Jusan Hamilton NASCAR Director

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Jusan Hamilton fell hard for fast cars, dreaming as a kid of a NASCAR career as he drove at dirt tracks in New York. He contended for wins, kept pace with top drivers as he bounced from series to series and trusted his talent enough to know that he could succeed as a professional driver.

What Hamilton didn’t see as his family traversed around tracks were other kids that looked like him. And while a dearth of minorities didn’t deter him from racing, it did lead other friends and family to wonder what he was doing with his time each weekend.

“Why does an African-American kid from upstate New York have an interest in motorsports?” Hamilton said he was often asked.

The answer was simple, based less on breaking barriers and blazing trails, and more about simply pursuing his passion.

“For me, it was, this is what I enjoy,” Hamilton said. “This is what I love doing. There’s a huge connection with me and my family to go to the race track each weekend and spend the time together.”

The 31-year-old Hamilton did make it in racing, not in a driving career that petered out -- to a great degree because of the financial strain on his family -- but behind the scenes for over a decade in NASCAR. He has worked in event production, social media, shepherded the series’ Drive for Diversity program (that rejected him as a teen) and eventually was named race director for NASCAR’s three national series.

On deck, his milestone moment: Hamilton is set to become the first Black race director in Daytona 500 history and only the third since 1988. He will watch from a booth overlooking the sprawling track and call the shots on everything from cautions to penalties to the clean-up crew, navigating the complexities of the race in the official debut for NASCAR’s Next Gen car.

“It’s not necessarily about being the first Black man to call the Daytona 500,” Hamilton said. “Career-wise, it’s a huge accomplishment for me, with the passion I’ve had for motorsports. Bigger picture, I hope it sets a positive example for others that, regardless of race and background, if you work hard and have a mindset toward your goal, it is achievable.”

NASCAR’s broadened diversity initiatives have made strides over the last decade, as the stock car series tries to bust traditional stereotypes and reflect all genders, ethnic groups and backgrounds.

“I’ve always felt welcome,” Hamilton said. “I didn’t think the perception was the reality of working here. I do think in the last two years, that was the right time for the company to make its internal stance, that I’ve always felt, known to the public. I think we’ve taken huge steps in our public perception.”

Bubba Wallace, who last season became the first Black driver to win a Cup Series race since 1963, has become the face of NASCAR’s diversity push. Wallace, who won driving for a team co-owned by NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jordan, found his voice as a catalyst for change and led the successful push for NASCAR’s 2020 ban of the Confederate flag.

He’s not alone as a person of color paving a new path in NASCAR. Take a look around the garage at Daytona and multicultural audiences are represented in a wide range of jobs.

Jesse Iwuji, a lieutenant commander in the Navy Reserve, will become the second fulltime Black driver this season with plans to run in the second-tier Xfinity Series. Iwuji co-owns his team alongside Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith, who enters NASCAR a year after Jordan and entertainer Pitbull joined the ownership ranks. Pitbull co-owns a team that has Mexican driver Daniel Suarez.

Floyd Mayweather Jr. has a car that will attempt to qualify for the Daytona 500, as does NY Racing, a team owned by Black entrepreneur John Cohen.

“Jesse, he’s been grinding so hard to make this work for him and being a dream for him, something he wanted to do when he retired from the armed forces, was really cool,” Wallace said. “That’s just him having the right people around him and helping him succeed. As far as industry leaders like Jusan, it’s really cool that he’s a voice that we hear out here for a race director.”

Noah Gragson raced his way into the Daytona 500 on the strength of team owner Linda Beard and Beard Motorsports. Busch Light announced this week it was “seizing the opportunity to make historic progress toward gender inclusivity” and committed $10 million to sponsor every 21-and-older female driver in NASCAR over the next three years. Among the familiar names expected to benefit from the “Accelerate Her” program include Xfinity Series driver Natalie Decker and Truck Series veteran Jennifer Jo Cobb.

Cohen has an ownership career that included five drivers and 17 starts from 2012 to 2018. He recruited Greg Biffle for his NY Racing team for a run at Daytona as an open car and secured sponsorship from Grambling State University. The 46-year-old Cohen credited NASCAR President Steve Phelps for his role in shifting racial attitudes within the industry.

“I got stories, you know what I mean,” Cohen said. “It’s different for me than a Michael Jordan. It’s a trap. People don’t know who I am. Even if you know he’s a NASCAR owner, you’ll still respect him because he’s Jordan. I’m talking about security, talking about fans, talking about everybody. It’s just a different feel for me than it would be for him.”

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Just maybe, not so far down the road, the days of the good-ol’-boy Southern attitudes will truly become extinct.

