We Got DEI All Wrong—Now We’re Facing the Consequences

For years, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) has been a focal point in the workplace, but somehow, we got it all wrong. What was meant to be a movement toward fairness and belonging became a checklist—an initiative for optics rather than impact. Today, organizations are grappling with the consequences: disengaged employees, cultures of mistrust, and […]
The 2025 Met Gala is a tailored celebration of Black men’s fashion and individuality

Black style is taking center stage at the 2025 Met Gala, and this year’s theme celebrates its legacy and innovation. As attendees step into the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute exhibition, “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,” they’ll be challenged to interpret the dress code — “Tailored for You” — through their own creative lens. Just […]
Prevention & Pro-action: The Time Is Now

Our health is under threat and in danger. Now is the time to take control of our health and arm ourselves with knowledge of impending healthcare changes that are more critical than ever to our mortality. Many are facing changes in healthcare policies and systems. For Black and Brown communities, these changes may have a […]
New Orleans bans coolers — but not guns — in French Quarter security zone during Super Bowl week

Super Bowl LIX (59) is upon us. As fans and revelers of the annual event descend upon New Orleans for a week of events and festivities in the lead-up to the NFL’s championship game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles, the city is making it clear that heightened security measures will be in […]
Create a vision, then go for it in 2025

Do you dream of inspiring and guiding others? Do you envision yourself navigating the complexities of leadership with confidence and skill? If so, then your journey starts by equipping yourself with the right tools. As a home base for business support and talent development in Missouri, efactory understands the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of business. […]
Marcus Jordan, son of Michael Jordan, charged with cocaine possession, DUI, following arrest in Orlando, FL

According to multiple reports, Michael Jordan’s son, Marcus Jordan, has been arrested and booked into Orange County jail in Orlando, Florida. TMZ first reported that on Monday, the 34-year-old reality TV star was arrested and charged with cocaine possession, driving under the influence, and resisting arrest. Other sources, including People magazine, reported that Marcus was […]
Celebrating Black History Month

People often question why Black History Month happens in February, the shortest month in the calendar year. Black History Month is celebrated in February because it coincides with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two prominent figures in American history who played significant roles in ending slavery. Historian Carter G. Woodson chose February […]
Roots of Resilience: The Story of Berry Cemetery and It’s Guardians

Caroline Boone Berry (1850-1914) and her husband William Berry (1848-1917) established the Berry Cemetery around 1880. The cemetery is still actively being used. Its website makes the strong argument that it is the oldest cemetery for and continuously owned by Black people in Greene County and likely the region. It is on the National Historic […]
February is Fun for Kids at Your Library

26th Annual Design-A-Bookmark Contest for Kids and Teens in Grades K-12 Pick up an entry form at any Springfield-Greene County Library or the Mobile Library, or download one at thelibrary.org/bookmarks beginning February 1, and return it by March 22. Digital submissions can be sent to imagine@thelibrary.org. Winners and runners-up will be notified and receive invitations […]
Usher has some advice for Kendrick Lamar ahead of the Super Bowl: ‘Savor the moment’

If there is anyone Kendrick Lamar should check in with before his Super Bowl halftime performance, Usher may be just the guy. During an appearance on “The Jennifer Hudson Show” on Tuesday, Feb. 4, the 46-year-old singer, who treated viewers to an epic halftime show in Las Vegas last year, shared some advice he would […]