The three officers accused of covering up the death of Laquan Mcdonald were found not guilty this week. According to Blavity, Cook County Judge Domenica Stephenson claimed the prosecution did not have a strong enough case for a conviction. A day later, the former cop who pulled the trigger, Jason Van Dyke, was sentenced to six years and nine months for fatally shooting 17-year-old Laquan McDonald.In 2014, police were called to a parking lot after reports were made of a person breaking into vehicles and stealing radios. Van Dyke arrived at the Chicago lot and, after mere seconds, opened fire on the teen, hitting him a total of 16 times. In the dashcam video, McDonald is seen moving away from the former officer before he’s fired upon. Following the shooting, officer Thomas Gaffney, and former officer Joseph Walsh checked a box indicating Van Dyke was in serious danger. Former Detective David March also supported this claim, writing in a report that McDonald committed aggravated assault against the officers, forcing Van Dyke to open fire. March was not present during the shooting.While March, Gaffney, and Walsh were found not guilty, Van Dyke was sentenced to just under seven years. Under Illinois state law, which requires he serve at least half his term, he could be out of prison in around three years. Prosecutors initially asked Judge Vincent Gaughan for a sentence of 18 to 20 years. The defense team asked for probation.The defense team gave the court a number of letters asking Gaughan to show mercy. Van Dyke’s wife, Tiffany, even claimed she feared for her husband’s life in prison.“My biggest fear is that somebody would kill my husband for something he did as a police officer, something he was trained to do," she said of the shooting that left McDonald dead after only six seconds. "There was no malice, no hatred on that night. He was simply doing his job."Prosecutors challenged the defense by providing numerous accounts of the excessive force Van Dyke implored while on the job. A family impact statement was also read by Rev. Marvin Hunter, McDonald’s uncle.“I am a real victim of murder and that can never be changed,” Hunter read.  "Jason Van Dyke, with his cold callousness and disregard for the life of a young Black man, without me provoking him, robbed us."  Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for fresh stories and breaking news Now check this out:Jason Van Dyke Claims He Shot Laquan McDonald 16 Times Trying To Hit His KnifeChicago Cop Jason Van Dyke Found Guilty Of Murder In Death Of 17-Year-Old Laquan McDonaldJason Van Dyke Begins Trial For Killing Laquan...

Artist Davian Chester aims to redefine traditional beauty standards with his Black princess collection.As a graphic designer, Chester sees that there is a lack of representation for Black women in both the entertainment and media industries. His Black princess collection is a spin on classic Disney princesses, portraying each traditionally white character as a Black woman. (Of course, this is with the exception of Princess Tiana from The Princess and the Frog, Disney’s only Black princess to date, whose natural #BlackGirlMagic Chester captures in a stunning portrait.)The Chattahoochee Valley Community College graduate lives in Columbus, Georgia, and works full-time as a teaching artist. An art lover since adolescence, Chester describes his work as thought-provoking, beautiful and motivational.“I have always been interested in art since elementary school. I started my digital journey in high school,” he told Blavity. We sat down with Chester to chat about the inspiration behind his collection and what we can expect from him in 2019.Blavity: What artist inspires your work and why?Davian Chester: I am inspired by the artist Sevell. His work is awesome. He captures the pure emotion and beauty in all of his pieces. You can view his work on Instagram [via] @illustration315.Blavity: What inspired your Black princess collection?Chester: The lack of representation of Black women in mainstream media inspired my Black princess collection. I was inspired by the question, “What if some of the most iconic women in the world were Black women?” I imagined that they would be bold, Black and beautiful with all shades of color.Blavity: What do you want people to walk away with, after they view your artwork?Chester: I want people to be able to relate to my work. I want my art to make them feel and think a little. I want other artists to be just as inspired as I am when I see other awesome pieces.Blavity: What has your experience been like, as a Black artist?Chester: Being a Black artist can be challenging — from trying to find work to being taken seriously in the eyes of large companies or the community. I do not think there is enough representation of Black art and beauty, especially in mainstream media. We need more Black beauty in our homes, online and on TV. It is getting there, though. I [also] believe Black artists should work together and collaborate rather than compete.Blavity: What does Black beauty mean to you?Chester: Black beauty is being confident, loving, brave and proud — not letting anything stand in your way because you know your worth.Blavity: What can people expect from you in 2019?Chester: I am actually going to push my illustrations and cartoons even more. I also plan on doing more animation. You can view my artwork online by following me on social media at @real_Toons.Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for more fresh stories, perspectives and breaking news.Like this content? Now, check these out:13 Incredible Black Artists, Past And Present, Everybody Should KnowThis Black Art Caught Angela Bassett's Attention, And It Will Definitely Grab Yours TooBlack Art Matters: Why Our Creative Visual Contributions Should Be Valued And Represented More...

