Icon City News is your source for informed, diverse perspectives on global issues. Today, we're turning our attention to Eastern Europe, where a significant development has unfolded between Poland and Ukraine. Poland’s Prime Minister, Mateusz Morawiecki, recently stated that his country would cease sending arms to Ukraine as tensions mount over a trade dispute between the two neighboring states. This decision comes at a critical time when his populist party is facing mounting pressure from the far right in the upcoming national election. In a late-night television interview, Morawiecki revealed that Poland is “no longer transferring any weapons to Ukraine because we are now arming ourselves with the most modern weapons.” This move is part of a military modernization plan, sparked by fears of Russian aggression in the region. However, the Prime Minister did not elaborate further or explain how these two actions were mutually exclusive. Government spokesman, Piotr Mueller, offered more clarity on Thursday, stating that the country was now only providing supplies of ammunition and armaments that had been previously agreed to. He pointed out that “a series of absolutely unacceptable statements and diplomatic gestures appeared on the Ukrainian side.” This move by Poland signals a shift in its foreign policy and could have significant implications for the fragile balance of power in Eastern Europe. It also reflects the growing internal political pressure faced by the ruling party, particularly from far-right factions. At Icon City News, we believe it's essential to consider these developments from various perspectives. As always, we aim to provide insights that matter to marginalized communities, independent creatives, and entrepreneurs alike. We understand that global events can impact us all, regardless of where we live. Remember, our news matters. Stay tuned to Icon City News for more updates on this story and other important headlines from around the world. And don't forget to check out our weekly show, “The Commentary,” where Anye Elite offers in-depth analysis on issues surrounding black and queer culture, cannabis usage, and independent artistry and entrepreneurship. We're not just reporting the news. We're making it matter to you.

It is with heartfelt sadness that we remember the life and legacy of Dr. Stephaun Elite Wallace, an inspiring mentor who touched the lives of many in the LGBT community. He was a pioneering figure in advocating for people living with HIV, appearing at the White House to represent his cause. In addition to his advocacy work, Dr. Wallace was a dedicated mentor to black gay men like myself, offering guidance and support through both his words and actions. Dr. Stephaun and I first crossed paths in the vibrant city of Atlanta, Georgia, when I was only 19 years old. During those formative years, our conversations were a whirlwind of thoughts and reflections. He patiently allowed me to voice every fleeting idea that fluttered through my mind within the span of a minute, serving as a willing audience to my youthful energy. But it was his gentle yet firm challenges that truly honed my intellectual and emotional growth. He pushed the boundaries of my comprehension, nudging me to delve deeper into issues, to think critically, and to view the world through a lens of empathy. Dr. Wallace didn’t just set high expectations; he encouraged me to set them for myself, propelling me towards a path of lifelong learning and compassion. His mentorship was a gift, teaching me not just to navigate the world as a black gay man, but to leverage my identity to instigate change and create opportunities for others. At that time, Dr. Wallace was serving as an outreach coordinator for a local non-profit, relentlessly working for the betterment of the community. Meanwhile, I was a remote college student teetering on the precipice of dropping out. The academic pressure coupled with the struggle of reconciling my identity felt unbearable. But, it was in this tumultuous period that Dr. Wallace stepped in, radiating a beacon of hope and reassurance. His unwavering confidence in my potential, his constant encouragement, and his real-world experiences that he so generously shared, helped me stay the course. It was not just his achievements, like earning his doctorate from the renowned University of Washington, that inspired me, but also his perseverance, his resilience, and his indefatigable spirit to facilitate change. His life served as a testament that we could transcend our personal circumstances and use our dynamic identities to effect change and create opportunities, not just for ourselves but also for those who will follow in our footsteps. Dr. Wallace received his doctorate at Walden University in Washington DC, where he studied gender, sexuality and HIV/AIDS. He was instrumental in creating spaces for LGBT youth of color to gather, connect and build community with one another. In addition, he worked to create awareness about the intersection of HIV/AIDS and other social issues such as racism, poverty and homophobia. I was fortunate enough to be present in D.C. at his graduation, an event that filled me with immense joy and pride. Seeing Dr. Wallace receiving his doctorate from Walden University was a testament to his resilience and dedication. It was a momentous occasion that amplified