New York Trend NYC: February 29 – March 6, 2024

December

NEW YORK TREND

CELEBRATING W O MEN'S HISTORY MONTH +

SMITHSONIAN MUSEUM CELEBRATES WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

The Black Stars News 2015 Annual Awards Dinner will honor Mayor David Dinkins, Rep. Charles Rangel, Rep. Yvette Clarke, R. Donahue Peebles, Barbara Arnwine, Inez Barron, Sabrina Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew, Stephen Byrd, Alia Jones, and the Central Park Five survivors of gross injustice on December 18 from 6:00pm –10:00pm at MIST Harlem, 46 West 116th Street

The SMITHSONIAN AMERICAN WOMEN’S HISTORY MUSEUM has announced an exciting lineup of new initiatives for Women’s History Month March 2024 that will further the museum’s mission to make women’s history more visible. These initiatives mark an important step as the museum enters the next phase of research and programming that will eventually inform the collection and a physical site in Washington, D.C.

The museum’s headline program for Women’s History Month will be “Becoming Visible,” an interactive digital exhibition launching March 8 on International Women’s Day. The exhibition will invite audiences into the work of the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum that spotlights how women’s histories have been recorded, remembered, lost and recovered.

Five remarkable stories of women from the past will come to life through objects from the Smithsonian’s collection, archival records, recorded interviews and original illustrations and animations. Curators will narrate each of the five stories, alongside an introduction narrated by actress, designer and producer Rosario Dawson, who serves on the museum’s advisory council. The exhibition will demonstrate how women’s history is often obscured or forgotten—and the critical need to uncover these stories to create a more accurate and inclusive record of American history. The lack of women’s representation in major databases is another key obstacle to ensuring women’s history is not lost as less than 20% of biographies on Englishlanguage Wikipedia are about women.

national museum to honor American women’s history,” said Melanie Adams, interim director of the museum. “While our museum is still in its early stages, we are already activating our digital platforms, championing new research and engaging the wider Smithsonian community to begin the critical work of making women’s

“Each honoree chosen for recognition has demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision in her or his respective profession or endeavor and in some significant measure has contributed towards creating a more just society in this country,” says Black Star News founder and publisher Milton Allimadi. “Obviously much work needs to be done here and around the world.”

To confront this issue, the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum will host a Wikipedia Edit-a-Thon March 27 where attendees will edit and create Wikipedia articles about the women represented in “Becoming Visible,” among others.

“This Women’s History Month we are excited to introduce audiences to the future of what will truly be the first

The gala starts at 6:00pm with a cocktail hour to be followed by the dinner and awards ceremonies. There will be musical entertainment by opera singer Cassandra Douglas and from harmonica phenomenon William Galison. David Dinkins is honored for Lifetime Achievement — he was New York City’s first African American mayor and also welcomed Nelson Mandela to the city after his release in 1990. Rep. Charles Rangel, also honored for Lifetime Achievement, has served in Congress since 1971. He is a recipient of The Bronze medal for helping save soldiers behind enemy line during the Korean War Rep. Yvette Clarke is a Democratic member of the US House of Representatives from New York whose 9th district covers much of central Brooklyn. Before entering Congress in 2007, she

make history by becoming some of the first supporters of the museum’s mission.

Charter Members will get early access to events and programs and be the first to know about the museum’s progress. Learn more on the museum’s website.

 Digital Exhibition: “Becoming Visible” | Launching March 8: Available on the

history fully visible. We invite everyone, from all backgrounds and walks of life, to collaborate with us as we build a museum that will inspire generations to come.”

The museum’s other initiatives throughout Women’s History Month include the launch of the Spotlight Program that will invite filmmakers to collaborate with the museum to share women’s stories from their communities and a charter membership program for the public to get involved with the museum as it is built from the ground up. Further details on the Women’s History Month initiatives are included below.

, honoree, is a leading developer and founder of The Peebles Co., the nation’s largest African American-owned real estate firm with $3.5 billion worth of properties under development or management — he was one of the pioneering developerswho helped turn around and revitalize the once-blighted Anacostia neighborhood in Washington, D.C. A champion of African-American economic empowerment Peebles’ is contemplating a possible run for NYC mayor in 2017.

 Charter Membership Program | Launching March 1: With this inaugural membership program, the public can help

Honoree Barbara Arnwine, civil rights lawyer, is a champion of protecting voting rights of ethnic minority groups — the emerging

York and a former chancellor of the New York public schools system.

a seamstress who worked on the Apollo space suits. A virtual inside look into the exhibition with Smithsonian curators will take place March 14 at 3 p.m. ET. Learn more on the museum’s website.

 Spotlight Program | Launching March 18: The museum will invite up and coming filmmakers from communities across the country to develop short videos that document important histories of women and girls who have been underrecognized in the historical record. This program will be the first of several co-creation projects that will engage artists from a variety of backgrounds and disciplines to collaborate with the museum to tell women’s stories.

Transformative Justice Coalition. Arnwine was for 26 years executive Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law. , honoree, formerly a member, is now council member and a champion of education for

Imhotep Gary Byrd is a legendary radio talk show host and executive producer, radio DJ, poet, songwriter, music recording artist and producer, rapper, writer and community activist. He began his career as a radio DJ in Buffalo at age 15. For over 30 years, he’s been a talk show host at WBLS and WLIB radio in New York City. He also has a Friday night radio talk show on WBAI

museum’s website, the 10-minute digital experience created by the woman-led digital design firm Forum One will take audiences on a visual and emotional journey through five women’s lives, including Elizabeth Keckly, a memoirist and formerly enslaved woman who became a lauded seamstress and dressmaker to Mary Todd Lincoln; Margaret Knight, a 19th-century inventor who automated the production of flatbottomed paper bags; Hisako Hibi, a Japanese American artist who lost much of her work after spending over three years in government detention during World War II; Isabel Morgan, a scientist who was instrumental in the development of the polio vaccine; and Hazel Fellows,

Pioneering producers Stephen Byrd and Alia Jones, through their company Front Row Production, brought “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and “A Streetcar Named Desire” with a multi-ethnic cast to Broadway. In 2016 they bring “Eclipsed” with Oscar Winner Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway.

Honorees, the so-called Central Park 5, are collectively and individually heroes. They are survivors of one of the ugliest miscarriage of justice in New York’s history; having been railroaded and unjustly convicted for a crime they did not commit and for which they served long prison sentences ranging from seven years to 13 years before being exonerated when the actual rapist confessed. They are: Yusef Abdus Salaam; Raymond Santana Jr., Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, and Kharey Wise.

