The Quiet Removal of Black History in America
In recent years, a quiet but calculated effort has emerged across the United States—a movement aimed at reshaping, restricting, and in many ways erasing Black history from public spaces, education systems, and cultural programs. Though not always overt, these actions are often disguised as “curriculum reform,” “anti-woke” legislation, or “budget optimization,” while the real effect is chilling: the systematic marginalization of Black experiences from the American narrative.
🎯 What Has Been Done?
1. Curriculum Censorship & CRT Bans
Across over a dozen states, laws have been passed that ban or severely limit how schools can teach subjects related to race and systemic oppression. These bans, often targeting “Critical Race Theory,” have resulted in:
The rejection of AP African American Studies in states like Florida.
Sanitized textbook language that downplays slavery or excludes key civil rights events.
Pressure on teachers to avoid or gloss over sensitive yet factual parts of history.
2. Book Bans & Library Removals
Books about leaders like Ruby Bridges, Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, or historical events like the Tulsa Massacre are being pulled from shelves. The rationale? They are labeled as “divisive,” or they make certain students feel “discomfort.” But the outcome is clear—Black stories are being silenced.
3. DEI Dismantling in Education & Government
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, many of which amplify Black voices and culture, are being shut down at public universities and state agencies. New laws in Texas, Florida, and other states prohibit:
DEI-related job titles.
Mandatory diversity training.
Funding for racially-conscious programs.
4. Museum and Historical Site Neglect
While institutions like the National Museum of African American History and Culture still exist, grassroots Black museums, cultural centers, and historic landmarks often face chronic underfunding or slow bureaucratic approvals. Meanwhile, Confederate memorials still receive protection in many areas.
A notable example is the National Park Service's recent revision of its "Underground Railroad" webpage. Previously, this page prominently featured an image of Harriet Tubman and a quote from her, emphasizing her pivotal role in leading enslaved individuals to freedom. The updated page has removed Tubman's image and quote, replacing them with commemorative stamps of various civil rights leaders and the phrase "Black/White Cooperation." Additionally, references to "enslaved" people and the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 have been eliminated. These changes align with broader federal initiatives aimed at reducing diversity, equity, and inclusion content on government platforms.
This alteration is part of a wider pattern of revising historical content on government websites. For instance, the Pentagon has recently removed pages honoring contributions by women and minority groups, reflecting an effort to sanitize U.S. history.
These actions underscore a systematic attempt to reshape public understanding of Black history, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and advocacy in preserving the integrity and inclusivity of historical narratives.
5. Federal Pushback & Executive Orders
Under the previous administration, Executive Order 13950 barred federal agencies from using “divisive concepts” in employee training—effectively halting federal discussions on systemic racism and unconscious bias. While President Biden later reversed it, the damage was symbolic: the government had officially attempted to mute race discourse.
💭 Why This Matters
History isn't just about remembering the past—it's about shaping the future. When you remove stories of resistance, resilience, injustice, and triumph, you remove the tools future generations need to understand the world. The erasure of Black history is an act of control, and worse, an attempt to rewrite the American identity.
🛠️ What Can You Do?
Stay informed: Follow local school board decisions and legislative agendas.
Speak up: Join town halls, sign petitions, and vote in local elections.
Support Black museums and educators: Donate, promote, and engage with their content.
Teach at home: Make Black history a part of your family learning, year-round.
5 Ways to Support Black and Latino Businesses 5 Times a Week—Without Spending a Dime
Supporting Black and Latino businesses doesn’t always require a financial investment. In today’s digital age, you can help entrepreneurs, creatives, and business owners in these communities thrive by simply leveraging your time and online presence. Here are five ways you can show support five times a week without opening your wallet.
1. Engage With Black & Latino-Owned Media on YouTube, TikTok, and Patreon
Actionable Steps (Daily or Weekly):
Watch videos from Black and Latino content creators on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Patreon for at least 30 minutes to an hour each day.
Hit like, share, and comment on videos to boost engagement.
Let the ads play—this helps them earn revenue.
Why? Content creators on these platforms rely on watch time, engagement, and ad revenue to monetize their work. Your free views help them increase their earnings and visibility.
2. Stream Black & Latino Music on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube
Actionable Steps (Daily or Weekly):
Create playlists with Black and Latino artists and stream their music on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, and YouTube Music for at least 1-2 hours per week.
Play their music while you work, drive, or exercise—even if it's in the background, the streams count!
Follow them on streaming platforms and social media to stay updated on new releases.
