Feature

Ryan Gainer, a 15-year-old Black teen with autism, was fatally shot by deputies from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. The incident has once again brought attention to the use of force by police in cases involving mental health crises and its disproportionate impact on African Americans. According to the Los Angeles Times, Ryan became upset when his parents told him to finish his chores before allowing him to play video games or listen to music. DeWitt Lacy, a civil rights attorney representing Ryan’s family, said the teenager’s reaction led to him breaking glass on the front door. […]

Local News

Bill Could Clear Way for Farmworker Housing

     The bill (SB 1082), which lawmakers unanimously passed, would prevent cities and counties from taking steps to “inhibit” construction of housing for farmworkers on agricultural land. The bill has not been formally sent to Gov. Ron DeSantis, who can sign, veto or allow the legislation to become law without his signature. […]

Health

Understanding the Importance of Maternal Health

April 11 – April 17th is Black Maternal Health Awareness Week. Declared by President Biden in a White House Press Release: “I call upon all Americans to raise awareness of the state of Black maternal health in the United States by understanding the consequences of institutional racism; recognizing the scope of this problem and the need for urgent solutions; amplifying the voices and experiences of Black women, families, and communities; and committing to building a world in which Black women do not have to fear for their safety, their well-being, their dignity, or their lives before, during, and after pregnancy.” […]