MARCH/APRIL 2025 ISSUE PREVIEW
EDUCATION
Affirmative action, Dr. King's dream, and the future of education for Black Americans
by Dr. Leslye Kornegay
The dismantling of policies intended to level the playing field for marginalized communities leaves me questioning: Will education remain a viable path to equity for Black Americans, or are we witnessing a regression in civil rights and opportunities?
CURRENT EVENTS
A mirror to America's unjust justice system
by Dwayne E. Meeks
For centuries, America’s legal system has functioned with one set of rules for white America and another for people of color. The insurrection on January 6 was not just an attack on democracy—it was a glaring display of privilege.
MONEY & FINANCE
How to navigate turbulent economic seas
by Keith Washington
As I attempt to troubleshoot the issues within our economy, my desire is to find ways to mitigate the impact of this economic trend that can compromise the financial health of my family. Effectively troubleshooting our economy can also provide an opportunity to build financial wealth within the current economic cycle we find ourselves experiencing.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION
Why is diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) considered a threat?
by Whitley English
As a community health worker specializing in violence prevention and the founder of WNC GEMS LLC (Generating Empowerment through Mindful Solutions), I have seen firsthand the critical role DEI plays in shaping the well-being of individuals and communities. Resistance to DEI is not just a theoretical debate; it is a tangible barrier that perpetuates systemic inequities, particularly in health and social outcomes.
MONEY & FINANCE
Dollar by Dollar: The revolutionary power of Black economic self-determination
by John Lawson
With every dollar we consciously direct toward building Black wealth, we’re writing a new chapter in an ancient story of resilience. We’re proving that the flame they tried to extinguish in Greenwood is still burning — in our ideas, in our determination, and in our unshakable belief that we can create the future we deserve.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Showing up with capacity amid change
by Lindsay Coward
What does it mean to show up? When navigating change, it’s important to know that showing up often looks different each day; giving 100% is not always available, and that capacity is bred from self compassion. I’ve put together a list of some of the tools I use to build capacity when navigating big change.
HOME & FAMILY
Tips for dealing with MAGA friends and family
Navigating relationships with family and friends who support Donald Trump and his “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) movement can be challenging, especially in today’s polarized political climate. However, if maintaining these relationships is important to you, it may be possible.
EMPOWERING YOUR LIFE
Transforming disdain into acceptance: 4 steps to a more compassionate mindset
by Sandhya Maheshwari
Feelings of resentment, bitterness, or judgment can consume our thoughts, keeping us trapped in a cycle of past hurts. Instead of focusing on our vision and growth, we replay painful moments over and over, asking ourselves:
“I can’t believe I did that?” (blaming yourself)
“Why did I ignore the red flags? I feel so foolish.”
“Why didn’t I stand up for myself? I should’ve seen it coming.”
These thoughts fuel disdain, but we don’t have to stay in this emotional loop.
BUSINESS & CAREER
Leading through networking
by Chi Chi Okezie
Networking is a multifaceted tool for communication, development, and leadership. It requires skill in communication (verbal/non-verbal), interpersonal relations, knowledge, and understanding. As well as emotional intelligence and cultural awareness. These attributes can easily be connected with leadership.
CURRENT EVENTS
The dangerous impact of Project 2025
by Yvette Freeman, publisher
Project 2025 represents a significant shift in federal policy that could have profound and detrimental effects on BIPOC communities across the United States. By rolling back civil rights protections, undermining public education, restricting healthcare access, enforcing stringent immigration policies, and weakening worker protections, the agenda threatens to exacerbate existing inequalities and undo decades of progress toward social justice and equity.
BUSINESS & CAREER
Leading through resistance: Strategies for business leaders in 2025
by Dr. Daryl Green
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s unwavering commitment to justice amidst relentless resistance is a timeless example for leaders. King once said, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” This wisdom resonates today as leaders face resistance to change, innovation, and growth. 7
Feature Spotlights
ARTIST
PUNAM MEDINA
Shakti Shanti Studio
Founder
Asheville, NC
"What excites me most is the impact my art can have on others. When someone resonates with a piece—when it sparks a memory, an emotion, or a sense of possibility in them—that’s the most fulfilling part. Art, for me, is not just about beauty; it’s about connection. It’s about creating something that inspires, empowers, and reminds people of their own strength and potential. That ability to touch people’s lives, to make them feel seen and understood, is what makes being an artist so meaningful to me."
ENTREPRENEUR
COURTNEY ROBINSON
Image by Courtney
Founder & Owner
Covington, GA
"I’ve navigated biases, gatekeeping, and the unspoken expectation to “soften” my brilliance to be more palatable. But instead of shrinking, I leaned in with intentionality, strategy, and unshakable confidence. I built a business that equips other women to do the same — because our leadership, presence, and power are not up for debate. They are non-negotiable, and we will continue to assert them in every space we enter."
ENTREPRENEUR
LEIDA ROUNTREE
Radical Reinvention Coaching and Consulting
Founder & CEO
Atlanta, GA
"Through yoga, mindfulness, and intentional reinvention, I created a life that prioritizes joy, wellbeing, and purpose. And I knew I wasn’t alone; so many women reach a point where they feel stuck, unfulfilled, or unsure of what’s next. I started this business to help them move through that uncertainty with clarity, confidence, and a roadmap for meaningful change."
BUSINESS
WOLFE SIGNINGS
Mary Wolfe
Founder & Owner
Cherokee, NC
Wolfe Signings offers mobile notary services and notary signing agent service.