Just days after bringing in 2019, the new moon—which started Jan. 5—has brought about a time for much-needed new beginnings, if you had a trash 2018. Despite exiting a year where we saw the most drama among some of our most beloved celebrities, like Kanye West professing his love for Trump in the White House, we also saw growing buzz around the Black witchy movement. Blavity interviewed the Hoodwitch, who shared some insight into her own new moon rituals, including “moon parties” for friends and family. She even wrote "The Hoodwitch's Guide to New Moon Rituals," to help reset intentions and manifest new desires. The popularity of her work opened the door for numerous “hood witches” sharing their knowledge on social media and guiding followers to owning their divinity. Peep the advice from some of Instagram's best witches and healers that will help you recharge mentally and spiritually in 2019.1. Get out of your comfort zone. This year we aren't settling! According to the Trap Witch, an intuitive healer and spiritual coach who calls herself "trap Oprah," if there's a vision you have for your life — whether it's in love, career, finances — mediocre won't cut it. Don't allow being comfortable to stop you from attaining your highest desires. "I want an unsettling type of love and people around me who want that, too. Never get too comfortable. There’s no growth there. I always crave the type of love that puts fire under my ass to be better than I’ve ever been. I’ve found that in many sources in 2018, firstly being myself. For that I’m grateful," the Trap Witch captioned in an Instagram post.  View this post on Instagram I want an unsettling type of love and people around me who want that too. Never get too comfortable. There’s no growth there. I always crave the type of love that puts fire under my ass to be better than I’ve ever been. I’ve found that in many sources in 2018, firstly being myself. For that I’m grateful 🌻 image Rp from @victorialeanna_A post shared by The Trap Witch ל (@thetrapwitch) on Dec 23, 2018 at 8:54am PST2. Don't expect 2019 to be perfect. It's often said that we don't necessarily find all our happiness in the destination, but on the journey it took to get there. Tarot reader and priestess Tatianna Tarot reminds us that we are most grateful after we've endured hardships to reach our goal. Don't be afraid of the rough moments this year because it's just preparing you for a something greater."Getting to this point of happiness, bliss and abundance, sometimes requires that you endure trials & tribulations along the way. On an emotional level, this speaks volumes on reaching a point where you are content & grateful for the way things turned out," she wrote on Twitter. #Tarot #Meditation // 10 of Oysters . .#tatiannatarot pic.twitter.com/PrqQmIggJN— Tatianna Tarot (@TatiannaTarot) January 2, 2019Getting to this point of happiness, bliss and abundance, sometimes requires that you endure trials & tribulations along the way. On an emotional level, this speaks volumes on reaching a point where you are content & grateful for the way things turned out.— Tatianna Tarot (@TatiannaTarot) January 2, 20193. Be gentle with yourself. When we think about resolutions for the new year, we typically want to achieve the moon and the stars with extremely high (and sometimes unattainable) expectations. While this may jumpstart our focus to reach potential goals, it may not leave room for failure or slip up's. Before you know it you've given up on your resolution.Maraym Hasanaa, initiated priestess and consciousness studies teacher, stated in an Instagram post that we have to love ourselves through upcoming changes with grace and patience."Gentle reminder to keep kindness in your own heart," she captioned.  View this post on Instagram Gentle reminder to keep kindness in your own heart.A post shared by مريم حسنا (@maryamhasnaa) on Dec 20, 2018 at 8:58am PST 4. Use the life lessons you've had as fuel! Intuitive #HoodooBoo Nefertiti M., known as @HoodHealingHoodoo via Instagram, shared a lengthy post reminding followers to learn from their past and appreciate each moment as a lesson to guide the next season of life. She teaches that lessons can manifest in the form of a relationship, a job or a decision that produces an outcome that may not seem desirable at first, but it will lead to growth. Reflect on what you learned from 2018, and own the lessons you you've mastered. "Life got allllll the lessons, baby. ALLUVEM! Try looking at everything (literally everything and everyone) as a lesson.. and shit begins to make more sense + will feel less like a personal attack on you individually," she wrote.  