
Political Playback: California Capitol News You Might Have Missed
A California bill that would prevent reparations payments from being taxed by the state is moving closer to becoming law after advancing out of the Assembly with bipartisan support.

A California bill that would prevent reparations payments from being taxed by the state is moving closer to becoming law after advancing out of the Assembly with bipartisan support.

In the continuing battle for political respect and inclusivity that Black folks in the U.S. have been immersed in since the end of the U.S. Civil War, a little bright bulb of hope and redemption just appeared in the southern sky.

In this op-ed, Saint Paul Public Schools assistant principal Richard D. Terrell reflects on the joy of educating Black boys, pushing back against narratives focused only on struggle, and calling on educators, parents, mentors, and community leaders to celebrate Black boys’ brilliance, build relationships rooted in care, and create environments where they can thrive.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is going through a FIFA World Cup transformation to welcome soccer fans arriving in the city next month.

Rob Base, born Robert Ginyard and one half of the legendary hip-hop duo Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock, passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026, at age 59 after a private battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy rooted in the 1988 anthem It Takes Two and a pioneering role in bringing hip-hop and house music to mainstream audiences.

The Bruins saw their season end in dramatic fashion Sunday evening, falling 8-7 to Texas Tech in nine innings in an elimination game at the Women’s College World Series at Devon Park. UCLA finished the season 53-10 after going 1-2 at this year’s WCWS. Texas Tech improved to 59-8 and advanced for a chance to face Alabama in the semifinals.

The talk is everywhere around the NFL: Myles Garrett is headed to the Los Angeles Rams.

Music, especially Black music, has the power to bring people together and provide a strong sense of community. It has positive effects on people’s moods, helping us to balance the ups and downs of daily life, and keeping us moving.

For decades, Congresswoman Maxine Waters has stood as one of the most recognizable and unapologetic voices in American politics — a leader many across Los Angeles County and beyond affectionately call “Auntie Maxine.”

As California closes out Older Californians Month this May, the state recognizes that its senior population continues to grow at a historic pace.

“No dogs, no Negros, no Mexicans.” “Colored served in rear.” “For whites only.” It’s the type of signage that hung from the doors and windows of establishments across much of the American South for many years.

The Bruins defeated UCF 14-4 on Saturday night at Easton Stadium to sweep the NCAA Los Angeles Super Regional and punch their ticket to the Women’s College World Series for the third straight season. With the win, UCLA advanced to the WCWS for the 10th time in the last 11 tournaments and for an NCAA-record 34th time overall.

Mookie Betts and the Dodgers rolled over the Colorado Rockies on Tuesday night, winning by a score of 15-6 at Dodger Stadium. It was the Dodgers’ fourth straight win and their 11th victory in the last 13 games, as the team is starting to look like the club many expected to see all along.

LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard has been named to the 2025-26 Kia All-NBA Second Team, adding another honor to one of the most decorated careers in franchise history.

More than 80 survivors of the devastating January 2025 Eaton Fire from Pasadena and Altadena visited the California State Capitol on May 19 to advocate for more recovery support from Sacramento during what they describe as a slow rebuild.

News You Might Have Missed

Homeowners are using solar panels for wealth building, and it is working well. By lowering their utility bills, increasing property value, and reducing taxes, they can turn their roofs into investments. For Black homeowners, solar energy offers a path toward greater economic stability and long-term financial freedom.

Black voters in California, like other voter groups, have been returning mail ballots at a slow pace as the state heads toward the June 2 primary election for governor, a race that has not yet generated the same level of voter excitement as some past statewide contests.

Some politicians believe making any promise loudly and confidently is an adequate substitute for only supporting proposals that are realistic or implementable.

Members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), along with other Democratic lawmakers, are ramping up efforts to push for a $500 million state budget investment to help stabilize California’s 17 public hospital systems.
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