The myth of “Black jobs”: Unpacking race, jobs, and political rhetoric

Over the past several months, Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump's claim that immigrants are taking “Black jobs” has stirred up a lot of emotions, ranging from anger to outright ridicule. This narrative has not only been a talking point in debates but has also sparked conversations on soc…

Culturally sensitive care: A retirement home for South Asian seniors

Imagine trying to navigate your later years in a place where the food, language, and traditions feel foreign. This is the reality for many aging South Asians in the U.S., and it’s what led to the founding of India Home, an organization that provides senior centers, co-living spaces, and even dement…

Why anti-immigrant sentiment lingers in NYC

Despite being celebrated as the nation's quintessential 'city of immigrants,' New York City is grappling with a surge of anti-immigrant sentiment. From Mayor Eric Adams attributing budget cuts to the influx of migrants, to persistent narratives blaming newcomers for societal woes, xenophobic rhetor…

Fringe Pilates and the Power of Community: A Conversation with Tay Milburn

Former kindergarten teacher Tay Milburn moved from Houston to NYC in 2019 seeking a new path but soon faced the pandemic and multiple surgeries for a tumor. Turning to Pilates for healing, she encountered racial biases, including being asked to stop using #BlackGirlPilates. Undeterred, she founded …

Queen B Bake Shop: A Passion for Pastry Rooted in Haitian Heritage

Raised in a Haitian household, Brigitte Malivert grew up surrounded by rich flavors, but it wasn’t until college that she discovered her love for baking. While on a pre-med track, she started experimenting with ben-yeh, inspired by Disney’s The Princess and the Frog, as a way to relieve the stress …

BONUS: How Indian American Leaders Defined a Historic DNC

We’re fresh off the heels of the DNC in Chicago, where we captured a powerful conversation between URL Media CEO Mitra Kalita and two trailblazing Indian American politicians: Arvind Venkat, Pennsylvania Representative, and Shekhar Krishnan, New York City Council Member. As the first Indian America…

Building Community Through Wine: The Journey of Harlem Wine Gallery

Harlem Wine Gallery is not just a place to buy wine; it’s a community hub where wine lovers and novices alike can learn, taste, and connect. Pascal and Danine Lewis, the husband-and-wife team behind Harlem Wine Gallery, turned their passion for wine into a business. Living in Central Harlem, Pasca…

Crochet clothes for your cat? The Bronx biz specializing in quirky cat outfits

Monica Martinez, founder of Black Kat Krochet, has turned her love for cats and crocheting into a business – one that’s not only a source of income but also a way to connect with her roots and her community. Monica’s journey began when she crocheted a sweater for her cat during a cold winter. Enco…

How Forest Hills high school students are taking on political education

Last year, Forest Hills High School student Salma Baksh found herself in a club aimed at discussing politics, but felt uncomfortable speaking up. Even with her best friend, Vilinez Estevez, by her side, the environment didn’t feel right. The discomfort led Salma and Vili to look for a space where t…

Brooklyn bike repair shop offers boutique services with a neighborhood feel

In Gowanus, Tijon Randall, Joy Liu, and Vincent Cabrera have created a unique space that blends top-notch bike repair with a welcoming atmosphere. They started by offering bike services out of their own home, complete with hospitality touches like snacks and beverages. This ethos of care and attent…