Author: changingtrendsandtimesblog

Charles Z. King: A Visionary Leader and Advocate Charles Z. King is a multifaceted entrepreneur, military veteran, and passionate advocate committed to driving positive change in underserved communities. His remarkable journey weaves together various roles, each contributing to a legacy of empowerment and progress. 1. Military Service: Charles’s journey began in the military, where he honed discipline, leadership, and resilience. His service instilled a sense of duty and purpose that would shape his future endeavors. 2. Corporate Entrepreneurship: As the founder and owner of several successful corporations—SYTM Accounting and Consulting Inc, RoyaltyZ Transportation Inc, and Act 1 Technology Solutions Inc—Charles combines business acumen with a commitment to excellence. His companies provide essential services, create jobs, and contribute to economic growth. 3. Podcast Pioneer: Charles is the visionary behind the acclaimed podcast “America in Black and White.” Through candid conversations, he amplifies voices from marginalized communities, fostering understanding and promoting unity. His dedication to authentic dialogue has made the podcast a powerful platform for change. 4. Author and Blogger: Beyond the mic, Charles expresses his insights through the written word. His blog, “Changing Trends and Times,” tackles pressing issues, challenges stereotypes, and offers fresh perspectives. His upcoming book promises to inspire and inform readers. 5. Education and Advocacy: Charles holds an MBA from the University of Phoenix, a testament to his commitment to lifelong learning. He leverages his education to advocate for underserved African American communities and LGBTQ+ rights. His goal is to create equitable opportunities and dismantle systemic barriers. 6. Transportation and IT Transformation: Charles’s impact extends to the corporate world. He envisions a future where transportation companies prioritize sustainability, accessibility, and innovation. Simultaneously, he advocates for diversity and inclusion within IT companies, recognizing that diverse perspectives drive progress. Charles Z. King’s legacy is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering determination. His work transcends boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the world. As he continues to build bridges and challenge norms, Charles exemplifies the spirit of positive change.

Alabama Football: Championships, Black Excellence, and the Head Coach They’ve Never Had

December 13, 2025

The University of Alabama’s football program, known as the Crimson Tide, is one of the most storied and successful in college football history, with 18 claimed national championships and 29 SEC titles spanning from its founding in 1892 to the modern era

Introduction
The University of Alabama football program is celebrated as one of the greatest dynasties in sports history. From Wallace Wade’s Rose Bowl triumph in 1925 to Nick Saban’s six national championships in the modern era, the Crimson Tide has defined college football dominance. But beneath the trophies and tradition lies a deeper story: the contributions of Black athletes who carried Alabama to glory, and the glaring absence of a Black head coach in its 133-year history.

Timeline of Success and Integration

  • 1892–1969: All-white rosters, 10 national championships.
  • 1970–71: Integration begins with Wilbur Jackson and John Mitchell.
  • 1970s–1980s: Black athletes rise to prominence, reaching ~40–50% of the roster.
  • 1992: Gene Stallings wins a title with a roster nearly half Black.
  • 2000s–Present: Nick Saban’s dynasty built on rosters ~60–75% Black, producing Heisman winners Mark Ingram, Derrick Henry, DeVonta Smith, and Bryce Young.

Timeline: Championships + Racial Integration

Era / CoachChampionshipsRacial Makeup
1892–1969 (Pre‑Integration)1925, 1926, 1930 (Wade); 1945 (Thomas); 1961, 1964, 1965, 1973, 1978, 1979 (Bryant)100% white players
1970–1971 (Integration Begins)—1970: Wilbur Jackson signed (first Black scholarship player). 1971: Jackson & John Mitchell play (first Black varsity players).
1970s–1980s (Gradual Growth)—By late 1970s, ~10–20% Black players. By 1980s, ~40–50%.
1992 (Gene Stallings)National Championship~40–50% Black players
2000s–Present (Nick Saban Era)2009, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2020~60–75% Black players; majority of roster, including Heisman winners Ingram, Henry, Smith, Young

The Contribution of Black Players

From Jackson and Mitchell breaking barriers in 1971 to Derrick Henry bulldozing his way to a Heisman in 2015, Black athletes have not only participated — they have defined Alabama football. They are the stars, the playmakers, the faces of the program. Without them, Alabama’s dynasty would not exist.

Yet, despite their central role, Alabama has never entrusted its program to a Black head coach. The message is clear: Black athletes are good enough to win games, sell tickets, and generate millions, but not to lead.