View this post on Instagram 🌻💫REFLECTIONS/CREATIONS💫🌻 Hit the (SWIPE 👈🏾) and you'll see what I've personally picked up while swandiving (face first unfortunately 🤡) all the way through 2018 🤣 but peep 2019 in the back there 😏 admiring the shit outta me (with the supportive things I need to get me thew.. yes.. THEW 👏🏾) because I've been through hell & back again.. but I will keep shining 💫 and YOU SHOULD TOO. Life got allllll the lessons, baby. ALLUVEM! Try looking at everything (literally everything and everyone) as a lesson.. and shit begins to make more sense + will feel less like a personal attack on you individually. 12/31/2018: It's the Eve of the Gregorian New Year and many are scrambling around last minute to make some changes energetically, and that's cool! (seems stressful 🤔) but I completely understand how we can get caught up in the "New Year, New Me" hype. (Sidenote: 12/31/2018 = 1+2+3+1+2+0+1+8 = 18 = 8+1 = 9. The number [9] does represent fulfillment, completion or bringing things to a conclusion/into fruition). Selflessness, idealism, magnetism and inspiration are associated with the number [9] as well. Another plateau awaits! Let's keep in mind though that we don't need the masses to tell us exactly WHEN we NEED to change; everyday is new 🌻 and everyday we have choices we can make toward the decisions that we want to invest in our greatest good 👐🏾 But: REFLECTION definitely is important 👑 Therefore, I ABSOLUTELY want you to take a look back to a YEAR ago and make note of how far you've come. Did you hit all of your goals? If not all, then some? None? 😨 Fuck it, it's time to get you together. Regardless - we need focus and need to put in the time and the actual WORK for ANY manifestation or creation to flourish. HOW MUCH DID YOU LEARN IN 2018? 😏 WHAT ENERGY ARE YOU TAKING OR ARE YOU SHEDDING THIS TIME AROUND? 🤔 💛 #HoodooBoo #HoodoohealerA post shared by Nefertiti M. 🔮 (@hoodhealinghoodoo) on Dec 31, 2018 at 9:04am PST 5. DO THE WORK, period't. Nothing in life comes free, and everything we want will require some level of hard work that's either physical, mental, spiritual or a combination of the three. Energy Healer and astrologer Danielle Ayoka of Mystic Lipstick, LLC created The Healing Series workshop, which is dedicated to removing old patterns and energy that could be blocking you from everything you want. Consider trying out a workshop or tapping into another type of practice that will help you stay intentional and accountable.  "We’ll be removing any patterns, energy and baggage that causes us to be out of alignment with the universal flow of nature that causes continual blockages in our abundance and peace. This healing series will be the ultimate blockage, baggage and sabotage removal," Ayoka wrote about her series. We’ll be removing any patterns, energy and baggage that causes us to be out of alignment with the universal flow of nature that causes continual blockages in our abundance and peace. This healing series will be the ultimate blockage, baggage and sabotage removal 🙌🏽✨— Danielle Ayoka (@MysticxLipstick) December 31, 20186. Embrace your divinity and own your power. If you want this year to be one of achievement and happiness you'll have to dig deep and embrace the strength you have from within. This list couldn't be complete without a tip from the Hoodwitch herself, who encourages us to get in touch with our power to gain the clarity needed to guide us along the 2019 journey."What does embracing personal power feel like? It feels like ease. It feels like authenticity and not performing. It feels like clarity, and certainty. It feels like being ok by not being accepted by everyone...You are not for everyone," she wrote. View this post on Instagram What does embracing personal power feel like? It feels like ease. It feels like authenticity and not performing. It feels like clarity, and certainty. It feels like being ok by not being accepted by everyone...You are not for everyone. Photography by @pierre_pierreetgilles #personalpower #collectivehealing #witchesofinstagram #bruja #yemoja #art #magic #resilience #strength #authenticity #witches #oracles #modernmystic #blackmadonnaA post shared by The Hoodwitch® (@thehoodwitch) on Dec 26, 2018 at 10:09am PST Cheers to this being your best year yet boo! Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for fresh stories and breaking news.Liking this content? check these out:7 Things Beyoncé Could Do — Including Witchcraft — That Wouldn't Stop Me From StanningWitchcraft Where? What Most People Think About African Traditional Religion Is Dead Wrong4 Ways To Make The Most Of The New...