his commitment to creating dialogue and understanding around the issues that touch the lives of those in the LGBT community, particularly those of color. His graduation was not just an academic achievement, but a beacon of hope for many of us, a signal that with perseverance, tenacity, and unwavering dedication to one's cause, we too can overcome the odds and make significant strides in our chosen paths. One of the most memorable experiences I had with Dr. Wallace was when I accompanied him, his brother, and his cousin on a deeply personal journey to Southern California. We were there to spread the ashes of his beloved mother off the coast. The air was heavy with both sorrow and a profound sense of peace as we stood together on the beach as Stephaun's younger brother swam out to sea with the urn. When the time came, we watched as he released the ashes. It was a somber moment, punctuated with silent tears and the comforting squeeze of hands held tight one each others shoulders. But amidst the grief, there was a kind of beauty in this last goodbye, a testament to the enduring bond of love that even death could not sever. This was another facet of Dr. Wallace's character - his ability to find and impart strength and grace in the most challenging of times. In that moment, he taught us that even in the face of loss, we can find strength in our memories, solace in our shared experiences, and hope in the continuity of life. Throughout his life, Dr. Wallace taught us that our dynamic identities can empower us to create change in the world around us. He was a passionate advocate for social justice and human rights, working tirelessly to ensure that all people have the resources they need to live their best lives. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us for generations to come. We will miss Dr. Stephaun Elite Wallace dearly, but are thankful for his contributions in making the world a better place. Let us honor him with our words and actions, remembering what he stood for and striving to create the kind of change he believed in. Rest in Power, Stephaun Elite Wallace! Your legacy lives on! How to Honor Dr. Stephaun Elite Wallace? Let us honor Dr. Wallace’s life and legacy by supporting causes that he was passionate about. We can support organizations working towards social justice and human rights, or volunteer

And it's full of exciting must-attend events for Black Gay Men and their allies. Breaking news! Brothers of the Desert, a local non-profit organization that empowers black gay men and their allies living in the Coachella Valley, has just announced their fall 2023 lineup of events. Their lineup has two annual events that have become staples on the LGBT and Black social calendars and a new event based on a popular game show. So, if you are a black gay man or an ally living in the Coachella Valley, get ready to mark your calendars and join Brothers of the Desert as they usher in their fall 2023 lineup of events. If the Wellness Summit and New Year's Gala weren't enough, Brothers of the Desert is kicking off the fall event lineup with a live rendition of the Dating Game. Local drag queen comedian Patty Cakes will host the event at the Palm Springs cultural center, with proceeds going to Brother's 911 Fund for members in need. The event is on September 9, 2023, and it will be an exciting evening for everyone involved. Next up on the roster is the Wellness Summit, a one-day event that features presentations from over a dozen thought leaders in the areas of physical and mental health, financial literacy, spirituality, and the arts. The Wellness Summit is now in its fifth year, and it has grown to fill the entire weekend. This event includes the Friday night "Meet The Speakers" opening reception, presented by Icon City Entertainment, which is in its third year and a soulful brunch on Sunday. The official summit is on Nov. 12, 2023, so make sure you mark your calendars for this fantastic event. Last on the list is the annual New Year's Gala, which is returning for its sixth year. Anticipation is rising as we wait to see how they will outdo last year's event, which featured a silent auction, a live DJ, and a performance by award-winning artist Niki Howard. The New Year's Gala will take place at the Margaritaville Resort and Spa. In addition to these exciting events, Brothers of the Desert has been busy with other programs designed to empower black gay men and their allies. The organization offers mentoring, networking opportunities, and training for members to work towards greatness. They have indeed made a significant impact in the lives of many black gay men in the Coachella Valley. Their efforts to empower and uplift the black gay community have been commendable, and their fall 2023 lineup is a testament to their commitment. The fall 2023 lineup from Brothers of the Desert has a little something for everyone. Their events are not just about having fun and socializing, but it's also about empowering the black gay community. The Wellness Summit and New Year's Gala have become an essential part of the social calendar, and the live rendition of The Dating Game will undoubtedly be a night to remember. So, mark your calendars and join Brothers of the Desert as they usher in their fall 2023 lineup of events. The Coachella Valley will never be the same again. #brothersofthedesert