  • Layer 1 (Red dots): Marks championship years and the coach who led them.
  • Layer 2 (Black line): Shows the percentage of Black players, from 0% before 1970 to ~75% today.
  • Blue markers: Highlight the breakthrough years of Wilbur Jackson (1970) and John Mitchell (1971).

This visualization makes the contrast undeniable: Alabama’s dynasty was built on Black athletes after integration, yet leadership has remained exclusively white.

Why No Black Head Coach?

This is the uncomfortable truth. Alabama football thrives on the labor, talent, and brilliance of Black athletes, but leadership remains guarded by tradition. The program reflects a broader pattern in college football: Black players dominate the field, but white coaches dominate the sidelines.

Is this simply “tradition”? Or is it exploitation, using Black faces to win and profit, while denying them the authority to lead? As the saying goes: if you can get the milk for free, why buy the cow? Alabama has built its empire on Black excellence, but refuses to acknowledge that excellence in leadership.

  • Wallace Wade (1923–1930): 3 national titles, including the landmark 1925 Rose Bowl win.
  • Frank Thomas (1931–1946): Guided Alabama through WWII, winning the 1945 championship.
  • Bear Bryant (1958–1982): Built a dynasty with 6 national titles, cementing Alabama’s dominance.
  • Gene Stallings (1990–1996): Captured the 1992 championship, restoring Alabama’s glory.
  • Nick Saban (2007–2023): Another dynasty, with 6 national titles in the modern playoff era.

Call to Action

Football is supposed to be about unity, teamwork, and trust. But Alabama’s refusal to hire a Black head coach reveals a deeper fracture. If the Crimson Tide truly believes in “team,” then it must extend that belief beyond the field. Until then, the program’s legacy will remain incomplete, a dynasty built on Black talent but limited by old traditions.

Black America: The Blueprint of Global Culture and Opportunity

December 12, 2025

Introduction

Black America has always been the heartbeat of democracy, culture, and progress. Yet, too often, our contributions are overlooked, minimized, or outright stolen. From the Civil Rights Movement to the African Diaspora, Black Americans have paved the way for immigrant communities, global liberation movements, and cultural revolutions. It is time to reclaim that truth.

Civil Rights Legacy and Immigration

The Civil Rights Movement, led by Malcolm X, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and countless others, did more than secure rights for Black Americans. It opened doors for immigrant communities. The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 was born out of the Civil Rights struggle, allowing Cubans, Latinos, Caribbeans, Nigerians, Asians, Somalians, and others to enter the U.S. in greater numbers. Without Black America, those opportunities would not exist.

Identity and Assimilation

Yet, many of these groups distance themselves from Blackness, seeking acceptance by aligning with whiteness. Statements like “I’m not Black, I’m Jamaican” or “I’m Nigerian, not African American” fracture solidarity. Assimilation for survival may be understandable, but denial of identity undermines collective power.

The Diaspora and World Culture

The African Diaspora is not just about migration, it is about influence. Black America is the epicenter of global culture. Hip-hop, born in the Bronx, is now the most consumed music genre worldwide. Jazz, gospel, and R&B shaped entire industries. Fashion trends rooted in Black creativity dominate global markets. Even social justice movements abroad borrow language and tactics from the Civil Rights Movement.

Cultural Appropriation vs. Scrutiny

Black culture is celebrated globally but often stolen and repackaged by others. TikTok dances created by Black teens go viral, but influencers from other groups profit. Streetwear, rooted in Black creativity, is now a billion-dollar industry. Meanwhile, Black youth are stereotyped as “criminals” for the same creativity. The hypocrisy is undeniable: the world profits from Black culture while vilifying Black people.

Politics and Immigration

Many immigrant groups supported Donald Trump, believing his promises. Yet, his administration deported thousands from Latin America, Africa, and Asia. The irony is sharp: communities that distanced themselves from Black solidarity were targeted by the same system they empowered.

Global Impact of Black America

Black America is not just a cultural force, it is a political and social catalyst. Civil rights victories inspired global liberation movements, from South Africa to the Caribbean. Marcus Garvey’s Pan-African vision, Dr. King’s dream of justice, and Malcolm X’s call for dignity continue to resonate worldwide.

Conclusion

Black America is the foundation, the heartbeat, and the blueprint. We are not just culture, we are culture. We paved the way for the world politically, socially, and culturally. It is time for the world to recognize, respect, and honor that legacy.

