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A True Crime Limited Series by Monica Beletsky, Starring Lovie Simone –


Apple TV+ debuted the much-anticipated trailer for “Manhunt,” a prospective true crime limited series, during the 2024 Winter Television Critics Association press tour.

The seven-part series, which will premiere globally on March 15, 2024, stars Emmy Award-winning actor Tobias Menzies and is created and showrunner by Monica Beletsky, recognized for her work on “Fargo,” “The Leftovers,” and “Friday Night Lights.”

Adapted from James L. Swanson’s New York Times bestselling book, “Manhunt” dives into the perplexing pursuit of John Wilkes Booth following Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. The series promises to be a compelling conspiracy thriller that delves into one of history’s most renowned yet little-known atrocities.

The ensemble cast includes Anthony Boyle, Lovie Simone, Will Harrison, Brandon Flynn, Damian O’Hare, Glenn Morshower, Patton Oswalt, Matt Walsh, and Hamish Linklater, each contributing to the dynamic portrayal of this historical manhunt.

“Manhunt” was produced by Apple Studios in cooperation with Lionsgate Television, POV Entertainment, Walden Media, 3 Arts Entertainment, Dovetale Productions, and Monarch Pictures. Beletsky, together with executive producers Carl Franklin, Layne Eskridge, and Kate Barry, added their skills to the project. Swanson, who wrote the source material, is also an executive producer, alongside Michael Rotenberg, Richard Abate, Frank Smith, and Naia Cucukov.

The first two episodes are directed by Emmy contender Carl Franklin, setting the tone for a series that promises to be a compelling study of Lincoln’s killer’s 12-day manhunt. As the March 15th debut approaches, “Manhunt” is primed to fascinate audiences with its interesting story and superb ensemble.





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Relive the best moments from theGrio Awards 2023


Friday night is the re-airing of “Bryon Allen Presents theGrio Awards,” which returned for its second annual ceremony late last year with Sheryl Underwood and Roy Wood Jr. as hosts. The star-studded night, which originally aired on CBS in November, brought together the most prominent Black change makers for a night of fellowship and celebration of high achievements.

Join us as we look back at a few of the most memorable moments from the show. 

Comedians Sheryl Underwood and Roy Wood Jr. appear onstage hosting the 2nd Annual theGrio Awards at the Beverly Hilton on Oct. 21, 2023, in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo: Stefanie Keenan/Getty Images for theGrio)

1. Coco Jones earns stamp of approval from Mariah Carey for “One Sweet Day” tribute 

October’s ceremony honored Music Icon Award recipient Mariah Carey with a musical performance of her 1995 single, “One Sweet Day.” Coco Jones graced the stage, the “Bel-Air” star’s powerful vocals showering Carey with her rendition of the ’90s hit. The beloved Boyz II Men sang alongside Jones, captivating the crowd with their blend of harmonies and stellar recital of the R&B song. Met with an outburst of cheers, Carey smiled from ear to ear, applauding the artists.

2. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson accepts the Inspirational Icon Award

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, the former wrestler, longtime actor-producer-activist and United Football League co-owner, received the Inspirational Icon prize for his continued philanthropic efforts supporting the Black community and people of color. He dedicated his acceptance speech to younger generations, sharing life lessons he learned throughout his career that contributed to his success as one of Hollywood’s industry giants. 

“You don’t get anywhere by yourself,” Johnson said. “You need a lot of people around you to have your back, have your front, have your heart in the right place. If we’re going to build, then let’s build mountains together. Let’s bring everybody together. Let’s lift people up as we get successful. If you’re lucky enough to be successful, then let’s all be successful.” 

3. Jennifer Hudson’s powerhouse musical performance of “Vision of Love”

Throughout the night, theGrio Awards 2023 honored Music Icon trophy recipient Carey with outstanding performances of her most legendary songs. One unforgettable show-stopping act was Jennifer Hudson, whose powerful vocals left guests in awe as she belted soulful melodies singing Carey’s adored hit, “Vision of Love.” 