If you're looking for an upscale dispensary experience in Palm Springs, then Emerald and Sage is the place for you. Located just down the road from Coachella, this cannabis dispensary has quickly become a hot spot in the Chino Canyon and Raquet Club West neighborhood. With a team of warm, knowledgeable bud tenders and a wide selection of quality brands, it's no wonder that Emerald and Sage is gaining a reputation as the bougiest pot shop in the area. One of the first things you'll notice about Emerald and Sage is the elegant decor. The store features Venetian plaster walls and bronze trimming, making it feel more like a jewelry store than a dispensary. But don't let the upscale atmosphere fool you – the team at Emerald and Sage is committed to providing their customers with the best cannabis products available. You'll find respected brands like PAX, Cannabiotix (CBX), and Kiva on their shelves. Located next to the Palm Springs Hotel and across from Toucan's Tiki Bar, parking can be a bit tricky. Visitors must access the parking lot through the alley behind the intersection of Via Escuela and North Palm Canyon drive. But once you're inside, the warm, knowledgeable team of bud tenders will make it all worth the extra effort. If you're looking for cannabis brands with a cause, Emerald and Sage has you covered. They carry American Weed Company, which works to legalize cannabis for veterans who can lose their benefits for using cannabis in some states. They also carry HUMO, a Latin-owned brand that seeks to encourage economic development in the Latinx community. But Emerald and Sage isn't just about the products – it's also about the people behind the business. The current management team at Icon City Entertainment brings their combined 10 years of experience in retail, entertainment, and events to the dispensary. They're backed by an all-star team of investors, including Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame inductee Matt Sorum. Emerald and Sage is more than just a dispensary – it's a destination. With its elegant decor, top-quality products, and commitment to supporting cannabis brands with a cause, it's no wonder that this dispensary is quickly becoming a favorite among locals and visitors alike. So next time you're in Palm Springs, be sure to stop by Emerald and Sage and experience the bougiest pot shop in town.

As the cannabis industry continues to boom, more and more people are showing interest in how these plants are grown. One person who has always been vocal about his love for cannabis and its culture is rapper Anye Elite. In his latest video release for his web series Smoke and Sound, Anye Elite takes viewers on a tour through the Desert Underground cannabis grow facility. Anye Elite got exclusive access to the facility, and for the next few minutes, he takes us through his journey. Anye Elite starts by meeting with the Desert Underground team and learns about their cultivation techniques that keep their plants healthy and free from pesticides during the growth process. The growers use an aquaponics system that recirculates water while introducing fish into the mix. The process ensures that the plants grow stronger and free of harmful chemicals. Next, we head into the cultivation room, where he is welcomed by a sea of cannabis plants, towering above his head. The grow room is filled with LED lights that provide the perfect light spectrums for the plants to grow properly. The team of experts controls the temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels to ensure the best environment for the plants to thrive. After the credits featuring Elite's 2017 release White Boy (see below) he has a chance to talk to experts about the different strains and their effects on the body. He learns that the cultivators are always experimenting with new strains to see which ones perform the best in their environment. It's a never-ending quest that requires a lot of patience and expertise. The tour takes him through the trimming room, where he sees the actual process of trimming cannabis flowers. The experts working here meticulously trim and sort the buds for different products like smoking and vaping. Anye Elite learns that crafting the perfect product takes meticulous work, and the team here takes care to provide consumers with the best possible products. As Anye Elite ends his journey inside the grow facility, he takes a moment to thank the Desert Underground team for their hospitality and expertise. He gained a new appreciation for the cultivation of cannabis and its complexities. He extols the virtues of legalization and regulation. By showcasing the process of growing cannabis, Anye Elite hopes to spread awareness about its benefits and encourage more people to look into the industry. Anye Elite's tour of the Desert Underground cannabis grow facility is a primer on the effort and attention to detail involved in producing high-quality cannabis products. The tour will help viewers appreciate the art of cultivation and the importance of regulatory control in producing quality medicine. As science and technology continue to advance in the cannabis industry, people like Anye Elite will continue to educate and entertain us about the magical world of cannabis. So to all the cannabis enthusiasts out there, sit back and enjoy the fascinating journey into the world of cannabis!

