore accounting major from Austin, Texas, believes that the passing of the 1020 bill is unfair to AfricanAmericans.

“Honestly, I am disappointed but it doesn’t surprise me that they approved a bill like this,” Cole said. “Yeah, we live in Mississippi but it’s not fair to take away privileges like that.”

Parker DeLoach, a business administration major from Chicago, Ill., agrees with Cole and said that he does not feel that their peers understand the ramifications of the new bill.

“I don’t think college students pay enough attention to politics as we should. I think sometimes we have a mindset that if it doesn’t affect me directly then I shouldn’t care,” DeLoach said.

Jayla Jones, a freshman political science major from Pine Bluff, Ark.,

is also not a fan of the bill because she dislikes that it takes away the process of voting for elected officials and just appointing who you want to appoint is a direct hit on democracy.

“In a nutshell, what Mississippi lawmakers are doing could potentially lead to fascism. Which is completely un-American and yet on brand with the Republican party,” Jones said. “And where will these lawmakers get the funds to pay for these new appointed officials? Are they going to replace the old ones with the new ones?”

Jones added, “If anything, them appointing officials solely because they are white is going to cause a new problem. A racial problem.”

Tyshyia Frazier, a sophomore political science major, said she thinks the whole thing is a set up to keep African-Americans down.

“Jackson is probably the blackest city in America and yet they are trying to have white people in full control, but it’s not shocking either,” Frazier said. “I think with this they will eventually take over in the future which will push black people out of Jackson and will cause outrage.”

Most of the JSU students interviewed for this article hope the bill will not make it pass the Senate. The Blue & White Flash will update this story as more information is released.

Mister JSU Joshua Edwards participates in leadership conference

William H.Kelly III

JSU Public Relations

Mister Jackson State University Joshua Edwards participated alongside 22 HBCU campus kings in the 19th Annual Mister HBCU Kings’ Leadership Conference and Competition in St. Louis, Missouri.

Last month, over four days, campus kings from across the country fellowshipped, engaged in professional development seminars, and ultimately sought to vie as the next Mister HBCU King in a pageant-based competition themed “Why Not a King?”

The theme explores the conversation surrounding the idea and relevance of Mister positions being introduced at universities. The implementation of Mister positions is fairly new, with many institutions still only having the queen position available.

“Being a part of this competition, and being Mister Jackson State, affords me the opportunity to show people something different,” Edwards said. “A lot of what I do is God-led. I don’t mind showing people my vulnerable side or just being honest about how I feel. I may not always have it together, and I’m not this perfect individual, but I’m the best Joshua that I am today.”

Edwards serves as the sixth Mister Jackson State University, with a mission to remind men of all ages that they

can do anything they put their minds to. During the talent portion of the competition, he presented judges and audiences with a colorful array of skills and “gifts that God gave” him while challenging the narrative of what a campus king should look like.

Edwards played the trombone, followed by a fashion segment where he displayed self-styled outfits and a live art piece where he decorated and spray painted an article of clothing. Throughout the performance, audio from a favorite TEDTalk of Edwards also played that addressed topics such as toxic masculinity.

“I was able to show another side of Joshua that a lot of people don’t often see. Overall, my goal was to show them who Joshua is and the type of leaders Jackson State produces. They produce confident leaders who are okay with being themselves,” Edwards explained.

“When you’re on this campus, you come in contact with various identities and personalities, and each and every one of those individuals is very confident in who they are.”

Edwards is the first Mister JSU to participate in the conference and credits former JSU kings and queens for sparking his interest in the competition. Although the process was emotional for him, Edwards says he had the full support of his advisor Brent Harris and JSU.

“It was really important for him

to be himself. Even down to writing his oratory. He wrote his oratory, and I just coached him to feel comfortable with being able to speak from his heart, and it was received well,” said Harris, student engagement and leadership coordinator. “Every student is different. It’s just making sure that they are comfortable being who they want to be and not necessarily what society or their family or friends want them to be, but that they can truly be themselves.”

Edwards says that Harris was always adaptive to the ideas and

changes he would make leading up to the pageant.

“Words can’t express how appreciative I am of his involvement, not only in this process but even in my life, because he just pushes me on so many levels,” Edwards said. “I appreciate him, and I don’t think he realizes how impactful he’s been. Mr. Harris has been amazing in so many aspects, and when I’m not having the best day, he encourages me to pick my head up and gives me the space to feel and grow.”

