Lewis Hamilton will begin his campaign for a record-equalling seventh world title on Sunday on a grid where rivals are pushing back at his passionate anti-racism message after he suggested they lacked understanding of the issues.

Hamilton will start the delayed season opener at the Red Bull Ring in the foothills of the spectacular Styrian Alps second on the grid alongside Mercedes teammate Valtteri Bottas.

However, before lights out, eyes will be on how many knees will be down on the tarmac in support of Black Lives Matter.

Some of the 20 drivers may prefer to demonstrate their support by staying on their feet.

What appears to be a split became clear when Hamilton, the&nbsp;sport's only black world champion, revealed his thoughts following Friday's drivers meeting and a statement issued on their behalf by the Grand Prix Drivers Association (GPDA).

It is expected that the drivers will all wear t-shirts in support of their stance against racism, but Hamilton hinted their reluctance to go further and take a knee may be due to a lack of understanding of racism.

He said he had explained his views to his fellow-drivers, pointing out that silence is "generally complicit".

"I think it is part of a dialogue of people trying to understand because there are still some who don't fully understand what is happening and the reason for these protests," said the 35-year-old.

"I continue to try to be that guider and try to influence as many people as I can."

In a statement, the GPDA chairman Alex Wurz said: "All 20 drivers stand united with their teams against racism," adding that they would show their public support for the cause ahead of Sunday's race, but recognising and respecting that each individual has the freedom to show their support in their own way.

After qualifying second behind Bottas for Sunday's race, Hamilton said he had acknowledged a lot of the drivers who had followed a message he posted by ending their silence and using their social media platforms "because they have a great voice and platform."

The drivers are expected to wear t-shirts bearing a message "End Racism" before the race.

He said he had not decided what he would do before the race.&nbsp;

"I don't have any plans – I haven't thought that far forward, but I am sure that over the evening, we will.

"It was good that we are all at least in discussion."

On the track on Saturday, meanwhile, Finnish driver Bottas outpaced Hamilton with a best lap in qualifying in one minute and 2.939 seconds and then survived an 'off' into the gravel and a spin on his final lap to remain 0.012 seconds clear of the Briton.

It was Bottas' third pole at the Austrian Grand Prix and the 12th of his career.

Max Verstappen was third for Red Bull, half a second adrift of the two newly-painted 'black arrows' cars whose dominating performance delivered a 65th front row lock out for Mercedes, equalling Ferrari's record.

Lando Norris was an impressive fourth for McLaren ahead of Alex Albon in the second Red Bull and Sergio Perez who was sixth in Racing Point's 'pink Mercedes'.

Charles Leclerc was a disappointed seventh for Ferrari ahead of his future team-mate Carlos Sainz in the second McLaren, Lance Stroll in the second Racing Point and Daniel Ricciardo of Renault.

Lewis Hamilton will begin his campaign for a record-equalling seventh world title on Sunday on a grid where rivals are pushing back at his passionate anti-racism message after he suggested they lacked understanding of the issues.

Lewis Hamilton will begin his campaign for a record-equalling seventh world title on Sunday on a grid where rivals are pushing back at his passionate anti-racism message after he suggested they lacked understanding of the issues. Hamilton will start the delayed season opener at the Red Bull Ring in the foothills of the spectacular Styrian Alps second on the grid alongside Mercedes teammate Valtteri Bottas. However, before lights out, eyes will be on how many knees will be down on the tarmac in support of Black Lives Matter. Some of the 20 drivers may prefer to demonstrate their support by staying on their feet. What appears to be a split became clear when Hamilton, the sport's only black world champion, revealed his thoughts following Friday's drivers meeting and a statement issued on their behalf by the Grand Prix Drivers Association (GPDA). It is expected that the drivers will all wear t-shirts in support of their stance against racism, but Hamilton hinted their reluctance to go further and take a knee may be due to a lack of understanding of racism. He said he had explained his views to his fellow-drivers, pointing out that silence is "generally complicit". "I think it is part of a dialogue of people trying to understand because there are still some who don't fully understand what is happening and the reason for these protests," said the 35-year-old. "I continue to try to be that guider and try to influence as many people as I can." In a statement, the GPDA chairman Alex Wurz said: "All 20 drivers stand united with their teams against racism," adding that they would show their public support for the cause ahead of Sunday's race, but recognising and respecting that each individual has the freedom to show their support in their own way. After qualifying second behind Bottas for Sunday's race, Hamilton said he had acknowledged a lot of the drivers who had followed a message he posted by ending their silence and using their social media platforms "because they have a great voice and platform." The drivers are expected to wear t-shirts bearing a message "End Racism" before the race. He said he had not decided what he would do before the race. "I don't have any plans – I haven't thought that far forward, but I am sure that over the evening, we will. "It was good that we are all at least in discussion." On the track on Saturday, meanwhile, Finnish driver Bottas outpaced Hamilton with a best lap in qualifying in one minute and 2.939 seconds and then survived an 'off' into the gravel and a spin on his final lap to remain 0.012 seconds clear of the Briton. It was Bottas' third pole at the Austrian Grand Prix and the 12th of his career. Max Verstappen was third for Red Bull, half a second adrift of the two newly-painted 'black arrows' cars whose dominating performance delivered a 65th front row lock out for Mercedes, equalling Ferrari's record. Lando Norris was an impressive fourth for McLaren ahead of Alex Albon in the second Red Bull and Sergio Perez who was sixth in Racing Point's 'pink Mercedes'. Charles Leclerc was a disappointed seventh for Ferrari ahead of his future team-mate Carlos Sainz in the second McLaren, Lance Stroll in the second Racing Point and Daniel Ricciardo of Renault.