4. Misty Copeland accepts the Trailblazer Icon Award

Misty Copeland delivered an inspirational speech, noting the pioneers who made her triumphs possible, achievements that include making history in 2015 as the first Black woman to be promoted to principal dancer in the American Ballet Theatre.

“I am very much aware that I stand on the shoulders of countless trailblazers, those of you in this room who came before me,” Copeland said. “It’s their courage, determination and resilience that have paved the way for my own accomplishments. So, every accolade I receive is a collective celebration of our progress and an affirmation of what’s possible when we support and uplift one another.”

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Copeland’s success is widely praised for making ballet accessible to Black and brown communities. She dedicated her award to future generations who now have examples of Black excellence in their desired career aspirations.

“We are living proof that dreams, no matter how audacious they may be, are realized with the proper support, hard work, determination and unwavering faith,” she contended.

5. Smokey Robinson performs “Just To See Her”

Living legend Smokey Robinson sang his 1987 hit, “Just To See Her,” which earned him his first Grammy Award in 1988. The audience immediately stood out of their seats to sing along and dance to the classic R&B jam. Robinson owned the stage, swaying back and forth as he pointed his microphone to the vibrant guests, who sang his timeless lyrics back to him and danced to the upbeat tune. 

“Byron Allen Presents theGrio Awards” airs this Friday, Feb. 9, at 8 p.m. on theGrio TV.

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Lenny Kravitz’s Best and Boldest Fashion Moments


Now that the Grammy Awards are over, let us continue to bask in the glow of some of the most stylish artists in the industry. Lenny Kravitz was one of them of course. Showing off his muscles in a sheer top, he looked edgy and amazing. But then again, he has always been experimental with his fashions from wearing tight, metallic jumpsuits to rocking crop tops and bell-bottom jeans! He recently had an interview with PEOPLE breaking down some of his biggest fashion moments. Since he said last year that he gets a lack of Black media coverage, we’re here to share some of our favorite looks he’s worn!



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Minnesota Mother Allegedly Engaged In Sexual Activity With Two 15-Year-Old Boys At A Hotel After Having A Fight With Her Husband –


A Minnesota mother, 38, was arrested for reportedly having sex with two 15-year-old boys at a motel, according to the New York Post.

Allison Leigh Schardin was enjoying a family “staycation” in a motel where a boy’s hockey team from Colorado was also staying.

She began conversing with the teenagers in a hotel hot pool, revealing that she and her husband were experiencing troubles. The two shared social media, and Schardin later sent a Snapchat to one of the boys, stating that she wanted to enter his room following a quarrel with her husband.

Once inside the boys’ room, Schardin inquired about their ages and noted that they were young enough to be her children. The conversation shifted to sexual subjects, and she ended up in bed with two of the boys. She performed sexual activities with them as a third boy watched, and she also requested that the guys do sexual acts on her.

Under persuasion, the two boys eventually begged Schardin to leave. However, she later attended one of their hockey games and texted them after they returned to Colorado. Schardin was detained on Thursday and charged with third and fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct.

During questioning, she admitted to kissing and making sexual contact with the boys. She claimed to have requested a condom but stated that she had no intention of following through. Schardin is set to appear in court on Monday.





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Senegal parliament delays election until December after opposition lawmakers are blocked from voting


DAKAR, Senegal (AP) — Senegal’s parliament voted Monday to delay the West African nation’s presidential election until Dec. 15 in a chaotic voting process that took place after opposition lawmakers were forcefully removed from the chambers as they debated President Macky Sall’s earlier decision to delay the crucial election.

Security forces stormed the legislative building and forcefully removed several opposition lawmakers who were trying to block the voting process on the unprecedented delay of the presidential election initially scheduled for Feb. 25. The adopted bill extends Sall’s tenure — which was due to end on April 2 — until a new election.

Senegalese President Macky Sall (pictured) postponed presidential elections scheduled for Feb. 25, citing allegations of corruption in election-related cases. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool, File)

Authorities on Monday restricted mobile internet access amid growing protests by opposition supporters against the delay.