The St. Louis Alumni Chapter, the 83rd Miss JSU Naomi Harris, SGA President Madison Cathey, and Center for Student Engagement and Leadership Director Cateatra Mallard were all present at the competition, as well as the virtual audience.

Edwards, who placed in the top 11 of the competition, says that the conference gave him a deeper sense of confidence and brotherhood, and he is thankful for all of his supporters over the years. Participants were chosen to be in the top 11 based on a preliminary presentation of their oratory and talent portion for the judges.

“This was something that I prayed for. My biggest goal was to do what I was called to do but also be a very great representation of my institution and who I am as an individual. Win or lose,” said Edwards. “As I look back through my matriculation here at JSU, I just saw that I leveled up, not only physically but mentally, and JSU provided me with that.”

He shared a message to young men, boys, and aspiring kings everywhere.

“It’s okay to be different. It’s okay to not fit society’s standards of what they say a man or boy should be. Be okay with that. There are other people who are different, and there’s no one image of what a Black male is. Be who you want to be regardless of what people say or the images they paint. Just be you, king,” said Edwards.

Other countries have their own unique ways of celebrating BHM

Shakell James Staff Writer

Black History Month (BHM) originated in the United States as Negro History Week in February 1926 and has since blossomed into a month where people around the world in countries like Canada, Germany, and Ireland celebrate culture, heritage, and history.

Though these countries may recognize BHM, each of them has their own unique ways of celebration and acknowledgment. Canada and Germany celebrate BHM in February along with the U.S. in February.

According to Canadian Heritage, Black Canadians and their communities have been a part of shaping Canada’s heritage and identity. And similar to the U.S., the role of Black people has largely been ignored as a key part of Canada’s history.

After the establishment of the Ontario Black History Society (OBHS) in 1978 and presented a petition of the City of Toronto to have February proclaimed as Black History Month. The first-ever Canadian proclamation for BHM was issued by Toronto in 1979.

However, the first BHM in Nova Scotia was observed in 1988, but it was not formally recognized as BHM until 1993 after OBHS successfully filed a petition solidifying BHM. It was later renamed African Heritage Month in 1996.

Germany also joined their BHM celebrations in the 1990s, the year

2023 marks the 34th anniversary of BHM in celebrations in Berlin.

According to the African American Intellectual Honor Society (AAIHS), BHM was established to represent a clear manifestation of African diasporic politics and solidarity, particularly with themes that ranged from Black German history to African literature in Europe to South African Apartheid to U.S. Civil Rights activism. But things are different in The United Kingdom and BHM begins in October. So for instance BHM in Ireland always presents their BHM with a set theme. The theme for their 2022 celebration was ‘Celebrating

Black Excellence: Looking Back to Shape the Future’.

Though their BHM has a theme the overall message of it never changes, hosting various events including seminars, workshops, and theater productions to appreciate the holiday.

Some countries in Europe celebrate in March like Belgium, started by the African Youth Organization in 2017, while being arranged by the non-profit organization Our Stories Uncensored since the year 2019. The cities of Limburg, Antwerp, Ghent, Brussels, and Schaerbeek participate in the many acts of this month.

Ryan Williams, a senior business administration major from Atlanta, Ga., said it takes more than one month to embrace heritage.

“It’s more than a month if you really celebrate who you are. Every day you use something that was created by black people, so to me it’s a year-round 24/7 celebration,” Williams said.

Cody Powell, a freshman psychology major from St. Louis, Mo., feels as though the celebration of the holiday is imperative.

“We choose to celebrate holidays as an appreciation of our people in different ways and not just the traditional way,” Powell said.

Elisha Brown, a junior elementary

education major from Columbia, Miss., believes that the duration of the celebration speaks volume.

“It does show that the world is showing major progress. However, it is 12 months in a year and Black History Month can be equally celebrated in all months. We should not become complacent because we are now being recognized when we should have been receiving that all along!”

The time of the celebration may be different, the purpose is the same. It’s a time to reflect on our traditions, struggles, and accomplishments. The culture is celebrated continuously, pridefully, and beautifully.

Photo by Charles A. Smith

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Tatyana Ross Editor-in-Chief

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Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba looks on as HB1020 is passed.

Wakanda Forever movie surprisingly lives up to it predecessor

Antonio Jackson Staff Writer

The Black Panther is one of the most influential Marvel characters that was able to inspire the African-American community. In celebration of Black History Month, I watched the latest installment of the Black Panther series, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”.

“Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” was released in theaters on Nov. 11, 2022, and can be streamed on demand on Disney+.