 Wikipedia Edit-a-Thon | Launching March 27: Less than 20% of biographies in English-language Wikipedia are about women. The Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum is helping to change this with a Wikipedia Edit-a-Thon during Women’s History Month. Attendees will edit and create Wikipedia articles about American women represented in the museum’s digital exhibition, “Becoming Visible,” among others. New editors who have never contributed to Wikipedia before will receive on-site training. This event is presented with support from Wikimedia DC

The Black Star News, which focuses on investigative journalism, has been featured as a result of some if its news scoops, on CNN, The New York Daily News, The New York Post, The Village Voice, and Brill’s Content magazine.

Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founder of World of Money, is a champion of financial literacy for youth-- she teaches knowledge about handling money, budgeting and planning.

Dr. Rudy Crew, honoree, is one of the nation’s leading educators. He’s president of Medgar Evers College of The City University of New

The Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum expands the story of America through the often-untold accounts and accomplishments of women—individually and collectively—to better understand our past and inspire our future. Through new scholarship, diverse viewpoints and innovative forms of exhibition, storytelling and participation, the museum inspires the next generation to create a more equitable world. The legislation creating the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum passed Dec. 27, 2020, and the museum is working with Congress to finalize a site for a building.

Source: Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum

Past Black Star News honorees have included: Gil Noble (Like It Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, Voza Rivers (New Heritage Theatre), Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William Pollard (Medgar Evers College), Herm Edwards (NY Jets), Nayaba Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna Fountain (Columbia University), Lillian Roberts (DC37), Desiree Dancy (New York Times), Greg Floyd (Local 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National Action Network), and many others.

Photo Source: BPRW

If your business accepted Visa and/or Mastercard between 2004 - 2019, you’re now eligible to claim your share of a $5.5 billion Settlement. Claim your share now.

Merchants (business owners) who accepted Visa and/or Mastercard at any time from January 1, 2004, to January 25, 2019, are eligible to claim their share of a $5.5 billion Settlement.

Visa and Mastercard and their issuing banks (the “Defendants”) are alleged to have violated the law because they wrongfully inflated Interchange Fees. Defendants say they have done nothing wrong. They claim their business practices are legal.

After years of appeals, the Settlement is now final, and Claim Forms are now being accepted. If you do not file a claim, you will not receive a Settlement Payment.

Claim Forms are now being mailed to more than 15 million merchants. Even if you do not receive a Claim Form in the mail, you may still be eligible, and you should visit www.PaymentCardSettlement.com to get more information about the Settlement. The deadline to file a claim is May 31, 2024. You can file your claim online at the website. Or, if you prefer, you can get a paper Claim Form at the website or by calling 1-800-625-6440. Assistance with preparing your claim is available at no cost to you from the Class Administrator and Class Counsel.

Submitting your claim online can take less than five minutes.

STEP ONE: Scan the QR code to go to www.PaymentCardSettlement.com

STEP TWO: Provide the information requested about your business.

STEP THREE: Submit your claim! Your claim process is now complete.

To get a Claim Form in Spanish , Russian , Korean , Vietnamese , Japanese , Chinese , or Thai , please visit www.PaymentCardSettlement.com

Do you need additional help or information?

HBCU’S UPLIFTED BY MUSICAL EXCELLENCE

Throughout Black History Month, Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) is honoring the excellence of Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) and their rich legacy by spotlighting some of the biggest musical influencers and contributors to the world, especially since the Grammy Awards were earlier this month.

Richie (Tuskegee), Cab Calloway (Lincoln University of Pennsylvania), Leontyne Price (Central State), and Common (Florida A&M) are among the notable alums who honed their craft at HBCUs.

Music serves as a universal language that transcends racial and ethnic boundaries, connecting people across the globe.

Negro spirituals. Their groundbreaking achievements broke racial barriers and earned them international acclaim, culminating in the prestigious 2008 National Medal of Arts, the nation’s highest honor for artists and patrons of the arts. The award was presented by President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush during a ceremony at the White House.

In the Black community, music holds immense cultural importance, and HBCUs stand as essential hubs of musical innovation and talent. These historic campuses provided safe havens for musicians to showcase their skills, particularly during the era of segregation when many performance venues were off-limits to Black artists.

Across various genres, including classical, jazz, R&B, and rap, HBCUs have played pivotal roles in nurturing Black musical talent. Renowned figures in music, such as Yolanda Adams (Texas Southern), Lionel

For example, songs, chants, and performances have been intertwined with social justice movements, serving as a powerful platform for activism and advocacy. Often used to express resistance, resilience, and calls for justice in the face of systemic racism and oppression, music has been the connective tissue uniting Blacks from when the first slave ships arrived in Jamestown, Virginia, to now.

The legacy of Black musical excellence is exemplified by groups like the Fisk Jubilee Singers, who introduced ‘slave songs’ to the world in 1871, preserving the unique tradition of

More recently, the Tennessee State University marching band, better known as the Aristocrat of Bands, made history by becoming the first HBCU marching band to win a Grammy Award in 2023. Their album, “The Urban Hymnal” blends gospel music with modern influences and authentic marching bands sounds. HBCU marching bands have been staples of American society. Jackson State’s Sonic Boom of the South wowed a national audience during Usher’s halftime performance during Super Bowl LVIII. In addition to

performing at prestigious events like Super Bowls, HBCU bands have also been featured during presidential inaugurations, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving parade. These platforms not only showcase their musical prowess but also celebrate their cultural heritage and contributions to society.

Among some of the more notable musicians that either graduated or attended HBCUs are K. Michelle (Florida A&M), Megan Thee Stallion (Texas Southern), Randy Jackson (Southern), Erykah Badu (Grambling State), Gladys Knight (Shaw), Toni Braxton (Bowie State), Rick Ross (Albany State), Ruben Studdard (Alabama A&M), Roberta Flack (Howard), Killer Mike (Morehouse), Bobby Valentino (Clark Atlanta) and 2 Chainz (Alabama State).  Throughout history, HBCUs have led the way for the musical brilliance of many individuals by providing perfect platforms that have helped cultivate their creative and artistic excellence. TMCF takes great pride in the rich history of HBCUs and the talented musicians who have graced their campuses. Through its unwavering support, TMCF continues to champion HBCUs and their students, enabling them to pursue their dreams as they make indelible marks on the world stage.

