2016 was the 2020 before 2020 when Donald Trump was elected president. How did that happen? Well, part of the story is that less Black people voted than in 2012. The Black Vote is crucial for the Democratic Party even though the love has not been reciprocated. This 2020 Black People, again, are doing all they can to safe America. Standing in line for hours, not responding to intimidation and traveling hours for a polling place. Democracy American style. Let’s hope the Democratic Party will love Black people back this time.

Something we can hardly imagine in the Netherlands but voter suppression is a real thing in the US. This article takes a deep hard look at all the aspects and it’s frightening.

Wanna change the system from within? Join in but don’t do it on your own. A great op ed on women of color uplifting each other and joining forces. There might still be hope for America.

“Being a citizen doesn’t come free.” Especially in Georgia… Which is now a battleground state for the first time since 1996. Voting and voting early is of utmost importance to turn the red state blue. Gwinnett County, one of the most diverse counties in Georgia, can make a significant difference in the Georgia voting outcome.

A black woman standing up for herself and knowing her worth is still a revolutionary thing to do. Even if you are a billion dollar producer for one of the biggest TV stations of the USA. After being disrespected for “wanting too much”. Super producer and mother of three daughters of color, Shonda Rhimes was done. And not afraid to talk about it. Hear hear!!

Racism and big Brands have a long history. I remember when Tommy Hilfiger was on the Oprah Show explaining that he had never said this his clothes were not for “Blacks, Jews, Hispanics and Asians.” He said that the false rumour had cost him money and most important his integrity. Speaking of money. Luxury brands generate an approximately 200 billion yearly revenue in the US alone… How much of that revenue comes from Black shoppers?

The Nielsen Company issued a report last year entitled, “It’s in the Bag: Black Consumers’ Path to Purchase,” found that spending by Black consumers is especially influenced by advertising.

The report found, that Black folks love to spend their money on beauty and grooming products, shelling out about $573.6 million on an annual basis for “personal soap and bath needs.” That was about 19 percent higher than any other demographic. Black consumers also like to spend their money at high-end department stores, with 63 percent of Black folks saying in a survey they like to buy from Saks Fifth Avenue, 45 percent at Neiman Marcus (45%) and 24 percent at Bloomingdales.

“More than half (52%) of African Americans find in-store shopping relaxing, compared with 26% of the total population.“ Black shoppers accounted for almost 90% of the overall spending in the beauty supply industry. Does that money trickle back to the black community? Not really….

So how double insulting when Cardi B has to defend her Birkin Habit?! As Audre Lorde stated the master’s tools will never dismantle the master’s house.

Thank you so much for taking the time. Stay safe and take care of yourself and your loved ones.

Anousha