Directed by Ryan Coogler, “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” takes place years after the blip caused by Thanos that erased half of the universe from existence.

With the Heart Shaped Herb being destroyed by Killmonger, T’Challa will eventually fall ill to an incurable disease with no way of healing himself, resulting in his death.

With the mantle of Black Panther being unoccupied, Wakanda is left vulnerable without its protector. With the world being aware of the valuable resource, vibranium, existence, many nations plan on using it for themselves in unimaginable ways.

Eventually, Wakanda will come into conflict with underwater nation, Talokan, ruled by Namor, played by Tenoch Huerta Mejía,

after the U.N. mistakes Talokans as Wakandans and blame them for killing an underwater search team after they found vibranium outside of Wakanda.

After being at odds with each other, the two nations eventually came to the realization that they would better survive together in a world where they are outnumbered.

Something that I appreciated about the movie is the inclusion and representation of multiple minorities and the different ideologies that they have. Wakanda is very passive towards the outside world, being willing to cooperate and compromise with other countries.

However, Talokan is very hostile and is willing to protect itself by any means necessary, even if it’s war against the entire world. Despite the differences in beliefs and being at war with each other, both nations eventually agree that their fight is pointless, and they are stronger together.

I believe this is a very powerful message that is not all too common in today’s media. So it is very important that the audience acknowledges and recognizes how that message can impact their lives.

One of the many high points in the file for me was its action sequences. It’s very clear that the goal was to raise the bar from the last movie as far as their fight

scenes. The choreography and the CGI or computer generated images does well in capturing the intensity of each battle to the point where you feel as if you were there.

A low point of the movie for me was the lack of impact that one of the characters had on the overall story. Riri Williams, played by Dominique Thorne, is a wellknown prodigy of Tony Stark, one of the smartest characters in the Marvel universe. In the comics, Riri is a very capable protagonist, being able to develop her own version of the Iron Man suit and dawning the name, Iron Heart. However, in “Wakanda

Forever”, it seemed as if Riri was sitting along for the ride just as much as the audience was. To be fair, she did develop a device that was very critical to the plot. Other than that, she provided little to no influence to the story, being reduced to plot device rather than an actual character.

The biggest doubt I had about the film initially was how well it would perform without the inclusion of the original Black Panther T’Challa, who was played by the late Chadwick Boseman.

I figured that many fans were led to believe that Black Panther wouldn’t be the same without him,

however this isn’t true at all. In her role Shuri, T’Challa’s younger sister, played by Letitia Wright proved to be able to step forward to create the same amount of impact as Boseman once did. Not as a full replacement, but as an actress in her own right.

Overall, I believe that “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” is a masterpiece that was not only a well needed medium to help deal with the grief behind death, but a brilliant political thriller.

It was an easy task to be able to follow up the 2018 original Black Panther and managed to not only live up to its forerunner but surpass it in every possible way.

Big Red Boot, Scream 6, Rihanna and more top trending topics

Tatyana Ross

Editor-in-Chief

MSCHF releases Big Red Boot

The New York based fashion brand MSCHF announced the drop of their new shoes, Big Red Boot. Fans speculate the shoe is a node to a Japanese comic book character, Astro Boy, whose costume only consists of his undergarments and his big red boots.

The hefty looking boots have been surfing the internet nonstop and celebrities like Coi Leray, Fivio Foreign, and Diplo have been seen wearing the boots.

MSCHF is known for their unique fashion items like a shoe that mimics a foot cast and a chocolate bar purse.

Fans are already planning and rating outfits styled around the Big Red Boot. The shoe’s planned release was on Feb. 16. with the retail price of $350.

Some fans not to eager to see “Scream 6”

The “Scream” movie franchise will be adding another film to the repertoire on March 10, 2023 with the premiere of “Scream VI”. The movie’s original trailer was released in December of 2022 starring Jenna Ortega, Hayden Panettiere, Melissa

Barrera, Samara Weaving.

The film follows four survivors that are being hunted by the notable Ghostface killer. Since the release of the trailer, some fans have already tried to formulate theories about the characters and plot of the movie. But other fans are on the fence and have expressed negative feelings towards the new addition to the movie list and think it’s a bad idea all together.

Trump ridicules Rihanna’s 2023 Super Bowl performance Rihanna’s performance at the 2023 Super Bowl halftime show shocked many of her fans. While most of the world loved her set list for the show, Donald Trump felt otherwise. He posted several comments on the Truth Social platform before and after the show. His beef with the star started

after Trump accused Rihanna of being talentless.