Lewis Hamilton's path to seventh world title may begin on its knees

Two protesters were injured, one critically, in Seattle early on Saturday, when the women were hit by a speeding car that drove past other stopped vehicles into a crowd demonstrating on an interstate highway, police said.

The driver of the car, a 27-year-old Seattle man, was arrested at the scene of the incident, which occurred at about 1:30 a.m. PDT (0830 GMT), and faces multiple felony charges, Washington State Patrol Trooper Chase Van Cleave said by phone.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-f-16-fighter-jet-crashes-in-south-carolina-310067">Also watch:&nbsp;US F-16 fighter jet crashes in South Carolina</a>

"He was placed in custody when troopers arrived on scene," Van Cleave said by phone. "The investigation is still ongoing. At this time we`re not suspecting drugs or alcohol as a factor in the crash."

Police did not identify the suspect or the victims, both women, one of whom is in her 30s and hospitalized in serious condition. The other woman, who is in her 20s, sustained life-threatening injuries and was listed in critical condition, Van Cleave said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-explosions-rock-somalian-cities-4-dead-several-injured-310717">Also read:&nbsp;Two explosions rock Somalian cities; 4 dead, several injured</a>

Investigators do not know whether the driver intended to hit the demonstrators, he said. Seattle has been the scene of numerous demonstrations, some of them on interstate highways, since the May 25 killing of George Floyd on a Minneapolis street while he was in police custody, which was captured on video.

A video of the Seattle incident shared on social media shows a lone white car speeding up Interstate-5, swerving to avoid a van that was parked to block the roadway and heading toward a small group of panicked protesters who tried to scurry away.

The car can be seen striking two individuals near the side of the roadway, both of whom were flipped over the car`s roof before landing on the pavement.

Two protesters were injured, one critically, in Seattle early on Saturday, when the women were hit by a speeding car that drove past other stopped vehicles into a crowd demonstrating on an interstate highway, police said.

Two protesters were injured, one critically, in Seattle early on Saturday, when the women were hit by a speeding car that drove past other stopped vehicles into a crowd demonstrating on an interstate highway, police said. The driver of the car, a 27-year-old Seattle man, was arrested at the scene of the incident, which occurred at about 1:30 a.m. PDT (0830 GMT), and faces multiple felony charges, Washington State Patrol Trooper Chase Van Cleave said by phone. Also watch: US F-16 fighter jet crashes in South Carolina "He was placed in custody when troopers arrived on scene," Van Cleave said by phone. "The investigation is still ongoing. At this time we`re not suspecting drugs or alcohol as a factor in the crash." Police did not identify the suspect or the victims, both women, one of whom is in her 30s and hospitalized in serious condition. The other woman, who is in her 20s, sustained life-threatening injuries and was listed in critical condition, Van Cleave said. Also read: Two explosions rock Somalian cities; 4 dead, several injured Investigators do not know whether the driver intended to hit the demonstrators, he said. Seattle has been the scene of numerous demonstrations, some of them on interstate highways, since the May 25 killing of George Floyd on a Minneapolis street while he was in police custody, which was captured on video. A video of the Seattle incident shared on social media shows a lone white car speeding up Interstate-5, swerving to avoid a van that was parked to block the roadway and heading toward a small group of panicked protesters who tried to scurry away. The car can be seen striking two individuals near the side of the roadway, both of whom were flipped over the car`s roof before landing on the pavement.

