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Derek Dixon, an actor known for his role on BET’s Tyler Perry’s The Oval, has accused Tyler Perry of sexual assault and sexual harassment during alleged incidents at Perry’s Atlanta home in 2020 and 2021. Since news of the lawsuit broke, questions about Dixon have continued to circulate online.

Although the nationwide boycott of Target for its retraction of DEI commitments has been successful, Pastor Jamal Bryant believes there’s more work that needs to be done. The Atlanta-based faith leader led the charge in the Black community and other minority groups to stop spending their hard-earned dollars at the major retail chain’s locations nationwide in February.

This financial protest followed the company’s response to President Trump’s executive orders passed in January to dismantle “illegal DEI discrimination and preferences” across federal agencies, according to Reuters. This included rescinding affirmative action mandates and disbanding DEI offices to remove all their DEI programs. 

What effect is the Target boycott having nationwide?

In addition to Target, companies like Walmart, Amazon, Ford, McDonald’s and Meta scaled back their DEI efforts. Since the boycott began, Target faced significant losses compared to other enterprises, as its stock value decreased from $145 to $93 per share, Atlanta Black Star reported. It’s lost approximately $12 billion in market value. Customer visits to physical stores have declined by nearly 8%, while online sales have taken an almost 10% hit.

According to Atlanta Black Star, Bryant says that it’s been “the most effective boycott for black people in 70 years since the Montgomery Bus Boycott.”

“We had so invited Target to the cookout that we gave them hood credentials,” Bryant added. 

Jamal Bryant says there’s still work that remains amid the Target boycott

Despite the impact of the boycott, Bryant says he’s “embarrassed” at the aftermath of it.

“So we’re cheering for Costco,” he said, per Atlanta Black Star. “So, in 70 years of the civil rights movement, we still don’t have one franchise that is Black. We should be so much further than that.”

Bryant went on to say Black-owned and operated “department stores” or wholesale stores that Black Americans could alternatively shop at.

“I can’t take you to a Black department store, but I’d take you to get wings. I’m taking you to get hair bundles. I’m taking you to get waist trainers,” he said about the city of Atlanta.

He continued, “We have confused settlements with victory.”

The philanthropist criticized the overreliance on social media and influencers, calling for a more innovative and organized approach to digital engagement, one that prioritizes impact over popularity.

“We ‘doing it for the ‘gram’ and doing it for the likes of trying to be viral,” he said. “We don’t know how to make money in that space because we want to co-host BET.”

Another notion Bryant emphasized was the need to expand the movement beyond just Black churches and civil rights groups by fostering collective accountability and collaboration. He argued that too much focus is placed on individual leaders when real progress requires shared strategy and unity. 

“So we’ve got a shift from who got the mic to say who has the plan,” he said. “The system understands the power of organizing.”

The baby of Adriana Smith, the Atlanta-based pregnant woman who was declared brain dead in February and kept alive on ventilators due to Georgia’s abortion law, was delivered early Friday morning, her mom said.

The lead singer of The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus banned all Trump/MAGA supporters from attending any of his group’s shows. Ronnie Winter recently posted a PSA announcement specifically for Trump supporters who had purchased tickets and planned to see The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus. Winter is an openly devoted Christian and longtime opposer of Trump and his policies. On Sunday, he uploaded an Instagram video making it clear that Trump supporters aren’t welcome to any upcoming shows on the band’s nationwide tour.

Why did Ronnie Winter tell Trump supporters they’re not welcome at his band’s shows?

The video clip had the words “IF YOU CALL YOURSELF A CHRISTIAN PLEASE WATCH” across the top.

“I thought I was pretty clear about all this stuff in 2020,” Winter began the video. “And as you notice on my Instagram wall, I did not remove any of that stuff from the ‘Stay Woke’ campaign I guess you guys are calling it from 2020.”

“Look, man, the thing about being woke is you’re awake,” he added. “And once you’re awake, you can never go to sleep. And not only has nothing changed, but everything they said was going to happen, the woke people, has happened. You have done nothing but prove them right, so here it is again in case somehow you missed it.” 

Winter also mentioned that he’s a devoted Christian who follows the teachings of Christ, and those who chose Trump on their voting ballot don’t.

“I actually follow what Jesus says,” he said. “If you’re a Christian and watching this and you voted for Donald Trump, shame on you. You are not allowed to come to my shows. I don’t want you there. Don’t come to my shows. It’s awesome that you love ‘Face Down.’ It’s not for you. It’s not your song.”