Source: Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF)

US BLACK CHAMBERS EMPOWERS BLACK-OWNED BUSINESSES

ByBlack, a dynamic initiative powered by U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., and BLK + GRN, the renowned all-natural marketplace driven by Black women Artisans, proudly announce a strategic collaboration aimed at championing Black-owned businesses. This joint effort, spanning from Black History Month to Women’s History Month, seeks to promote and uplift certified Black-owned brands, fostering economic growth within the Black community.

ByBlack, a no-cost national directory and certification platform, is dedicated to connecting Black business owners to customers, capital, and community. BLK + GRN, with its mission to normalize access to nontoxic products for Black women and fund Black women entrepreneurs, serves as an all-natural marketplace that showcases the creativity and excellence of Black Artisans.

Introducing “The ByBlack Bundle,” an exclusive collection featuring ByBlack Certified Black and womanowned artisan brands. Renowned names such as hunnybunny, Kaike,

Piperwai, Cecile’s Bath & Body, AbsoluteJOI, Joy of Beauty, Dinobi, and Ilera Apothecary are part of this curated selection. “BLK + GRN’s certification as a ByBlack business enhances the collaborative effort, presenting a united front in promoting economic empowerment, diversity, and sustainability within the Black community,” said Ronald Busby Jr., ByBlack Head of Product.

Kristian Edwards, Founder of BLK + GRN, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “ByBlack certification amplifies our mission at BLK + GRN. It aligns with our commitment to create a marketplace where non-toxic products for Black women are not only accessible but also contribute to the growth of Black women entrepreneurs. This collaboration celebrates Black excellence and propels us towards a more inclusive and prosperous future.”

The ByBlack and BLK + GRN collaboration invites consumers to join the celebration of Black excellence by purchasing the discounted bundle

worth over $200.00 in value. This initiative actively supports economic empowerment, underscores the importance of buying Black, and encourages a sustainable lifestyle. Alicea Gay, VP of External Affairs at ByBlack emphasises that “This collaboration between ByBlack and BLK + GRN is a meaningful bridge between Black History Month and Women’s History Month. It serves as a powerful testament to the strength, creativity, and resilience of Black

women entrepreneurs. By supporting this initiative, you’re not just buying products; you’re giving the gift of appreciation to a special loved one, celebrating her essence and the rich legacy of Black excellence that extends from February into March and beyond.”

To discover more about this exciting collaboration and to purchase The ByBlack Bundle, please visit https:// blkgrn.com/products/byblack

NAACP CALLS FOR STUDENT HARDSHIP REVIEW OF STUDENT LOAN DEBT

The U.S. Department of Education has concluded the fourth and final round of negotiated rulemaking sessions to develop a set of recommendations for comprehensive student debt relief. The session, which came as a result of targeted efforts led by the NAACP and other advocates,was convened to devise a path toward cancellation for borrowers facing hardship. Wisdom Cole, National Director of the NAACP Youth & College Division, served as the primary negotiator representing civil rights organizations, advocating for Black Americans whose disproportionate experiences with hardship have a significant impact on their ability to repay their student loans.

Director Cole shared the following statement, reflecting on the session's conclusion:

"The NAACP is proud to have stood with fellow advocates and elected leaders to make this fourth Negotiated Rulemaking session a reality. Taking meaningful steps to define hardship is paramount to providing racially equitable student debt relief. We appreciate the Department of Education taking time to consider this crucial element of the forgiveness program. Now, it's up to the Administration to make relief a reality for those whose tireless work has brought us here. I look forward to seeing the positive impact that implementation will have on our community, our economy, and the future of higher education. This is what advocacy in action looks like."

Throughout the negotiation process, the NAACP mobilized Black student loan borrowers from across the country to share their stories during public comment. In the most recent session, NAACP President and CEO, Derrick Johnson, provided public comment, placing emphasis on the importance of addressing the student loan crisis through a racial equity lens.

Since its relaunch, the NAACP, in partnership with Civic Nation, has led efforts to make SAVE more accessible to Black borrowers, hosting information sessions and conducting community-based

outreach. To date, the SAVE program has approved nearly 140 billion dollars in student debt relief for nearly 4 million borrowers. Despite this, the path toward cancelation for young Black borrowers hangs in the balance, an issue that the NAACP has continued to press the the Administration on.

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms

to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund –also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.

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ENTERTAINMENT & MEDIA NOMINEES ANNOUNCED FOR " 55TH NAACP IMAGE AWARDS "

The NAACP has unveiled the full list of “55th NAACP Image Awards” nominees with Netflix and Amazon leading the pack with 55 and 27 nominations respectively. The winners will be revealed during the two–hour LIVE TV special, airing Saturday, March 16, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET/ PT on BET and CBS.

Colman Domingo leads the nominations across the motion picture categories with three nominations. Ayo Edebiri received the most nominations in the television and streaming categories with two for Abbott Elementary and The Bear Victoria Monét and Usher received the most nominations in the music recording categories, earning six and five nods, respectively. RCA Records received an impressive 20 nominations, the most across record labels. HarperCollins Publisher and Penguin Random House lead nominations across literary categories seven and four nods, respectively.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of this year’s nominees, whose outstanding contributions across film, television and streaming, music, literature, podcasts, and more have inspired us all,” said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP “The NAACP Image Awards stand as a tribute to their creativity, talent, and dedication to authentic storytelling and are a testament to the richness and diversity of our community.”

“As we reflect on the rich legacy of the NAACP, we take pride in honoring the artistic brilliance of this year’s nominees. We are excited to illuminate and celebrate the extraordinary talent within our community,” said Scott Mills,

President and CEO, BET Media Group By visiting www.naacpimageawards. net, the public can vote to determine the winners of the “55th NAACP Image Awards” in select categories. Voting closes February 24 at 9:00 p.m. Winners will be revealed during the “55th NAACP Image Awards” telecast on March 16, 2024, on BET and CBS NAACP will also recognize winners in

Awards” will continue a tradition of excellence, uplifting values that inspire equality, justice, and progressive change, and highlighting artists committed to that purpose.

