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Midterm elections are coming up on November 8, 2022, and a lot is on the line for voters. An election that people across the country are particularly focused on is the gubernatorial race in Georgia that has once again found the current governor, republican Brian Kemp, and the democratic candidate and former Georgia state representative Stacey Abrams competing for the coveted governor role. After the 2018 state election that was marred with voter suppression that favored the Georgia republicans, Abrams has committed herself to making sure that Georgians’ votes matter.
xoNecole recently caught up with the gubernatorial hopeful about her campaign, what’s at stake for voters, and what voters can expect from her if she’s elected.
xoNecole: The last time you ran for governor in 2018, that election ended in voter fraud that favored your opponent. What informed your decision to run again knowing the corruption that exists and can succeed in electoral politics?
Stacey Abrams: I wanna make sure we use the right language: it was voter suppression. Voter fraud is when someone manipulates the outcome, and that's what Donald Trump attempted to do. And what's so important about understanding voter suppression is it's not about the outcome – it is the outcome – but it's mostly by manipulating who has access. And that is what is so concerning about what happened in ‘18 and why I'm running. Because every Georgian who is eligible to vote deserves to have access to the right to vote. And unfortunately, this governor, both as Secretary of State and now as governor, has instituted multiple barriers to access, which leads to voter suppression. But the reason we have democracy is so that communities can have what they need.
We vote for leaders who will see us and serve us. And unfortunately, over the last four years, Brian Kemp has proven he doesn't see us. He has refused to tackle the core issues affecting our communities. He won't expand Medicaid, which means that thousands of people are denied access to healthcare for cancer treatment, for diabetes treatment.
We know that he has refused to invest in our schools. Too many of our young Black kids who are trying to go to college can't get financial aid and he won't tackle that issue. And we know that affordable housing is a crisis across the state of Georgia. In fact, he's sitting on 400 million for rental eviction assistance and won't spend the money. And then we know that in the state of Georgia there is a 100-year gap between Black and brown economic revenue and white revenue. He said that he'll study the issue. I actually have a plan to solve the issue in 15 years. And I say all that to say this: I'm running because I believe Georgia is at a moment of opportunity but we need a governor who sees us and is willing to serve all of us, not just as friends, not just people who he thinks are like him. And by pushing back against voter suppression, we have done the work of letting voters know that they have the right to be heard. And I believe in this election, they're going to show up and decide that they want more for their lives and for theirs.
xoNecole: You were praised after the 2020 election for your organizing efforts in getting Black people registered in Georgia in record numbers. Still, in the two years since then, many Black voters have expressed frustrations with democrats for seemingly once again using them for votes only to abandon them once in office. How do you convince someone who has felt let down by the democrats over and over again to once again cast a ballot for the party?
Abrams: First I begin by saying that Democrats have actually delivered in the last few years and it's going to feel as if it's not as much as we need, but it's more than we had. I point to the Inflation Reduction Act, which has poured money into our communities. The Infrastructure Act, which is going to employ so many of our communities. The CARES Act and the ARPA Act, which allowed so many millions of Americans, including Georgians, to have access to healthcare and some small relief.
But we need more. And part of that is that we need governors who actually work with the federal government to get the money to the people. What so many in Georgia don't understand is that yes there's money coming from the federal government –6 billion extra dollars in the state of Georgia – but the governor won't spend it on our people.
And so my reason for running and what I want people to understand is, I need you to trust one more time. We've tackled the federal level. We understand mayors, but until we control governorships, until we have people who actually are the intercessors between the federal and the local to actually do the work, we aren't going to get what we need. We aren't going to get the support that we deserve. And so, I am proud of the work that Democrats have done to send resources here, but now it's time to have a governor to get the resources into the pockets of our people, to get more money into our communities and more opportunity into our neighborhoods.
And when we have that governor, when I am that governor, we can deliver and we can finally push back on the reason people don't trust. They don’t trust because they don't see change. And with a new governor in the state of Georgia, they will see change.
xoNecole: What do you believe is at stake for Black people in this election?