Ronnie Winter calls the ban against Trump supporters at his shows is ‘valid’ for a ‘lifetime’

Winter clarified that this notice extends beyond 2028 and is valid for a lifetime: “If you voted for Donald Trump, do not come to my shows ever. Not just like these four years. Don’t come to my shows because you’re going to hear a lot of woke propaganda, and you’re going to hear like the actual words of Jesus. You’re gonna see a lot of acceptance from all areas of life and races. And you’re just going to see a lot of like harmony, okay? That’s not what you’re about. Don’t come. Refunds are available. Forever, don’t come. Goodbye!”

Winter turned off his comments so critics couldn’t leave any remarks about his message. According to Mass Live, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus rose to fame after releasing their debut album, 2006’s Don’t Fake It, which included their hit single “Face Down.” Since then, they’ve continued to release music with four albums to date.

The group is currently on a 34-city summer tour that kicked off in Reno, NV, in early May; it will conclude in Orlando, FL, on Nov. 16.

In today’s pervasive media environment, it has become harder and harder to disconnect, log off and interface with the world in front of you without a screen. Unfortunately, this has caused some unsafe motorists to utilize their cell phones even while they’re behind the wheel, causing major distractions and endangering those around them. As cell phones and screens have become more commonplace, legislators have introduced a series of laws outlining how we can interact with our devices while driving. The latest line of regulations in this regard is the “no touch” laws, which have been introduced in over 30 states. Pennsylvania is the latest state to adopt these policies, under the official title Paul Miller’s Law, named for a 21-year-old who was killed in a tractor-trailer accident with a distracted driver.

To understand exactly what these no touch laws entail, and how they might impact you specifically, be sure to read ahead. We’ll be outlining the specifics for the newly passed laws and listing each state where this, or a variation of this, is in effect. It should, of course, be noted that driving while distracted is incredibly dangerous and should be curtailed even in states where no such laws apply.

What are no touch laws, and which states currently have them?

As stated, no touch laws explicitly ban the use of any cell phone or “interactive mobile device” while operating a motor vehicle. This means no doomscrolling social media, no web searching and no carelessly playing Subway Surfers while doing 30 miles per hour in a school zone. Hopefully, these aren’t activities you’re already accustomed to, though there are several gray area uses that no touch laws also ban.

For instance, those hoping to pick up the phone and check their texts while temporarily stopped at a red light or stop sign should be aware that this practice is also banned under no touch. You are also not allowed to interact with your cell phone’s GPS while behind the wheel, meaning those looking to add a stop or adjust their route will need to fully pull over and park before handling their devices.

There are still a few exceptions to these stringent no touch rules, such as dialing 9-1-1 during an emergency. You are also permitted to use your built-in GPS system (within reason) or communicate using an onboard radio if you’re operating a mass transit vehicle such as a city bus or school bus. No touch rules are now in effect in more than 30 states, as well as many American territories. Though they are sometimes referred to as “distracted driving” or “hands-free” laws, they all fall under the same general umbrella. States and territories with some form of no touch are as follows:

Alabama

Arizona

California

Colorado

Connecticut

Delaware

Georgia

Guam

Hawaii

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Iowa

Maine

Maryland

Massachusetts

Michigan

Minnesota

Missouri

Nevada

New Hampshire

New Jersey

New York

The Northern Mariana Islands

Ohio

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Puerto Rico

Rhode Island

Tennessee

Texas

U.S. Virgin Islands

Vermont

Virginia

Washington

Washington D.C.

West Virginia

Is it illegal to use your phone while driving in America?

Geography buffs may note that not all 50 states in the union are listed above. Of course, this doesn’t mean that those who live in North Dakota or Mississippi are free to doomscroll behind the wheel with reckless abandon. While some states lack comprehensive no touch laws, you will still absolutely be pulled over and penalized if a police officer catches you swerving all over the road because your eyes are locked on a screen. Distracted driving is always an offense punishable by warnings, fines and jail time, depending on the severity and frequency of the offense. If you happen to be in a state without no touch laws, it likely means that you’re allowed to hold your phone up to your ear while on a phone call, or glance at your GPS while waiting at a red light.

The punishment for distracted driving varies by state as well, and is even different in states that have no touch laws. For instance, those who break the Paul Miller’s Law in Pennsylvania during the first 12 months that the law is enforced may be subject to a written warning. Once the law has been on the books for a calendar year, there will be a mandatory minimum of a $50 fine, along with any associated court fees. If a distracted driver accidentally kills someone in Pennsylvania, they may also face an additional five years in prison due to no touch law bylines. Other infractions may result in having points added to your license, which can lead to a suspension or revocation of your driving privileges.

