Opinion

In its May 2003 issue, BlackBoard published a review of Assata: An Autobiography, written by then-junior Sonia Nelson. In tribute to Assata's death, BlackBoard’s Editor-in-Chief Atarah Israel revisits the book 22 years later.

As I write this column now, right on the heels of Kamala Harris’ loss of the 2024 presidential run, the country appears to be at yet another precipice, with the stakes seeming even more dire than 2016. As we wring our hands and point fingers about how we’ve gotten to this point, the results of this election—as it is for most of the decisions made by this country—will have ripple effects worldwide.

Another unserious dating show has graced the internet.  “Pop The Balloon or Find Love” was created and produced by Phoenix-based married couple Arlette Amuli and Bolia Matundu. The goal is to match a contestant with someone from the singles lineup. If the single isn’t feeling the contestant, they can pop the balloon. But if they’re interested, they keep it unpopped to learn more and maybe go on a date. The average Pop The Ballon experience consists of nine singles standing in

Shrinkage isn’t the issue; it’s the way we’re taught to see it. When our hair coils up, pulling itself close, there’s this idea that something’s been lost or hidden. It’s a perception drilled into us—that our natural state needs to reach a standard that isn't made for us.

TL;DR: The word spooky was used as a slur during and after World War II against Black people. However, using the word with the eerie/scary connotation that we use today predated its derogatory usage.