By D. L. White If he was alive today, Dr. King would have celebrated his 95th birthday on January 15. Born in Atlanta, Georgia, on January 15, 1929, Dr. King were he alive today, would absolutely still make appearances and speak truth to power as it relates to the injustices being waged against his people […]
What Would Dr. King Do & Think in 2024 Read More »
Written by Deah Mitchell Berry The tradition of Watch Night Service, a cherished practice among many Americans on the eve of new year holds special significance and historical meaning for Black Americans. But the day also forges a tasty Southern superstition that connects iconic traditions to this historic church commemoration. December 31, 1862, a night
The Dish with Deah, New Years Food Traditions Read More »
In a Facebook post, Council President pro Tem Monica Montgomery wrote: “Thank to Assemblymember Akilah Weber, MD and her advocacy for our communities, San Diego received funding to restore The Black Family statue at the beloved Mountain View Park! This funding is more than just a check—it is about restoring the positive reflections and reclaiming
The nine-time Tony Award®winning Best Musical, “THE BOOK OF MORMON” returns to San Diego, September 19-24. And, we are here for it! Some of us over here at The Chocolate Voice saw “THE BOOK OF MORMAN” at the San Diego Civic Theater, a few years ago and laughed so hard until our sides hurt! From the creators of South Park
It takes two baby! Yes it does. Two actresses are on tour and playing the role of the legendary Tina Turner in the Broadway musical TINA: The Tina Turner Musical. During the tour, there are eight performances that are two hours and forty five minutes. Each actress will play the lead in four out
Disney Theatrical Productions, under the direction of Thomas Schumacher, and Broadway San Diego ~ A Nederlander Presentation is proud to welcome the long-awaited production of Disney’s Frozen. Frozen, the Tony®-nominated Best Musical, will play a 2-week premiere engagement as part of Broadway San Diego’s 45th Season, at the San Diego Civic Theatre, sponsored by San
San Diego: Experience the Magic of Disney’s “Frozen” Read More »
On Jan 9, with the sound of African drumming in the background, Shirley Weber was sworn-in as the first-elected Black Secretary of State (SOS) of California and the 32nd person to hold the position. The ceremony was conducted at the SOS’ auditorium in downtown Sacramento, one block south of the State Capitol. Senate President pro
Dr. Shirley Weber Sworn is as Secretary of State of California Read More »
Black History Month, Black-Owned, Female-Owned and San Diego favorite, Maya’s Cookies has announced the 2023 Black History Month Collection. “This year’s collection is an ode to the arts and my way of honoring the contributions of countless Black women breaking barriers in the literary arts, world of dance, music industry and beyond,” said Maya Madsen,
By GWEN PIERCE Being Black. Being a business owner. Being a woman. Being a veteran, are all labels that Kay Black has had first hand experience with, and knows all too well that representation matters, and that the importance of seeing Black positive images on and off the big screen, matter. This past Veterans Day
By Deah Berry Mitchell Looking for something different this Thanksgiving? With the recent announcement that the GDP increased over 2% the estimates that a recession will likely not hit until potentially 2024 have relaxed some of our woes. Although many consumers are still being cautious, they are finding small ways to pamper themselves and loved
Thanksgiving Roundup: HOTEL EDITION Read More »
By George Napier Barnes, III It is my belief, especially in sporting competition, that no matter how hard and long you shake up something, when it’s all said and done, the cream (best teams) will always rise to top. With less than a month remaining in the 2022 HBCU Football season the shake ups during
HBCU Scoreboard the Chocolate Voice Vol. X: Rising to the Top Read More »
By G. Napier Barnes, III If you “got skills” our HBCUs are looking for you. Because of Title IX, as described in an earlier article, the number of male dominated intercollegiate sports must be equal to the number of female dominated intercollegiate sports. For the ladies, scholarships and/or aide can be provided for participating in
HBCU Scoreboard: The Chocolate Voice Vol IX Other Sports Read More »
By DL White “Juneteenth is a movement, not a moment,” affirmed District 5 SupervisorAdelita Grijalva, echoing the mantra of Tucson Juneteenth President Larry Starks. In a (4-1) vote on September 6, the Board voted to approve the annual recognition of Juneteenth. Juneteenth acknowledges the day in which Union troops entered Galveston, Texas in 1865 to
Tucson: Pima County Board of Supervisors Approve Juneteenth Holiday for County Employees Read More »
As we close out summer 2022, there’s nothing left to say except, if you missed out on Jazz at the Creek, a two-day celebration Labor Day week-end in San Diego, oh well, it’s your loss. In its eleventh year, a surprising announcement was made by long time radio personality Kelly Cole, who’s been the host
By: G. Napier Barnes, III A good friend of mine once said to me, “Barnes, we (as Black people) roll a little bit differently than everyone else. There is nothing wrong with it, we just ROLL differently.” I guess that is a true statement. We do roll differently, especially when it comes to our sports.
