This Week in Good Black News: Doja Cat Raises Funds for LA Wildfire Victims, Aaliyah Gets Her Own Barbie, and Skilla Baby Helps Honor Missing Teen Na'Ziyah Harris
This week in good Black news, Doja Cat is stepping up for wildfire relief with a heartfelt merch line, Skilla Baby pledges to honor the memory of Na’Ziyah Harris with a community celebration, and Aaliyah is officially immortalized as a Barbie doll in their Music Series.
Plus, singer and actress Brandy is getting the ultimate gift on her birthday
From acts of compassion to iconic tributes, this week’s stories highlight resilience and impact within our community. Keep reading for more this week in good Black news.
Doja Cat helps victims affected by Los Angeles wildfires
Doja Cat launched a merchandise line this week to help those affected by the Los Angeles wildfires.
Partnering with artist Pini, the California native shared designs on social media featuring a person in a flowing blue dress embracing the state of California. The limited collection, available through January 30, 2025, includes hoodies, t-shirts, and posters priced between $25 and $60. The rapper noted that “100% of proceeds go to the American Red Cross,” urging support for her “beautiful state of California.”
50 Cent score box office success
50 Cent’s “Den of Thieves 2” dominated the box office, debuting at No. 1 and surpassing its predecessor's opening-day earnings with $5.8 million compared to the original’s $5.6 million in 2018.
Celebrating on Instagram, 50 shared, “Check me out Den of Thieves 2 🎥 #1 in theaters what a way to start 2025.”
Though 50 doesn’t appear onscreen, O’Shea Jackson Jr. and Gerard Butler reprise their roles in the action-packed sequel.
Skilla Baby Helps Honor Missing Teen Na’Ziyah Harris
Detroit rapper Skilla Baby has pledged to fund a celebration of life for Na’Ziyah Harris, a teenager missing since January 2024. In an Instagram post, Skilla expressed his intention to bring the community together to honor Harris while also criticizing her family for alleged failures in her care.
The case gained national attention as Jarvis Butts, 42, faces charges of murder, sexual misconduct, and child exploitation related to an inappropriate relationship with Harris. During a court hearing, Judge Aliyah Sabree condemned Butts as a "monster" and highlighted the neglect Harris endured. Butts has children with Harris' biological aunt, Shannon Harris, who testified she was unaware of any misconduct.
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Aaliyah gets her own Barbie
Aaliyah has officially joined Barbie’s Music Series with a collectible doll released on what would have been her 46th birthday.
Designed by Carlyle Nuera, the doll is inspired by the late singer’s iconic style. It comes with a certificate of authenticity and joins a prestigious lineup featuring Mariah Carey, Gloria Estefan, and Stevie Nicks.
Fans eagerly snapped up the retail item, priced at $64.99, selling it out in 30 minutes on Mattel’s website. While currently unavailable online, it may still be found at select Target stores or on Target’s website.
Brandy Set To Receive Star On Hollywood Walk Of Fame
Brandy will receive her long-awaited star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on February 11, her 46th birthday.
Brandy's mother, Sonja Norwood, posted on Instagram, "So proud of her as a person, her work ethic, and her drive to turn a dream into reality... I’ve been a part of her career from day 1!"
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce confirmed the ceremony date following the June 2023 announcement of the 2024 inductee class, which includes Sheryl Lee Ralph, the late Chadwick Boseman, and Angie Martinez, among others.