The San Francisco African-American Reparations Task Force is nearing the end of its mission to bring justice to the Black community. With this, the task force is aiming to complete its report by June 2, 2023. The Task Force recognizes the strong voice that the Black LGBT community holds. Thus, several listening sessions have been held with the Black LGBT communities to ensure that their unique perspectives are accounted for in the report. The last listening session will be held on June 1, 2023, to kick off Pride Month. Reparations for Black people have become an increasingly important topic in the United States due to the long history of systemic racism that has impacted the Black community. The questioning around what reparations will apply to the Black LGBT community has been posed. Although, the qualification process in reparations does have potential to account for Black LGBT community members and their experiences through healthcare, incarceration, education, access to capital, equity and equality, sexuality, and gender. Further progress in including the Black LGBT community's perspective is being called for in the upcoming listening session. This session aims to keep Black LGBT issues at the forefront of the push for reparations. Attendees are encouraged to share their experiences and bring awareness to any unique issues that the Black LGBT community faces. Moreover, sharing the session and inviting other Black LGBT community members to the listening session will be an important way to increase the voice of the community. The conversation that will be held about Black LGBT specific reparations in San Francisco will center on individuals who have lived, worked, or have family history in the city. The report will be based on Black-defined recommendations and finalized with support from outside groups. The premise of the session revolves around the goal of being able to include as many recommendations as possible in the final Reparations report before the deadline in June 2023. This session will be held through Zoom at 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm PST on June 1, 2023, and any Black LGBT person can RSVP at https://bit.ly/black-lgbt-reparations-sf. San Francisco's recognition of all Black issues, including the specific needs of the Black LGBT community, highlights the importance of these discussions beyond reparations. It is vital for Black LGBT individuals to know that their voices are heard during this process. As the deadline for San Francisco's Reparations report looms, the last reparations listening session aimed at the Black LGBT community will be held on June 1, 2023. It will give the Black LGBT community the opportunity to share their unique experiences and contribute to the final report. This report will serve as a source of justice for the Black community, addressing systemic racism and the issues caused by it. Now is the time to take action to ensure that the Black LGBT community's voice is heard, and recommendations are made to govern on their behalf. Your attendance and sharing of the event will play a significant role in ensuring that your collective recommendations are taken into account in the final Reparations report. Let us encourage each other to join hands and take action to drive change in our community's interest. In conclusion, while the duelling prides in Los Angeles appear to be a sign of division, they signify something more critical - the community's need for inclusivity. The events are a chance for people to come together to celebrate their differences, their similarities, and their love for each other. It's essential that every segment of the community listens to each other's needs and works towards unity. Let's be inclusive, let's be supportive, and let's be proud. For anyone who is looking to stay up to date with the latest and greatest in urban LGBT news and music, then look no further than FunnyMoneyRock. This content platform, powered by Icon City Entertainment, offers a wide range of content for fans of Hip-Hop and R&B. Music lovers can also check out the unique FunnyMoneyRockPlaylist, which is the only professionally curated playlist featuring exclusively LGBT Hip-Hop and R&B artists synced across streaming sites like Tidal, Apple Music & Spotify. The platform also hosts exclusive live shows through their series, FunnyMoneyLive. Through this concert series, queer artists and their fans can come together to enjoy great music in a safe space - all while having a great time! For any questions, comments or concerns, please contact the team at FunnyMoneyRock via email at team@FunnyMoneyRock.com. So what are you waiting for? Get yourself connected with FunnyMoneyRock today - stay informed and entertained in the urban LGBT entertainment world! Content pieces like this article are produced by Icon City producers around the world. Our motto is inclusive urban entertainment. Our mission is to provide visibility to thought leaders of marginalized communities as well as to provide commentary from the point of view of those same audiences on the trending topics of the day. Click here to be featured.