White Supremacy Threatens South Africa’s Sovereignty, But What About America?

December 9, 2025

By Tim Cocks (Reuters)
Blog Commentary & Call to Action

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa recently sounded the alarm: ideas of white racial superiority are not only a threat to South Africa’s post-apartheid unity, but also to its sovereignty and international relations. Speaking at an ANC conference, Ramaphosa condemned false narratives of “white persecution” that continue to circulate in far-right spaces globally. These myths, he warned, have real consequences for diplomacy and national security.

Yet while Ramaphosa calls for global efforts to debunk these lies, U.S. President Donald Trump has chosen to amplify them. Trump boycotted the G20 summit in Johannesburg, alleging without evidence that South Africa mistreats its white minority. He claimed white farmers were being “slaughtered” and their land “illegally confiscated.” These claims have been widely debunked, but they continue to fuel white supremacist rhetoric worldwide.

Here’s the hypocrisy: Trump accuses South Africa of racism against whites yet remains silent on the systemic racism and repression of Black people in America. In South Africa, a wrong was made right, apartheid was dismantled, and the nation continues to strive for unity. In America, however, racism remains deeply entrenched. Black men are killed at alarming rates, the justice system turns a blind eye, and the trauma of racial injustice grows worse every day.

Before the pot calls the kettle black, America must look inward. Stop throwing stones when you live in a glass house. The U.S. government cannot credibly lecture others on racial justice while ignoring the oppression within its own borders.

Black people in America continue to face systemic racism and deadly police violence at rates far higher than other groups, making Donald Trump’s accusations against South Africa not only hypocritical but deeply offensive.

Police Violence Against Black Americans

  • In 2024 alone, U.S. police killed 1,365 people — the deadliest year on record campaignzero.org.
  • Of those, 248 were Black, despite Black Americans making up only about 13% of the population Statista.
  • The rate of fatal police shootings among Black Americans stood at 6.1 per million per year (2015–2024), more than double that of white Americans Statista.
  • Even after the global outcry following George Floyd’s murder in 2020, police killings of Black people have actually increased in recent years NBC News.
  • Data shows that unarmed Black men are disproportionately killed by police, highlighting systemic bias in law enforcement factually.co.

Examples of Systemic Racism in America

Systemic racism is not limited to policing, it permeates nearly every aspect of American life:

  • Education: Black students are more likely to attend underfunded schools and face harsher disciplinary actions Human Rights Careers.
  • Housing: Redlining and discriminatory lending practices have left Black families with far less generational wealth Human Rights Careers.
  • Employment: Black workers earn less on average and face higher unemployment rates than white counterparts Robert F. Smith News.
  • Healthcare: Black Americans experience worse health outcomes, higher maternal mortality rates, and less access to quality care Human Rights Careers.
  • Criminal Justice: Black people are incarcerated at nearly five times the rate of white people, often for similar offenses Human Rights Careers.

Taken together, these examples show that racism in America is not incidental, it is systemic, structural, and ongoing.

Blog Post Framing

South Africa, under Ramaphosa, is working to dismantle the legacy of apartheid and build unity. Meanwhile, America continues to deny or downplay its own racial injustices. For Donald Trump to accuse South Africa of racism against whites while ignoring the daily trauma of Black Americans is the ultimate hypocrisy.

Before the pot calls the kettle black, America must confront its own house of glass. Stop throwing stones abroad while ignoring the shattered lives at home.

Sources: Statista factually.co NBC News campaignzero.org Human Rights Careers Robert F. Smith News

Call to Action

It’s time to:

  • Expose and dismantle white supremacist lies globally.
  • Hold U.S. leaders accountable for systemic racism and police violence.
  • Unite Black communities worldwide in solidarity and resistance.

So I ask again: Should Donald Trump and the U.S. government be called out for this hypocrisy? The answer seems clear, yes, loudly and globally.

Rallying Cry

No more silence, no more lies, 

We see the truth with open eyes. 

From Soweto to Harlem streets, 

Black voices rise, we won’t retreat. 

Justice delayed is justice denied, 

Too many brothers have already died. 

Glass houses crack when stones are thrown, 

America fix the rot in your own. 

Unite the people, across the land, 

Together in strength, we take a stand. 

From Cape Town’s shore to Detroit’s fight, 

Black power united will set things right. 