One of the most iconic annual celebrations of Black excellence, the NAACP Image Awards draws the biggest and brightest stars in Hollywood.

non–televised Image Awards categories March 11–14th, which will stream via naacpimageawards.net. For information and updates, please follow NAACP Image Awards on Instagram @ NAACPImageAwards

The “55th NAACP Image Awards” is proudly presented by this year’s incredible partners and sponsors. We extend our thanks for their invaluable support and commitment to promoting excellence in the Black community. Globally recognized as one of the most distinguished multicultural awards shows, the “55th NAACP Image

Previous years’ attendees and winners include Angela Bassett, Will Smith, Viola Davis, Beyoncé, Nicco Annan, Ruth E. Carter, Glynn Turman, Quinta Brunson, Nia Long, Keith David, Jennifer Hudson, Stacey Abrams, Tabitha Brown, Dwayne Wade & Gabrielle Union, Tems, Erica Campbell, Chris Brown, Bruno Mars Anderson. Paak Silk Sonic, Rihanna, Quavo, Takeoff, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Zendaya, Yara Shahidi, Issa Rae, Janelle Monáe, Tracee Ellis Ross, Serena Williams, Kerry Washington, Method Man, Dominique Thorne, Austin Scott, Tyler James Williams, Kyla Pratt,

Jabari Banks, and many more.

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF – was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.

The BET Media Group, a unit of Paramount (NASDAQ: PARAA; PARA; PARAP), is the world’s largest media company dedicated to entertaining, engaging, and empowering the Black community and championing Black culture. Connecting Black audiences through a portfolio of brands including BET, BET+, BET Gospel, BET HER, BET International, BET Jams, BET Soul, BET Studios, and VH1, the BET Media Group is a thriving media ecosystem of leading interconnected platforms across cable TV, streaming, digital, studios, live events and international. For more information about BET, visit www.bet.com and follow @BET on social platforms. For more BET news announcements, follow us on social @BET_PR

In the landscape of entrepreneurship, collaboration and innovation are paramount, especially for underrepresented communities striving to break barriers and achieve success. The BGV x TikTok Innovate Together Grant Program represents a groundbreaking

OFFERS GRANT PROGRAMMING

GRANT PROGRAMMING

collaboration between Black Girl Ventures and TikTok, aimed at empowering small business owners, entrepreneurs, and content creators on their journey to success. This transformative initiative seeks to redefine success by fostering innovative collaborations, amplifying brand

reach, and building lasting legacies. The program will provide financial support to enable businesses to partner with skilled creators who can craft compelling content that resonates with target audiences. Applications for the grant program are open and will close on February 29, 2024, at 11:59 pm. Entrepreneurs, founders, and small business owners seeking funding for creative services such as branding, influencer marketing, web development, logo design, and video editing are encouraged to apply. Additionally, creators interested in collaborating with small businesses can encourage them to apply for the grant as a pathway to collaboration. Applicants must be 18 years or older, have an active TikTok account, and be able to deliver the project within three months of receiving the grant, with reporting required.

Selected recipients will also be required to attend an in-person business development training from March 22-24, with flight and lodging covered. The grant program offers

three award levels: Enterprise Award ($10,000), Innovation Award ($5,000), and Community Award ($2,500).   Ultimately, the program's overarching goals and objectives include fostering collaboration between visionary business minds and influential content creators, providing essential financial support to fuel pioneering partnerships, assisting small businesses in scaling and expanding their reach through creative marketing strategies, and championing diverse creative endeavors that enrich and elevate our collective landscape of innovation. As applications for the grant program close soon, aspiring entrepreneurs and creators are encouraged to seize this invaluable opportunity to unlock their full potential and chart a course toward a brighter, more prosperous future. Together, let us undertake this journey of empowerment, collaboration, and innovation as we work towards building a more inclusive and equitable entrepreneurship landscape for generations to come.

FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN FEMALE NAMED TO CLDA BOARD

ROSLYN ELLERBEE , a dynamic entrepreneur based in Atlanta, Georgia, has achieved a groundbreaking feat as the first African American female elected to the Board of Directors of the Customized Logistics and Delivery Association (CLDA). Known for her successful ventures, including Express Errands & Courier, Dream Team Digital Marketing, and Manifesting Greatness with Roslyn V. - 360 Business Coaching, Ms. Ellerbee brings a wealth of experience and innovation to her new role.

Ms. Ellerbee's journey is a testament to her dedication to excellence and her passion for inspiring others. "I am humbled by this opportunity to serve on the CLDA Board. It's not just about breaking barriers; it's about creating a legacy of empowerment and success for those who follow," she shared.

A respected business coach and long time entrepreneur, Ms. Ellerbee has consistently championed the entrepreneurial spirit. As a board member, she aims to contribute to the CLDA's mission of advancing the logistics industry through diversity and forward-thinking initiatives.

Roslyn Ellerbee is a prominent entrepreneur and business coach based in Atlanta, Georgia. With a diverse portfolio of successful enterprises, she has become a beacon of inspiration for aspiring business leaders. Her historic appointment to the CLDA Board of Directors further solidifies her commitment to breaking barriers and fostering positive change. The Customized Logistics and Delivery Association (CLDA) is a leading force in the logistics industry, dedicated to innovation and collaboration. Ms. Ellerbee's inclusion in the board exemplifies the CLDA's dedication to embracing diversity and driving positive transformation.

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NEW PARTNERSHIP ANNOUNCED FOR CIGAR BAR

(Black PR Wire) Ms. Novelty and The Novelty Cigar Bar is thrilled to announce a strategic partnership with veteran management firm Manson Frazier Media Group and renowned Public Relations agency The Skky Brand, LLC. This collaboration marks an exciting new chapter, for Ms. Novelty and The Novelty Cigar Bar, as they continue to expand their presence in the luxury cigar industry and beyond.

Sandra Mayo, known as “Ms. Novelty,” is a trailblazing figure in the world of female cigar enthusiasts. With a passion that ignites the senses, Ms. Novelty has curated a niche for herself in the realm of cigars, bringing elegance and flair to this traditionally male-dominated domain. As the founder of The Novelty Cigar Bar, a luxury pop-up high end cigar experience, she has cultivated a community where women embrace the art of cigar appreciation.

Ms. Novelty's talents extend far beyond the world of cigars. She is also a mental health and self-help expert, committed to helping individuals

Photo Source: blackprwire.com

improve their well-being and navigate life's challenges. With over 20 years of experience in behavioral health support, she has developed a deep understanding of the human mind and the complexities of mental health issues. In 2024, Sandra formed Sandra’s Giving Heart, a nonprofit organization designed to combat sex trafficking teenage girls and young women.