“People have this perception that it’s not really for you,” Hamilton said. “I hope that by what I’m doing, the next age group that’s coming up and has an interest like I do, they don’t get those sideways looks and those questions of why. It’s more something that shows, yes this is achievable. Someone has set an example and the pathway is there. If this what you want to do, by all means pursue the goal and you get that kind of support.”

McChere Childs of Philadelphia Beauty Standard are set with natural black women.

(BBR) In a world often dominated by unrealistic beauty standards, natural black women continue to stand tall, breaking barriers and redefining what true beauty means. Their power lies not only in their physical appearance but also in their unwavering strength, resilience, and unapologetic embrace of their natural selves.

1. Embracing Authenticity: Natural black women proudly showcase their natural hair, which comes in a myriad of beautiful textures and styles. From tight coils to flowing curls, each hair type is a testament to their unique heritage and individuality. By embracing their natural hair, black women reject societal pressures to conform and instead, celebrate their true selves.

2. Cultural Richness: Natural black women carry with them a rich cultural heritage that spans across continents and centuries. Their roots trace back to diverse traditions, languages, and customs, making their identity a tapestry woven with stories of resilience and strength. This cultural richness is a source of pride, connecting them to their ancestors and inspiring future generations.

3. Strength in Diversity: Natural black women come in all shapes, sizes, and shades, showcasing the incredible diversity within the black community. This diversity is a testament to the strength of their heritage and the beauty that exists in every shade of melanin. It challenges harmful stereotypes and promotes inclusivity, encouraging acceptance and understanding among people of all backgrounds.

4. Resilience: Throughout history, black women have demonstrated unparalleled resilience in the face of adversity. From fighting for civil rights to breaking barriers in various fields, they have shown immense strength and determination. Their ability to rise above challenges inspires others and exemplifies the power of perseverance and courage.

5. Cultural Influence: Natural black women have significantly impacted various aspects of culture, including art, music, fashion, and literature. Their creativity and innovation have shaped global trends, enriching the world with their unique perspectives and talents. From iconic hairstyles to influential fashion statements, their cultural influence is both profound and enduring.

6. Educational Advocacy: Natural black women are at the forefront of educational advocacy, promoting the importance of representation in classrooms and textbooks. Their efforts to bridge educational gaps and provide equal opportunities empower future generations to pursue their dreams and aspirations, regardless of their background.

In essence, the power of natural black women lies not just in their physical attributes but in their ability to inspire, uplift, and empower. Their journey towards self-love and acceptance serves as a beacon of hope for individuals striving to embrace their authentic selves in a world that often demands conformity. As society continues to recognize and celebrate the diverse beauty of natural black women, it paves the way for a more inclusive and accepting world for everyone.

Deion Sanders the GOAT of College Football Coaching for 2023-2024

(BBR) As the 2023-2024 college football season kicks into high gear, Black Business Review (BBR) proudly presents its declaration of the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in college football coaching. Amidst a sea of talented coaches, one name shines brighter than the rest: Deion Sanders.

Caption 1: "Deion Sanders: 2023-2024's Unquestioned GOAT of College Football Coaching."

In a sport steeped in tradition and history, Deion Sanders has redefined the very essence of college football coaching during the 2023-2024 season. His strategic brilliance, unwavering commitment to his players, and unparalleled dedication have propelled him to the pinnacle of coaching excellence.

Caption 2: "Sanders's Tactical Brilliance: A Mastermind of the 2023-2024 College Football Season."

Sanders's coaching style fuses innovation with tried-and-true methods, forming a winning formula that has left opponents astounded throughout the 2023-2024 season. His ability to adapt to evolving game dynamics, craft ingenious game plans, and nurture young talent into seasoned athletes is nothing short of remarkable.

Caption 3: "Deion Sanders: Shaping the Future, Fostering Excellence in the 2023-2024 Season."

Beyond the playbook, Sanders instills a culture of excellence, camaraderie, and unwavering determination in his players. He molds them into not just athletes but also future leaders during the 2023-2024 season.

Praise from Former NFL Stars:

Caption 4: "Former NFL Quarterback, Peyton Manning, on Sanders: 'Coach Deion's mastery of the game is unparalleled. He's taken his NFL wisdom and bestowed it upon the next generation.'"

Caption 5: "Emmitt Smith, Hall of Fame Running Back, adds, 'Playing for Coach Sanders would have been a dream come true. He's a football legend and an outstanding mentor.'"

Caption 6: "Former Wide Receiver, Jerry Rice, exclaims, 'Coach Sanders brings the same intensity and dedication to coaching as he did to his Hall of Fame playing career. He's a game-changer in the coaching world.'"