Dr. Keyimani Alford: Reclaiming Narratives, Empowering Voices

December 6, 2025

Dr. Keyimani Alford is more than a leader; he is a storyteller, healer, and advocate whose life’s work bridges the worlds of education, authorship, and empowerment. Born in Oakland, California, and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Dr. Alford grew up navigating instability, poverty, and family absence. Those early challenges shaped his belief that education is not only a pathway to freedom but also a tool for rewriting one’s story.

As a first-generation college graduate who went on to earn his Ph.D. in Education, Dr. Alford understands the barriers faced by students from marginalized backgrounds. His research focuses on retention and persistence for first-generation and minority male students at predominantly White institutions, emphasizing that relationships and belonging are critical to success. Today, as Associate Vice President of Student Access & Success at Madison College, he leads initiatives that help students overcome financial, systemic, and personal obstacles so they can thrive. His leadership is rooted in empathy, accountability, and the conviction that systems should serve students, not the other way around.

Championing Underserved Communities

Dr. Alford’s commitment extends far beyond campus walls. Through his involvement in organizations such as WASFAA, College Goal Wisconsin, and MASFAA (where he serves as President-Elect), he advocates for policies that expand access and equity in higher education. His work ensures that underserved students, veterans, first-generation learners, and minority communities, have the support they need to persist and graduate.

He also founded Keywords Unlocked, LLC, a publishing and coaching company designed to amplify everyday voices, particularly Black and underrepresented authors. By equipping writers with tools and strategies to move from manuscript to marketplace, Dr. Alford is dismantling barriers in the publishing industry and ensuring that marginalized stories are not only told but celebrated.

Author and Storyteller

Dr. Alford’s own catalog of books reflects the power of storytelling as a tool for healing and leadership:

Oakland Hills, Milwaukee Rivers: A Memoir of Survival, Identity, and Purpose

In Oakland Hills, Milwaukee Rivers, I invite readers into the quiet rooms, crowded churches, and complicated family moments that shaped me as a Black boy learning to survive, belong, and believe in his own worth. This memoir walks through childhood trauma, father loss, religious shame, identity questions, and the hidden weight of silence, while tracing how grace kept showing up in unexpected people and places. It reads like sitting across from a friend who is finally telling the whole story, not the edited version.

Readers will see their own questions on these pages. The book helps them name what hurt, grieve what was taken, and begin to reclaim their voice with honesty and dignity. They walk away with language for things they have carried for years, a deeper understanding of how identity and faith can coexist with pain, and a renewed belief that their story is not over. This memoir becomes a mirror and a map for anyone who has ever felt unseen, misunderstood, or afraid to be fully themselves.

Unshaken Leadership: A Practical Blueprint for Overcoming Challenges, Learning from Mistakes, and Growing in Confidence

Unshaken Leadership pulls back the curtain on what leadership really feels like when the title sounds good, but the pressure is heavy. Drawing from more than two decades in higher education, community, and faith-based spaces, I walk readers through the unspoken realities of leading people, managing politics, navigating conflict, and making hard decisions when you still feel like you are figuring it out yourself. Each chapter blends story, reflection, and practical strategy so readers see the lessons in real situations, not just theory on a page.

This book is written for new and growing leaders who are tired of pretending they have it all together and are ready to lead with honesty, courage, and emotional intelligence. Readers gain language for the challenges they are facing, tools for balancing vision and boundaries, and frameworks they can immediately apply with their teams. The goal is simple: to help leaders stand firm when things shake around them, learn from their missteps without shame, and grow into a version of leadership that feels both effective and authentic.

Self-Publishing from Scratch: A Practical Guide for Authors to Publish Successfully with Insights for Black Voices

Self-Publishing from Scratch is a step-by-step roadmap for everyday people who feel called to write a book and have no idea where to start. I walk readers through the full journey from idea to published book in plain language, breaking down what to write, how to edit, how to find a cover, how ISBNs work, what platforms to choose, and how to price and promote their work. Along the way, I share real stories, checklists, and behind-the-scenes lessons from my own publishing journey so readers avoid costly mistakes and gain the confidence to hit “publish” with clarity.

This book especially centers Black and underrepresented voices who have been told their stories are “too much,” “too specific,” or “too risky” for traditional publishing. Readers come away with practical tools, a realistic plan, and the encouragement that they do not have to wait for permission to become an author. By the end, they understand the business and the heart of self-publishing, and they know exactly what to do next to turn a manuscript, a journal, or even a set of notes on their phone into a book in readers’ hands.

