my memories of my father are non-existent what I have are loving retellings of others strewn together by the few photos I have access to stories of laughs that shook you to the core, a full head of hair I thought I’d inherit. …

This isn’t what this article was supposed to be about. I just wanted a quiet life, to write about the Lakers’ new found penchant for Free Agency failures — then the Democratic Party’s Netroots Nation meltdown happened. It stood as just another jarring reminder of the role privilege plays in politics and the tension that occurs when White candidates run…

A retroactive look at an ill received album. As I write this, Jay Z is thirteen solo albums in; the catalog expands exponentially when joint albums and the “MTV Unplugged” are added. His career is a trail blazed with successes. The vast majority of his discography is highly touted… then…

and then the moment hits I can’t find the words to say feelings too deep to traverse memories too heavy to carry so, I sit pensively perusing pavement like a chicken facing the intersection Wondering if the grass is really greener on the other side or if my quest to find out will be the thing punchlines are made of it’s the reason we hesitate to leap the intense glare of expectations chickens can’t fly because… they’re chicken — right?

an excerpt from the book “I’ve Just Got These Words, Fam…” (2016) Preface: A former classmate and friend was working on a piece for her grad research. In the midst of said work a question was posed… a question I’d never gotten before, “What is Whiteness to you?” My response…

[Lightly taps wine flute to get your attention] Black History Month is regarded internationally as a time to highlight and celebrate the achievements of our cultures luminaries. A time in which we collectively research, teach, and draw inspiration from our predecessors… As refreshing as it is to see such attention being placed on our heroes though, I believe…

[Time to light the incense on both ends again… finger snaps, crowd quiets] Ladies and gentlemen, boys & girls, kids of all… (actually, no kids). It is time for another installment of the now infamous “Iron Shackles Award.” If this is your first time seeing this, it is all explained…

Approaches podium, scans room… raises champagne flute] Good evening all, I hope the new year has been treating you kindly. Ladies and gentlemen; February is upon us which means it is finally time to bestow my annual “Iron Shackles of Shame”Awards. You will undoubtedly hear many stories of Black dignity this month, there will be tales of valor and deep seeded, resolute strength. Black History Month is always filled with people who’ve ingeniously pioneered inspite of the struggle…

NOPE, NO INTRO… getting right to it. Ladies and gentlemen, I know I haven’t been as on point in regards to The Iron Shackles Award, but to quote the apparent ruler of the Twerk this one came in like a wrecking ball. BRUH!!! I’ll admit that it’s been awhile since…