In a year brimming with coaching brilliance, BBR proudly recognizes Deion Sanders as the undisputed GOAT of college football coaching for the 2023-2024 season. This distinction honors his indelible impact on the game and his inspirational influence on generations of aspiring coaches and football enthusiasts alike.

A look at Black-owned businesses in the U.S.

(BBR) Nearly six-in-ten Black adults (58%) say supporting Black businesses, or “buying Black,” is an extremely or very effective strategy for moving Black people toward equality in the United States. While Black-owned businesses in the U.S. have grown significantly in recent years, they still make up a small share of firms and revenue in the country, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of Census Bureau data.

In 2020, there were an estimated 140,918 U.S. firms with majority Black or African American ownership, up 14% from 124,004 in 2017, according to the latest available data from the Census Bureau’s Annual Business Survey (ABS). Those firms brought in an estimated $141.1 billion in gross revenue in 2020, an 11% increase since 2017.

Despite this growth, businesses majority-owned by Black or African American people accounted for only 3% of all U.S. firms that were classifiable by the race and ethnicity of their owners in 2020. And Black-owned firms accounted for just 1% of gross revenue from classifiable companies that year. By comparison, Black adults comprised 12.4% of the overall U.S. population in 2020, according to the Census Bureau.

As has long been the case, White Americans accounted for a large majority (86%) of firms whose ownership was classifiable by race and ethnicity in 2020. These firms brought in 93% of all revenue from classifiable companies that year.

U.S. firms with Asian majority owners accounted for 11% of all classifiable firms and 6% of revenue in 2020. Those majority-owned by Hispanics accounted for 7% of classifiable companies and 3% of revenue.

It’s important to note that not all U.S. businesses are classifiable by the race or ethnicity of their owners. A business is classified as “majority Black-owned” if a Black owner has at least 51% equity in the firm. (The same is true for business owners of other racial and ethnic backgrounds.) In 2020, only about 4% of all businesses in the U.S. were not classifiable by the race and ethnicity of their owners – but these firms accounted for 62% of total revenue. For that reason, ownership and revenue figures in this analysis refer only to the roughly 5.6 million firms that are classifiable by the race and ethnicity of their owners, most of which are smaller businesses.

Smaller payrolls common at Black-owned businesses

Majority Black- or African American-owned firms provided income for more than 1.3 million workers in 2020, with overall annual payrolls at these businesses totaling an estimated $42.2 billion that year.

Most Black-owned businesses have relatively small payrolls. Roughly two-thirds (66%) had fewer than 10 employees in 2020; 14% had 10 to 49 employees and just 3% had 50 or more. (In the ABS, employment size is determined by the number of paid workers during the March 12 pay period each year, which coincided with the start of the U.S. coronavirus outbreak in 2020. During that 2020 pay period, an additional 17% of majority Black- or African American-owned firms reported no employees.)

For most Black or African American business owners in the U.S., their firm is their main source of income. Among those who reported data about their primary source of personal income in 2020, 69% said their business was their primary income source, while 31% said it was not, according to ABS data.

Black-owned businesses are more common in health care sector and in certain states

The greatest number and share of majority Black- or African American-owned businesses are in the health care and social assistance sector. In 2020, more than 38,000 of the nearly 141,000 U.S. companies with majority Black or African American ownership, or 28% of the total, were in this sector.

Looked at a different way, 7% of all classifiable U.S. businesses in the health care and social assistance sector had Black or African American majority owners that year.

Professional, scientific and technical services was the second-most common sector, accounting for 14% of majority Black- or African American-owned businesses in 2020. Other common sectors included administrative and support and waste management and remediation services (9%) and construction (7%).

An overwhelming majority (88%) of Black- or African American-owned businesses are located in urban areas. Just 6% are in rural areas – that is, places with fewer than 2,500 inhabitants, under the Census Bureau’s definition. Three of the four most populous states also lead in the number of estimated businesses with majority Black or African American ownership: Florida had 15,149 such businesses in 2020, California had 13,729 and New York had 12,636. But majority Black- or African American-owned businesses made up the greatest share of all classifiable firms in the District of Columbia, Georgia and Maryland.

More than half of Black business owners are men

The gender divide among all U.S. business owners extends to Black or African American business owners, though by a smaller margin. Among all U.S. firms whose ownership is classifiable by gender, 63% were majority-owned by men in 2020, while 22% were owned by women and 15% had equal male-female ownership that year. By comparison, 55% of majority Black- or African American-owned businesses in 2020 had male owners, while 37% were owned by women and 8% had equal male-female ownership.

Roughly half (52%) of Black or African American business owners who reported their age grouping were 35 t0 54 in 2020; an additional 25% were ages 55 to 64. A majority of those who reported their educational background had an undergraduate degree or more education. About a quarter (26%) had a bachelor’s degree, and another 34% had some form of degree beyond a bachelor’s.