Abrams: Everything. We know that Brian Kemp doesn't care. He won't help. And he has attacked our freedoms. I say he doesn't care because he has refused to expand Medicaid. That means that half a million Georgians are being denied health insurance, 40% of whom are Black people. 40% of the people being told “no” are Black people who need that access to healthcare so they can take care of themselves and their families, and it's physical healthcare and mental healthcare.
And by refusing to draw down those dollars, he is saying no. We also know that under Brian Kemp, we have seen a skyrocket in gun violence rate, including guns being the number one killer of our children, and most of the children dying are Black. If we don't have a governor who believes in common sense gun laws, our children and our communities will continue to be the victims of gun violence and those guns are gonna get easier and easier to secure. But we also know that because he's let so many of our hospitals shut down. When they get shot, when they get hurt, there's nowhere to go for help.
Number two, we need access to housing. Affordable housing is a crisis and for Black communities, it is also the major pathway to wealth if we don't have access to housing.
We lose not only the daily opportunities for stability but long term opportunities for growth. And I intend to invest in affordable housing in the state of Georgia, especially to make certain that black communities have the chance to build generational wealth.
Number three, we know that the issue is can you make a living in Georgia? And unfortunately, this governor has been very comfortable with 1.5% of all contracts in the state of Georgia going to Black and brown people. Now that means that 98.5% go to white people in a state where Black people are 33% of the population. I want to be the Maynard Jackson of Georgia. I wanna make certain that we are growing wealth in our small businesses immediately, and you don't need legislation. You just need a good leader.
But I also know that Black women are in danger in Georgia because of Brian Kemp's draconian abortion ban. After six weeks, Black women already have a three times higher likelihood of dying from pregnancy-related illness than anyone else, and Georgia is number one in maternal mortality with his refusal to expand Medicaid. One in five women does not have access to healthcare. Then he puts on top of it, forced pregnancy and no opportunity for help. On the other side, I want to be the governor who repeals that abortion ban. And this is crucial, not only for Georgia but for Black people across the country because 56% of Black people live in the south. And that means unless I become the governor of Georgia, for Black people from Texas to North Carolina, from Tennessee to Florida, they will be denied access to reproductive care unless Georgia becomes an oasis for freedom and so on gun violence, on having the right to choose, on the right to vote, on the right to make your life better.
I am the only person who is looking at Black communities, talking to Black communities, and has plans for the success of the Black communities.
xoNeocle: Speaking to your pledge about investing in affordable housing, childcare, and minority-owned businesses: there has been criticism of your platform on policing which is to pour even more money into police departments, saying “higher pay [for police] leads to fewer negative interactions.” During a time when many Black people are still being unjustly killed by police and many people are organizing around defunding police departments and putting those resources directly into communities instead, how do you justify giving even more money to the police?
Abrams: So what I've called for is expanding pay raises for law enforcement because we have law enforcement officers in Georgia who make less than a living wage, and we cannot say that we believe in a living wage and not say that that includes the people who protect us. We know that when someone commits a crime, it's often that they commit a crime against someone in their community. And I've got a brother who's been one of those people who has victimized members of our community. And I want people to be able to call for help. I want them to be able to call the police and say, please come and protect me. But I also know that my brother doesn't lose his humanity simply because he makes a mistake. And that's one of the reasons I'm calling for increased pay for correctional officers because our correctional facilities are in crisis and those who are in our prisons are being victimized and abused because we don't have adequate protection for them inside.
And so one of the pieces I'm pushing for is making sure we increase pay for correctional officers so those our prisons aren't being run by gangs who are victimizing and doing dangerous things to our communities. I also wanna pay for the salaries for our community supervision officers. When my brother finally stabilized, when he finally got out of prison, he for the first time had a good parole officer who kept him off of the road to recidivism.