Can you talk through Bluetooth while driving?

Most states in the union, including those with no touch laws, allow for drivers to chat on the phone so long as they are completely hands-free. This means that you can accept a phone call before shifting into drive, and spend the entirety of your commute gabbing about your least favorite coworker. Still, you may be subject to certain regulations when traveling in school zones, military roads or certain restricted roadways. It’s always best to check your specific state’s guidelines on the matter before committing to a serious conversation during a road trip across town.

Can Uber drivers talk on the phone?

Uber drivers are subject to the exact same laws and regulations regarding cell phone usage as standard drivers. This means that most of the time, it’s okay for Uber drivers to accept hands-free phone calls via Bluetooth, but they cannot text, scroll or update their GPS system in states with stringent no touch laws. It should also be noted that some passengers may find it rude or distracting when their driver is on the phone, which could result in a poor Uber rating. Either way, it’s always best to err on the side of caution when driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it illegal to talk on the phone while driving in Wisconsin?

According to the Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles, it is illegal for probationary drivers such as junior operators to make hand-held or hands-free phone calls behind the wheel. Likewise, it is illegal for all drivers of any license class to use a hand-held device while driving through road work zones, unless they’re specifically dialing 9-1-1 to report an emergency. The state DMV recommends drivers turn their phones off before hitting the road, or pull over in a safe area before touching the device at all.

Is it illegal to hold a phone while driving in Texas?

Like the other states listed above, Texas has blanket hands-free laws which demand that drivers not hold the phone up to their ear while driving. Motorists are largely able to rely on Bluetooth in the Lone Star state, though it should be noted that drivers under 18 are specifically prohibited from using any handheld device while driving, even with hands-free technology.

How much is a ticket for being on your phone while driving in California?

California has strict laws regarding cell phone use behind the wheel, and offers a base fine of $20 for first-time offenders. While this fine may not sound significant, it should be noted that fees, surcharges and added assessments could raise that first-time rate to heights of $150, according to a California traffic attorney. Subsequent violations see the base price raised to $50, which could incur a total cost of $260 and include points on your license.

Bad Bunny is using his platform to criticize the presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers in Puerto Rico, as well as raids being conducted on the island. The artist, who is from Puerto Rico and has long been an advocate for Puerto Rican culture and pride, and has expressed his political affiliation in the past.

On Tuesday, the artist shared a video of what appears to be an ICE raid during which agents can be seen detaining people on Avenida Pontezuela in Carolina, according to Variety. He simply captioned the video, “ice.”

“Look, those motherf**kers are in these cars, RAV-4s,” he is heard saying in Spanish the clip posted on his Instagram Story. “They’re here in Pontezuela. Sons of b**ches, instead of leaving the people alone and working there.”

Bad Bunny acude a sus redes sociales para denunciar posible intervención de ICE con inmigrantes en PR. “Se tiraron aquí en la Pontezuela. Hijos de ___… En vez de dejar a esa gente tranquila trabajando ahí.”El vídeo aparece en los stories de Instagram de @badbunnypr pic.twitter.com/fc10rSkfqz— Milly Méndez (@MillyMendezpr) June 17, 2025

Bad Bunny isn’t the only artist to call out raids conducted by ICE. Olivia Rodrigo, Billie Joe Armstrong, Finneas, The Game and Kehlani are among those who used their platform to criticize the large-scale arrests, detainment and deportation of immigrants across the country.

ICE raids are being subjected to increasing criticism

ICE raids have been conducted in several cities across the U.S. It had led to several protests organized in Los Angeles and New York City to call out these actions taken by the federal government.

An ICE investigator estimated there are 20,000 immigrants living without legal status in Puerto Rico, Variety reported. Nearly 500 immigrant arrests have been made since Donald Trump’s second term.

Tyler Perry is facing a lawsuit.

The multihyphenate creator and studio owner is being sued by Derek Dixon, an actor from BET’s Tyler Perry’s The Oval for sexual assault and harassment. According to TMZ and People, Dixon claims the assault took place in 2020, after he was invited to Perry’s Atlanta home.

Dixon initially met Perry in 2019 when he landed the role of Dale on Ruthless. According to the suit, as reported by People, Perry would text him—sometimes with suggestive advances—but also stated that he wanted to find Dixon a job and change his life. These conversations led to Dixon’s role on Tyler Perry’s Ruthless on BET+

What Derek Dixon alleges happened at Tyler Perry’s home

As TMZ reports, the 2020 incident at Perry’s home is where things escalated. Dixon believed the visit would help him build a friendship that could lead to more acting gigs. However, Dixon drank too much while visiting and tried to sleep it off in a guest room. He claims that during the night, Perry entered the room, got into bed with him, and started touching his thighs. Dixon said he rejected Perry’s advances, but that didn’t deter Perry during their working relationship.