As the lawmakers debated the bill, security forces fired tear gas at protesters gathered outside the legislative building. Many of the protesters were arrested as they poured into the streets of the capital, Dakar, burning tires and criticizing the country’s leader.

On Monday, two opposition parties filed a court petition challenging the election delay. It was not clear what would become of their request for Senegal’s Constitutional Council to direct “the continuation of the electoral process.”

Analysts say the crisis in Senegal is putting one of Africa’s most stable democracies to the test at a time when the region is struggling with a recent surge in coups.

Senegalese riot police lobs tear gas at supporters of opposition presidential candidate Daouda Ndiaye, in Dakar, Senegal, Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Stefan Kleinowitz)

Sall — who in July said he would not seek a third term in office — had cited an electoral dispute between the parliament and the judiciary regarding the candidacies as reason for the postponement but opposition leaders and candidates rejected the move, calling it a “coup.”

The African Union urged the government to organize the election “as soon as possible” and called on everyone involved “to resolve any political dispute through consultation, understanding and civilized dialogue.”

“We will not accept a constitutional coup in this country. It is up to the people to come out and liberate themselves,” said Guy Marius Sagna, an activist and opposition lawmaker, who was among the protesters.

The private Walf television network, whose signal was cut off as they broadcast the protests on Sunday, said their broadcasting license has been revoked.

The Ministry of Communication, Telecommunications and Digital Economy said mobile internet services were cut Monday “due to the dissemination of several hateful and subversive messages relayed on social networks in the context of threats and disturbances to public order.”

“The government’s abrupt shutdown of internet access via mobile data and Walf TV’s broadcasting … constitutes a blatant assault on the right to freedom of expression and press rights protected by Senegal’s constitution,” Amnesty International’s regional office for West and Central Africa said in a statement.

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Sall had said the dispute between the judiciary and parliament over the disqualification of some candidates and the reported dual-nationality of some qualified candidates has resulted in a “sufficiently serious and confusing situation.”

Political tensions have run high in Senegal for at least a year. Authorities also cut internet access from cellphones in June 2023 when supporters of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko clashed with security forces. Sonko is one of two opposition leaders whom election authorities disqualified from the final list of presidential candidates this month.

Sall’s decision to postpone the election “reflects a sharp democratic decline” in Senegal, said Mucahid Durmaz, a senior analyst at global risk consultancy Verisk Maplecroft.

“The growing democracy deficit not only threatens to tarnish Senegal’s reputation as a beacon of democratic stability in the region but also emboldens anti-democratic practices in West Africa,” said Durmaz.

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Three-time Championship HBCU Team Wants a White House Visit


The late 1950s were a time of racial segregation, discrimination and inequality in America. But in the middle of all that despair, the men’s basketball team at Tennessee A&I University was making history. The Tigers were the first HBCU team to win a national championship and the first college team to secure three consecutive championships in 1957, 1958 and 1959.

Although the team produced nine professional basketball players, few people know their amazing story. But for the past ten years, the team’s captain, Dick Barnett, has tried to right that wrong and help get them the recognition they deserve – induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and a visit to the White House. His quest is documented in a new PBS film, “The Dream Whisperer.”

Sixty-five years after the Tigers won their third championship, Barnett, once considered the most exciting shooter in basketball, narrates his journey from Gary, Indiana, to Nashville to play for Tennessee A&I (now Tennessee State University) in the film. The now-87-year-old Barnett also played for the New York Knicks in the 1970s, where he was part of two championship teams.

Despite their talent, the Tigers were not immune to racial discrimination. They played in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics because they were not allowed into the NCAA at the time. They also faced death threats and often had to stay in private homes during road trips when hotels wouldn’t allow them to stay.

“America has missed out by not being able to hear about and read about and see the teams of some of these great coaches and players, of that era,” Ron Thomas, Director of Journalism in Sports, Culture and Social Justice at Morehouse. told The New York Times.“They got no exposure whatsoever.”