And now my brother has been readmitted to Morehouse College. He is stable, he is clean, and I want that for every Georgian. And so my push is to make certain that we, the public, those who do law enforcement, who do it right, that they make a living wage, but that we also have adequate support to protect our communities.
But I also have a brother who's been pulled over for driving while Black. Many times. He's a social worker who was helping keep people out of jail, and he risked his life every time someone pulled him over. I believe in accountability. I believe that anyone in law enforcement who exhibits disregard and disrespect for our community should be held accountable.
And I am the only candidate calling for that accountability because I know that we have to have both public safety and accountability. That we have to have criminal justice and we have to have law enforcement. It is dangerous to pretend that we can pick one over the other. And because of my two brothers, I know we need to have both.
xoNecole: During the 2020 primaries, you defended Biden for president, even going as far as defending him against allegations of sexual misconduct, even as people like Vice President Harris said she believed the women [accusers]. Even to some of your supporters, this defense [of Biden] was unexpected. When it comes to issues of sexual misconduct and justice for victims, what policies can voters expect you to uphold and defend as governor?
Abrams: I believe that women deserve to be heard. I believe women deserve protection from sexual violence, and they deserve to have a platform and access to opportunities. And I will stand on my record any day of the week. I believe that it is important for us to create spaces, not only for hearing our victims, but making sure they get access to the help and the support they need and that's one of the reasons I want to expand access to Medicaid and expand access for those who have needs to get the mental healthcare treatment and have the law enforcement responsibility to take care of them as well.
The other piece of this is that in a state like Georgia where we have no access to abortion, we know that victims of sexual violence are going to be forced to carry their attackers' progeny and that is wrong. We need a governor who's actually going to protect the right of a woman to choose to control her body and to control her future. And I am proud of my record defending women and defending our right to choose.
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Celebrity News
Angela Bassett On Why She Is Choosing The ‘Soft Life’ With Husband Courtney B. Vance
27 October
Angela Bassett has been a working actress in Hollywood for over 30 years and she doesn’t plan on slowing down. She admitted in her Nov./ Dec. 2022 cover story with Essence that she loves the fact that she is still able to get roles and at the end of the day, acting has always been her dream.
“At one point early on, just going to work as an actress consistently—for me, that was the soft life,” she said. “At the beginning of the year on New Year’s—yay! On your birthday—yay! ‘I’m working—yes!’”
But while she keeps a busy schedule, Angela also carves out time for self-care. For example, while shooting Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, the cast and crew worked French hours meaning they worked 10 hours straight for 5-6 days a week. The Oscar-nominated actress made sure to be present during those hours she was on and she also made it a priority to be present when she was off.
“I would try to make the best of it,” the mother of two said. “Play some music, add a glass of wine to that after we wrapped, and then get some rest for another early pickup. If you have a day off, you go to a museum or the park, or go for a bike ride—something like that to just relax, to chill.”
But when it comes to truly living the “soft life,” Angela points to her husband of 25 years, Courtney B. Vance as the perfect example. The general definition of a “soft life,” according to many influencers on social media, is living a life that centers pleasure and actively choosing the path of least resistance.
“I think Courtney’s into the soft life,” Angela said of her talented husband. “He’s going to the chiropractor and getting foot massages. I’m like, ‘I need to catch up with you, learn from you. You are doing your self-care, brother.’”
Although Courtney is all in on the soft life, Angela is still finding her way. As one of the highest-paid actresses on television for her role in 9-1-1, she continues challenging herself in her work such as expanding into directing. Her work ethic is undeniable and the veteran actress attributes it to what she saw growing up.
“I think a part of me, or part of us as Black women, is that we become used to the stress of life,” she expressed. “It can become so pervasive, so every day, that it’s just what it is—with the work, and the husband, and the family and all that. That pulls on you.”