Why? Streaming platforms pay artists per stream, so the more you listen, the more they earn. Even older music still generates revenue, so support both emerging and classic artists.
3. Share and Amplify Black & Latino-Owned Businesses on Social Media
Actionable Steps (Daily or Weekly):
Pick one Black or Latino-owned business per day and post about them on your Instagram, Facebook, X (Twitter), or LinkedIn.
Leave a positive Google Review or Yelp Review for a business you’ve visited or want to support.
Engage with their posts by liking, commenting, and sharing their content to increase visibility.
Why? Social media algorithms favor engagement, meaning the more likes, comments, and shares a business gets, the more people will see their posts—leading to potential customers and sales.
4. Sign Up for Free Newsletters and Blogs
Actionable Steps (Daily or Weekly):
Subscribe to Black and Latino-owned newsletters, blogs, and digital publications.
Open and read their emails (email open rates matter for sponsorships).
Share their articles on your social media to drive traffic.
Why? Newsletters and blogs generate revenue through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing. The more people read and share, the more businesses and publications can grow their income.
5. Support Crowdfunding Campaigns by Sharing and Promoting
Actionable Steps (Daily or Weekly):
Follow Black and Latino entrepreneurs on platforms like GoFundMe, Kickstarter, and Indiegogo.
Share crowdfunding campaigns on your social media and encourage friends to donate.
If you can’t donate, write a short post explaining why their project is valuable.
Why? Crowdfunding success depends on visibility. The more people share, the higher the chance a campaign reaches its goal—even if they don’t donate themselves.
Final Thoughts: Small Actions, Big Impact
If you commit to doing just one of these five actions each day, you’ll be supporting Black and Latino entrepreneurs five times a week—without spending a cent. Over time, these small, consistent actions will help businesses grow, increase exposure, and lead to financial success for creators and entrepreneurs in these communities.
Start today! Which of these five will you try first? Drop a comment and let’s uplift Black and Latino businesses together.
🚀 Follow, like, and share this post to spread awareness! 🚀
Supporting Ethnically Owned Marketplaces: The Alternative to Amazon
In today’s digital shopping landscape, Amazon dominates as the go-to platform for consumers worldwide. However, as more people seek to support small businesses and minority entrepreneurs, the demand for ethnically owned alternatives has grown. While there isn’t a single giant that rivals Amazon, several online marketplaces highlight and uplift businesses owned by Black, Latino, and other underrepresented entrepreneurs. If you’re looking to spend your dollars in a way that directly supports these communities, here are some standout platforms to explore.
Black-Owned Marketplaces
HellaBlack
HellaBlack is a community-driven marketplace that features a diverse range of products from Black-owned businesses. From fashion to electronics, HellaBlack offers a seamless shopping experience that allows consumers to support Black entrepreneurs while finding unique, high-quality items. (hellablack.com)
WeBuyBlack
Touted as “the Black Amazon,” WeBuyBlack is more than just an e-commerce site—it’s a movement. The platform connects consumers with thousands of Black-owned businesses and advocates for economic empowerment within the Black community. Whether you’re looking for household goods, fashion, or health products, WeBuyBlack provides an excellent alternative. (afrotech.com)
Black Owned Everything
What started as an Instagram movement has grown into a full-fledged e-commerce site, offering a curated collection of Black-owned brands. Black Owned Everything aims to create long-term participation for Black entrepreneurs in the e-commerce space, making it easier for consumers to find and support these businesses.
Latina/Latino-Owned Marketplaces
The Mujerista Marketplace
This vibrant platform is dedicated to supporting Latina entrepreneurs by showcasing products ranging from fashion and home decor to wellness and beauty. The Mujerista Marketplace creates a space where consumers can shop for culturally inspired goods while helping to uplift Latina-owned brands. (themujerista.com)
JZD
Founded in Texas, JZD is a Latina-owned brand known for its empowering and culturally relevant designs, including graphic tees and accessories that celebrate Latinx heritage. Their online store has gained popularity for its vibrant messaging and strong advocacy for community representation. (designbybrianna.com)
Inclusive Beauty Platforms
Thirteen Lune
Thirteen Lune is an inclusive beauty platform that highlights skincare, makeup, hair care, and wellness brands founded by Black and Brown entrepreneurs. Unlike traditional beauty retailers, Thirteen Lune’s mission is to amplify diverse voices in the beauty industry while offering high-quality, innovative products. (en.wikipedia.org)
Why Supporting Ethnically Owned Marketplaces Matters
Shopping from these platforms not only diversifies your purchasing habits but also helps build economic equity in communities that have historically faced barriers to business success. By choosing to buy from Black-owned, Latino-owned, and minority-owned businesses, you contribute to job creation, generational wealth, and cultural preservation.