In 2019, Barnett finally saw part of his dream come true as he represented the Tigers during a ceremony for their induction into the Hall of Fame. But he’s still trying to get that invite to the White House with the help of some prominent members of Congress.

Several members of the House of Representatives including Barbara Lee (D-CA), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) and Jamaal Bowman (D-NY), have signed a letter to President Biden asking for an invitation to the White House for the surviving members of the team.

Although nothing can erase the discrimination they faced, a White House visit is a step in the right direction. And as the letter states, a “long overdue acknowledgement and proper celebration.” According one of the producers of “The Dream Whisperer,” only three of the surviving team members and one assistant coach are healthy enough to make the trip to D.C.



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Netflix Unveils Gripping New Mystery Series ‘Murder Mubarak’ Set to Premiere on March 15th! –


Murder Mubarak, directed by the illustrious Homi Adajania and produced by Maddock Films, promises a blend of suspense, comedy, and romance. Set to debut on March 15 exclusively on Netflix, the film is a captivating adaptation of Anuja Chauhan’s novel “Club You To Death.”

The story unravels secrets and lies, casting a spotlight on a stellar cast of suspects, including Sara Ali Khan, Vijay Varma, Dimple Kapadia, Karisma Kapoor, Sanjay Kapoor, Tisca Chopra, and Suhail Nayyar. Pankaj Tripathi leads the charge as a non-traditional cop delving into their world, revealing more than meets the eye.

Director Homi Adajania describes Murder Mubarak as a “cinematic concoction” featuring a beloved ensemble of actors. He invites audiences to a “colorful murder mystery” with binge-worthy magic, encouraging viewers to unravel the clues in this breadcrumb-laden whodunnit.

Dinesh Vijan, the producer at Maddock Films, expresses excitement about the unique narrative and eclectic ensemble, assuring that Murder Mubarak will have universal appeal. With a successful track record on Netflix’s global stage, including projects like Mimi and Dasvi, Vijan predicts that this murder mystery will be a crazy, quirky, thrilling, and unforgettable ride.

Ruchikaa Kapoor Sheikh, Director of Original Films at Netflix India, commends Murder Mubarak as a distinctive blend of suspense and comedy, promising a gripping and entertaining experience. She is thrilled about continuing the successful collaboration with Maddock Films and anticipates that this mystery thriller will take the audience on an unparalleled ride.

With a cast boasting names like Sara Ali Khan and Pankaj Tripathi, Murder Mubarak is set to captivate audiences worldwide. Get ready to don your detective hat and immerse yourself in this intriguing blend of suspense, comedy, and romance when Murder Mubarak premieres on March 15, exclusively on Netflix.





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14 ways to gift Black love this Valentine’s Day


Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and while the candy may have been on the shelves since New Year’s Day, some of us are just getting started with our gift hunting. Last-minute gift shoppers need not worry; there’s still plenty of time to get a great gift. You could go classic with flowers and candy on the way home from work or celebrate with dinner reservations somewhere you’ve been dying to try. Either way, you can easily gift Black this Valentine’s Day. 

Black love comes in many forms, and so should gifts celebrating it. Gifts by Black-owned brands — including flowers and chocolates — continue to be rare, thus making them inherently special. Below, we have gathered 14 gifts by Black-owned brands that cover an array of possibilities. Whether you’re shopping for a hopeless romantic with a feminist streak, a slightly bougie beloved,  a cocktail lover extending Dry January into February, or a sweetheart who loves silky lingerie, we’ve got you covered. 

For a risk-taker

Hey Bae Hey by Hey Girl Hey. (Photo courtesy of Hey Girl Hey)

What’s love without a little risk? For those who aren’t afraid to be daring every now and then, Hey Bae Hey is an intimate card game created by the founder of Hey Girl Hey. The game promises to challenge players with “uncomfortable” truth-or-drink questions and challenging dares. 

