The New Tri-State Defender

06/07/2026

06/07/2026

Richard Pryor’s daughter examines language, identity, family in ‘Something We Said’

“Something We Said: Richard Pryor, A Notorious Word, and Me” by Elizabeth Stordeur Pryor, c.2026, Simon & Schuster, $29.00, 304 pages…...

https://tri-statedefender.com/richard-pryors-daughter-examines-language-identity-family-in-something-we-said/06/07/

“Something We Said: Richard Pryor, A Notorious Word, and Me” by Elizabeth Stordeur Pryor, c.2026, Simon & Schuster, $29.00, 304 pages Sticks and stones may break my bones. You know the rest of that childhood rhyme, and you know it’s not true: Words have meaning, and they can cut like a knife. ...

06/07/2026

At our latest TSD in The Community Forum: Government & Public Policy, Mike Carpenter, Principal, Carpenter Civic Strategies, shared his perspective on the State Takeover of Memphis Schools, what it could mean for the future of education, and the steps that can be taken to ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved.

What concerns or questions do you have about the takeover?

Watch the discussion and join the conversation: https://youtu.be/_7EJTt9H5bM?si=QBYwngwjeCES2BsQ .

06/06/2026

The latest edition of The Tri-State Defender is here!

This week's issue brings you the stories shaping Memphis and beyond—from community impact and public policy to culture, entertainment, education, and the voices driving change across our city.

Catch up on the headlines, features, and conversations everyone is talking about. Read the full e-edition and stay informed with trusted news that matters to our community.

Read now: [https://issuu.com/thenewtristatedefender/docs/the_tri-state_defender_-_june_4_2026]

06/06/2026

In this WMC interview, Mike Carpenter and Dr. Darrick Harris share insights from this week's TSD in the Community forum and offer a glimpse into the meaningful discussions that took place.

If you couldn't attend, here's your chance to catch part of the dialogue. Watch this preview and stay tuned for the full video and story coming soon at www.tsdmemphis.com.

06/06/2026

After a whirlwind month marked by loss, responsibility, and public service, T.J. Hardaway is stepping into his father’s seat — but he’s determined to carve out his own path and define his own voice.

What does leadership look like for Memphis’ next generation? Read T.J.’s story and hear directly from the newly sworn-in councilman.

T.J. Hardaway is his father’s son. That much was clear in the way he accepted responsibility without much hesitation, stepping into the Tennessee House seat held by his father, the late Rep. G.A. Hardaway. It was clear in the way he talked about Memphis, public service, political leverage and the ...

06/06/2026

Historic alliance emerges to combat antisemitism, racism, and division through renewed Black-Jewish solidarity

TV personality Van Jones and media executive and philanthropist Shari Redstone joined more than 100 leaders from across the United States in Miami at the end of May for the National Convening on the Black-Jewish Alliance....

TV personality Van Jones and media executive and philanthropist Shari Redstone joined more than 100 leaders from across the United States in Miami at the end of May for the National Convening on the Black-Jewish Alliance. It is the first national gathering of its kind in more than 25 years, aimed at...

06/04/2026

Jackson State’s new president will get leadership training for a role previously marked by turmoil

By Candace Wilder Jackson State University's new president will receive a year of outside leadership training as she transitions into the job, which has been tumultuous for her predecessors....

By Candace Wilder Jackson State University’s new president will receive a year of outside leadership training as she transitions into the job, which has been tumultuous for her predecessors. Denise Jones Gregory took the permanent role of president on May 1 after holding the interim role for a yea...

06/04/2026

Shelby County Commissioners are still weighing options to fund an $18 million settlement tied to a lawsuit between the Sheriff's Office and county leadership. With millions already earmarked for overtime costs and operational expenses, officials are now exploring ways to cover the remaining gap without placing additional strain on county finances.

The debate raises bigger questions about transparency, budgeting, public safety, and accountability in Shelby County government.

What do you think commissioners should do?

Read the full story at TSD Memphis.

For the second time in as many attempts, Shelby County Commissioners failed to render a verdict on an $18 million settlement between the Mayor Lee Harris and the Shelby County Sheriff’s department during their Monday, June 1 meeting. On May 18, the mayor’s financial team presented the settlement...

06/03/2026

Happening Today!

Join us for an engaging discussion on government and public policy and be part of the conversation shaping our communities. Connect with local leaders, community members, and changemakers as we explore the issues that matter most.

There's still time to register and join us!

🎟️ Reserve your spot: [Discussing Government & Public Policy](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/discussing-government-and-public-policy-tickets-1989917518866?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

The Community Forum will focus on government and public policy in Memphis and Shelby County. The event will take place on Wed, June 3, 6pm.