The HBCU Scoreboard Vol V: Classics Are Must Be At Social Events Read More »
Smooth. Soulful. Songstress. Three words that best describe the artist Erin Stevenson, a powerhouse vocalists who’s toured with the likes of Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Duran Duran and more! Stevenson is all set to open the stage and bring nothing but good vibes to San Diego’s premiere venue, Jazz at The Creek on Saturday, September
Jazz At The Creek: Smooth Soulful Sounds of Erin Stevenson Labor Day Weekend Read More »
By: G. Napier Barnes III Before we get into this weeks’ topic, I would like to share with you a conversation I had last week with one of my mentors, Mr. Harold Harris of Richmond, Virginia. Mr. Harris, affectionally known as “Jug Head” is a graduate of Allen University (SIAC) located in Columbia, South Carolina.
HBCU Scoreboard Vol. III The Conference Gridiron Favorites Read More »
More than 20 million seniors visit our nation’s emergency departments every year. With the number of older adults growing rapidly, there is a critical need for more geriatric-focused care, which has the potential to improve health outcomes, coordinate care more effectively, and reduce costs. San Diego County is now the first county in the nation where
11th Annual JAZZ AT THE CREEK has announced a spectacular line-up featuring headliner Will Downing, Avery*Sunshine, Pieces of a Dream and more for the upcoming Labor Day Weekend September 3rd and 4th at Market Creek Plaza Amphitheater, located at 310 Euclid Avenue. Presented by M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records, Inc., nothing can compare to the intimate open air
By G. Napier Barnes, III HBCUs have been my passion for nearly a half century. I attended an HBCU as an undergraduate and have worked and volunteered at others. As a Sports reporter I have covered almost every major athletic event on the HBCU calendar. I have attended so many HBCU homecomings that sometimes I
The HBCU experience is like family Read More »
Shane Harris, CEO and Founder of People’s Association of Justice Advocates – PAJ and members of the San Diego community gathered in effort in getting a street named after hair and beautycare icon, Willie Morrow. In a press conference, Harris stated, “Willie Morrow gave his all to our region and put San Diego county on
San Diego: Community on a mission to name street after icon Willie Morrow Read More »
By DL White Danielle N. Dickey is a well traveled and equally a well versed young lady, she and her family have visited (44) of the (50) states in the U.S., however, she has selected South Carolina and South Carolina State University to attend college and spend the next four years. Danielle, a product
Phoenix: Homeschooled Student Awarded Full Scholarship Plans to Attend HBCU Read More »
The County of San Diego Black Chamber of Commerce (CSDBCC) created a Business Accelerator Program under its Urban Business Resource Center (UBRC). The first cohort, comprised of 14 minority-owned businesses, graduated in May, and on June 10 at UC San Diego Park & Market, the graduates were awarded a grant of almost $12k per participant in cash and Sony Electronics
As part of his efforts to create a more inclusive San Diego and celebrate the diversity of its residents, on June 19, 2021 Mayor Todd Gloria joined by Councilmembers Monica Montgomery Steppe and Marni von Wilpert, his Black Advisory Group, and community members came together to declare “Juneteenth” in the City of San Diego. Last
Californians Set to Celebrate Juneteenth Read More »
San Diego is home to many aspiring and highly accomplished artists. The San Diego African American Museum of Fine Art wants to make sure that the masterful works of those creatives are recognized and honored by the local community. In an interview with the San Diego Union Tribune, Gaidi Finnie, executive director of the museum,
San Diego: SDAAMFA Honors Four Creative San Diegans as Keepers of the Culture Read More »
Coldplay & H.E.R on World Tour Which Includes More than Music: Feeding the Hungry!By DL White The British rock band Coldplay along with R & B Sensation H.E.R (Gabriella Sarmento Wilson) are on a world tour with scheduled stops across America, Germany, Poland, France the UK, Belgium, Peru and Argentina (to list a few sites)
