editorial
Editorial: There is No Room for Colorism in Black Culture
I know way too many bi-racial people who consistently and passionately contribute to the culture to ever blindly co-op the self-loathing propaganda of colorism. While some are limiting the remarks of Kendrick Lamar and Rick Ross specifically to Drake for what they see as character flaws, there are far more clever ways to attack him…
Three Thrillers You Should Watch on Tubi This Weekend
Looking for something to watch this weekend? Tubi has a few thrillers worth your time, whether you’re alone or relaxing in good company. Call your special someone and hold them close (at least, grab a pillow or something). There’s a lot of murder and mayhem on the menu. DOLL HOUSE Synopsis | A group of…
In My Opinion by Be’n Original: Fete is a Foodie’s Dream
While tagging along with Dakari Eli in Boston to promote her latest single “Just for Today,” the good people at Ms. SnakeCharma’s Music & Motivation show on WRBB took us out to dinner at Fete. The food was not only extraordinarily delightful, but the customer service was both professional and friendly. What was supposed to…
Editorial: Not DJ Akademiks Crying After Saucy Santana Threatens His A** (Literally)
With the emergence of social media, we have a lot of people who believe that they can say whatever they want without consequence. And DJ Akademiks is top tier. The former DJ-turned-internet-troll has built a lucrative business giving his views including brutal criticism of celebrities (more often than not, Black celebrities). However, he habitually appears…
Open Letter to the City of Poughkeepsie’s 8th Ward
To the residents of the 8th Ward of Poughkeepsie, I write to you today with a sense of both disappointment and concern regarding the recent election outcome that led to the decision not to elect Sakima McClinton as your representative. It is my belief that this choice reflects a missed opportunity for progress and positive…
Editorial: Essence Fest 2023-Two Months Later by Valese Jones
The dust has settled on Essence Fest 2023 and I took almost two months to reflect on the highs and lows of this year’s event due to my multifaceted position in media. I not only experienced the event as press covering it but as a publicist with clients attending. While the festival had its moments…
Editorial: August 2023 Issue by Be’n Original
This is the first issue of the eighth year of this run and it still feels like I started this yesterday. As I look to take the magazine to the next level and explore my options, I will never regret keeping its focus on Black culture. I do this for the people I grew up…