As the Pride month approaches, we have multiple cities hosting pride events to celebrate the diversity of the LGBTQ community. However, Los Angeles has been embroiled in a controversy for the last three years as it opted to shift its LA Pride event from its longtime West Hollywood locale to Hollywood. The move was an attempt to increase diversity and accessibility, but it's now led to businesses in West Hollywood creating their own pride event within weeks of each other, leading to a rivalry that raises questions about the divides within the community. The question is, why has this rivalry emerged? The answer may lie in the demographic differences between Hollywood and West Hollywood. West Hollywood has for long been a gay bastion of white male businesses and homeowners. With this pride event, they seem to be catering to their community's specific needs, such as showcasing primarily queer, gay men and their businesses. However, with the LA Pride event, there's a shift towards showcasing a more diverse range of people from the queer community. From this perspective, it seems that different communities are trying to cater to different needs. The dueling prides in LA raise questions about the strength of the LGBTQ community. Is it possible that these divisions will undermine what the community has fought so hard to establish? A divided community may not only undermine our strength but also the sense of collective belonging that we have striven to achieve. It's essential to remember that the LGBTQ community was founded on the shared identity of people who had previously been marginalized. We may have diverse needs or priorities, but we must work towards unity. While the dueling prides have highlighted differences within the community, one thing that they both share is national talent. In 2021, LA Pride will celebrate its event by hosting Mariah Carey and Megan Thee Stallion. On the other hand, the City of West Hollywood's annual event will celebrate Pride month with its own unique set of activities, beginning with a free show featuring Idina Menzel, Jessie Ware, Shangela, and Tinashe. These events only build on the cultural and social experiences that the LGBTQ community has to offer. The silver lining is that the dueling prides are a reflection of the community's increasing desire for inclusivity. We must not forget that every community must cater to its specific needs. However, we must also remember that all members of the queer community share a commonality, and we must work together to honor that. Further, multiple cities host pride events. In Los Angeles alone, aside from the competing prides, Santa Monica will also be hosting a pride event, and the City will also celebrate the Los Angeles Black Gay Pride during the week of the Fourth of July. In conclusion, while the duelling prides in Los Angeles appear to be a sign of division, they signify something more critical - the community's need for inclusivity. The events are a chance for people to come together to celebrate their differences, their similarities, and their love for each other. It's essential that every segment of the community listens to each other's needs and works towards unity. Let's be inclusive, let's be supportive, and let's be proud. For anyone who is looking to stay up to date with the latest and greatest in urban LGBT news and music, then look no further than FunnyMoneyRock. This content platform, powered by Icon City Entertainment, offers a wide range of content for fans of Hip-Hop and R&B. Music lovers can also check out the unique FunnyMoneyRockPlaylist, which is the only professionally curated playlist featuring exclusively LGBT Hip-Hop and R&B artists synced across streaming sites like Tidal, Apple Music & Spotify. The platform also hosts exclusive live shows through their series, FunnyMoneyLive. Through this concert series, queer artists and their fans can come together to enjoy great music in a safe space - all while having a great time! For any questions, comments or concerns, please contact the team at FunnyMoneyRock via email at team@FunnyMoneyRock.com. So what are you waiting for? Get yourself connected with FunnyMoneyRock today - stay informed and entertained in the urban LGBT entertainment world! Content pieces like this article are produced by Icon City producers around the world. Our motto is inclusive urban entertainment. Our mission is to provide visibility to thought leaders of marginalized communities as well as to provide commentary from the point of view of those same audiences on the trending topics of the day. Click here to be featured.

Of all the questions being asked amidst the ongoing political turmoil in the United States, one that seems to be taking center stage is whether the Republican Party will nominate a black man for President of the United States. With Tim Scott announcing his candidacy, one could say this question has been catapulted to the forefront. While the GOP has allowed African-American participation in the primaries before, it has never been taken seriously by their voters. So, the question is - is there really a possibility for a black GOP nominee? Let's explore. It is no secret that the GOP has been incompetent to appeal to the young and diverse voters. Over the last few years we have seen them make speeches about "rebranding" however this has amounted to nothing. For decades, the Republican Party has been seen as a party of old white men, certainly not a party of progress. And despite some efforts to change this perception, the party has consistently failed to appeal to people of color. This fact, paired with internal divisions and competition for power, makes it highly unlikely that the party will change its ways anytime soon Furthermore, it is important to consider the history of Republican primaries. In the past, whenever a Black candidate has entered the race, they have been perceived as nothing more than a token gesture. Rather than receiving the same level of support as their white counterparts, black candidates have almost always been dismissed as mere decorations, with no real chance of winning. This doesn’t only belittle black candidates, but it also highlights how Republicans do not take seriously the concerns and needs of their diverse voters. The fact that Republicans have allowed African Americans like Ben Carson and Colin Powell to participate in the past primary does not necessarily mean that there is a possibility of a black GOP nominee. In fact, looking at the history of Republican nominees over the years, it's quite clear that the party has a preference for candidates that fit a certain mold. For a black nominee to be considered, they would have to have the perfect background, a flawless record, and ideally, major establishment support. It is unfortunate that the party’s past actions suggest that a black candidate would not be able to meet such stringent requirements. The idea that there will be a black GOP nominee someday is a nice thought, but it is improbable that it will happen soon. In fact, given the current state of affairs in the party and the wider political climate, the future of the Republican Party looks bleak. Unless major changes are made, the GOP will continue to attract the same kind of supporters - white, older, and largely uninterested in progressive or diverse politics. Therefore, if the Republican Party is serious about changing this and becoming a viable alternative to the Democrats, they need to take a long hard look at their own values and philosophy. As we can see, the prospect of a black GOP nominee is slim to none. While there has been progress as far as black candidates’ participation in previously GOP primaries, it is very clear that the party still has a lot of work to do in order to truly become an inclusive political organization. If the Republican Party truly wants to start appealing to a wider range of voters and expand its base, it must start listening to minority voters rather than isolating or excluding them. Only then will the possibility of a black GOP nominee become a reality. Until then, the likelihood of a black nominee remains mere speculation. #republicanparty #nationalpolitics #timscott Content pieces like this article are produced by Icon City producers around the world. Our motto is inclusive urban entertainment. Our mission is to provide visibility to thought leaders of marginalized communities as well as to provide commentary from the point of view of those same audiences on the trending topics of the day. Click here to be featured.