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Featured image by Amy Sussman/WireImage
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Many have touted the benefits of journaling, especially when it comes to one's mental health. I've always been one to keep a diary, but in recent years, journaling has become quite challenging for me. Nowadays, I feel like my thoughts are moving way faster than my hands can write, which frustrates me to the point of not even bothering to write them down. (And I'm not a fan of putting my personal business online or on my phone via an app. I'm one of those people who fears that there's always somebody who either has access or can gain access and the possibility is just too creepy and scary for me to even attempt to use any digital form of a journal—cybersecurity be damned.)
One day, I was trying to think of ways to recommit to journaling, especially since I've been through quite a few career and life transitions (Weight loss and master's degree, anyone?), and came across the concept of journal prompts.
They're basically targeted, open-ended questions that lead to a more structured way of writing down your thoughts. The premise reminds me of the training I've recently completed for my master's studies, where coaches are able to guide their clients toward successful outcomes versus just telling them what to do.
Morsa Images/Getty Images
Journal prompts have offered me a method of self-exploration, reflection, and focus that takes a bit of the overwhelming annoyance out of trying to obsessively control the process of journaling (which, for me, is a self-defeating and counter-productive habit). I feel more at peace answering such questions and I'm less apt to rush through the journaling process, something that is supposed to add peace to my day, not lump-in-the-throat loathing.
Here are a few favorites I've turned to as a self-employed, type-A Capricorn who always has 50 million things going on, is constantly in her head, and needs brain-dump release with a side of return-on-my-time-investment:
- What personal milestones did you reach last week related to your business or work?
- What was your “a-ha moment” this week? (If there wasn't one, explain why).
- Who is your ideal client? Why?
- What motivates you to continue doing what you do?
- What does a great work-life balance look like for you?
- What business win did you experience this week? (And how did it make you feel?)
- How did you feel after taking meetings today? Which one was your favorite? Which was your least favorite? Why?
- Who is one business leader you admire? Why?
- Who is someone who you consider your competition and what are three things you admire about them?
- Where do you see yourself revenue- or earnings-wise in 30 days?
- What actions are you taking today to reach a revenue goal in 60 days?
- For you, what is the most annoying part of doing business?
- What are three daily routines you could possibly automate or delegate? (And explain how.)
- Who are three people who contribute to your daily business or work-related success? Why?
- What are three of your best qualities in doing business? (Describe why.)
- What's one new idea you'd like to make a reality for your work or business?
- What are three skills you could upgrade or improve on when it comes to how you run your business?
- What are three resources you'd like to tap into in order to grow your business or brand?
- What are three activities you could add to your workday that will make it fun?
- What are three Fortune 500 companies that have similar missions or values as you or your business? (Detail why.)
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Cystic acne is the most severe form of acne that causes painful pimples that are often filled with pus. According to Cleveland Clinic, cystic acne also has bacteria in the pores that cause swelling and inflammation which can lead to scarring on the skin. In her YouTube series, Leave it to LeToya, LeToya Luckett revealed her personal battle with cystic acne. “Baby, if I could tell you. I know what it feels like to have that broken-out cystic acne, scarring feeling so ugly, if I can be honest,” she started.
“It’s heavy on you and you feel ashamed. And you feel people are gonna talk about you, trust me, I get it. I’ve been there.” The Power Book III: Raising Kanan actress felt so insecure about her skin that she said she would even walk around the house with makeup on to cover up her skin’s flaws.
LeToya Luckett/YouTube
“I wish I could show y’all pictures but because I was so ashamed of my skin, I didn’t take pictures. I would just cake makeup on my face every day but with a change of diet, with more water with finding products and cleansers that work for my skin, I’ve seen a major change,” she said.
Once her skin began to heal, she tried a new method to apply makeup that didn’t include caking it on. “Just put it where the blemish is. Rub it in and blend it in as good as you possibly can and throw a lip gloss on and you straight,” she said.
LeToya Luckett/YouTube
In her video, the “Torn” singer shared the natural products she uses on her “sensitive skin.”
