SCOTUS Backs Alabama GOP Map. Black Farmers Sue USDA. Karmelo Anthony Trial. Obama Center Preview

The Supreme Court, via a shadow docket ruling, allowed Alabama Republicans to proceed with a congressional map that eliminates a Black congressional district. This decision is criticized as 'nonsensical' and contradictory to the Court's own prior rulings, particularly the Louisiana case where it permitted map changes based on proven discrimination. Lower courts, including Trump-appointed judges, had found Alabama's map discriminatory, but the Supreme Court overturned this, effectively weakening the Voting Rights Act.

Host Roland Martin and plaintiffs Dr. Marcus Caster and Evan Milligan discuss the SCOTUS decision, highlighting the contradiction with the Louisiana case and the lower court's finding of 'blatant discrimination' in Alabama's map. Robert Patillo states the Roberts court 'has simply decided that stare decisis and precedents don't matter.'

Black farming organizations have filed a lawsuit against the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to reinstate $127 million in grants that were abruptly canceled. Sharon Mallerie, Executive Director of the 2020 Farmers Co-operative, explains that 49 organizations had their funding slashed, violating due process. The grants, part of the Land Access and Capital Markets program, were designed to help small-scale farmers, particularly those of color, penetrate and scale up into markets from which they have historically been excluded. The cancellation is seen as part of a systemic disinvestment and anti-Black administration policy.

Sharon Mallerie details the lawsuit, the number of affected organizations, and the purpose of the canceled grants. She notes the USDA's history of not supporting small-scale farmers of color and the broader impact on food security.

Attorney Thelma Anderson provides an update on the State of Texas versus Carmelo Anthony trial, noting that jury selection from a pool of 600 potential jurors is nearing completion. A strict gag order has been issued by the judge to prevent public commentary, especially after the father of the deceased was observed intentionally disregarding it on TikTok and using racial slurs. The community is deeply divided, with African-Americans sensitive to Carmelo Anthony's rights within the criminal justice system, while the opposing side exhibits aggressive racial tones, leading to heightened security concerns.

Thelma Anderson discusses the jury selection process, the judge's gag order, and the father's violation of it. She describes the split community sentiment and rising tensions.

Congressman Al Green delivered a powerful and emotional address during a Capitol Hill hearing, confronting a Homeland Security official about racist behavior. Green, drawing on his personal experiences with segregation, displayed images depicting people of color as apes and referenced the official's 'despicable behavior' during a peaceful protest. He asserted that such actions demonstrate a lack of temperament and qualification for leadership, especially in a department with many people of color. The confrontation highlighted the ongoing struggle against systemic racism and the importance of direct, peaceful protest.

Congressman Al Green's direct quotes and visual aids during his questioning of the Homeland Security Secretary, including his refusal to be silenced and his historical references.

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to honoring the late R&B singer Peabo Bryson, who passed away at 75. Fellow artists Chris Walker, Gerald Albright, Regina Belle, and Howard Hewett share personal stories and reflections. Bryson is remembered for his 'powerful voice' and 'tonality,' his ability to 'master the high C's,' and his unique blend of power and tenderness. He was a 'perfectionist' and a 'consummate musician, singer, and songwriter' who could captivate an audience 'flatfooted.' His contemporaries note his impeccable style and the lasting impact of his music, particularly his duets and ballads.

Chris Walker calls Bryson the 'Pavarotti of R&B,' Regina Belle describes him as 'everything' and 'iron that sharpeneth iron,' Gerald Albright recounts their 40-year friendship, and Howard Hewett shares anecdotes about Bryson's vocal range and influence on his own career.