The smell of smoked brisket, ribs and chicken is tantalizing and intoxicating. Coachella Valley residents have the privilege to experience these heavenly aromas because of Wholy Smokes BBQ! This mobile barbecue company has taken the Valley by storm with their delicious soulful dishes and passionate owners. Anye Elite recently spoke with the duo behind it all and got an inside scoop into what makes this company so special. Dive in to discover the secret behind Wholy Smokes BBQ, The Valley's best mobile barbecue! Amidst the pandemic, a new business rose to fame that became an instant hit- Wholy Smokes. The founder, Dione Rogers, perceived the opportunity to start a business that takes advantage of the surge in outdoor gatherings and events. Many individuals were looking for ways to cope with the uncertainties of the pandemic, and Wholy Smokes offers a perfect solution. With its delectable and delicious menu, Wholy Smokes offers a unique experience and flavors that are sure to leave an unforgettable impression on each of its patrons. It's a wonderful testament to how inspiration can emerge, even in the most unexpected of times. Attention all Coachella Valley residents! If you're on the lookout for black-owned businesses in the area, look no further than Wholy Smoke. This popular restaurant has caught the eye of our parent company Icon City Entertainment and has earned a spot on their "BlackCoachella.Biz" listing. This means Wholy Smoke is recognized for being a top-notch establishment owned and operated by members of the black community. So next time you're in the mood for some mouth-watering barbecue, head over to Wholy Smoke and support a local business that's making a big impact. Content pieces like this article are produced by Icon City producers around the world. Our motto is inclusive urban entertainment. Our mission is to provide visibility to thought leaders of marginalized communities as well as to provide commentary from the point of view of those same audiences on the trending topics of the day. Click here to be featured.

Hollywood is recognizing two LGBTQ icons who have made history with the upcoming biopic films about James Baldwin and Bayard Rustin. Get ready for an inspiring journey into their incredible lives and how these men shaped the LGBTQ community as we know it today. By taking a closer look at their stories, we begin to understand the impact of their courage and tenacity in an effort for social reform. Don’t miss the chance to witness these influential figures come to life on the big screen! Miss Thang, have you heard the news? Billy Porter is set to play James Baldwin in a highly-anticipated film about the life of the literary icon. It's about time somebody took on this important role, and who better than the fierce and fabulous Pose star? Porter has already made history with his Emmy and Tony wins, and now he's diving headfirst into his own personal passion project. You just know this movie is going to be a game-changer. I can't wait to see how Porter and co-writer Dan McCabe bring Baldwin's powerful story to life on the big screen. Bring on the drama and the activism, honey. Baldwin would be proud. The upcoming Netflix film Rustin is a highly anticipated addition to the impressive slate of projects highlighting black excellence. The biopic will focus on the incredible life of Bayard Rustin, a civil rights activist and strategist who played a pivotal role in the March on Washington. The fact that Rustin himself was a gay man adds another layer of complexity to his remarkable story. With George C. Wolfe directing and Colman Domingo cast as Rustin, it’s safe to say that this film is in great hands. The Obama’s Higher Ground Productions have consistently delivered high-quality content, and Rustin promises to be no exception. It’s exciting to see Dustin Lance Black, an Oscar-winning screenwriter, take on this project. This soulful film is sure to inspire and bring to light the contributions of an often-overlooked hero of the civil rights movement. Film lovers can look forward to a brand new Netflix release in 2023, an exciting prospect for avid streamers. The upcoming film, entitled Rust, has already completed filming and is now in post-production. However, fans of James Baldwin will have to wait a little longer for his film to come to life, as it is still in the pre-production phase. While it's always tough waiting for something we're looking forward to, the anticipation for both films is sure to make the eventual release all the more rewarding. Stay tuned for more updates on these highly anticipated titles! Icon City News founder Anye Elite's music has always been influenced by the triumphs and struggles of the African American community. In his 2016 release "Ode To Baldwin," he pays tribute to the late social critic and civil rights activist James Baldwin. The song not only honors Baldwin's legacy but also references other black gay icons like Bayard Rustin and Audre Lorde. Elite's music serves as an ode to those who paved the way for the LGBTQ+ community and the African American community. Through his art, he brings awareness to the struggles of society and the fight for equality, while simultaneously celebrating the community's rich history and triumphs. It is a reminder that music is not only entertaining but can also be used as a powerful tool to bring about change. Check it out below: Content pieces like this article are produced by Icon City producers around the world. Our motto is inclusive urban entertainment. Our mission is to provide visibility to thought leaders of marginalized communities as well as to provide commentary from the point of view of those same audiences on the trending topics of the day. Click here to be featured.