The Unfinished Business of Racial Equality

(BBR) 2023 As we stand on the threshold of October 3, 2024, it is crucial to reflect on the state of Black America today. Despite the progress made over the years, the struggle for racial equality continues to shape the lives of millions. Systemic disparities persist, and the fight for justice, education, and economic opportunity is far from over. In this pivotal moment, it is imperative that we come together as a nation, acknowledging the challenges faced by Black Americans and committing to a future of empowerment, unity, and understanding.

The Unfinished Business of Racial Equality

The year 2024 marks more than half a century since the Civil Rights Act was passed, a legislative milestone that aimed to dismantle segregation and discrimination. Yet, the promise of equal opportunities remains unfulfilled for many Black Americans. Structural racism still influences our institutions, leading to disparities in education, healthcare, criminal justice, and economic mobility. The persistent racial wealth gap, discriminatory practices, and unequal access to quality education perpetuate a cycle of disadvantage for Black communities.

Criminal Justice Reform and Policing

One of the most urgent issues facing Black America today is the need for criminal justice reform. The over-policing of Black communities, racial profiling, and harsh sentencing disproportionately affect Black individuals. Police violence against Black Americans continues to be a deeply troubling reality, sparking nationwide protests and calls for accountability. To move forward, we must address these systemic issues, promote community-oriented policing, and invest in programs that support mental health and de-escalation training for law enforcement officers.

Education as the Great Equalizer

Education is the cornerstone of progress and the key to breaking the cycle of poverty. Yet, educational disparities persist, with underfunded schools in predominantly Black neighborhoods facing numerous challenges. Closing the achievement gap requires equitable funding, access to high-quality teachers, and resources that empower students, regardless of their zip code. Additionally, promoting the teaching of diverse histories and cultures can foster understanding and unity among all Americans.

Economic Empowerment and Entrepreneurship

Economic empowerment is essential for dismantling systemic barriers. Creating pathways to entrepreneurship, supporting Black-owned businesses, and providing access to capital can spur economic growth within Black communities. Financial literacy education and affordable housing initiatives can further empower individuals and families, fostering stability and economic self-sufficiency.

The Power of Unity and Allyship

Progress toward racial equality requires the active participation of all Americans. It demands empathy, understanding, and a commitment to dismantling racist beliefs and practices. Allies from all walks of life can amplify the voices of Black Americans, advocate for policy changes, and challenge discriminatory behavior. By fostering dialogue, embracing diversity, and promoting inclusion, we can create a society where everyone is valued and respected.

Looking Forward

On this October 3, 2024, let us acknowledge the challenges faced by Black America while embracing the immense strength, resilience, and contributions of Black individuals to our society. By standing together, we can create a future where every person, regardless of their race, has an equal opportunity to thrive. It is only through collective effort, understanding, and unwavering commitment that we can truly achieve a just and equitable society for all.

Authoor Alexis Coates of The Magnet Effect

(BBR) Alexis Coates, a renowned author and expert in the field of psychology, has released a groundbreaking new book titled "The Magnet Effect: Why People Are Attracted to Powerful People." This thought-provoking work delves into the intricate psychology behind the human attraction to individuals possessing power.

According to Coates, there are multiple underlying reasons why people find themselves drawn to powerful individuals. One significant factor is humanity's innate inclination to be attracted to those who are perceived as successful. Success is commonly associated with traits such as strength, intelligence, and competence. When encountering powerful individuals, people often assume that these qualities are present, fostering an automatic attraction.

Another key aspect contributing to the attraction towards powerful individuals is the sense of security they provide. Coates suggests that being in the presence of a powerful person gives individuals a feeling of protection against potential harm. Power is frequently associated with control, leading people to trust and seek solace in those who possess authority over their surroundings.

Furthermore, the desire to emulate powerful individuals plays a pivotal role in the attraction dynamic. Coates explains that humans possess an inherent aspiration for success and view powerful people as role models who can guide them towards achieving their goals. The presence of powerful individuals sparks inspiration and motivation, propelling individuals to strive for personal growth and development.

"The Magnet Effect" offers captivating insights into the psychology behind power. Coates shares profound observations on why people are naturally drawn to powerful individuals and provides practical advice on leveraging power to one's advantage.

To delve into this fascinating topic further, "The Magnet Effect" is available for purchase on Amazon and other leading retailers.

About the Author:

sAlexis Coates is a distinguished businessman and author with expertise in the realm of power dynamics and psychology. Renowned for his profound insights, Coates has published several influential books on the subject, including "The Magnet Effect" and "The Power of Persuasion." Additionally, he frequently imparts his knowledge as a sought-after speaker on power and influence.