Manson Frazier Media Group, led by industry veteran Shawn Frazier - Chief Executive Officer, brings a wealth of experience in talent management and event production. His expertise will play a pivotal role in cultivating partnerships, facilitating opportunities, and elevating the market positioning of Ms. Novelty and The Novelty Cigar Bar "I have worked with a variety of people and brands, and as I came to understand Sandra and her vision for her brand, I realize she is a "Unicorn,” said Frazier. "Not only in the cigar and event space, but as a Founder. I look forward to representing Ms. Novelty and working closely with The Skky Brand to form a dynamic, and

experienced team”, he continued.

In addition, The Skky Brand, LLC, led by public relations and brand development expert, DiDi Rentz Hughes, will spearhead strategic communications and expand the visibility efforts for Ms. Novelty and The Novelty Cigar Bar. With a track record of success in curating brand awareness and engagement, The Skky Brand, LLC, is poised to amplify the reach and impact of Ms. Novelty and The Novelty Cigar Experience offerings. "We are delighted to partner with Manson Frazier Media Group and The Skky Brand, LLC, as we embark on this exciting journey to broaden and amplify the footprint of The Novelty Cigar Experience" said Sandra “Ms. Novelty” Mayo founder of The Novelty Cigar Bar

The partnership between Ms. Novelty and The Novelty Cigar Bar, Manson Frazier Media Group, and The Skky Brand, LLC, represents a strategic synergy of values and goals aimed at enhancing the brand's presence and impact in the luxury cigar market.

MS. NOVELTY

EDUCATION OBAMA FOUNDATION OPENS SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS

Recently, the Obama Foundation opened applications for the 20242026 Voyager Scholarship, The Obama-Chesky Scholarship for Public Service. Funded by a $100 million personal contribution from Airbnb Co-founder and CEO Brian Chesky to the Obama Foundation, the Voyager Scholarship provides college students with last-dollar financial aid to help alleviate the burden of college debt, meaningful travel experiences to expand their connections to new communities, and a network of mentors and leaders to support them throughout their careers.

As the Voyager Scholarship enters its third year, the Obama Foundation and Chesky remain committed to supporting young leaders who can bridge divides and help solve our biggest challenges together. The Voyager Scholarship supports students as they refine their values-based leadership approach, gain access to new experiences that broaden their horizons, and nurture their sense of curiosity as they deepen their commitment to pursuing public service careers. As part of the program, Voyager Scholarship recipients receive a $10,000 stipend and free housing through Airbnb to pursue a summer work-travel experience, or “Summer Voyage,” between their junior and senior years of college. Students design their own Summer Voyage to gain exposure to new communities and experience in a chosen field. Last summer, the inaugural cohort of Voyager Scholarship recipients collectively traveled to 23 U.S. states and territories and 63 countries around the world. Students engaged in internships, volunteer experiences, and research opportunities to deepen their understanding of the issues they are most passionate about. Here are some inspiring stories from our soon-to-be graduating, inaugural cohort of Voyager Scholarship recipients:

 GRETCHEN NORTH (2022-2024 Voyager) – Supporting Education in Kenya and Panama: Gretchen North, a Conservation Biology and Environmental Education student at the University of Minnesota, used her Summer Voyage to lead an environmental education workshop series in Kenya and Panama, covering topics such as rainforest conservation, grassland ecology, and permaculture. As part of the experience, Gretchen partnered with 2018-2019 Obama Scholar Juan Carlos Monterrey Gómez, the Executive Director of Panama’s Geoversity. The handson experiences during her months abroad have profoundly influenced

her journey as a young public service leader, providing insights that will shape her future career decisions and foster a deep sense of love and community that she intends to carry throughout her life.

 KENNEDI ROBERTS (20222024 Voyager) – Implementing Programming to Support Youth Mental Health: Kennedi Roberts, a student at Howard University majoring in Psychology, had a

classes, and participating in U.K. government events on migration. And in Washington, D.C., Yasmin honed her communications skills to support migrant communities. This experience solidified her commitment to combating xenophobia and promoting inclusivity in her future public service career.

To learn more about the previous recipients of the Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public

exposure to new communities and experience in a chosen field.

 10-year travel stipend: After graduation, Airbnb will provide the students with a $2,000 Airbnb travel credit every year for 10 years, totaling $20,000. This will allow students to continue to broaden their horizons and forge new connections throughout their public service careers.

 Monthly Virtual Sessions: Students

transformative Summer Voyage working with an organization in Los Angeles, California, that supports youth who have had encounters with the criminal justice system. There, she supported summer programming and helped facilitate a wilderness expedition that provided adventure therapy for young people in Boulder, Utah. This experience has fueled Kennedi's desire to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology after graduation this May.

 YASMIN NAYROUZ (20222024 Voyager) – Leveraging Communications for Change in Italy, the United Kingdom, Washington, DC: Yasmin Nayrouz, a Syracuse University student majoring in English and Public Relations, traveled across Italy, the United Kingdom, and Washington, D.C. for her Summer Voyage. In Italy, she interned with an immigration law firm, learning about the rights of refugees and how the E.U. has been responding to high levels of migration. In London, she worked to empower immigrants through cooking

Service and to see highlights from the program, visit our website. The application deadline for the Voyager Scholarship for Public Service is Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at 11:59 PM United States Central Time (UTC-6). The Obama Foundation will award the scholarship to 100 students from colleges and universities across the United States and its territories. Voyager Scholarship for Public Service recipients receive:

 Up to $50,000 in financial aid: Students will receive up to $25,000 per year in “last dollar” financial aid for their junior and senior years of college. This financial aid should help alleviate the burden of college debt so that students can afford to pursue a career in public service.

 Summer Voyage: Students will receive a $10,000 stipend and free housing through Airbnb to pursue a summer work-travel experience between their junior and senior year of college. The students will design their own Summer Voyage to gain

must participate in monthly virtual programming sessions, including speaker series and mentorship roundtables, Summer Voyage design workshops, and Summer Voyage coaching sessions, to ensure they have the most meaningful experience possible.

 Fall Summit: During their Junior Year, Voyagers may have the option to attend an in-person convening where they will engage in community building activities with fellow Voyagers, build their leadership skills, and learn from experienced leaders in public service.

 Network of leaders: Throughout the program, students will be invited to an ongoing speaker series, giving them access to a network of leaders. This network of leaders will expose them to new areas of service and innovations happening in their fields. After graduation, they will join the Obama Foundation’s global community, providing them with Foundation resources and programming.