The confirmation hearings for William Barr, 45’s nominee to be the next attorney general, began on Tuesday. In the midst of a government shutdown that, according to CBS news, will have more than 420,000 federal workers go without pay, coupled with the Mueller Investigation - which seeks to determine if our president is, in actuality, a Russian spy - it could be easy to let these confirmations fly under the radar. Here's what you need to know about your possible new Attorney General. 1. He is Jeff Sessions' successor. Jeff Sessions stepped down from acting Attorney General in November, noting in his resignation letter that he was doing so at the request of President Trump. Many, including Nancy Pelosi, saw sessions forced resignation as a tactic meant to bring the Mueller investigation to screeching halt. Given his record of threats to undermine & weaken the Russia investigation, Matthew Whitaker should recuse himself from any involvement in Mueller’s investigation. Congress must take immediate action to protect the rule of law and integrity of the investigation. #FollowTheFacts— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) November 7, 2018Matthew Whitaker, briefly became acting attorney general, but following the backlash, Trump nominated William Barr in December. On Tuesday, when questioned if he would ensure that the findings of the investigation be made public, Barr stated the conclusion of the investigation “will be handled as a confidential document.”2. He’s a former attorney general under George H. W. Bush.William Barr has already acted as the attorney general under George H. W. Bush from 1991 to 1993. During that time, he had some interesting thoughts on criminal justice reform.3. Barr helped institute mass incarceration. During his time with the Bush administration in 1992, William Barr was a major contributor to the report by the Department of Justice titled The Case for More Incarceration. This report was one of the many stances and policies he spearheaded that escalated the war on drugs. In 1994 Barr and then Virginia governor George Allen co-chaired the Commission on Parole Abolition and Sentencing Reform. A commission that sought to abolish parole in the state, build more prisons, increase prison sentences up to six times longer. In 1991, Barr professed during the Mid-America Committee Luncheon: “Many of the so-called experts – whose theories gave us the horrors of the 60’s and 70’s – are criticizing this high prison population.  They say it’s a sign of failure.  I believe they are wrong. It is a sign of success.”4. Doesn’t believe that disparity between race and sentencing exist. When asked about racial disparities in prisons and prison sentencing during a Los Angeles Times interview in 1992, William Barr stated: “I think our system is fair and does not treat people differently.”When pressed on the specific differences in sentencing regarding offenses dealing with cocaine versus crack cocaine (a drug that disproportionately wreaked havoc on the Black community), Barr answered: “It's associated with violence. It's associated with the decomposition of families, crack babies, spousal abuse, child abuse. As you know, in 1985, all these social indices just went off the charts. It had a catastrophic impact, and so I think a stiffer penalty for crack cocaine is warranted.”When recently questioned by Senator Corey Booker during Tuesday’s hearing if the system of mass incarceration disproportionately benefited African-American communities, Barr seemed to have changed his tune - stating, “I think the reduction in crime has since 1992,” Barr responded. “But I think the heavy drug penalties have harmed the Black community and the incarceration rates have harmed the Black community.”5. Detained HIV+ Haitian Immigrants at Guantanamo BayIn 1991, the Bush administration began to collect Haitian refugees fleeing by boat after democratically elected Jean-Bertrand Aristide was overthrown via a military coup. While the numbers dwindled over time, at least 310 refugees who had tested HIV+ (or alleged to be positive) remained detained at the detention facility. In a 2001 interview with UVA’s Miller Center, William Barr discussed his role in what other’s considered a human rights violation and his response to detractors, “They were always complaining.  I would say, ‘What do you people do at Guantanamo?  Maybe this is the highest, best use of Guantanamo.  Maybe Guantanamo should be turned over to the INS . . . and used as a processing center.  Maybe this is the best use for the United States as opposed to whatever you people do with it.”  With a majority Republican Senate, the likelihood that Barr will be confirmed is likey. The saga continues folks...Make sure you're following Blavity: Politics on Instagram and join our daily newsletter to stay engaged and informed.Now, check these...

