May 2026 Met Gala
By: Bill Allen The annual Met Gala fundraiser did not disappoint, this year's theme being "Costume Art". The event was co chaired by Beyonce, Nicole Kidman, Venus Williams, Anna Wintour amongst others. This year's theme welcomed guests to express their love of fashion by embodying art, and the stars came showcasing their unique style and glam. Held annually to benefit the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute, the gala sets the tone for the institute’s spring exhibitio
2 days ago1 min read
NABJ Region I Conference Focuses on Media’s Future and Equity
By: Akilah Green Photos by: Bill Allen, Perception Media National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) came together on May 1–2 at Temple University in Philadelphia for its Region I Conference, a lead up to its annual convention. Those who attended were journalists, students and media professionals for two days of programming centered on equity, innovation and the evolving media landscape. This year’s gathering included a collaboration with the Young Black Journalists Task
2 days ago2 min read
The Perfect Remedy: H. Doobie Powell Talks Music, Purpose, and What's Next
By: Akilah Green Gospel artist Doobie Powell is stepping into a new season — one defined by healing, purpose, evolution and a deeper connection to his audience. In a recent conversation with AkilahTheGenius, Powell reflected on his musical journey, upcoming projects and the inspiration behind what he calls “The Perfect Remedy.” Known for his dynamic vocals and genre-blending sound, Powell is entering a deeply personal chapter in his career, one that extends beyond the music i
2 days ago2 min read
19 Years of World Malaria Day
By: Jewel Benton Since 2007, malaria activists and the World Health Organization (WHO) have helped save an estimated 13 million lives from the disease. However, experts say increased funding and awareness are still needed to further reduce its spread. April 25 marked World Malaria Day, established in 2007 to recognize global efforts to control malaria and renew the commitment to end the disease. This year’s theme, “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can. Now We Must.,” highlights
3 days ago2 min read
Jaafar Jackson Is “Bad” in Michael — in the Best Way
By: Stephanie Woods Mckinney Courtesy Michael https://michael.movie/ A new biographical film about Michael Jackson is drawing both anticipation and emotional reactions from audiences, particularly longtime fans of the late pop icon. Michael, directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, premiered April 22, offering a sweeping look at the life and legacy of one of the most influential entertainers in music history. For some viewers, the decision to see the film came wit
3 days ago2 min read
Chasing Greatness One Beat at a Time
By: Tariq Richardson Photo provided by team Aaron Smith For Aaron Smith, music was never just a hobby; it was a calling that started long before he ever stepped onto a stage. Growing up, Smith found himself drawn not just to sound, but to the machinery behind it. Catalogs filled with instruments, gear, and technology fascinated him. Just steps away from his home sat a small mom-and-pop music shop, a place that would quietly shape his future. “I used to go there every day,” Sm
Apr 234 min read
‘Unbossed & Unbowed’ Brings Shirley Chisholm’s Legacy to Life at Hostos Center
By: Royal Mickens New York City — A one-woman performance honoring the life and legacy of Shirley Chisholm drew audiences to the Hostos Center for the Arts & Culture, where Shirley Chisholm: Unbossed & Unbowed offered more than a theatrical retelling of a political icon’s life and it delivered a reflection on how leadership is forged. Portrayed by Ingrid Griffith, the production traced Chisholm’s journey from her early years in Brooklyn and Barbados to her groundbreaking ris
Apr 192 min read