Photo Credit: The Obama Foundation

EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP FUND FOR DESCENDANTS OF BLACK MEN LAUNCHED

The CDC Foundation today announced a new endowed scholarship program, Voices Today for Change Tomorrow, for descendants of the Black men who were part of the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) Study of Untreated Syphilis at Tuskegee and Macon County, AL, 1932–1972. The study represents one of the most well-known, large-scale medical ethics violations in U.S. history. As part of the new scholarship program, the CDC Foundation is striving to raise a $5 million endowment to support the current Voices For Our Fathers Legacy Foundation scholarships, which will grow to provide $100,000 in merit scholarships annually to the study’s descendants. To help meet the funding goal for the scholarship program, the CDC Foundation is announcing a $1 million lead gift by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

November 2022 marked the 50th anniversary of the end of the USPHS Study of Untreated Syphilis in which 625 Black men were denied treatment while being observed as their illness progressed. In recognition of the gravity of this anniversary, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) collaborated with Voices For Our Fathers Legacy Foundation, renowned historians and senior government officials to present Recognition, Remembrance, and Reflection: The Untreated Syphilis Study at Tuskegee and Macon County. The 50th anniversary event underscored the need to build a better future, upholding the parting requests of the unwilling study participants: to always remember and never repeat. CDC and the CDC Foundation are dedicated to honoring the memories of the men in the study as well their lives.

“By making a commitment to honor the legacy of these men, we are working to provide a stronger foundation of support for the next generation to build change,” said Judy Monroe, MD, president and CEO of

the CDC Foundation “These scholarships are intended to amplify the voices of the next generation, allowing them to honor the life experiences of their ancestors while pursuing innovative solutions across their fields of study.”

For the scholarship program, the CDC Foundation is partnering with Voices For Our Fathers Legacy Foundation, a nonprofit membership organization comprised of the descendants of the individuals in the study. Voices For Our Fathers works to change the narrative of the USPHS Study of Untreated Syphilis reminding the world of the people profoundly affected by the unethical medical and scientific practice and the community impact.

“Descendants of the 625 AfricanAmerican men dehumanized and unethically treated for 40 years are moving forward with generational healing, working to bring good from the United States Public Health Service Study of Untreated Syphilis in the Negro Male Our purpose is to transform the legacy of the longest-lasting, non-therapeutic study in U.S. medical history from shame and trauma to honor and triumph,” said Lillie Head, president, Voices For Our Fathers Legacy Foundation “We believe this scholarship endowment fund and partnership demonstrate a new and lasting commitment to improving a health care

system that provides everyone fair and equal medical care regardless of their racial and social status. We have enormous gratitude for the support for the annual scholarships for future generations of descendants.”

The Milbank Memorial Fund made the first institutional commitment to the scholarship fund in 2022. Milbank’s financial contribution to the scholarship fund and its ongoing partnership with Voices For Our Fathers Legacy Foundation originated in a 2021 decision by its board of directors to acknowledge its involvement in the USPHS Study of Untreated Syphilis, and the generational trauma created by it, while learning from and remembering the experience to ensure it is not repeated.

“Our partnership with Voices For Our Father Legacy Foundation following our apology for the Milbank Memorial Fund’s role in the study has underscored the importance of publicly recognizing past harms and working toward healing—and ultimately building trust in our health system and improving health outcomes for everyone,” said Milbank Memorial Fund President Christopher F. Koller “We are gratified to see others join Voices in these efforts.”

Voices Today for Change Tomorrow scholarships represent an intentional commitment to move future generations forward while remembering past inequities

to continually improve. This initiative contributes to changing the legacy of the 625 men by making a pledge to their direct descendants. Together, we can lift new voices to create a tapestry of hope, healing and trust to build a brighter future.

“This scholarship is a step toward correcting an inexcusable violation of medical ethics,” CDC Director Mandy Cohen said. “It seeks to uplift the descendants of the Untreated Syphilis Study at Tuskegee and takes steps toward rectifying a difficult part of our public health history.”

In addition to providing annual scholarships to descendants, the fund will provide administrative support as needed for the Voices For Our Fathers Legacy Foundation and the scholarship program. Recipients of the merit-based scholarships will be encouraged, but not required, to attend a historically Black college or university (HBCU).

“We are proud to support the Voices Today for Change Tomorrow program and to join the Milbank Memorial Fund in their commitment to healing and reconciliation from one of the most egregious public health violations in our nation's history,” said Julie Morita, MD, executive vice president of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation “By investing in this next generation, they can lead the way to a healthier, more equitable future.”

UNCF PLANS HBCU ALUMNI LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

UNCF’s (United Negro College Fund) National Alumni Council Leadership Conference, is hosting an exciting three-day conference on Feb. 22-25 in Jacksonville, FL, to connect more than 300 students, alumni and UNCF-member institutions for life and career learning experiences.

The National Alumni Council Leadership Conference is being held in conjunction with the anniversary celebrations of the 77th National Alumni Council (NAC) and the 65th National Pre-alumni Council

and will provide networking, motivational and educational opportunities for alumni, pre-alumni, UNCF staff, UNCF-member institutions and current and potential supporters of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

“This is the 80th anniversary of UNCF so it is a special time for the National Alumni Council Leadership Conference As the nation’s leading private provider of scholarships for minority students and

the guiding light in propelling our nation’s HBCUs and their students forward, UNCF remains committed to connecting students, faculty, leaders in the HBCU community, with funding experts, sponsors and alumni to help them navigate their futures,” said Michael J. Cleveland, president, National Alumni Council, UNCF, and alumnus of UNCF-member HBCU Tougaloo College “There is no better opportunity to get acquainted with key decision makers and engage students who are on the path forward to leadership. This conference offers a unique opportunity to demonstrate a commitment to education now and in the future,” said Cleveland

This powerful three-day leadership conference provides interactive and energizing workshops for alumni to learn why it is so important to give back and support their institutions. Industry speakers explore the best and most promising practices relevant to students, alumni and UNCF-member HBCUs and how to achieve success in today’s economy.