Soulja Boy had some things to get off his chest this week. Little did he know, he would become January's meme of the month.The "Donk" rapper stopped by The Breakfast Club on Thursday and discussed his influence on today's generation of hip-hop. Soulja was asked whose career he specifically paved the way to prosper as a digital artist. Given the worldwide success of Drake, Soulja naturally said the Toronto singer-rapper.The way Soulja Boy said “DRAAAAAAAAAKE??!?? DRAKE???” gonna be a forever meme 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/a5bwCalDzu— Tyler Conway (@jtylerconway) January 16, 2019"Draaaaaaake? Draaaaaaaaake," Soulja said to Charlamagne Tha God, DJ Envy and Angela Yee. "The n***a that got bodied by Pusha T? The n***a that hiding his kid from the world, but his world want to hide from the kid? Aubrey Graham in a wheelchair? Draaaaaake?"While that may be true, it was the manner in which Soulja disbelievingly said the "God's Plan" rapper's stage name that made our sides hurt. His emphatic screeching became the funniest thing on the internet this week. Alas, another meme was born.  Soulja Boy did an interview on Wednesday where he claims that he started Drake's career. People have been making memes since the video was released and these are my faves. You have to see the video or it won't make sense. https://t.co/tDSuEmXdRb #ritsm pic.twitter.com/uWEozl5lhg— Andrea Hubbard (@andi19365) January 18, 2019These Soulja boy memes are KILLING me 💀💀😂😭😭😂 pic.twitter.com/sb6JEWHOn2— karrenberry ✨ (@KarrenBerry) January 18, 2019The internet has no chill bruh 🤣🤣🤣🤣 #souljaboy #BreakfastClub #funny #memes pic.twitter.com/zUxdwkk3ef— BipolarBeauty (@Mika_Luciano) January 17, 2019Mom: Lemme See Your Phone Real Quick Me: MY PHONEEEEE?!??!?! #SouljaBoy #Drake #tyga pic.twitter.com/AeVcHioQnR— kianamcf (@kianamcf1) January 18, 2019Y'all cuttin up on this Friday #SouljaBoy #Meme pic.twitter.com/DOaxdmJxAu— [EnterNameHere] (@Time2Welp) January 18, 2019 They even took a presidential turn at one point. Lmaooo these Soulja Boy memes are getting out of hand ! 😩😂😂😭😭😭😭💀💀 pic.twitter.com/iH6xHDD3Rc— Saiyla Moon 🌙 (@SaiylaMoon_) January 18, 2019Some of us with nosy families can relate to this one a little to well.Y’all stop playing with my mans @souljaboy he gonna need a Cheque cut from all these memes. He a legend tho. #memeoftheyear and the year just started pic.twitter.com/Ge1C4gJP3i— That Guy Nuvo (@iNuv0) January 18, 2019 Young Drako himself even commented on the viralcy of the interview. Drake.... Draaakkkeeee??— Soulja Boy (Young Drako) 💲🔌🔫 (@souljaboy) January 17, 2019Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for fresh stories and breaking news.Now check this out:R. Kelly, Who Seems To Lack In Both Morals And Sense Of Humor, Allegedly Wanted To Fight Dave Chappelle After Infamous Skit Cardi B To Appear In New Pepsi Ad On Super Bowl SundayCardi B Isn't A Politician And That's Probably Why She Just Captured Our Mood Around The Government Shutdown So...

After suffering various forms of racial discrimination from her dance team at Kansas' Blue Valley Northwest High School, including being told she was “too dark” to perform, recent graduate Camille Sturdivant is now seeking legal justice. According to The Kansas City Star, the lawsuit details incidents in which Sturdivant endured several acts of racism against her over the years at the hands of teammates and instructors. Kevin Murakami, the dance team choreographer, noted the darkness of her skin and said it would distract audience members from the other girls. In a similar event, the dance team’s coach, Carley Fine, was fired for alluding to the fact that Sturdivant’s newly earned position on the Golden Girls dance team at the University of Missouri was undeserved because the young girl is Black. “THAT DOESN’T MAKE SENSE,” Murakami texted Fine about the news of Sturdivant’s collegiate dance career. “It actually makes my stomach hurt,” Fine replied. “[Because] she’s (expletive) Black. I hate that.”The text messages were discovered by Sturdivant when she borrowed Fine’s phone to play music for the dance team. After the initial shock and hurt, the dancer showed the messages to her parents and the school's principal. Fine was fired the following day. Despite her removal, Fine attended a banquet dinner held for members of the team. Sturdivant and her family were told the meal was canceled, Metro UK reported.Similar signs of solidarity to Fine and opposition of Studivant continued as all of the other dancers, besides the second unnamed Black student performer, wore ribbons with Fine’s initials on them during their final performance. In a statement observed by the Chicago Tribune, the Blue Valley School District wrote:“Respectful and meaningful relationships between staff and students are at the heart of Blue Valley’s culture. Discrimination of any kind has no place. The District expects staff to treat all students with respect at all times, and any report that this expectation has not been fulfilled is taken very seriously. As stated in the Complaint, on May 1, 2018, Mrs. Sturdivant showed Dr. Pressly the text message between Mr. Murakami and Ms. Fine. Ms. Fine’s employment with the District was separated the following day on May 2, 2018.”The amount of damages sought in Sturdivant's suit is unknown. Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for fresh stories and breaking news.Now, check these out:Misty Copeland And Calvin Royal III Become The First Black Couple To Dance Lead With The American Ballet TheatreHow This Dance Director Is Challenging The Race Problem Of Dance Through EducationAesha Ash Is Using Her Dance Background And The Power Of Imagery To Change The Way Inner City Children See...

