A Day to Replenish Black Girl Magic

As we approach October 11, I want to remind everyone that Black Girl Day Off is just around the corner—less than a month away! This day is all about prioritizing our emotional and mental well-being, and it’s an essential moment for Black women to pause, rejuvenate, and truly take care of ourselves. Whether it’s a spa day, quiet reflection, or simply disconnecting from daily stressors, taking this day is a form of self-care that is long overdue.

Historically, Black women have been assigned higher risks of chronic illnesses such as heart disease and breast cancer, often stemming from the constant weight of navigating life under both racial and gender oppression. That’s why Black Girl Day Off was developed—to encourage Black women to focus on their health and to recognize that it’s okay to take a break.

On a personal note, I’ve already requested the day off and will be celebrating that weekend at a dear friend’s wedding—what a perfect way to honor this special day! Make sure you take this opportunity to request time off as well, and let’s honor our well-being together.

Let this be your reminder to take care of yourself, and use this day to recharge. You deserve it. Learn more about the history of this day here!

Society

The Decline in Drug Overdose Deaths

For the first time in decades, we’re seeing a significant and hopeful drop in drug overdose deaths across the U.S., according to public health data. National surveys from the CDC show a 10.6% decline, marking a drastic reversal from years of increasing fatalities and the decline appears to be real and lasting. This is especially promising in light of the devastating losses we've seen, including the recent overdose death of rapper Rich Homie Quan and Matthew Perry.

While the data offers hope, it's crucial to recognize the ongoing crisis and the toll it has taken on communities. With overdose deaths on the rise for so long, especially among high-profile celebrities, this recent trend is a glimmer of hope for public health officials. The fight isn't over, but this decline signals progress, particularly in states hardest hit by the opioid epidemic. Learn what’s behind the decline here.

Parenting

The Importance of Your Parental Village

Ciara and Kelly Rowland have teamed up to support Baby2Baby's Maternal Health and Newborn Supply Kit program, which aids mothers and babies in need across 10 states. With the U.S. facing challenges such as lack of paid maternity leave, rising childcare costs, and alarming maternal mortality rates—especially for Black mothers—this initiative couldn't come at a more critical time. Click the link to find out how these stars are making a difference and addressing the maternal health crisis.

Health

Death due to Abortion Ban

Candi Miller's tragic story underscores the devastating consequences of Georgia’s abortion ban on maternal health. With chronic conditions such as lupus, diabetes, and hypertension, doctors warned that another pregnancy could be fatal for her. Yet, Georgia's restrictive legislation left her with no legal option for a medically supervised abortion. Afraid to seek care, Candi attempted an abortion at home, leading to fatal complications.

Health experts deem her death preventable, blaming the state's strict abortion laws for forcing women like Candi into dangerous situations. Learn more about her case and how restrictive laws are contributing to the ongoing Black maternal healthcare crisis.

Politics

The Haitians Who Supported Trump are Now Embarrassed

After Donald Trump's controversial remarks during a presidential debate, where he falsely accused Haitian immigrants of eating pets in Ohio, the backlash has divided the Haitian community. These inflammatory comments have incited bomb threats and violence, forcing schools to close and state police to intervene in Springfield, Ohio. Despite many Haitians historically supporting Trump for his conservative values, they now find themselves embarrassed by his rhetoric. Learn what took some Trump supporters so long to finally understand the harm of his divisive claims.

Fashion

New Balance Shoes and Neo Nazis

New Balance is making strides to reconnect with Black Baltimore through a powerful campaign that highlights influential local figures, including poet Kondwani Fidel. Known for their versatility, New Balance sneakers have long been a staple in the city's fashion and culture. Fidel, who has worn the brand since childhood, is now the face of a campaign featuring other Baltimore changemakers like D. Watkins and EDG Tizzy. This move marks a stark contrast to New Balance's controversial ties to neo-Nazi groups in 2016, following comments made by company officials that appeared to support Donald Trump. Learn more about how New Balance is embracing Baltimore’s urban culture.

Word of the week

Buxom

A plump woman, especially with large breasts.

Randomness from my Timeline

Dawn Richards and the lawsuit against Diddy

Sean Combs, also known as Diddy, is currently facing allegations of sex trafficking and other serious accusations. Dawn Richards, a former member of Danity Kane and Dirty Money, recently filed a lawsuit just before his arrest, which revealed shocking details

@kadishalynnnn

#greenscreen Danity Kanes Dawn Richard lawsuit against Diddy #fyp #danitykane #dawnrichard #diddy

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