Sponsors of the 2024 leadership conference are Bloomberg LP, American Express, The Coca Cola Company, Paul Mitchell Schools, the Walton Family Foundation, FedEx, Toyota and Alix Partners

UNCF (United Negro College Fund) is the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports students’ education and development through scholarships and other programs, supports and strengthens its 37 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education and college readiness. While totaling only 3% of all colleges and universities, UNCF institutions and other historically Black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding 15% of bachelor’s degrees, 5% of master’s degrees, 10% of doctoral degrees and 19% of all STEM degrees earned by Black students in higher education. UNCF administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment, and curriculum and faculty development programs. Today, UNCF supports more than 50,000 students at over 1,100 colleges and universities across the country. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized trademark, "A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”® Learn more at UNCF.org or for continuous updates and news, follow UNCF on Twitter at @UNCF

HEALTH

RESEARCH STUDY REVEALS WHAT BLACK FATHERS NEED

During the State of Black Fathers in Fulton Forum on Feb. 20 in Atlanta at Pittsburgh Yards, Fathers Incorporated (FI) and the Moynihan Institute for Fatherhood Research and Policy, two preeminent organizations created to support Black fathers and fatherhood, revealed key findings from their latest research report, The Dynamics of Atlanta Black Dads: Unpacking the Myths and Realities of Non-Resident Fatherhood in Fulton County, Georgia. Although the research focuses on one major county in Georgia, many of the challenges are universal. The report offers a deep dive into the local challenges and strengths of Black fatherhood. The study, which was comprised of one-on-one interviews and focus groups, reveals fathers often feel unsupported by community services that traditionally cater to mothers and children, encounter co-parenting challenges and have fewer fathering role model, impacting their parental self-efficacy.

"Our study illuminates the need for support for fathers who are motivated to play an impactful role in their children’s lives, along with helping them navigate their rights, co-parenting and best practices to help them succeed," said Kenneth Braswell, founder and CEO, Fathers Incorporated and the Moynihan Institute for Fatherhood Research and Policy "The insights stress the importance of engaging fathers through community events and providing meaningful services for them can actually leverage this moment of increasingly heightened paternal awareness. By doing so, as a society, we'll be able to forge a

more supportive environment for fathers, enabling them to be the effective and influential parents they aspire to be."

The report highlights the misperception that the non-resident father is disinterested in his child or children, and the supports he needs and wants to be the type of father he desires to be. It exposes their challenges and their triumphs. It explores the systemic gaps in support from the viewpoint of the nonresident father (a father not living in the home with his child), amplifying his voice so he can be heard and not ignored or invisible.

"We often don't think about that father that wants to be there and be involved, but for whatever circumstances can't be," said Dr. Jeffrey Shears, researcher, cochair, Moynihan Institute for Fatherhood Research and Policy and co-author of the report. "We explored the experiences and dynamics of the single father who may not have had a father and now has a child and is a non-residential father, but desperately wants to be involved with his child, but for whatever reason just isn't or can't be in the home."

Another co-author of the report, Dr. Matisa Wilbon, researcher, co-chair, Moynihan Institute for Fatherhood Research and Policy stresses how society has not historically supported fathers, Black fathers in particular. "When you say Black dads, there are so many stereotypes that come up, and society already likes to suggest that Black dads aren't present, and that it's the Black mom that's doing everything. Just because someone isn't

physically present doesn't mean they don't want to be a good father. Not only do we need to stop denigrating and narrowly defining the Black father by assuming his inadequacies are inherent, but he also needs to be given the same level of support and help mothers are provided." Additionally, there are things occurring in our society today that are elevating and exposing where the lack of services become an issue for Black dads, and that's Black maternal mortality. According to the Centers for Disease Control, Black women have the highest morality rate in the United States - 69.9 per 100,000 live births in 2021, almost three times the

rate for white women.

"The conversation we're not having is that many dads are ending up as single dads because of systemic health inequity issues, and the fathers are not being afforded the equal services the mother would receive if something unfortunately would happen to the father," said Braswell "A lot of these services are not friendly to dads in this space, even under these circumstances. Bottom-line, we need to listen to fathers more and help them feel supported and become the dads they want to be in addition to improving overall co-parenting skills."

STUDY REVEALS BLACK OBSTETRICS PROVIDERS PREFERRED FOR CHILDBIRTH

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention demonstrate that Black women in the United States are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than are white women. Health disparities among people of color are the result of broader social and economic inequities rooted in racism

Researchers conducted 16 one-on-one interviews and five focus groups with individuals who self-identified as Black or African American. The researchers who conducted the interviews and focus groups also identified as Black women. The mean age of the study’s 32 participants was 34, nearly two-thirds (63

and discrimination.

In a new study to be presented today at the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine’s (SMFM) annual meeting, The Pregnancy Meeting™, researchers will unveil findings that suggest that pregnant people who are Black may prefer to have an obstetrician who is also Black. The qualitative study explored Black birthing people’s lived experiences with obstetric care and their perspectives on having an obstetric care provider who is also Black.

percent) were married, and nearly threequarters (72 percent) had a bachelor’s degree or higher.

Five common themes emerged during the interviews: 1) participants’ desire for a Black obstetric care provider, 2) their difficulty finding a Black obstetric care provider, 3) their experiences of being stereotyped while receiving obstetric care, 4) their feelings about not being heard by obstetric providers and healthcare staff, and 5) their fear of dying while pregnant or during childbirth.

A sampling of participant responses:

 “I was actually a little hesitant to see the providers who were white… because of the…discrimination that I have experienced throughout my lifetime and the discrimination that I see my friends and my family experience….”

 “I did not feel heard. I didn’t feel like they were taking me seriously.”

 “This one nurse…kept asking me, ‘Do I need a social worker?’ ‘Do I need WIC [a federal government that provides assistance to low-income pregnant women, infants, and children]?’ And I’m like, what, what in my profile is making you ask these questions, are these normal questions? Or are you asking me this because I’m Black?”

“There has been a lot of research describing racial disparities in obstetric outcomes,” says the study’s lead author Nicole Teal, MD, MPH, who is currently a maternal-fetal medicine subspecialist at UC San Diego Health and assistant professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences at University of California San Diego School of Medicine, though her research was conducted when she was a maternal-fetal medicine fellow at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

“What is novel about our study is there is very limited rigorous research looking at the issue from the patient perspective and what increased diversity in obstetric

providers might mean for health outcomes for Black birthing people,” said Teal “Our findings suggest increasing racial diversity among providers may be one strategy to address inequities in obstetric care. Other strategies recommended by our study participants included increasing continuity with prenatal care providers, eradicating stereotypes of Black mothers, and increasing respectful care in general.”