While boxing fans wait for the marquee match-up between Manny Pacquiao and Adrien Broner, a presser turned south when Broner called out a commentator for harsh criticism. Showtime's Al Bernstein tried to ask Broner about the high-profile fight at the tail-end of a Wednesday press conference, but the boxer did not want to engage with him. According to SB Nation, the two have a history. Bernstein reportedly made harsh comments about Broner on Twitter. "I ain’t even gonna lie to you, bro” Broner said. “I don’t f**k with you, bro. I don’t f**k with you. You be talking too much s**t about me on Twitter, bro.”😳 Adrien Broner goes off on Showtime's Al Bernstein at the final press conference before his fight with Manny Pacquiao. Refuses to answer questions, then gets his team to do the same. pic.twitter.com/D4c4DDYfFZ— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) January 16, 2019To Bernstein's surprise, he couldn't understand why Broner would attack him like this, asking, "Me?"“Yeah, you, b***h-a** n***a. I’ma let you know. And I’m just being real, bro," Broner replied. "Like I just already feel like you against me.”The two then traded barbs. Bernstein claimed he has never been against Broner. He said he was only doing his job before shifting the focus of the conversation back on Broner. “I’m not against anybody,” Bernstein retorted. “But this isn’t about me. It’s about you."Broner replied, "I’d rather Roy Jones or Stephen A. Smith ask me some questions. I don’t f**k with you.”However, Bernstein was persistent. He tried speaking to the 29-year-old's trainer, Kevin Cunningham.“It’s gang, gang!” Broner said before Bernstein could finish his question. “If I don’t f**k with you, they don’t f**k with you.”Boxing experts are breaking down the Las Vegas fight between the 33-3-1 youngster and the aggressive and seasoned Pacquiao, whose record is 60-7-2. CBS News predicts the match ending in a victory for the Filipino brawler. Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for fresh stories and breaking news.Now check this out:5 Times Lebron James Proved He Was King Off The CourtFloyd Mayweather Calls President Trump A 'Real Man' For Grabbing 'Em By The P*ssy'Virginia Referee Banned From Officiating Games After Making Inappropriate Remarks About 10-Year-Old Black Girl's...

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's family of two will soon grow by one more. In October, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex revealed they're expecting a baby, and People reports the due date is rumored to be in late April. In the meantime, the two have continued their official engagements on behalf of Kensington Palace. However, it looks like even members of the royal family aren't immune to awkward pregnancy encounters.On Wednesday, the duchess paid a visit to Mayhew, a London animal shelter. While speaking with staff members, the mother-to-be met Peggy McEachrom. After wishing her a happy pregnancy, McEachrom exclaimed, "You're a fat lady." Do my ears deceive me? Quite possibly the first time the Duchess of Sussex has been called a "fat lady" and loved it pic.twitter.com/xR2NelQyAW— Hannah Furness (@Hannah_Furness) January 16, 2019The room erupted in laughter, and so did the duchess. She politely responded to McEachrom's remark and said, "I'll take it!"This naturally caught the attention of the online community, which was quick to point out that in African and Caribbean cultures, calling a pregnant woman "fat" is a term of endearment.This is how Jamaicans talk. This a jamaican lady. It meant that Meghan is very pregnant. She meant no harm.— queenbhuie (@queenbhuie) January 16, 2019Absolutely, it’s a lovely celebratory compliment from an older Caribbean lady. The beauty is that Megan understands this fully.. 😘🤗😊— Francine Mullings - Digital Marketer London (@DigitalMCoach) January 17, 2019Others complimented the former actress turned royal on her "classy response."As usual Meghan gave a great classy response.— Sakina Jah (@SakinaJah) January 16, 2019Royals...they're just like us.Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for fresh stories and breaking news.Now, check these out:Here's What Meghan Markle Chose To Represent Her For This Boss Ass Coat Of ArmsPrince Harry And Meghan Markle's New Royal Titles Have Ties To This Anti-Slavery SupporterMeghan Markle Is Expecting Her First Child With Prince...