After her performance Trump continued to post on Truth Social insinuating the artists did not do well in her performance.

Also as a surprise to her fans, Rihanna also revealed her second pregnancy with rap artist, ASAP Rocky revealing her baby bump during her iconic performance. However, fans are having mixed emotions about her pregnancy because they fear the artist may not be releasing any new music anytime soon.

Megan Fox hints at breakup with Machine Gun Kelly

Fans were shocked after Megan Fox hinted at a split with Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) after removing all photos with the artist from her Instagram. Along with a message using Beyonce’s 2016 album “Lemonade” lyrics from a song called “Pray You Catch Me”.

It caused many of their fans to assume MGK may have cheated on Fox. MGK has not responded or deleted any of the photos on his Instagram.

Fans are speculating whether the pair is truly splitting up or it is just an argument that was blown out of proportion online. So far, nothing has been confirmed and their engagement has not been

officially called off. However, it was reported that Fox has removed her ring.

J.K. Rowling’s transphobic comments

J.K. Rowling’s disdain for the transgender community started in early 2019 after fans pointed out that the author liked a transphobic tweet toward transgender women. It caused actor Daniel Radcliffe to speak out against Rowling and the author apologized.

Over the years nothing changed and Rowling continued to ruffle the feathers of the transcommunity with her views and subtle tweets and comments on Twitter.

It is now 2023 and some fans refuse to let go of her past remarks. The new game “Hogwarts Legacy” was released Feb. 10 and while some fans were happy to have a game associated with their favorite series others are upset because Rowling continues to prosper after the blatant disrespect and boycott the game completely. Kelsei Scott contributed to this article.

The views expressed in this trending topics column are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.

Madam C.J. Walker changed the black haircare game

Levon Campbell III

Editor-in-Chief

Madam C.J. Walker was a woman of many talents. She rose from poverty to become an entrepreneur and activist. She was known as the first Black woman millionaire in America for her forays into homemade hair care products for black women.

According to www. womenshistory.org, Walker used her position as an influential AfricanAmerican to advance in society and bring attention to putting an end to lynching.

Walker was born on Dec. 23, 1867, on a plantation in Delta, La., as Sarah Breedlove, one of six children of her parents Owen and Minerva Anderson Breedlove. According to www.history.com, she was born free after the emancipation proclamation and after being orphaned at the age of 7, she lived and worked with her older sister Louvenia in the cotton fields.

To escape her abusive brother-in-law, she married

Moses McWilliams at the age of 14. In 1887, her husband died and she became a single mother at the age of 20 to her two-year-old daughter, Leila.

According to history. com, Walker and her daughter moved to St. Louis, where she balanced working as a laundress with night school. She sang in a choir at an African church and became active in the National Association of Colored Women. In St. Louis, she met her second husband, Charles J. Walker, the man who would inspire the name of her eventual empire.

Walker started to create hair care products for African-American women after a scalp disorder caused her to lose too much of her own hair. She then came up with a treatment that would change the game in the black haircare industry.

According to History. com, Walker’s method would be known as the Walker System, which would involve scalp preparation, lotions, and iron combs. Her custom pomade was a great success. While most products for

black hair would come from white businesses and be on the market, she differentiated her products by emphasizing attention to the health of the women who would use them. She would sell her homemade products directly to black women, using a personal approach that won over her customers. She would later employ beauty culturalists, a fleet of saleswomen to sell her products.

According to www. History.com, in 1908 Walker opened a beauty school and factory in Pittsburg, Pa., that she named after her daughter. In 1910, Walker moved her business to Indianapolis, a city that had access to railroads for distribution and a lot of African-American customers.

At the height of her production, Walker Company employed over three thousand beauty culturalists (mostly black women). Walker also let her daughter, A’Lelia, manage her own branch in Pittsburgh.

Walker was embraced by the black press and became known as one of the best-

known African-Americans. According to history.com, she established clubs for her employees and encouraged them to give back to the community with awards whenever they did. She promoted female talent at a time when black women finding of jobs was limited. Walker also donated generously to educational causes and black charities, funding scholarships for women at Tuskegee Institute and donating to the NAACP,

the Black YMCA, and dozens of other organizations that helped make Black History Month.

Zaydalyn Griffin, a freshman biology-pre-med major from Jackson, Miss., expressed how women can look up to Madam C.J. Walker.

“She is the role model to entrepreneurs and was the career booster to a lot of women,” Griffin stated.

Makaila Cooper, a senior childcare education major from St. Louis, Mo., talks about how Walker inspired African-American women.

