Southern Mayors Spark National Dialogue, Earn Ovation at Pancakes & Politics Forum III
(L-R) Mayor Steven L. Reed of Montgomery, AL, Mayor LaToya Cantrell of New Orleans, LA and Mayor Andre Dickens of Atlanta, GA Credit: Monica Morgan Photography At the most recent Pancakes and Politics forum III, three prominent Southern mayors, LaToya Cantrell of New Orleans, Steven L. Reed of Montgomery, and Andre Dickens of Atlanta, convened to discuss the unique leadership challenges faced by African American and female mayors in Republican-dominated states. The conversation was live-streamed on Facebook and YouTube, which drew national attention. Along with a mix of civic
From Dirt to Dreams: Nicole Scott Brings the Black Rodeo Back Home to Michigan
Nicole Scott didn’t grow up with the sound of hooves pounding against dirt arenas or the sight of cowboys racing through open chutes. She’s a daughter of Inkster, Mich., and her early experiences didn’t include rodeos—especially not ones showcasing Black riders, ropers, and wranglers. But fate, family, and faith would pull her into a world that would soon become her life’s calling: producing and championing Black rodeos across the country. Her journey began in Denver, Colo., where her family relocated years ago. There, she met extended relatives she’d
Businessman Eric France Becomes Newest Candidate in High-Profile 2nd Congressional District Contest
Businessman Eric France launches his campaign to succeed Rep. Robin Kelly in Illinois' 2nd Congressional District. With a diverse field and redrawn map, the 2026 race is already heating up (Photo Credit: Tacuma Roeback). This past Saturday, inside a cozy restaurant along the Little Calumet River, businessman Eric France launched his campaign for Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District—one of the most closely watched races of the 2026 cycle. France, who leads The France Group, a consulting firm founded by his late father, Erwin France, joins a growing field vying to
Women In Charge: Roz Clark Brings the Gift of Transformation to Women Who Want More
At a time when too many Americans are grappling with social uncertainty and the impact of declining resources for women’s health and fading support for advancing women in the workplace, Roz Clark is doubling down on her commitment to transforming the landscape and shoring up her efforts to empower women. Clark, a skilled communicator, proficient problem solver and sought-after life coach, uses her expertise to teach women to overcome obstacles and grow their capacities to experience and enjoy meaningful, productive and prosperous lives. “Here’s the thing, none of us
In Appreciation for Black Comic Book Artists; Phillip Thompson Leads the Way
Phillip Thompson lends his collection for national viewing Phillip Thompson, known to most Pittsburghers as DJ Big Phill, wrapped up his "Collections in Black: A Celebration of Black Comic Book Culture," with a closing ceremony at the August Wilson African American Cultural Center to celebrate the Black heroes that comprised Black comic books from the past, which are now classic materials, along with celebrating Black comic creators of the here and now. PHILLIP THOMPSON WITH HIS MOTHER, ARNITA STAGGER. (PHOTOS BY JULIAN HILL) In an interview with AWAACC staff, Thompson