Mile Markers of Life: A 100-Day Christian Devotional for Direction and Strength

Mile Markers of Life is a 100-day devotional born from years of driving Wisconsin highways and noticing how the mile markers along the road mirrored the seasons of my own life. Each entry starts with a real-life scene and then connects it to Scripture, reflection, and a short prayer, helping readers see that God has been present in both the ordinary and painful parts of their journey. The readings are honest and accessible, designed for people who are carrying a lot and need encouragement that fits into real schedules and real emotions.

Readers will experience a devotional that speaks to fatigue, grief, uncertainty, hope, and new beginnings with gentle clarity. Every day offers direction for the heart and a small step they can take to move forward, whether that is letting something go, forgiving themselves, or daring to dream again. By the time they reach Day 100, they have traced their own “mile markers,” recognized how far they have come, and rediscovered that even in detours and delays, God has been guiding them toward healing and purpose.

A Voice of Hope and Action

Whether speaking in lecture halls, boardrooms, sanctuaries, or behind a microphone, Dr. Alford blends truth-telling with practical tools. His keynote themes, leadership with integrity, healing from trauma, equity in higher education, and empowering everyday voices, resonate because they are lived experiences, not abstract theories. Audiences leave not only inspired but equipped with frameworks and next steps to move forward.

Across every platform, Dr. Alford reminds people that their story still has chapters left and that hope is always within reach. His work as an author and advocate continues to light the way for underserved communities, proving that beginnings do not define destinies.

Connect with Dr. Keyimani Alford

Name: Dr. Keyimani Alford

Email: drkeyspeaks@gmail.com

Speaking & Books: www.drkeyspeaks.com

Publishing Company: www.keywordsunlocked.com

Social Media:

  • YouTube: @drkeyspeaks
  • Instagram: @drkeyspeaks
  • TikTok: @drkeyspeaks
  • Facebook: @drkeyspeaks
  • LinkedIn: Dr. Keyimani Alford (search on LinkedIn by name)

Georgia’s Taxpayers May Soon Bankroll Trump’s Defense

December 5, 2025

Georgia recently passed a law that could force Fulton County taxpayers to reimburse Donald Trump and his co-defendants for millions in legal fees after the election-interference case was dismissed. Estimates suggest claims could reach $10 million or more, though no payouts have been finalized yet CBS News The Hill san.com.

Case Collapse, Costly Consequences

Fulton County’s election‑interference case against Donald Trump and 18 co‑defendants was dismissed after DA Fani Willis was disqualified. That dismissal triggered Georgia’s new SB 244 law, which allows defendants to demand reimbursement of “reasonable attorney’s fees and costs.”

What’s Happening

  • Case dismissed: The sprawling Georgia election-interference case against Trump and 18 co-defendants was dropped in late November 2025 after Fulton County DA Fani Willis was disqualified due to a conflict of interest san.com.
  • New law (SB 244 / GA Code §17-11-6): Passed earlier this year, it allows defendants to seek reimbursement of “reasonable attorney’s fees and costs” if a prosecutor is disqualified and charges are dismissed The Hill san.com.
  • Potential claims: Trump’s legal team alone spent more than $5.5 million in Georgia since 2021. Co-defendants collectively spent millions more, with some raising funds through crowdfunding CBS News.
  • Taxpayer impact: Fulton County could be liable for millions, possibly tens of millions, depending on how many defendants file claims and what a judge approves CBS News The Hill.

The Price Tag

  • Trump: $5.5M+ in Georgia legal fees
  • GOP “fake electors”: $2.3M
  • Harrison Floyd: $363K (crowdfunded)
  • John Eastman: $937K (crowdfunded)
  • Jeff Clark: $153K (crowdfunded)
  • Total exposure: $10M+ and counting

Taxpayer Impact

Defendants have 45 days to file claims. Judge Scott McAfee will decide payouts. While Trump’s attorney insists reimbursements come from the DA’s budget, critics argue taxpayers ultimately foot the bill.

Risks & Fallout

  • Unprecedented precedent: Rarely are criminal defendants reimbursed.
  • Political fallout: Though bipartisan, the law is widely seen as Trump‑specific.
  • Budget strain: Fulton County faces millions in potential payouts.

Risks & Considerations

  • Unprecedented law: Reimbursing criminal defendants is rare in U.S. law, raising questions about fairness and precedent san.com.
  • Political fallout: The measure was passed with bipartisan support but is widely seen as tailored to Trump’s case The Hill san.com.
  • Uncertain totals: No official accounting yet of Fulton County’s own prosecution costs, which could add significantly to taxpayer exposure CBS News.

