This Week in Good Black News: Roddy Ricch Hosts Free Meal Event, Quinta Brunson Honored in Philly, and Jamie Foxx Named BET Icon
This week’s roundup of Good Black News is all about community and legacy.
First up, Roddy Ricch is teaming up with Marathon Burger for a free food giveaway in L.A. that’s all about uplifting the city that raised him.
Meanwhile, over in Philly, hometown hero Quinta Brunson made an emotional return to her old stomping grounds, where she accepted the key to the city, gave back to local nonprofits, and teased what’s next for “Abbott Elementary.” And finally, Jamie Foxx is being honored as a 2025 BET Awards Ultimate Icon, marking a triumphant moment in his career and comeback.
For more on these stories and other good Black news, keep scrolling.
Burger King employee gifted over $50K in donations
Mykale Baker’s quiet dedication just earned him a life-changing reward.
The Georgia teen went viral after clocking in for his Burger King shift—still wearing his graduation medals—just hours after receiving his diploma from Mills Creek High School on May 21.
Maria Mendoza, a fellow parent at the ceremony, captured the moment in a 20-second TikTok video, moved by Baker’s commitment. “He didn’t do it for attention. He doesn’t even know his story went viral,” she wrote. “But thousands were moved by his dedication, humility, and work ethic.”
Mendoza launched a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $79,000 to support Baker’s future. She surprised him with the donations on May 26, bringing him and his mother to tears in an emotional video.
“I was thinking of taking a gap year because I didn’t have money for school,” Baker said through tears. “But now I might actually go straight to technical college.” Baker hopes to study mechanics, and thanks to this outpouring of support, his path forward looks a lot brighter.
Roddy Ricch teams up with Marathon Burger to give back to the city
Roddy Ricch is teaming up with Marathon Burger to give away 800 free meals this weekend. The event, dubbed “For the City,” will take place on Sunday, June 1st, at the Melrose location from 11 AM to 3 PM.
This collaboration aims to provide free meals, reflecting their commitment to giving back to the community. Attendees can expect a festive atmosphere with free burgers and complimentary Jaylen’s Lemonade, celebrating community and generosity.
Quinta Brunson honored in her hometown
Quinta Brunson returned to her hometown of West Philadelphia on Wednesday (May 28) to accept one of the city’s highest honors: a key to the city.
The Emmy-winning creator of “Abbott Elementary” received the award at Andrew Hamilton School, her alma mater, in a touching ceremony attended by students, local leaders, and family. “Even when I first walked in the door, I was like, ‘Oh, I’m home. I’m home. I’m in Philly,’” the actress shared in her speech. “This gym felt so big when I was a kid. Being back here really feels like coming home.”
The star also donated $50,000 to two local nonprofits and confirmed the fifth season of “Abbott Elementary” was officially underway. “We just started in the writers’ room last week,” she shared. “I’m really excited about what’s coming next.”
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Jamie Foxx to be honored as Ultimate Icon at the BET Awards 2025
Jamie Foxx is set to receive one of the highest honors at this year’s BET Awards. On Wednesday (May 28), the Oscar-winning actor and multitalented performer was named a recipient of the 2025 Ultimate Icon Award, recognizing decades of excellence across music, film, advocacy, and cultural influence.
Foxx joins an elite list of past Ultimate Icon recipients, including Janet Jackson, Deborah L. Lee, and Tyler Perry. The moment comes amid Foxx’s return to the spotlight following a serious health scare in 2023.
Foxx will be honored alongside fellow legends Mariah Carey, Kirk Franklin, and Snoop Dogg, each of whom will also take the stage during the show. The “BET Awards” 2025, hosted by actor and comedian Kevin Hart, airs live on June 9, with performances already confirmed from Lil Wayne, GloRilla, Playboi Carti, Leon Thomas, and more.
Black professionals unite to help rebuild Altadena after the Eaton fire
In the aftermath of January’s devastating Eaton Fire, a group of Black architects, engineers, and designers have launched the Altadena Rebuild Coalition (ARC) to help the community rise from the ashes.
“It seemed like a perfect opportunity for us to share our knowledge and expertise,” said Matthew J. Trotter, president of SoCal NOMA, whose members helped form the ARC.
The fire destroyed over 9,000 structures, with UCLA researchers noting that nearly half of Altadena’s Black households were impacted. ARC is stepping in with free workshops, expert guidance, and a trusted network to help residents rebuild smarter and safer, while fending off predatory developers. “We’re setting ourselves up to be a trusted partner in the community,” said Eletrice Harris of SoCal NOMA.
Architect Charles T. Bryant, who lost his own home, is now working with ARC to preserve Altadena’s unique character. “I don’t want to see large developers coming in… and stamping out houses like cookie cutters,” he said.
With efforts led by seasoned experts and emerging voices, such as USC student Kianna Armstrong, the ARC is prioritizing community input.