The abstract was published in the January 2024 supplement of the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

ABOUT THE SOCIETY FOR MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE

The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM), founded in 1977, is the medical professional society for maternal-fetal medicine subspecialists, who are obstetricians with additional training in high-risk pregnancies. SMFM represents more than 6,000 members who care for high-risk pregnant people and provides education, promotes research, and engages in advocacy to advance optimal and equitable perinatal outcomes for all people who desire and experience pregnancy. For more information, visit SMFM. org and connect with the organization on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. For the latest 2024 Annual Meeting news and updates, follow the hashtag #SMFM24

Source: Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM)

BLACK FILM FESTIVAL HONORS FILMS FROM 20 COUNTRIES !

The TORONTO BLACK FILM FESTIVAL (TBFF), presented by TD Bank Group (TD) in collaboration with Global News, announces the official program and events lineup running February 14 – 19, 2024. Founded by the Fabienne Colas Foundation, the gamechanging Toronto Black Film Festival will bring innovative, powerful, diverse, and bold programming to Toronto audiences. The Festival is honoured to present legendary, award-winning actress PAM GRIER with the Toronto Black Film Festival’s 2024 Career Achievement Award during an intimate evening that will include a screening of the iconic film Foxy Brown at the Isabel Bader Theatre – February 15, 2024, 7:30 PM.

Hailed as the Queen of Blaxploitation and the first female action hero, Pam Grier’s incendiary performances became pivotal moments in the industry for both Black representation and the representation of women on screen. The tribute ceremony will celebrate Grier’s trailblazing career and its impact on cinema, which has paved the way for others and provided bold inspiration and impetus for the industry to be more inclusive.

#TBFF24 will present 28 World Premieres, 6 International Premieres, 1 North American premiere, 21 Canadian Premieres,

18 Ontario Premieres and 1 Toronto Premiere. #TBFF24, Canada’s largest celebration of Black History Month through films and other engaging public programming, showcases over 80 films from 20 countries, including Canada, Switzerland, Portugal, Finland, USA, Germany, France, Rwanda, Sudan, South Africa, United Kingdom, Australia, Ghana, Spain, Jamaica, and more. The Festival’s opening night will take place on Wednesday, February 14th at 8PM at the Isabel Bader Theatre with the Ontario Premiere of Goodbye Julia. Sudan’s selection for the 96th Academy Awards, Goodbye Julia tells the story of an impending divorce, which resonates with larger political events leading up to South

Sudan’s independence.

The Toronto Black Film Festival will pay homage to Charles Officer in a Tribute event at the Carlton Cinema on February 17, 2024, 5 pm. Celebrating the remarkable life, enduring legacy, and timeless talent of award-winning filmmaker, producer and writer Charles Officer who often centred Black voices and stories, the tribute will include a screening of Akilla’s Escape, a cinematic testament to Charles’ unparalleled impact, talent and narrative prowess.

#TBFF24 will close at the Carlton Cinema with the Canadian Premiere of The 50 The 50 is a powerful study of trauma and repair, a universal look at the long and winding road to healing, and

an exploration of how the most marginalized among us built one of the most powerful models of rehabilitation we have.

“Welcoming and paying tribute to the legendary icon Pam Grier at the 2024 Toronto Black Film Festival (TBFF) is a true privilege for us all and quite a coup for Toronto and the Festival. She has blazed a trail for so many Black women in cinema and has left an indelible mark not only on the Blaxploitation genre but on the film industry as a whole. #TBFF24 is more than a film festival; it’s a movement. We strive to spotlight important Black figures in cinema and beyond for their remarkable work.”

— Fabienne Colas, President and Founder of the TBFF

BIG DADDY KANE AND GLENN PLUMMER STAR IN ‘ELEMENTORY’

Vision Films, Inc. (“Vision”) announces the Transactional VOD release of the suspenseful child abduction parable ElemenTory on February 13, 2024. Written and directed by Terrence Arlyn, the film is produced by Mija Edwards from Arlyn Entertainment and executive produced by Charles Jenkins Jr from 784 Films in a deal

with Cleo Flucker of RepMyFilm. It features famous faces including rap superstar Big Daddy Kane, Glenn Plummer (ER, Sons of Anarchy), and in the title role of “Tory,” young Francesca Rain who recently sang with Steve Martin on Only Murders in the Building. The movie was filmed entirely on location in Philadelphia and New Jersey.

In ElemenTory, a young couple’s world is shattered when their child goes missing in broad daylight. Shortly after, another child mysteriously disappears from school. When the parents get no help from the police or the school, they band together to take matters into their own hands.

CEO/Managing Director of Vision Films, Lise Romanoff shares, “ElemenTory is an edge-of-yourseat-drama that keeps you guessing and has an unexpected twist at the end. It is also a unique vehicle to reinforce a message for child safety in schools.”

Writer/Director Terrence Arlyn shares, “When it comes to a child’s life, we must do something. This was my way of doing something. With the wide release of the film, we hope to reach and have the message resonate with audiences everywhere.”

STARRING: ShaunPaul Costello

(Burn After Watching), Juliette Valdez (Love and Lust), Glenn Plummer (Speed), Big Daddy Kane (Rap Superstar, The Equalizer TV Series), Kenisha Pinckney (Myal Uprising), Tyrone Nathaniel Reeves (Last Shot)

ElemenTory will be available on major streaming and cable platforms across the US and Canada on February 13, 2024, followed by DVD at major online retailers.

Vision Films is a leading independent sales and VOD aggregator specializing in the licensing, marketing, and distribution of over 800 feature films, documentaries, and series from some of the most prolific independent film producers in the world. Led by Lise Romanoff, Managing Director/CEO of Worldwide Distribution, Vision Films releases 2 to 4 films a month across Theatrical, VOD, DVD, and television platforms. Learn more at VisionFilms.net.

If you are anywhere in your journey with substance use disorder,

I want you to stop, look around and open your heart.

Revel in the abundance of your existence. See how small substance use disorder can be when sat next to all that you are or ever could be.

Fill your existence with beauty, purpose and a life of service.

And your substance use disorder— your history of addiction, the things you may have done that you are not proud of—will one day be small enough to deal with while allowing you space to live this life of joy.

Hold on.

We are not the sum of our scars but rather a beautiful mosaic of the life they hold together.

—Joseph Washington, DC

In recovery from substance use disorder

Learn how substance use recovery can

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