In short: Georgia’s dismissal of the Trump case has opened the door for Trump and co-defendants to demand millions back in legal fees. Whether taxpayers ultimately foot the bill depends on how judges interpret the new law and the claims filed in the coming weeks.

Sources: CBS News The Hill san.com

Advocacy Framing

This is more than a budget issue, it’s a democracy issue. Georgia’s taxpayers may soon bankroll the defense of those accused of undermining democratic institutions. Communities must mobilize to demand transparency, fiscal responsibility, and ethical leadership.

Call to Action:
Share this story. Demand accountability. Ask why public funds should defend those accused of attacking democracy.

Lenacapavir: A Breakthrough HIV Prevention Tool Held Back by Global Funding Cuts

December 2, 2025

Adapted from reporting by Rachel Schraer, The Independent (Rethinking Global Aid Project)

The closest thing we have to an HIV vaccine has finally arrived. Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable medication that can prevent nearly 100% of HIV infections when administered twice yearly, is being hailed as revolutionary. Yet despite its promise, only a fraction of the people who need it will gain access.

The Numbers Behind the Breakthrough

  • Current plans by Gilead and international funders will provide lenacapavir to 2 million people over three years, about 666,000 annually.
  • Research by Dr. Andrew Hill (University of Liverpool) shows this rollout could avert 165,000 infections, but scaling up to 10 million people annually could prevent half a million infections and put us on track to ending HIV transmission.
  • The challenge: funding cuts, particularly from the U.S. under President Donald Trump, have left prevention efforts severely under-resourced.

The Cost and Access Challenge

  • In the U.S., a course of lenacapavir costs $28,000.
  • Thanks to advocacy and licensing agreements, the drug will be sold at no profit in low-income countries, with costs reduced to around $40 per person per year.
  • Gilead’s plan to reach 2 million people by 2028 is described as an “initial step,” with hopes that generic manufacturers will expand access further.

Why This Matters Globally

Anne Aslett, CEO of the Elton John AIDS Foundation, called the rollout “unprecedented,” noting that doses are arriving in Eswatini at the same time as in the U.S., a sharp contrast to the early AIDS crisis, when African nations waited more than a decade for antiretroviral drugs.

Still, she warns that funding gaps threaten progress. Vulnerable populations, young women, LGBTQ communities, sex workers, and people who use drugs, are often excluded from prevention services. Without reaching these groups, the epidemic cannot be contained.

Innovation in Delivery

  • Foundations are experimenting with drone deliveries of drugs and testing kits.
  • Digital pilots in London are making PrEP accessible directly to consumers, by passing traditional clinics.
  • Sub-Saharan Africa is now pioneering models of care that are more advanced than those in parts of the Global North.

🇬🇧 The UK’s Role

Mike Podmore, CEO of STOPAIDS, emphasizes that UK contributions are not just charity, they fuel domestic research and innovation. Agencies like Unitaid have invested £250m into UK universities over the past decade, strengthening both global and local HIV responses.

The UK has set a goal to end new HIV transmissions by 2030, and expanding access to lenacapavir will be critical to achieving it.

The Call to Action

Ending HIV is within reach, but only if global leaders step up. Dr. Hill and advocates worldwide are urging wealthy nations to contribute to a proposed $400m fund to expand access without undermining existing HIV programs.

This is a pivotal moment: decades of research and advocacy have brought us closer than ever to a cure. But without adequate funding, only 7% of those who need lenacapavir will receive it.

What you can do:

  • Sign petitions demanding governments protect and expand HIV funding.
  • Share this story widely to raise awareness.
  • Pressure policymakers to prioritize vulnerable populations in prevention programs.

Together, we can ensure that this breakthrough doesn’t stall at the starting line. Let’s end HIV and make life better for all.

Original reporting by Rachel Schraer, The Independent, as part of the “Rethinking Global Aid” project.

Seventh HIV Remission Sparks Hope, and Raises Questions About U.S. LeadershipOriginal reporting by Michelle Starr, Nature

December 2, 2025

A German man known as “Berlin 2 (B2)” has remained in remission from HIV for six years after a stem cell transplant to treat leukemia. This marks the seventh known case of long-term HIV remission worldwide. Unlike earlier cases, B2’s donor carried only one copy of the CCR5 Δ32 mutation, previously thought insufficient for durable resistance. His remission challenges assumptions and opens new pathways for understanding how HIV reservoirs can be eliminated.