In the heart of Palm Springs lies the Arenas District, known to many as the city's proud LGBTQ+ district. However, recent discussion has surfaced about parking enforcement signs within this area—the signs seem to be purposely misleading, causing confusion for drivers and raising questions about fairness in parking regulations. Icon City readers are wondering why these supposed discrepancies exist and whether the enforcement is targeted towards those who frequent this popular district. A recent sighting of parking signs on Arenas Road in front of Black Book Bar and Rough Trade left readers scratching their heads. The signs read "20 minute parking Monday through Friday" in small text, but in even smaller text, it says "weekends and holidays." This is in contrast to the signs on Palm Canyon, which omit the Monday through Friday reference and simply state "20 minute parking including weekends and holidays." Some readers wonder if the confusing signs on Arenas are meant to take advantage of LGBT partygoers and tourists. Whatever the reason behind the inconsistency, it's clear that clear and concise signage is necessary to ensure fair and understandable parking regulations for all. The confusing signage leaves readers wondering if the ambiguity is intentional, taking advantage of the lively crowds of LGBT party-goers and tourists flocking to the area. Content pieces like this article are produced by Icon City producers around the world. Our motto is inclusive urban entertainment. Our mission is to provide visibility to thought leaders of marginalized communities as well as to provide commentary from the point of view of those same audiences on the trending topics of the day. Click here to be featured.

Although Elite's material normally includes LGBT themes, “Picture Me Free” takes it one step further by addressing economic and social issues beyond sexuality. Openly gay rapper Anye Elite is taking a bold stance with his new single “Picture Me Free”, an ode to black liberation and the negative effects of capitalism. This is Elite's first release in two years, and he brings a powerful message to the table. In the song, he samples the "Star Spangled Banner" and alludes to the pressures of living in a capitalistic society. Although Elite's material normally includes LGBT themes, “Picture Me Free” takes it one step further by addressing economic and social issues beyond sexuality. Through his lyrics, Anye paints a vivid picture of what it means to be black in America today and encourages listeners to fight oppression through self-expression. He wants people to know that they can take control of their own destiny and create their own path. "This is where we at now. People not sure what we're looking for . It used to be simple steady job and a house at the shore. Now it's the clout they got me too, I ain't no lame, just trying to maintain nah I ain't staving I'm still in the game" Elite speaks openly about his struggles being an openly gay artist, but with “Picture Me Free” he is making sure that everyone knows that this isn't just about him; it's about creating a movement for change. He wants to use his platform not just for entertainment but also for political advocacy. He hopes that this song will help people understand how important it is for us all to stand together against injustice and inequality. Anye Elite has always been passionate about using music as a form of activism, so “Picture Me Free” is no different. Through thought-provoking lyrics and captivating melodies, he invites listeners on a journey of discovery where they can find strength within themselves. With its empowering message, “Picture Me” encourages us all to break free from oppressive systems and find our true selves. The release of “Picture Me Free” comes at an especially crucial time as many are fighting for their rights around the world. Anye Elite hopes that through this song people will be inspired to take action and create positive change in their communities. His message goes beyond one individual or one issue; it is universal in its appeal because we are all affected by oppressive systems in some way or another. Anye Elite is proving once again why he is such an important voice in rap music today with his latest single “Picture Me”—a powerful anthem for black liberation and freedom from oppression everywhere!