While Amazon remains a retail juggernaut, these ethnically owned alternatives provide consumers with a way to make their shopping more intentional and impactful. So the next time you shop online, consider where your money is going and how it can support businesses that reflect the rich diversity of our world.
Best Practices for Reducing Phone Radiation Exposure for Adults and Children
In today’s tech-driven world, smartphones are an essential part of daily life. However, concerns about the long-term health effects of the radiation emitted by these devices remain. While there is ongoing debate and research on whether phone radiation (specifically radiofrequency electromagnetic fields) can cause harm, it’s always wise to take precautions—especially for children, whose developing bodies are more vulnerable to environmental factors.
Here, we’ll explore the best practices for reducing exposure to phone radiation for both adults and children. Supporting information from credible sources is also provided to help guide these recommendations.
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Best Practices for Adults
1. Use Speakerphone or Wired Earphones
Keeping your phone away from your head while talking reduces direct exposure to radiation. Using speakerphone, wired earphones, or a Bluetooth headset (which emits lower levels of radiation than the phone itself) can significantly lower the risk.
Source: FDA - Reducing Exposure to Radio Frequency Radiation
2. Keep the Phone Away from Your Body
When not in use, avoid keeping your phone in your pocket or directly against your body. If you must carry it, try to use a bag or a holder that keeps the phone a few inches away from your skin.
Source: California Department of Public Health - Cell Phones and Health
3. Text More, Talk Less
Whenever possible, opt for texting instead of voice calls. Texting minimizes the time the phone is near your head and reduces your overall exposure.
4. Use Airplane Mode in Low Signal Areas
Your phone emits more radiation when it’s struggling to connect to a network. In areas with low signal, consider using airplane mode until you can reconnect in a better coverage zone.
5. Limit Use of Wireless Networks
While Wi-Fi and Bluetooth generally emit lower levels of radiation than cellular networks, it’s still advisable to turn off these features when not in use. Airplane mode can be a helpful tool for this.
6. Minimize Exposure During Sleep
Avoid sleeping with your phone near your bed or under your pillow. Keeping it across the room or in another room is ideal. If you use your phone as an alarm, airplane mode can reduce radiation exposure while still allowing the alarm function.
Source: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) - How to Reduce Exposure to Cell Phones
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Best Practices for Children
1. Limit Phone Use
Children’s bodies absorb radiation differently than adults, making it more important to limit their phone use. Encourage them to use their devices only when necessary and not as a toy or for long periods of time. Set clear boundaries around screen time to keep usage in check.
Source: Environmental Health Trust - Children and Cell Phones
2. Use Airplane Mode for Entertainment
If a child is using a phone or tablet to watch videos, play games, or read, ensure that it’s in airplane mode. This cuts off all transmissions, turning the device into a safe, passive tool for entertainment.
3. Teach Kids to Keep Phones Away from Their Bodies
Encourage children to hold their phones away from their heads while making calls. Teach them to use speakerphone, wired earphones, or a Bluetooth headset. Avoid letting them store phones in their pockets or directly against their bodies.
4. Discourage Night-Time Use
Children should not sleep with phones in their beds or under pillows. Radiation exposure during sleep may be prolonged, and the temptation to use the device late at night can interfere with rest.
Source: American Academy of Pediatrics - Cell Phones and Your Child’s Health
5. Opt for Tablets or Laptops for Learning
If children are using devices for educational purposes, prefer larger devices like tablets or laptops, which are usually kept at a distance from their bodies. These devices also tend to emit less radiation than phones.
6. Lead by Example
Finally, the most effective way to ensure children follow these practices is to model them yourself. If they see you prioritizing safety, they are more likely to develop healthy habits when it comes to their own device usage.
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Final Thoughts
Reducing exposure to phone radiation doesn’t require dramatic lifestyle changes. With a few simple habits, you can lower potential risks for yourself and your children. While the debate over the dangers of phone radiation continues, taking precautionary steps based on current research is a proactive way to safeguard your health and well-being.
Additional Resources:
- National Cancer Institute - Cell Phones and Cancer Risk
- World Health Organization - Electromagnetic Fields and Public Health: Mobile Phones
By following these guidelines and staying informed, you can enjoy the convenience of mobile technology while minimizing the risks associated with prolonged exposure to radiation.