Two Seattle protesters hit by car on highway, one critically injured

Three Colorado police officers were fired and a fourth resigned after they shared photographs they took of themselves re-enacting a chokehold officers used to subdue a Black man who later died, authorities said on Friday.

Vanessa Wilson, interim chief of police in the Denver suburb of Aurora, called the officers' actions surrounding the death of Elijah McClain, who was unarmed, "reprehensible."

"I am disgusted to my core," Wilson said at a news conference announcing the firings.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ex-atlanta-policeman-charged-with-felony-murder-of-rayshard-brooks-306662">Ex-Atlanta policeman charged with felony murder of Rayshard Brooks</a>

The officers who were terminated were named as Jason Rosenblatt, Erica Marrero and Kyle Dittrich. The fourth officer, Jaron Jones, resigned on Tuesday.

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Aurora Police Department officers Erica Marrero, Jaron Jones and Kyle Dittrich pose near a memorial to Elijah McClain, in Aurora, Colorado, US&nbsp;October 2019. Aurora Police Department/Handout via REUTERS

One photo depicts Dittrich and Jones recreating a carotid neck hold, while a grinning Marrero stands nearby. The pictures, which were released on Friday by authorities, were taken near the site where the fatal struggle took place.

Rosenblatt, who was among the officers who subdued McClain, was fired for responding "HaHa" after receiving the photo, Wilson said.

The McClain family attorney, Mari Newman, said police not only killed an innocent man but felt empowered to make a "mockery" of the incident by re-enacting it.

McClain, 23, was walking along a street in Aurora in August 2019 when he was approached by three officers on reports of a man acting suspiciously, although he had not committed any crimes.

During the confrontation, McClain said he could not breathe, according to audio recordings released by police.

The officers subdued McClain with the carotid chokehold, and paramedics later injected him with the sedative ketamine. He then went into cardiac arrest and was taken off life support days later.

A local prosecutor declined to file charges against the officers or paramedics, citing an autopsy that listed the cause of death as undetermined.

Colorado Governor Jared Polis has appointed a special prosecutor to review the case, and this week the FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice said they are investigating whether McClain's civil rights were violated.

Three Colorado police officers were fired and a fourth resigned after they shared photographs they took of themselves re-enacting a chokehold officers used to subdue a Black man who later died, authorities said on Friday.

Three Colorado police officers were fired and a fourth resigned after they shared photographs they took of themselves re-enacting a chokehold officers used to subdue a Black man who later died, authorities said on Friday. Vanessa Wilson, interim chief of police in the Denver suburb of Aurora, called the officers' actions surrounding the death of Elijah McClain, who was unarmed, "reprehensible." "I am disgusted to my core," Wilson said at a news conference announcing the firings. Also read: Ex-Atlanta policeman charged with felony murder of Rayshard Brooks The officers who were terminated were named as Jason Rosenblatt, Erica Marrero and Kyle Dittrich. The fourth officer, Jaron Jones, resigned on Tuesday. Aurora Police Department officers Erica Marrero, Jaron Jones and Kyle Dittrich pose near a memorial to Elijah McClain, in Aurora, Colorado, US October 2019. Aurora Police Department/Handout via REUTERS One photo depicts Dittrich and Jones recreating a carotid neck hold, while a grinning Marrero stands nearby. The pictures, which were released on Friday by authorities, were taken near the site where the fatal struggle took place. Rosenblatt, who was among the officers who subdued McClain, was fired for responding "HaHa" after receiving the photo, Wilson said. The McClain family attorney, Mari Newman, said police not only killed an innocent man but felt empowered to make a "mockery" of the incident by re-enacting it. McClain, 23, was walking along a street in Aurora in August 2019 when he was approached by three officers on reports of a man acting suspiciously, although he had not committed any crimes. During the confrontation, McClain said he could not breathe, according to audio recordings released by police. The officers subdued McClain with the carotid chokehold, and paramedics later injected him with the sedative ketamine. He then went into cardiac arrest and was taken off life support days later. A local prosecutor declined to file charges against the officers or paramedics, citing an autopsy that listed the cause of death as undetermined. Colorado Governor Jared Polis has appointed a special prosecutor to review the case, and this week the FBI and the U.S. Department of Justice said they are investigating whether McClain's civil rights were violated.