Globally, 40.8 million people were living with HIV in 2024, with 1.3 million new infections and 630,000 AIDS-related deaths. In the U.S., 39,201 new diagnoses were reported in 2023, disproportionately impacting Black and Latino communities, especially in the South.

These breakthroughs abroad raise urgent questions:

  • Why are Germany and Switzerland leading in remission cases, while the U.S. lags behind?
  • Why does America, supposedly the global leader in R&D, appear to be playing second fiddle in HIV cure research?
  • Is the lack of universal healthcare in the U.S. a factor in limiting access to experimental treatments?
  • Why does Big Pharma continue to prioritize lifelong drug regimens over potential cures?

For those living with HIV/AIDS, these questions are not abstract, they are about survival. If you are reading this and living with HIV, ask your doctor about the current status of cure research. Demand transparency.

Stem cell transplants are not scalable cures, but they prove that reservoir reduction, graft-versus-reservoir responses, and partial CCR5 protection can lead to remission. The challenge now is whether America will invest in replicating these mechanisms through gene editing and pharmaceutical innovation or continue to let others lead while its citizens wait.

World AIDS Day is more than a commemoration, it is a call to action, reflection, and hope. Observed every year on December 1, it reminds us of the lives lost, the progress made, and the work still ahead in ending HIV/AIDS.

December 1, 2025

The Meaning of World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day was first established in 1988 by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNAIDS, making it the first-ever global health day Wikipedia Britannica. Its purpose is to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, show solidarity with people living with HIV, and honor the millions who have died from AIDS-related illnesses. The red ribbon, adopted in 1991, remains the universal symbol of support and remembrance Britannica.

Each year, the day carries a theme. In 2025, the theme is “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response”, a reminder that funding cuts, stigma, and inequality threaten decades of progress Moneycontrol.

Historical Context and Data

  • In the 1980s and 1990s, HIV/AIDS was a rapidly escalating crisis. By 1997, new infections peaked at 3.3 million annually, and AIDS-related deaths peaked in 2004 at 2.1 million per year Britannica.
  • Since then, antiretroviral therapy (ART) transformed HIV from a fatal disease into a manageable chronic condition, reducing deaths by more than 64% since 2004 Wikipedia.
  • As of 2024, an estimated 40.8 million people worldwide were living with HIV, with 1.3 million new infections and 630,000 AIDS-related deaths that year Business Standard Moneycontrol.
  • In the U.S., about 1.2 million people live with HIV, with ongoing disparities in testing and treatment Las Vegas Sun.

Strides in Treatment and Prevention

The fight against HIV/AIDS has seen remarkable progress:

  • ART advancements: From early AZT in 1987 to today’s single-pill regimens and long-acting injectables, treatment now allows near-normal lifespans Las Vegas Sun.
  • Prevention tools: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) have proven highly effective in preventing infection Business Standard.
  • U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable): People on effective ART who maintain undetectable viral loads cannot sexually transmit HIV Business Standard.
  • Mother-to-child transmission: Once a major concern, it has been drastically reduced through targeted interventions Las Vegas Sun.

The Future Outlook

While progress is undeniable, challenges remain:

  • Funding cuts and inequality threaten to reverse gains, especially in vulnerable communities Moneycontrol.
  • Late diagnoses continue to hinder progress, with over half of new cases in Europe detected too late for optimal treatment News-Medical.Net.
  • Research breakthroughs offer hope: trials with engineered antibodies, CRISPR gene editing, and long-acting injectables like lenacapavir suggest that a functional cure may be within reach Smithsonian Magazine AIDS.ORG.
  • The global goal remains clear: end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, a target set by UNAIDS and the UN Sustainable Development Goals Britannica UNAIDS.

Closing Reflection

World AIDS Day is not just about remembrance, it is about renewed commitment. We have turned HIV from a death sentence into a chronic condition, but stigma, inequity, and funding gaps still stand in the way of ending the epidemic. The future depends on global solidarity, scientific innovation, and community-led action.

Ending AIDS is possible but only if we choose compassion, equity, and sustained investment.

Sources: Wikipedia Britannica Business Standard Las Vegas Sun Smithsonian Magazine AIDS.ORG UNAIDS Moneycontrol

The Empowerment and Resilience Framework: A New Era of Healing for Black Women

December 1, 2025

Climbers, y’all know I love amplifying powerful Black women who are doing transformational work and today I’m honored to spotlight my colleague, friend, and fellow doctor, Dr. Lila Elliott.