Phoenix: Ques Answer the call for Food Distribution on Coldplay & H.E.R. World Tour Read More »
After a national search, the San Diego Community College District on Wednesday announced the promotion of one of its own to succeed Pam Luster as Mesa College president. Ashanti Hands, Ed.D., joined San Diego’s largest community college in 2008 where she has held positions as dean of Student Affairs, acting dean of Student Development and Matriculation, and vice president of
San Diego: Dr. Ashanti Hands Names President of San Diego Mesa College Read More »
The African American Legacy Fund (AALF), an initiative of the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona (CFSA), is proud to announce $50,000 was granted to six local organizations in their 2022 grant round to address the educational and economic disparities faced by African Americans living in Southern Arizona. Founded in 2013 by esteemed educator, philanthropist, and civic leader Dr. Anna Jolivet, Ph.D.,
Tucson: African American Legacy Fund Award $50K to Six Local Organizations Read More »
In 2018, the San Diego African American Museum of Fine Arts (SDAAMFA) began an annual recognition program known as “Keepers of the Culture.” This event is an opportunity to thank members of the San Diego community who, through their various contributions promote the rich elements of Black Arts and Culture. This year honorees include: Alyce Smith
San Diego: African American Museum of Fine Arts Presents: Keepers of the Culture Read More »
Oooh girl, where did you get your outfit? If you’re constantly getting compliments from admirers praising your style, first and foremost embrace it. Next, if you have that entrepreneurial spirit you just might be on to something. Artillia Marcellous, owner/designer of Razmatazz Boutique in La Jolla, has always had a love for fashion for as
La Jolla: RAZMATAZZ New Black-Owned Boutique in La Jolla Hosts Sip and Shop Read More »
By D.L. White Homelessness Is On The Rise! In the days when the American west was still being settled, the Pony Express was implemented (April 3, 1860) by the Central Overland California and Pikes Peak Express Company to deliver mail between Missouri and California, thus providing a valuable and viable service. Utilizing the motto, “The
Never in a million years did Monique Rousseau envision that creating smoothies for her son’s football team would transform into one of the few, full-fledged Black and women-owned businesses in El Cajon, CA. But how did everything fall into place? Now, any mom with kids who play football will tell you that it’s not easy
El Cajon: Black Women-Owned Smoothie Shop, Blendees? Yes Please! Read More »
(San Diego, CA) Long time San Diego resident Rochelle Porter, is no joke. Especially when it comes to honoring members of her community. In particular, those whom she feels doesn’t get the recognition that they deserve. Somewhat of a hidden ‘gem’ herself, Porter swiftly moves about the world asking for little, if anything at all,
San Diego: Woman Honors Community with Phenomenal Woman Award Read More »
On February 5, Innovative Wellness Clinic, Inc. A Primary Care Center located in Spring Valley, CA held an open house in celebration of a new one stop shop medical facility located in the heart of San Diego county’s diverse community. Innovative Wellness clinic serves as a quality healthcare provider providing numerous benefits for the community,
San Diego: Innovative Wellness Center Opens in Spring Valley Read More »
This year’s Super Bowl Halftime Show features not one, not two, but five different hip-hop artists as the headlining acts: Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, 50 cent (Curtis Jackson) Eminem and, Kendrick Lamar. All of the performs mentioned have used their power of hip-hop and rap to make an impact by speaking up for generations and
