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
Prepare to get knocked out by THE MONSTERS, the West Coast premiere at the La Jolla Playhouse beginning June 2. For years, LIL has observed her estranged brother from the shadows, studying every punch he throws. BIG, an aging but respected force in the local mixed martial arts circuit, remains unaware that his little sister has
THE MONSTERS, the West Coast premiere at the La Jolla Playhouse beginning June 2. Read More »
Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning play Purpose, now on stage at La Jolla Playhouse through June 7, is an emotionally layered family drama filled with humor, tension, and painful truths. From the moment the curtain rises, the stunning set design immediately pulls audiences into the world of the influential Jasper family — a prominent Black
PURPOSE, now on stage at La Jolla Playhouse through June 7 Read More »
For many families in San Diego, summer traditions often include backyard barbecues, beach days, family reunions — and a trip to the San Diego County Fair. But this year, fair organizers say the experience will feel even more inclusive and culturally connected, thanks to expanded programming that celebrates Black culture, music, heritage, and community. Among
Culture, music, food, and family fun come together at the 2026 San Diego County Fair. Read More »
The GI Film Festival San Diego, which is taking place at the Museum of Photographic Arts at the San Diego Museum of Art, was filled with veterans, community members, and filmgoers eager to hear powerful stories about veterans and their experiences serving our country. These heartfelt stories evoked a range of emotions — from laughter
GI Film Festival San Diego: Focused on Courage, Hope & Survival Read More »
By Gwen Pierce, The Chocolate Voice For many women veterans, service doesn’t end when they leave the military—it simply becomes less visible. Their sacrifices, leadership, and resilience often go unrecognized in the broader narrative of military history. But for Keshia Javis-Jones, Marine Corps veteran and Advisory Committee Member for the GI Film Festival San Diego,
From Service to Storytelling: Honoring Veterans at the GI Film Festival San Diego Read More »
LOS ANGELES, CA— Following the breakout success of its early micro-drama releases, MANSA is accelerating its expansion in vertical storytelling with the release of 10 original micro-drama series rolling out from May through July 2026 on its growing multi-drama platform. The slate will launch with three original titles premiering next month: Playing the Field, a
LOS ANGELES, CA — The stars aligned for an unforgettable evening at the Bobbi Kristina Serenity House 5th Annual “Celebration of Serenity” Sneaker Ball Gala, hosted by Emmy Award-winning actor and comedian Anthony Anderson. The star-studded event brought together a powerful mix of entertainment, culture, and purpose in support of the organization’s mission to end
By Holly Ramer and Tassanee Vejpongsa HAVERFORD, Pa. — A high school history teacher in Pennsylvania who helps students look inward to find their strengths and outward to find community inside and outside the classroom has been named the 2026 National Teacher of the Year. Leon Smith, 46, has spent his entire 25-year career at Haverford
PA AP Teacher Leon Smith Earns 2026 Teacher of the Year Honor Read More »
On April 15, community members gathered to celebrate The Teralta, a project that reflects both the history and the future of City Heights. What was once the 1948 Superior Furniture Co. building has been thoughtfully transformed into 73 affordable homes for families—while preserving the building’s familiar Art Deco façade that so many neighbors recognize. For
Where History Meets Home: The Teralta Brings Affordable Housing to City Heights Read More »
San Diego, CA (April 22, 2026) — Tickets for Cameron Mackintosh’s new North American production of The Phantom of the Opera are now on sale for its limited engagement at the San Diego Civic Theatre, running September 2–13, 2026. Tickets are available at the San Diego Civic Theatre Box Office and online at BroadwaySD.com. Group orders of 10
Tickets On Sale for The Phantom of the Opera at San Diego Civic Theatre Read More »