What the lawsuit says about alleged texts and Dixon’s role on ‘The Oval’

Shortly after the incident, Dixon was cast to reprise his role as Dale on The Oval, which led to Perry allegedly sending him sexually suggestive texts. These included questions about Dixon’s sexual preferences and statements about having sex with men. Dixon also notes that his character on the show was written as a gay, homeless and desperate store clerk who had to sleep with other characters for a place to stay. According to Dixon, this type of character resembled someone Perry told him he was interested in—”someone who would be loyal and dependent upon Tyler,” according to the article.

Dixon claimed he feared for his job, so he never outright rejected Perry’s advances. He was afraid that if he accused Perry of sexual harassment, he would be fired. Instead, he told Perry he wasn’t “the sexual type.”

Despite Dixon trying to distance himself by saying he wasn’t sexual, Perry allegedly continued. In another 2020 incident, Perry launched into a highly sexual conversation with Dixon, allegedly asking if Dixon “likes it rough in bed,” grabbing him by the throat and saying, “Look how excited you just got.”

A 2021 incident included Dixon being in Perry’s guest house in his underwear when Perry came in to give him a hug goodnight. That hug, which Dixon described as inappropriate, allegedly led to Perry pulling down his underwear, groping his behind, and telling him to “relax and just let it happen,” adding that the sex wouldn’t hurt.

Both incidents occurred at Perry’s home, and both times Dixon claimed he rebuffed Perry’s advances.

Derek Dixon’s $260 million lawsuit and Perry’s legal response

Dixon eventually quit The Oval in 2024, claiming he could no longer tolerate the mistreatment.

He is suing for quid pro quo and workplace sexual harassment, as well as sexual assault and battery. He is seeking $260 million in damages.

Perry’s attorney, Matthew Boyd, claims Dixon is trying to pull a shakedown scheme. He told TMZ, “This is an individual who got close to Tyler Perry for what now appears to be nothing more than a scam. But Tyler will not be shaken down, and we are confident these fabricated claims of harassment will fail.”

Bryshere Gray, known for his role as Hakeem Lyon on Fox’s popular television series Empire, faces criminal charges in Chesapeake, Virginia, following an incident with one of his associates.

R. Kelly issued a bid to be released from detention after he claimed prison officials have been plotting to murder him. He is currently serving a 30-year sentence for racketeering and sex crimes, as well as a 20-year sentence for a child pornography conviction.

The singer’s lawyers said he was moved to solitary confinement after their initial filing, according to The Chicago Sun-Times. Kelly reportedly stopped eating out of fear it had been poisoned. He was taken to the hospital after feeling dizzy and seeing black spots. He said he started feeling ill after taking medication as indicated by prison officials. 

At Duke University Hospital, Kelly was told he had been given an overdose. He was allegedly scheduled to go into surgery after doctors found blood clots in his legs and lungs, but prison officials removed him and put him back in solitary confinement, according to his lawyers.

Kelly is requesting to be put on temporary home detention because of these alleged incidents. He is also seeking a presidential pardon.

“We are engaged in conversations with multiple persons close to the White House and to President Trump,” a statement from his lawyers read, according to ABC 7 Chicago. “My client does not have the luxury to wait for vindication from the Courts that will follow the exposure of the corruption at the heart of his prosecutions.”

Kelly is currently being held at a medium-security prison in Butner, North Carolina.

Federal prosecutors called R. Kelly’s bid to be released from prison ‘repugnant’ and ‘deeply unserious’

“Imagine a scenario where any and every incarcerated criminal could go back to the criminal court(s) that imposed a sentence of imprisonment upon them, allege that they fear imminent harm and demand to be released from custody while the matter was investigated,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Julien wrote Monday, per The Chicago Sun -Times. “Every convicted murderer, rapist and terrorist will have a newfound shot at freedom.”

He added that Kelly “is a serial child molester whose criminal abuse of children dates back to at least President Bill Clinton’s first term in office — decades before Kelly was taken into federal custody.”

“Kelly has never taken responsibility for his years of sexually abusing children, and he probably never will,” Julien also wrote.

What happens next for R. Kelly?

A hearing is set for Friday, during which a judge is expected to look over Kelly’s claims. However, there are doubts as to whether the judge has the authority to look into the matter in the first place.