LOS ANGELES, CA (August 10, 2026) — Following the success of last year’s Christmas Everyday, Grammy® Award-winning singer and actress Brandy Norwood returns to Lifetime this holiday season to star in and executive produce Christmas Everyday Again (working title). Norwood reprises her role as Francine “Fancy” Ballantine, which earned her an NAACP Award nomination. She is joined by her real-life daughter, Sy’rai
Brandy Norwood Returns to Lifetime for Holiday Sequel Christmas Everyday Again Read More »
Academy Award-winning actor Mahershala Ali returns to the big screen in Your Mother Your Mother Your Mother, an emotionally charged new drama from writer-director Bassam Tariq. Ali stars as Latif, a devoutly religious hitman struggling to balance the demands of his work, his faith, and fatherhood. When tragedy strikes with the death of his wife, Latif
Grammy-nominated poet, musician and activist invites audiences to slow down, listen and reconnect with their humanity By Gwen Pierce Most artists entertain. Others set out to inspire. And then there are artists like aja monet, who invite audiences to reflect and rediscover the beauty of simply being present. Ahead of her upcoming performance at UC
aja monet Brings Presence & the Power of Poetry, Music and Community to UCSD ArtPower Read More »
Get ready for the electrifying new musical inspired by the music of 17-time Grammy Award winner Alicia Keys! Hell’s Kitchen tells the powerful coming-of-age story of Ali, a fearless 17-year-old navigating life, family, dreams, and self-discovery in 1990s New York City. Featuring music and lyrics by Alicia Keys—including her biggest hits and brand-new songs—this Tony Award-winning
Broadway San Diego Brings Alicia Keys’ Hell’s Kitchen to the Civic Theatre This August Read More »
July 21, 2026) – Today, Central City Productions announced the first wave of performers and special honorees for the 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, hosted by Kirk Franklin. Under this year’s theme, “Feels Like Home,” gospel music’s greatest night will bring together the genre’s most celebrated artists, trailblazers, and rising stars for an unforgettable evening of worship, inspiration, and world-class performances.
In its 13th year, the Bayside Gospel Concert has proven that it is more than just a concert—it’s a San Diego summer tradition. Year after year, the event brings together faith, fellowship and unforgettable music, making it one of the most anticipated gospel celebrations in America’s Finest City. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the
San Diego: Bayside Gospel Concert Celebrates 13 Years Aboard the USS Midway Read More »
George E. Johnson Made History On Wall Street. Why Is That History Still So Rare? When news broke that George E. Johnson had died at the age of 99, many remembered him as the entrepreneur behind Afro Sheen, the iconic hair care brand that became synonymous with the natural hair movement of the 1970s. His
Hair Care Pioneer, George E. Johnson Dies at 99 Read More »
NEW ORLEANS (July 8, 2026) — The Global Black Economic Forum (GBEF) convened a powerful discussion on Black women’s health during the ESSENCE Festival of Culture 2026 with the panel, “Sistas, Say It Louder: Reclaiming Power, Pleasure, and Protection in Black Women’s Health.” The panel featured GRAMMY-nominated singer and television personality Tamar Braxton, actress, author, and advocate Amiyah Scott, LaDeia Joyce and faith leader Dr. Karri Bryant.
ESSENCE Festival: The Global Black Economic Forum Black on Women’s Health Read More »
By Gwen Pierce For actor Fergie Philippe, stepping into the role of the Beast each night is more than putting on a costume. It is the fulfillment of a dream years in the making. “Beast was always one of those roles,” Philippe said during a recent interview with The Chocolate Voice. “It was a dream
DALLAS, TX — June 24, 2026: Grammy Award-winning artist, producer, songwriter, and cultural icon Erykah Badu announces “LIVE”, a special run of dates this September featuring legendary producer The Alchemist and hip-hop pioneers De La Soul. Acclaimed rapper and songwriter Smino, along with additional special guests, will join select dates in San Diego, Berkeley, and
Grammy Award-Winner Artist Erykah Badu Announces Live Tour in September Read More »