Her brand-new self-help journal, Unleashing Empowerment and Resilience, is officially OUT on Amazon and it is a must-have for anyone serious about healing, breaking cycles, and stepping into their birthright of strength.

Dr. Elliott is more than an author, she’s a visionary. With 19 years of clinical practice, research, and her doctoral capstone, she created the Empowerment and Resilience Framework (ERF), a groundbreaking model that blends Black Feminist Theory, Trauma-Informed Care, and Academic Resilience into a practical blueprint for real life.

This journal is not just for social workers or therapists. It’s for:

  • Black women healing childhood trauma
  • Corporate leaders rising above burnout
  • Teachers building safe spaces
  • Hairstylists listening to stories every day
  • Veterans, parents, and anyone ready to stop surviving and start thriving

Inside, you’ll find:

  • Practical strategies you can apply immediately
  • Journaling prompts to guide reflection and growth
  • Stories from women who reclaimed their power
  • Tools you can use in your home, workplace, community, and relationships

Dr. Elliott recently joined me on America in Black and White, where she shared how her work is rooted in truth-telling, resilience, and the power of Black women’s voices. Her insights reminded us that healing is not just personal, it’s communal, and it’s historical.

This book transforms you from the inside out. Imagine having a guide that teaches you to turn your pain into power, your voice into your weapon, and your story into a legacy. That’s exactly what Unleashing Empowerment and Resilience delivers.

Grab your copy today: Amazon link
Learn more about Dr. Elliott’s work: Her website

If you have a sister, coworker, friend, or colleague who needs a reminder of who she is, gift her this journal. Healing starts with one choice. One self-help journal. One moment.

Let’s support this incredible Black woman author and help get this book into the hands of every person ready to rise. 

Norovirus cases are surging across the U.S., with test positivity nearly doubling since late summer. States most impacted include Alabama, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, Wyoming, Louisiana, Michigan, and Indiana. The CDC stresses that prevention hinges on thorough handwashing with soap and water, safe food handling, and disinfecting contaminated surfaces. NBC News CBS News ABC News CDC

November 30, 2025

Norovirus: America’s “Winter Vomiting Disease” on the Rise

Norovirus, often called the “winter vomiting disease”, is once again sweeping across the country. Unlike other viruses with a fat-based envelope that alcohol sanitizers can break down, norovirus is encased in a rugged protein shell called a capsid, making it resistant to hand sanitizers. That means soap and water for at least 20 seconds is the most effective defense.

Current Trends and Data

  • CDC data shows nearly 14% of tests were positive for norovirus during the week ending Nov. 15, 2025, compared to just 7% three months earlier CBS News ABC News.
  • Last December saw a record-breaking 25% positivity rate, and experts warn this winter could bring another harsh season Gizmodo.
  • Epic Research and WastewaterSCAN data highlight the hardest-hit states: Alabama, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, Wyoming, Louisiana, Michigan, and Indiana NBC News ABC News Gizmodo.
  • Outbreaks are being reported in schools, cruise ships, and communities nationwide, with more than 200 passengers sickened aboard a luxury cruise ship this fall CBS News.

CDC Recommendations for Prevention

The CDC emphasizes several key steps to stop norovirus from spreading CDC CDC:

  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, changing diapers, or before preparing food.
  • Do not rely on hand sanitizer alone, it does not kill norovirus.
  • Avoid preparing food or caring for others while sick, and wait at least 48 hours after symptoms stop before resuming these activities.
  • Cook shellfish thoroughly to at least 145°F and wash fruits and vegetables well.
  • Clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces using bleach-based solutions or EPA-approved disinfectants effective against norovirus.
  • Wash contaminated laundry with hot water and detergent, then machine dry at high heat.

Why This Matters

Norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the U.S., responsible for 20 million infections annually, over 100,000 hospitalizations, and nearly 900 deaths each year CBS News. It spreads easily through contaminated food, water, surfaces, and person-to-person contact. Symptoms, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, can appear within 12–48 hours and last 1–3 days. Vulnerable groups include young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.

Community Call to Action

This surge is not just a public health issue, it’s a matter of community responsibility. By practicing rigorous hygiene, safe food handling, and responsible caregiving, we can protect ourselves and those most at risk. Norovirus thrives in close-contact environments, but prevention is in our hands, literally.

Sources: NBC News CBS News ABC News Gizmodo CDC CDC