Hey Bae Hey, $19

For a bell hooks fan

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bell hooks vintage tee by The Black School. (Photo courtesy of The Black School)

If they can quote bell hooks’ “All About Love” at the drop of a dime — or you know what the radical teachings of Black literary ancestors mean to them, we can’t think of anything better than this bell hooks “vintage” T-shirt. It will amuse and thrill them to see hooks’ legacy reimagined as an airbrushed tee.   

bell hooks vintage tee, $50

For the love of Black love

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(Photo courtesy of Get Lifted Books)

Black love can be romantic, platonic, family-based, and beyond. If you’re gifting someone who celebrates Black love in all its myriad forms, “Black Love Letters” is just that. This anthology brings together correspondence by some of Black culture’s most influential figures, written to things, places, and various people they have loved. 

“Black Love Letters,” $15.61

For a music lover

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“Let’s Stay Together,” sold exclusively by Target. (Photo courtesy of Target)

When words fail, let music do the work. For a certain set, Al Green is synonymous with romance; gifting one of his bluesy and romantic R&B albums like “Let’s Stay Together” on vinyl will make your commitment clear. 

“Let’s Stay Together,” $24.99

For a bougie bae

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(Photo credit: Canva/Ten Wilde)

While some partners are content with simply a card and some quality time over a nice meal, others’ love language may be of the sparkle-and-shine variety. Translation: get them some new bling. Ten Wilde has a wide variety of unisex jewelry, including encrusted hoops, chains, and more.

For their pheromones 

You may already love their signature scent, but it never hurts to get them another that will delight both your senses. Perfume and cologne are long-lasting gifts with the ability to evoke sweet memories with each spritz. 

Soho Eau de Parfum – La Boticá, $175; Lust – World of Chris Collins, $225

For your eyes only 

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(Photo credit: Savage x Fenty/LaSette/Canva)

Lingerie and sexy pajamas are staple Valentine’s Day gifts. However, when the items come from a Black-owned brand, they become a little more innovative. If your partner’s vibe screams “quiet luxury,” try LaSette. If they’re more high-key or if you’re seeking unisex and male options, Savage x Fenty has become tried and true.

For that spark

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The 22K gold ”Speakeasy” and James Baldwin “Love” bundle by Harlem Candle Co. (Photo courtesy of Harlem Candle Co.)

Celebrate the spark between you and someone you love with a love-themed candle. The 22-karat gold ”Speakeasy” and James Baldwin “Love” candle bundle by Harlem Candle Co. boasts two long-lasting, earthy-inspired scents for double the spark. 

The 22K gold ”Speakeasy” and James Baldwin “Love” bundle, $120

For the sweetness

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Valentine’s Day truffles by Midunu. (Photo courtesy of Midunu)

Let’s be honest: there are some folks who just want a heart-shaped box filled with chocolates. They don’t need dinner, jewelry, or new pajamas, and you can skip the card. They just want to bite into a sumptuous, gooey little piece of sweetness. Valentine’s Day, which may as well be “Adult Candy Day,” comes once a year, so why deny them? Midunu is still accepting Valentine’s Day preorders of their truffle box!

Valentine’s Day truffles, $30

For a date night in  

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(Photo credit: Adobe Stock)

Valentine’s Day, for many, arrives during one of the coldest and snowiest months of the year. Romantic date-night-ins are a great way to work around the cold temps outside. Cuddle up, get warm, and get creative with an at-home paint-and-sip kit. Pair with your favorite Black-owned wine or mocktail. 

Paint and sip kit, $30

For a cosmopolitan

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Manhattan Berry mocktail. (Photo courtesy of Mocktail Club)

Mocktails are great gifts. They can be enjoyed as-is or built upon as mixers. You can even stay on theme and craft a mocktail in a passionate berry red color like the Manhattan Berry by Mocktail Club. 

Manhattan Berry, $19.96 

For a classic with a twist

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(Photo credit: Adobe Stock)

We know: Flowers? For Valentine’s Day? How groundbreaking. Just like the chocolate fans out there, there are some who simply love the classic gesture of receiving a bouquet. Order those flowers from a Black florist, and they just went from basic to a rare find. 