“I like how she inspired black people to embrace their hair and made women come into their own beauty.”

Walker died at the age of fifty-one on May 25, 1919 of hypertension. According to history.com, her plans to have a headquarter built in Indianapolis, the Walker Building, was carried out and completed in 1927.

To this day, Madam C.J. Walker is remembered as a pioneering African-American woman who inspired many with her financial independence, business acumen, and philanthropy.

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JSU men’s basketball team wins in double overtime

The Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center was electrifying as the Jackson State Tigers faced off against the University of Arkansas Pine Bluff’s Golden Lions on Feb. 6, 2023.

The game ended dramatically as the game went into double overtime, with Jackson State coming out on top (88-84). With this victory, the Tigers tie the Lions for the fourth seed in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.

The beginning of the game was intense as both teams scored back-to-back buckets and provided great effort on the defensive end.

Jackson State was also a force from behind the arc, notching seven of their ten threes in the first half alone.

The Tigers went into the half, 38-28 looking to extend their ten-point lead after the break.

despite going into halftime with the lead, UAPB was able

to cut the deficit thanks to some stellar defense.

After multiple defensive stops, the once-trailing Lions tied the game, 45-45. This caused Jackson State head coach, Mo Williams to encourage his team to stay aggressive. He also emphasized paint protection.

In desperate need of some momentum Jackson State remained determined to pull away from the Lions. After an emphatic putback dunk, from 6’9 junior forward, Romelle Mansell the arena was electric.

Mansell was a key contributor for the Tigers, putting up 18 points and 13 rebounds. He was one of five Tigers to score in double figures.

The energy immediately shifted after UAPB responded with a three-point play, following a foul call.

The second half was a back-and-forth effort, as time continued to count down. The pressure of the matchup was intense not only for the players and coaches but for the referees as well.

The referees were constantly

receiving backlash from the rowdy crowd and coaches. Following a late-game foul call, the referees were heavily criticized since the call appeared to be false and resulted in UAPB taking the lead.

With less than two minutes to go, the Tigers were trailing by two and looking for a basket to keep hope alive. That hope came in the form of a last-second foul, which put the Tigers at the freethrow line.

After hitting both free throws, the Tigers tied the game at 64-64, looking to shut down the offensive attack from their opponents in overtime.

In overtime, both teams refused to let up. The crowd was emphatic, with Coach Williams constantly reminding the crowd to stay loud.

The crowd’s participation was a huge factor toward the end of the game. Their antics continued to affect the performance of the Golden Lions, which resulted in multiple turnovers.

Jackson State forced Pine Bluff to turn the ball over 13 times. 5’8 Jackson State point

guard Chase Adams was a main contributor to forcing turnovers. He gathered three steals to go with his 12 points.

Despite collecting nine points from costly turnovers, Jackson State was unable to extend the lead in the first overtime period.

UAPB also struggled to make a run to close out the Tigers. After scoring a huge goahead basket with less than two minutes remaining, the Golden Lions were prepared to celebrate after a grueling battle.

Jackson State refused to go down in front of an ecstatic home crowd and managed to pull off a 5-0 run to defeat UAPB, 88-84.

After a dramatic ending, coach Williams immediately began to thank the real MVPs of the game: the fans.

“Fans, you guys were amazing tonight,” stated Williams. “I appreciate you.”

Although the arena was filled with anxiety for the Tigers, Willams emphasized his excitement for moments when pressure is intense.

“I live for games like this. I tell my guys that you have to be

able to feel pressure and absorb pressure. You have to be able to push through”, claimed Williams.

JSU students who attended the game also felt the pressure of the arena.

Emani Archie, a junior biology and premed major from Arkansas enjoyed the atmosphere of the student section.

“The energy was loud,” stated Archie. “The students continued to support the team, even though there were times we were losing.”

Kristi Fortson, a senior physiology major from Houston, TX expressed her gratitude for attending more men’s basketball games this semester.

“Last semester I didn’t really go to any men’s games, but I’m glad I did,” stated Fortson. “I enjoy the fast-paced nature of the game.”

The game contained 17 ties and ten lead changes.

The men’s Tigers basketball team will face off against Alcorn in the Lee. E. Williams Athletics & Assembly Center on Feb. 18, 2023.

Cameron Adams

Sports Editor

Photo by Cameron Adams

All Photos (1-5) taken by Blue & White Flash Sports Editor Cameron Adams. All photos taken during the JSU v UAPB Men’s Basketball game.

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