For her cleanser, she uses Itadi face wash, which is a gentle exfoliate made with coffee. She then followed it up with Zena Foster’s beauty roller. “This is helping with aging y’all,” she said about the beauty roller. “This is definitely giving yourself a facelift a little bit.”
LeToya Luckett/YouTube
Next, she used the Neutrogena purifying mask for 15 minutes followed by Sunday Riley’s Good Genes lactic acid treatment. LeToya then used Vanity Planet’s steamer, which “opens up the pores and allows your face to set” and Itadi moisturizer.
She applied a “few spritzes” of Mario Badescu’s facial spray and an SPF by Derma-E. The singer shared a personal message to Black women about using sun protection. “Baby, protect your skin. SPF, daily, don’t forget it,” she said.
And she closed her skincare routine with lip gloss.
Watch LeToya Luckett’s Skincare and Hair Routine:
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Ah, Las Vegas! The city of lights, magic and show-stopping performances. And one of those performances that can be added to the list of legendary is from none other than Usher Raymond IV.
The world-renowned artist, who is known simply as Usher, only further solidified his legendary status after putting on a top-tier show night after night to sold-out audiences. I had the opportunity to finally experience what everyone was talking about. While I am no stranger to witnessing the “Superstar” singer’s greatness live (I attended his 2004 Truth tour which followed his highly regarded and Grammy award-winning album Confessions), this would be my first time experiencing the fullness of Usher as a father and icon.
The Las Vegas desert heat quickly disappeared after I walked into the Dolby Live theater at the Park MGM where his Usher: My Way Las Vegas residency was held. As my friends and I sat down to wait for the show, suddenly a male figure took to the stage.
The DJ announced that the male figure was looking for ladies to join him on stage to turn up in the meantime. Little did we know, the last woman that graced the stage would break out into a seductive dance with the male figure, which kicked off the show. More dancers trickled onto the stage and finally, the man that many people traveled far and wide arrived, which sparked thunderous applause from the audience.
Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Dolby Live at Park MGM
As Usher performed hit after hit, he also told a story through each song using his dancers to illustrate his words. It was definitely giving Vegas while also mixed with what we love about the 44-year-old: undeniable talent, charming personality, and sex appeal. There’s a portion in the show where he gives a nod to his Atlanta roots by skating and having exotic dancers perform mind-blowing tricks on the pole. The icon’s smooth dance moves on and off the skates had the audience in a trance as he sang every note effortlessly. We felt every emotion as he took us from his club bangers like “Love In This Club” and “I Don’t Mind” to his popular ballads “Climax” and “Burn.”
He even shared a vulnerable moment with his fans as he reflected on his remarkable nearly 30 years in the game and even teased a new song. Usher’s “My Way” show took his audience on a musical journey that was filled with the highs and lows of love, but overall he reminded everyone why he’s the G.O.A.T. Here’s why:
Vocals
Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Dolby Live at Park MGM
There’s been a lot of discussions around who should be crowned the king of R&B and it’s safe to say that Usher’s epic Las Vegas run laid that debate to rest. His vocals are just as pristine as they were when he captivated everyone with his debut self-titled album and he’s one of the few artists with excellent breath control while performing.
Dancing
Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Dolby Live at Park MGM
Usher continues to dance into our hearts with his hypnotic steps that make the ladies swoon. From his signature glide across the floor to more seductive and risqué movements and impressive 8-counts, the decorated talent is in a class of his own.
Creativity
Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Dolby Live at Park MGM
It’s Vegas baby! So, there’s no such thing as ordinary when it comes to putting on a show and Usher made sure to give the world something to talk about. His “My Way” show was well-produced and well-thought-out. The effort he put in to create a fun, unique experience while also catering to his fans was noticeable and appreciated.
Usher didn’t just get on stage to sing and dance, he created many moments for the audience to remember such as skating, pole dancing, pouring water on his bare chest (whew!), the recreation of his viral “watch this” bit from Tiny Desk and last but not least, the crowd participation.
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Featured image by Denise Truscello/Getty Images for Dolby Live at Park MGM
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