Colorado police officers fired after photos mocking death of Black man surface

Berlin's public transport company BVG said on Saturday that completing the renaming of a city centre metro station with a name based on a derogatory word for Black people will take until the end of the year.

"Mohrenstrasse" metro station literally means Moor Street, using the medieval term for people from North Africa.

It will be renamed after another nearby street, Glinkastrasse, named after 19th century Russian composer Mikhail Ivanovich Glinka.

BVG said on Friday it would change the station name, amid a worldwide reckoning with buried legacies of racism and colonial crimes underpinning many western societies, sparked by the death in the United States of George Floyd, a Black man, at the hands of a police officer.

The station lies a few hundred metres from the Brandenburg Gate at the very centre of Berlin, and has had a string of names since it was opened in 1908.

"We will change all network plans, signs at the stations and on buses. Everything must be changed on the subways," said Rolf Erfurt, a BVG board member, in an interview with Reuters TV.

"We will have completed that by the end of the year," he said.

Last month, unidentified activists taped over the station's entrance, temporarily naming it "George Floyd Street".

"I think it's fantastic (to rename the station) because I think it is not on in the 21st century to name streets after racist insults against Black people," said Akwasi Osei-Dwomoh, a passer-by.

"I wish that not just the metro station, but also the street itself, will find a better name." 
&nbsp;

Berlin's public transport company BVG said on Saturday that completing the renaming of a city centre metro station with a name based on a derogatory word for Black people will take until the end of the year.

Berlin's public transport company BVG said on Saturday that completing the renaming of a city centre metro station with a name based on a derogatory word for Black people will take until the end of the year. "Mohrenstrasse" metro station literally means Moor Street, using the medieval term for people from North Africa. It will be renamed after another nearby street, Glinkastrasse, named after 19th century Russian composer Mikhail Ivanovich Glinka. BVG said on Friday it would change the station name, amid a worldwide reckoning with buried legacies of racism and colonial crimes underpinning many western societies, sparked by the death in the United States of George Floyd, a Black man, at the hands of a police officer. The station lies a few hundred metres from the Brandenburg Gate at the very centre of Berlin, and has had a string of names since it was opened in 1908. "We will change all network plans, signs at the stations and on buses. Everything must be changed on the subways," said Rolf Erfurt, a BVG board member, in an interview with Reuters TV. "We will have completed that by the end of the year," he said. Last month, unidentified activists taped over the station's entrance, temporarily naming it "George Floyd Street". "I think it's fantastic (to rename the station) because I think it is not on in the 21st century to name streets after racist insults against Black people," said Akwasi Osei-Dwomoh, a passer-by. "I wish that not just the metro station, but also the street itself, will find a better name."

Berlin metro to change derogatory station name by end of year

Thousands of protesters gathered on Saturday in cities across Australia, shouting slogans in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. The protests were also aimed at raising awareness of the mistreatment of indigenous people.

Rallies in the cities of Brisbane, Darwin and Perth drew a smaller turnout than a month ago in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Another protest is planned in Sydney on Sunday, a month since the first Black Lives Matter rallies in Australia.

The organisers said the protests were a continuation of global protests unleashed by the death of African-American George Floyd in police custody in the US city of Minneapolis in late May.

Television broadcast images of protesters shouting, “Always was, always will be Aboriginal land” and, “No justice, no peace, no racist police”.

Thousands of protesters gathered on Saturday in cities across Australia, shouting slogans in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. The protests were also aimed at raising awareness of the mistreatment of indigenous people.

Thousands of protesters gathered on Saturday in cities across Australia, shouting slogans in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. The protests were also aimed at raising awareness of the mistreatment of indigenous people. Rallies in the cities of Brisbane, Darwin and Perth drew a smaller turnout than a month ago in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. Another protest is planned in Sydney on Sunday, a month since the first Black Lives Matter rallies in Australia. The organisers said the protests were a continuation of global protests unleashed by the death of African-American George Floyd in police custody in the US city of Minneapolis in late May. Television broadcast images of protesters shouting, “Always was, always will be Aboriginal land” and, “No justice, no peace, no racist police”.

Thousands rally across Australia in Black Lives Matter protests

As the 'Black lives matter' movement took over the world, a lot of organisations are taking out words that can seem offensive and can hurt sentiments.