Despite helping raise his son, rapper Future still harbors flippant sentiments about Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson marrying his ex-fiancée, Ciara.The Atlanta native was interviewed on Thursday by Big Bank Black on the FreeBandz Radio Presents: The Wizrd show on Apple Music's Beats 1. The conversation began with talk about his new album, The Wizrd, but then quickly transitioned to the rapper's opinions on Wilson."He do exactly what she tell him to do," Future said. "He not being a man in that position. He not tellin' her, 'Chill out with that on the Internet. Don't even talk to him. I'm your husband! You better not even bring Future's name up!' If that was me, she couldn't even bring his name up. She know that. She couldn't even bring her exes' names up. Don't give that s**t no energy."The innanets couldn't help but notice the irony in his comments, seeing as the demise of his and Ciara's relationship was primarily his fault.When Future said Russell does exactly what Ciara tells him to, he meant. He don't cheat on her. He don't lie. He shows up. He listens. He's a parent... "Like Ciara tells him too" 🤷🏾‍♀️ Cause you can't be a good man without a woman forcing you to right. pic.twitter.com/Nx6AfyUW28— Chess (@B1tchIntuition) January 18, 2019Future watching Russell Wilson taking care of his baby & treating Ciara like a Queen #THEWIZRD pic.twitter.com/Ja2Fp5vaFI— 💍💍💍💍💍💍💍 (@TheRealMusiji) January 18, 2019Ciara: I’m in a healthy relationship. Future: HEALTHYYY RELATIONSHIP?! pic.twitter.com/0VvjKX5Evo— nafisa (@thatxxv) January 18, 2019Considering Future is a walking sperm bank, there was obvious confusion as to why he's still fixated on how Ciara and her husband live their lives.3 baby mamas later and Future is still talking about Ciara? pic.twitter.com/2kJFJbqvJ1— k. matt but kristyn works too (@kmatthewildcat) January 18, 2019 Others were looking to trace when Future's hurt began. FACT: Future been mad at Ciara every since ‘I Bet’ when she checked him: CIARA: You acting like you upgraded me, I upgraded you. You & me, Fashion Week in Paris, I put you onto that new. FUTURE: pic.twitter.com/34dungnWyI— Jerome Trammel (@MrJeromeTrammel) January 18, 2019Someone brought up the fact that since Russell and Ciara have been boo'd up, he can't control the "Goodies" singer like he may have been able to in the past. With Russell in the picture, Future realizes he can’t ease himself into Ciara’s life anymore like he does the others and that makes him pressed— Bri (@LovelyOTPs) January 18, 2019At the end of this entire exchange, one thing remains true: Future remains the savior of toxic masculinity.future telling us the ways of toxic masculinity pic.twitter.com/JzX2t25T1A— v (@unicornpurpp) January 18, 2019After all that negativity, we can't even fix our ears to hear whatever's going to be on that album, Hendrix. In the words of Tiffany "New York" Pollard, you should have just sat there and ate your food.Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for fresh stories and breaking news.Now check this out:Miami Woman Fired For Taking Sundays Off For Church Awarded Millions Because The Lord Truly Does Giveth Another Newscaster 'Accidentally' Used A Racial Slur While Referencing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A Humbled Kyrie Irving Called LeBron James To Apologize After Learning How Hard It Is To Run A...

As the government shutdown nears its 30th day, rapper Cardi B's Instagram rant has captured the sentiments of the nation and news media in one swoop. CNN's Don Lemon piggybacked off of the "Bodak Yellow" rapper's passionate words, calling the federal shutdown "slavery."During a Thursday appearance on Cuomo Prime Time, the CNN Tonight host continued his nearly two-year lambasting of President Donald Trump with recent criticism.“If you are being summoned to work without pay, what is a synonym for that?” Lemon asked. “What kind of people work without being paid? Either you’re an indentured servant, or you’re a slave. Right? That’s what’s happening right now.”The shutdown, which began on December 22, has left nearly 800,000 federal workers furloughed or forced to work without pay. Many have turned to food banks and GoFundMe to make ends meet. Laborers forced to work, like TSA agents, have not been shy about their lack of motivation as long lines in airports have become the norm. Earlier this week, Cardi B gave her two cents on the longest shutdown in American history and was quickly praised for her frank summation of the turmoil that's been inflicted upon the country. “Hey y’all, I just wanna remind y’all because it’s been a little bit over three weeks,” Cardi said on Instagram. “Trump is now ordering — as in summonsing — federal government workers to go back to work without getting paid.”It's no secret that the bone of contention within the executive office has been the creation of a border wall. Trump demanded Congress provide $5.7 billion in spending for a U.S.-Mexico border wall he believes will thwart possible terror attacks and curb illegal Hispanic immigration. With Democrats taking control of the previously Republican-control House, neither party seems to compromise on a resolution to reopen the government. Like many, the "Money" rapper pinned the blame on Trump.“Now I don’t wanna hear y’all motherf*kers talking ’bout, ‘Oh, but Obama shut down the government for 17 days,'” she said. “Yeah, b***h, for healthcare so your grandma could check her blood pressure and you b***hes can go check that p***y at the gynecologist with no motherf**king problem.”Lemon and Cuomo praised the "Be Careful" artist for her bold statements in the recent segment. Cardi B blasts Pres. Trump over government shutdown in viral video: @ChrisCuomo and @donlemon discuss https://t.co/c1XOi8Fz5G pic.twitter.com/QTWHJE5p7q— Cuomo Prime Time (@CuomoPrimeTime) January 18, 2019Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for fresh stories and breaking news.Now, check these out: Former Staffer For Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee Claims She Was Fired For Rape Allegation Against Congresswoman's Ex-Employee A Humbled Kyrie Irving Called LeBron James To Apologize After Learning How Hard It Is To Run A Team Sony Music Has Officially Muted R....