To find a local Black florist, check out Black Girl Florists

For a date night out 

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(Photo credit: Adobe Stock)

Despite Valentine’s Day arriving in mid-winter and often in the middle of the week, not everyone is a homebody. Some look forward to getting all dolled up and going out for a night on the town. However, we caution anyone attempting to dine out the day of to make a reservation, as Valentine’s Day is the second busiest night in the restaurant industry (right behind Mother’s Day). For some preplanning, take a look at this national round-up of Black chefs and restaurants just announced as semifinalists for the James Beard Award

For your valentine

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Black couple card by CandiceChenade. (Photo courtesy of ByCandiceChenade)

Maybe it’s the inner child in us taking us back to grade school, but nothing feels quite as special on Valentine’s as getting a real Valentine’s Day card. No matter how you choose to celebrate the day, you simply can’t forget the card. Whether you’re looking to give out old-school Valentines to your entire crew or just to someone special, there are a handful of Black-owned Etsy stationery shops offering impressive selections. 

Black History Valentine’s Day cards, $4.79; Black couple card, $5.92

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Kandi Burruss to Leave RHOA, Who Should Replace Her?


Kandi Burruss at the 66th Annual GRAMMY Awards held at Crypto.com Arena on February 4, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.
Photo: Gilbert Flores/Billboard (Getty Images)

It looks like another “Real Housewives of Atlanta” O.G. is about to say bye-bye to the famed franchise.

Speaking in an interview with Variety during the red carpet at the 66th annual GRAMMYS, Kandi Burrus explained that she hadn’t really been keeping tabs on the show due to other ventures she’s dealing with. That’s when she revealed her decision to no come back to the show for its 15th season.

“I’m not really keeping up right now,” she explained. “I’m not keeping up. I already said it, so I’ll tell you. I decided I’m not coming back this year. It’s been 14 seasons, and they allowed us to sit around for a little too long, but during that time I had started working on a lot of other things, and I got some nice big projects coming soon, so I’m super excited about those things.”

She continued:

“But it’s not just that. It’s just like, after you really have time to think, and a friend of mine was like, ‘Why do you keep doing it?’ And I was like, ‘Well, I think because I’ve just been doing it for so long, it feels weird to think not to do it?’ So I was just like, ‘You know what? I’m going to take a break, I’m going to take a moment… I’m not coming back this year.’”

There have long been rumors and internet talk of the popular show needing a reboot after former alums like Cynthia Bailey, Nene Leakes, Porsha Williams and more made the decision to leave in previous seasons. Now, with Kandi’s impending departure, it begs the question of who should be casted in its new iteration?

Maybe some couples like Gucci Mane and Keyshia Kai’Oir? Or Ludacris and Eudoxie Bridges? Or Raven-Symone and her wife? Or if they really want to spice things up, they can bring back Phaedra, Porsha and Nene, keep Kenya and Sheree and maybe bring one new face—then that would be some quality TV!



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Leadership Highlight: James Waters the President of Alpha Phi Alpha’s Eta Rho Lambda Chapter in Rochester


In an effort to highlight the people who are leading graduate chapters across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.’s Eta Rho Lambda Chapter in Rochester and did an interview with James Waters the President of the chapter. 

The position of president of a Black fraternity chapter is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes. James Waters, who works in human resources, has been in the position of president of his chapter for 4 years. 

We interviewed Waters, who is a May 6, 1988 initiate of the Rho Alpha Chapter his fraternity and talked to him about his position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in the digital age. 

Read the full interview below. 

What motivated you to take on the role of alumni chapter president?

The motivation for me in assuming the role of chapter president was because I wanted to utilize some of skills ascertained through personal and business with my chapter. I wanted to see some changes externally and internally that I thought would push Eta Rho Lambda to another level. All too often personal agendas are pushed without the benefit of acting democratically at the chapter level. Ideas were not readily heard and traditional oversaw the growth that the chapter was capable. I wanted the chapter to better be seen socially in the community as it related to our national programs and to better servants to our community. My administration focusesd on colloboration and relationship building with city and local governments, partnered with other NPHC organization with the main focus of “Same Mission, Different Colors”. My administration focused on the concept that there is power in numbers and through it all we can impact drastically with Alpha serving as the lead. Lastly, I wanted the chapter to know my capabilities to work with men with varied personalities to better obtain a common goal while remaining focused on the mission and the vision of the organization. 

