Langston Hughes (1901–1967), a key figure of the Harlem Renaissance, forged lasting friendships with artists across different generations and disciplines. He connected creative professionals, championed their work, and helped build a vibrant network of Black creatives and intellectuals who both shaped and responded to the events of their era. His
The cast of the upcoming animated project “The Uptown Chronicles” continues to fill out nicely with the recently announced casting of Jasmin Richardson (The Book of Mormon) and Major Attaway (Aladdin) in leading roles. While specific plot details are being kept under wraps, “The Uptown Chronicles” has been described as
The Office of Minority Health’s 2018 data revealed a stark reality: African American adults were 60 percent more likely than non-Hispanic white adults to receive a diabetes diagnosis from their physicians. This disparity, fueled by racism and barriers to quality healthcare, worsens the diabetes crisis, escalating the risks of heart
Mychal Threets, known as Mychal the Librarian, has captivated social media with his passion for books and libraries, aiming to reignite a love for reading in everyone. In a serendipitous twist, Threets has joined forces with one of his beloved PBS characters, fostering excitement for learning once again. Now 34,
The newest casting announcements for the upcoming animated film/series adds both a familiar face and a multiplatinum recording artist to the proceedings. Zane Copeland Jr. and Shani Hawes have officially joined the cast of the upcoming film & series project ‘The Uptown Chronicles.’ Details regarding the pairs roles are undisclosed
Faith Ringgold, a pioneering educator and activist, passed away at the age of 93 on Saturday, April 13th. Her lifetime was a testament to a vibrant tapestry of creativity that transcended the confines of medium, style, and cultural identity. Born on October 8, 1930, in Harlem, New York, Ringgold’s artistic
Following the announcement that Alonge Hawes had been tapped to join the production of a somewhat mysterious animated project spearheaded by Steven Goard titled ‘The Uptown Chronicles’, news has now come forth confirming the nature of the project. ‘The Uptown Chronicles’ is simultaneously being developed as both a film and
In her latest book, “Imagine Freedom: Transforming Pain into Political and Spiritual Power,” esteemed journalist Rahiel Tesfamariam delves into the strategies available to Black Americans for advocating social justice while avoiding burnout, anxiety, and depression. Tesfamariam shared with ESSENCE that the idea of writing a book had been simmering within
Keziah and James Finney, an award-winning middle school teacher duo, have created Lyrical Math, an innovative curriculum that infuses hip-hop culture with mathematics. This research-backed intervention program, based in Wilmington, Delaware, is designed to improve confidence and mastery for students. With over 20 years of teaching experience, Mrs. Finney, a
