This Week in Good Black News: Erykah Honors D’Angelo, MacKenzie Scott Donates $38M, Jamaica Rebuilds, Rosa Parks Statue Unveiled, & Teyana + Angela Shine at Vogue
This week’s roundup is all about paying homage, lifting up, rebuilding—and looking fierce while doing it.
Erykah Badu transformed her stage into a moving tribute to her friend and collaborator D’Angelo, pausing mid-set to reflect on the nature of life and legacy before calling his name out loud to the crowd.
Meanwhile, philanthropist MacKenzie Scott made a historic impact with a $38 million unrestricted gift to Alabama State University, the largest single donation the HBCU has ever received, signaling a vote of confidence in the institution’s future.
Fashion and film collided when Teyana Taylor and Angela Bassett closed out the runway at Vogue World: Hollywood, proving once again that Black women don’t just participate, they dominate.
See the rest of the roundup below.
Erykah Badu Honors D’Angelo With A Soulful On-Stage Tribute
During a recent performance, Erykah paused mid-set to reflect on two kinds of death: when the body fails, and when someone’s name is no longer spoken. She then shouted “D’Angelo!” to the cheering crowd and performed two of his songs in tribute.
It was both a celebration of his artistry and a reminder that legacy lives on through remembrance and rhythm.MacKenzie Scott’s $38 Million Gift Transforms Alabama State University
Alabama State University, a cornerstone of HBCU excellence, received a record-breaking $38 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
The university’s president called it a “pivotal” moment affirming ASU’s power to shape the next generation of Black scholars.
Because the donation is unrestricted, the university can invest directly in its students, faculty, and future innovation.Here’s How To Help Jamaica Rebuild After Hurricane Melissa
Jamaica was hit hard by Hurricane Melissa, which brought winds topping 185 mph and devastating floods.
The piece highlights smart, sustainable ways to help from direct donations and amplifying local organizations to supporting responsible tourism once it’s safe again.
True rebuilding, it reminds us, goes beyond relief, it’s about long-term restoration and community care.
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Alabama To Honor Rosa Parks With A Historic Capitol Statue
For the first time, a woman will be immortalized on Alabama’s Capitol grounds.
Rosa Parks’ statue will face the very street where she made history by refusing to give up her bus seat in 1955.
The moment marks a powerful shift in how the state tells its story, honoring courage, not Confederacy.
Teyana Taylor And Angela Bassett Shut Down The Vogue World Runway
Vogue World: Hollywood became a celebration of Black glamour when Teyana Taylor and Angela Bassett closed the show in spectacular fashion.
Their commanding presence bridged the worlds of cinema and couture, reminding everyone that when Black women show up, they show out.
