Vivian Ayers Allen — Pulitzer Prize–nominated poet, cultural activist, and mother of Debbie Allen & Phylicia Rashad — has died at 102. Her poem “Hawk,” written about freedom & space flight just weeks before Sputnik helped shape the understanding of space exploration. Hawk was later honored by NASA and displayed at the Johnson Space Center. A visionary who linked art to exploration, her legacy soars beyond measure! Rest In Power.
#RipDanielleSpencer the former child star who played Dee Thomas on the 1970s sitcom “What’s Happening!!,” has died. She was 60. She lost her battle with cancer,” She had suffered other health issues including a bleeding hematoma throughout her life🌹#daniellespencer
Correct. I was 13. She was 12 … I was off -I was born 9 months before her… 😏 ( you are a true Virgo 🤣)
Just blessed to have known her for most of my life . 💔💔💔 🙏🏽🙏🏽 Rest in power, Sis
Let's be clear. That Dr. Bobby Jones legacy speaks for itself. LOUD AND CLEAR!
We can't celebrate #BET45 without celebrating the gospel legend himself. 👏🏾🔥 #BETAwards
I joined thousands of protestors on No Kings Day in Downtown Los Angeles, and sent a message to Trump: This country has No Kings or dictators, and his birthday is no more important than anyone else’s.
📸 @ Keith Boykin
Statement on the Passing of Congressman Charles B. Rangel
With deep sorrow and profound respect, the family of The Honorable Charles B. Rangel announces his passing on May 26, 2025, at the age of 94.
A towering figure in American politics and a champion for justice, equity, and opportunity, Congressman Rangel dedicated over four decades of his life to public service. Representing what is now New York’s 13th Congressional Districts from 1971 to 2017, he was a founding member of the Congressional Black Caucus and the first African American to chair the powerful House Ways and Means Committee. The final living member of Harlem's Gang of Four political coalition, Charlie was affectionately known as "The Lion of Lenox Avenue."
Born on June 11, 1930, in Harlem, New York, Congressman Rangel rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most influential voices in American legislative history. A decorated Korean War veteran, he returned home to earn degrees from New York University and St. John’s University School of Law, beginning a lifelong pursuit of justice, civil rights, and community empowerment.
Throughout his career, Congressman Rangel fought tirelessly for affordable housing, urban revitalization, fair tax policies, and equal opportunities for all Americans. His legacy lives on through the Charles B. Rangel Center for Public Service at The City College of New York, which continues to inspire and train new generations of public servants.
Congressman Rangel, who was pre-deceased by his beloved wife, Alma, is survived by his son, Steven Rangel (Adelina), daughter Alicia Rangel Haughton (Howard), three grandsons, Howard R. Haughton, Joshua R. Haughton and Charles R. Haughton, and a host of family and friends. Private services will be held followed by a public Celebration of Life. Details will be shared in the coming days.
The Rangel family extends its heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.
My condolences go out to my little brother, Al B. Sure!, on the loss of his mother. Ms. Cassandra Brown was the light of his life, who raised a determined man in all walks of his life. Whether it was in music or health and economic equity or anything else he put his mind to, it was because of and for Ms. Brown. She will be dearly missed.
Please pray for Le'Andria Johnson and her family… she is awesome talented, and loving. #LeAndriaJohnson was there for me during the roughest time of my life, and no one is in a position to judge her.
#RickeySmiley@LeAndriafan
Pre-Thanksgiving Service: A Posture of Thanksgiving
When it comes to imitating the great @BishopPMorton, there’s only one contender: Edd Perry!He not only leads our youth ministry but also brings the laughs like no other
Don’t miss out on the hilarity▶️ https://t.co/jtbFF1EXTh