What specific initiatives is your chapter heading up this year and how do you think they will improve the local community or the broader Black community?

Specific initiatives include greater emphasis on community service and working on the developing young people on particular young men and increasing graduation rates. Examples include Leadership Development Institute, Go To High School Go to College and Project Alpha. WE BELIEVE THAT STARTING AT THE GROUND LEVEL in educating youth will better development the community decrease crime with a greater emphasis on partnership. 

What made you want to pledge Alpha Phi Alpha?

I chose to Pledge Alpha Phi Alpha because of the rich history of the organization. I was intrigued on the various platforms that the Founders were involved and how they were the catalyst for other organizations development. I also wanted to be my own person as most of my family of men are part of another organization that did not readingly fit my personality not persona. While I researched and attended all informationals at the undergraduate level, none stood out as strong as the men of Alpha. I desired brotherhood, follow-up, accountability, friendship and the opportunity to grow within my own skin. Alpha was my catalyst for better development in and after College. 

What is it about your specific chapter that makes it so unique?

My undergraduate chapter is small (less than 80 Brothers to date), housed at a PWI and is the only Black Fraternity to date on the yard. My undergraduate chapter was not envisioned to take place at my school rather the graduate Chapter wanted it to be a part of a “City Chapter” One of the Brothers at the graduate Chapter saw the need to have growth at my PWI and challenged Brothers to have the chapter at another college rater than a city chapter. There was much resentment however persistence prevailed. Uniquely 5 of the Founders that were part of the growth of my chapter and attended school at Rho Alpha Shingles do not share Rho Alpha rather the school that wanted a City chapter. 

How is your chapter providing for the undergraduate chapters you support?

Eta Rho Lambda Chapter provides support to the undergraduate chapters with fiscal support, advice on internal issues, attend undergraduates affairs and provides various workshops to support careers after College. The graduate chapter has an amazing relationship with the three undergraduate chapters. 

How do you approach fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie among alumni members, and what strategies have you found effective?

Complete Transperency and Effetive Communication among the masses. We attend graduate meetings among the area and solicit support where applicable 

What advice would you give to aspiring leaders within your fraternity/sorority who may aspire to take on roles of leadership within alumni chapters?

Remain Open, Accept Constructive Crticism Well, Understand Change, Never be Afraid of a Challange, Listen to Learn and Learn to Listen, Never be Always bit be Right, Seek Advicw from your predecessor snd finally your Never to young or old to learn!! 

How has mentorship helped you get to where you are today? Are there any specific people in your org who have made a significant impact on your life as mentors?

I have been mentored by various individuals in my undergraduate chapter such as Art Jordan (founding Father), David Quattlebaum and at the graduate level Dr. Thomas Cummings, Dr. Louie Tobias, Bill Davis, Jesse Allen and Anthony Smith. Lastly, Brother Rufus McGee has developed me to tye brother I am today. He entered the Omega Chapter way to early but embodied all the tenants of our Founders and provided gifts for internal and external growth. 

Why do you think Watch The Yard is important to Black greekdom?

It provides an avenue for both young and old to stay current with BGLO activities. It offers a place to provide opinion and showcase talent where applicable. 

Looking back at it, why do you love being a member of your org?

There is nothing like Alpha, Manly Deeds and Scholarship, Love for All Mankind run through my veins. The Brotherhood is Real, Relentless and Offers Room for growth. My Brothers hold each other accountable and foster growth during and after college. 

​Lastly, what does brotherhood mean to you?

Brotherhood means growth, being held accountable, ability to pass nuggets for the next generation, support, guidance and advise. Brotherhood means love and admiration to learn. 

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend James Waters for his work as the President of the Eta Rho Lambda Chapter. 

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