Understanding Your Rights as a Property Owner: Dealing with Squatters
As a property owner, finding out that squatters have taken over your property can be both frustrating and alarming. Squatters—people who unlawfully occupy a property without permission—pose a unique challenge, often due to the complex legal landscape surrounding their eviction. However, understanding your rights and knowing the correct steps to take can help you regain control of your property quickly and legally. This blog will explore property owners' rights when dealing with squatters, outline potential steps to combat this problem, detail best practices to prevent squatting, and provide resources to aid owners.
Understanding Squatter Rights and Property Owner Rights
Squatters may attempt to claim rights to a property through adverse possession laws, which can vary significantly by jurisdiction. In some places, if a squatter openly occupies a property, maintains it, and meets other conditions for a specific period, they might claim legal ownership. Therefore, it's essential to act quickly and knowledgeably when dealing with squatters.
As a property owner, you have the right to protect your property from unauthorized occupants. However, it's crucial to follow legal procedures to avoid inadvertently violating squatters' rights, which could complicate the eviction process.
Steps to Combat Squatters
1. Verify Occupancy: If you suspect squatters on your property, first verify their presence. Do not enter the property immediately, as doing so could escalate the situation or violate local trespassing laws. Instead, observe from a distance and take notes or photos of any signs of occupancy.
2. Contact Local Authorities: Once you've confirmed that squatters are occupying your property, contact local law enforcement. In many cases, the police can remove squatters if they are trespassing. However, if the squatters claim tenant rights, law enforcement may advise you to pursue a formal eviction process.
3. Serve an Eviction Notice: If local authorities are unable to remove the squatters directly, you may need to serve an eviction notice. This process can vary widely depending on local laws, so it’s essential to understand your jurisdiction's specific requirements. Typically, you will need to provide formal notice to the squatters, giving them a set period to vacate the property.
4. File for Formal Eviction: If the squatters do not leave after receiving an eviction notice, the next step is to file for a formal eviction through your local court system. This process can be time-consuming and may require legal representation. The court will set a hearing date, and if you prevail, a judge will issue a writ of possession, allowing law enforcement to remove the squatters.
5. Secure Your Property: Once the squatters have been legally removed, take steps to secure your property to prevent re-entry. This may include changing locks, boarding up windows, or installing security systems.
Best Practices to Prevent Squatters
Preventing squatters from taking over your property in the first place is often easier than removing them. Here are some best practices:
1. Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your property, especially if it is vacant. Regular visits can deter squatters and help you catch any unauthorized occupancy early.
2. Maintain Your Property: Keep your property in good condition. Well-maintained properties are less attractive to squatters. Ensure that all entry points are secure, locks are changed periodically, and windows are intact.
3. Install Security Measures: Install visible security measures such as cameras, alarm systems, and motion-sensor lights. These can deter squatters and provide evidence in case of illegal entry.
4. Post No Trespassing Signs: Clearly visible "No Trespassing" signs can serve as a deterrent and provide legal backing in case of disputes.
5. Communicate with Neighbors: Establish good communication with neighbors who can alert you if they notice any suspicious activity on your property.
6. Prompt Legal Action: If you notice signs of squatting, act promptly. The longer squatters remain on your property, the harder it can be to remove them.
Resources for Property Owners
1. Local Law Enforcement: Your first point of contact for dealing with squatters. They can provide guidance on whether the situation is a criminal matter or if you need to pursue civil action.
2. Legal Aid Societies: Many areas have legal aid societies or nonprofit organizations that provide free or low-cost legal assistance to property owners dealing with squatters.
3. Real Estate Attorneys: Consulting with a real estate attorney can help you navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding squatter removal and ensure that you comply with local laws.
4. Local Housing Authority: The housing authority can provide information on tenant rights and squatter laws in your area, helping you better understand the legal framework.
5. Online Resources and Forums: Websites such as Nolo and FindLaw offer valuable information on property laws, squatter rights, and eviction processes. Additionally, online forums and communities can provide support and advice from other property owners who have dealt with similar situations.
FINAL THOUGHT
Dealing with squatters is a challenging but manageable aspect of property ownership. By understanding your rights, following the proper legal steps, and taking preventive measures, you can protect your property and ensure that any unauthorized occupants are dealt with swiftly and legally. Remember, the key is to act quickly, stay informed, and seek professional advice when necessary to safeguard your property effectively.
By following these steps and utilizing the resources available, property owners can better protect their investments and avoid the pitfalls associated with squatting. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and always prioritize legal avenues to resolve these issues.