This Week in Good Black News: Shonda Rhimes Unveils New Program at Dartmouth College, MacKenzie Scott Supports Programs That Prepare HBCUs For the Future, and Rihanna Welcome Her Second Child in a Bright Future.
In a week marked by significant strides across various fronts, Good Black News delivered an array of updates and milestones that shed light on their efforts to promote inclusion, justice, and success for Black individuals. This week saw several key developments:
1. Shonda Rhimes at Dartmouth College: Shonda Rhimes, known for her work as a teacher and advocate for education, broke ground at Dartmouth College. The university, known for its strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, announced that Rhimes has been named the first African American assistant professor in the college's mathematics department. This move reflects the ongoing efforts of institutions of higher education to address systemic barriers and promote equity.
2. MacKenzie Scott's Impact on HBCUs: MacKenzie Scott, a prominent advocate for Black Higher Education Community (HBCU) schools, highlighted her efforts in boosting enrollment at these institutions. Before her initiatives, only 5% of Black students were enrolled in HBCUs out of approximately 100,000 Black undergraduates. After her leadership and advocacy, this number has increased by more than double. This growth not only reflects progress but also underscores the need for greater representation and access in education.
3. Rihanna Welcoming Baby No. 3: The singer has expanded her family beyond her previous child, welcoming a second baby, now known as Baby No. 3. While details of her journey are still being worked out, this expansion reflects her personal growth and the desire to continue contributing to society beyond her professional career.
4. Historic Education Grant for HBCUs: A significant $1 billion grant has been allocated to higher education institutions in the U.S., specifically targeting HBCUs. This funding will be used to address long-standing issues such as affordability, access to affordable housing, and mental health support. The grant is a bold move toward reducing disparities and ensuring equitable educational opportunities for all students.
5. Long-Overdue Justice for Black Men: A landmark case has been dismissed in New York, setting the stage for further justice for Black men who have been incorrectly convicted. The case highlights the importance of systemic equality and the need for accountability in criminal justice systems.
Throughout this week, these efforts collectively represent a positive step toward a more inclusive and just society. Shonda Rhimes' impact at Dartmouth, MacKenzie Scott's expansion of HBCU enrollment, Rihanna's personal ambition, the grant money, and the court decision are all signs that Black people are being counted as equals in education, justice, and success. These achievements not only celebrate individual stories but also pave the way for a future where Black individuals have equal opportunities to achieve their potential.
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