Christopher Lowe was found banging a pipe against bars protecting the window of a home when police arrested him. He cooperated, but his legs grew slack, and his feet repeatedly fell from beneath him. He felt sick; he told officers he couldn’t breathe and needed a hospital and began hitting his head against the inside of the police cruiser, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reported. A few minutes later, Lowe died in the back of the car. According to the Star-Telegram, Christopher Golden, Taylor Stephens, Daniel Pritzker, Hans Fellhauer and Mitchell Miller were fired from the Fort Worth Police Department on Tuesday. Officers Scott Smith and Andrew Scharf received 90 and five days suspension without pay respectively.The officers failed to provide medical attention to 55-year-old Lowe who was later pronounced dead upon a late arrival to John Peter Smith Hospital. The medical examiner listed the cause as acute cocaine intoxication, Fox 4 News reported.“Actions taken by the officers involved in this incident discovered during our investigation aren’t in accordance with the values of the Fort Worth Police Department or the standards that the citizens of Fort Worth have for their police department,” the department said in a statement reviewed by The Philadelphia Tribune. “We hope that the administrative conclusion of this case is an assurance to the residents of Fort Worth that we are able to identify and properly address any issues that may arise during police incidents.”CBS DFW reported that a pastor at Greater St. Stephen First Church, Dr. Michael Bell, is asking for the body camera footage to be released. Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for fresh stories and breaking news.Now, check these out:Three Chicago Police Officers Accused Of Laquan McDonald Cover-Up Found Not GuiltyChicago Cop Jason Van Dyke Found Guilty Of Murder In Death Of 17-Year-Old Laquan McDonaldChicago Police Shot And Killed This 24-Year-Old Black Man In The Back As He Was Running...

Chance the Rapper has pulled his collaboration song with R. Kelly from all streaming services as his final step in cutting all ties with the R&B singer.According to Rolling Stone, the rapper's decision follows the final episode of the Lifetime docuseries Surviving R. Kelly where the artist said he regrets recording the song.The track titled “Somewhere in Paradise” has been removed from major streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music but still appears on YouTube and SoundCloud. The 25-year-old rapper came under fire recently after fans accused him of dismissing the accusations of Kelly's victims because they were Black women. He tweeted on January 5 that his words were taken out of context and apologized for taking so long to speak out. "The quote was taken out of context," he began, "but the truth is any of us who ever ignored the R Kelly stories, or ever believed he was being setup/attacked by the system (as Black men often are) were doing so at the detriment of Black women and girls," he wrote. “I apologize to all of his survivors for working with him and for taking this long to speak out.”pic.twitter.com/bqbKlsDA9l— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) January 6, 2019The Chicago native joins several other artists, including Lady Gaga, who, according to HuffPost, removed her song with R. Kelly titled “Do What U Want (With My Body)" from streaming services.Blavitize your inbox! Join our daily newsletter for fresh stories and breaking news.Now, check these out:Chance The Rapper Reveals He Bought Chicago News Outlet To 'Run Racist B***hes Out Of Business' In New SingleThese Responses To Chance The Rapper’s Defense Of Kanye Call Out The Hypocrisy And Disappointment Behind His Support'My Fault Yo': Chance The Rapper Issues Apology After Trump Credited Him In A Tweet Admiring Kanye's 'Great Service To The Black...