Following the same, Twitter has decided to remove words such as&nbsp;"master," "slave" and "blacklist" from its code after two engineers lobbied for the use of more inclusive programming language.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-twitter-encourage-people-to-wear-masks-310404">Also read:&nbsp;Facebook, Twitter encourage people to wear masks</a>

Michael Montano, the head of Twitter's engineering team, on Thursday tweeted saying 'words matter' and declared that the company will be removing all such words to show solidarity towards the African-American community, and stand against slavery.

"We are committed to adopting inclusive language in our code, configuration, documentation and beyond," he tweeted.

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Words matter. We want <a href="https://twitter.com/TwitterEng?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TwitterEng</a> to reflect our values &amp; support our journey to become more inclusive. We are committed to adopting inclusive language in our code, configuration, documentation and beyond thanks to the principles &amp; framework <a href="https://twitter.com/negroprogrammer?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@negroprogrammer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/kevino?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kevino</a> put together. <a href="https://t.co/oiJmmlRoKd">https://t.co/oiJmmlRoKd</a>
— Michael Montano (@michaelmontano) <a href="https://twitter.com/michaelmontano/status/1278747064701038592?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The decision has been taken after the US observed several protests against the death of George Floyd.

At Twitter, "master" and "slave" will become "leader" and "follower" or "primary" and "replica," while "blacklist" will become "denylist."

The issue of the coded language used by engineers has been a topic of discussion since last few weeks. Considering these discussions, two of the engineers started the discussion on a greater platform and led the movement. The engineers Regynald Augustin&nbsp;tweeted that he was inspired to push for changes after an email went to the engineering team with the line "automatic slave rekick."

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I was inspired to start this work when I saw an email come through to our eng org with the line "automatic slave rekick.” Seeing it was infuriating. I’ve been used to seeing the word “slave” throughout my CS education but this was different.
— Regynald (@negroprogrammer) <a href="https://twitter.com/negroprogrammer/status/1278728953667022848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Seeing it was infuriating," he said. "I've been used to seeing the word 'slave' throughout my [computer science] education but this was different." The other engineer is named&nbsp;&nbsp;Kevin Oliver.

The list also includes "grandfathered," which will become "legacy status," and "dummy value," which will become "placeholder value" or "sample value."

American companies, JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co and&nbsp;and GitHub Inc have also decided to remove these words from the coded languages.

"This is not a trivial” investment by the bank, Griffel said. “This kind of language and terminology is so entrenched. It has to (change) and now is as good a time as any.”

(With inputs from Reuters)

As the 'Black lives matter' movement took over the world, a lot of organisations are taking out words that can seem offensive and can hurt sentiments. Following the same, Twitter has decided to remove words such as "master," "slave" and "blacklist" from its code after two engineers lobbied for the use of more inclusive programming language.

As the 'Black lives matter' movement took over the world, a lot of organisations are taking out words that can seem offensive and can hurt sentiments. Following the same, Twitter has decided to remove words such as "master," "slave" and "blacklist" from its code after two engineers lobbied for the use of more inclusive programming language. Also read: Facebook, Twitter encourage people to wear masks Michael Montano, the head of Twitter's engineering team, on Thursday tweeted saying 'words matter' and declared that the company will be removing all such words to show solidarity towards the African-American community, and stand against slavery. "We are committed to adopting inclusive language in our code, configuration, documentation and beyond," he tweeted. Words matter. We want @TwitterEng to reflect our values & support our journey to become more inclusive. We are committed to adopting inclusive language in our code, configuration, documentation and beyond thanks to the principles & framework @negroprogrammer @kevino put together. https://t.co/oiJmmlRoKd — Michael Montano (@michaelmontano) July 2, 2020 × The decision has been taken after the US observed several protests against the death of George Floyd. At Twitter, "master" and "slave" will become "leader" and "follower" or "primary" and "replica," while "blacklist" will become "denylist." The issue of the coded language used by engineers has been a topic of discussion since last few weeks. Considering these discussions, two of the engineers started the discussion on a greater platform and led the movement. The engineers Regynald Augustin tweeted that he was inspired to push for changes after an email went to the engineering team with the line "automatic slave rekick." I was inspired to start this work when I saw an email come through to our eng org with the line "automatic slave rekick.” Seeing it was infuriating. I’ve been used to seeing the word “slave” throughout my CS education but this was different. — Regynald (@negroprogrammer) July 2, 2020 × "Seeing it was infuriating," he said. "I've been used to seeing the word 'slave' throughout my [computer science] education but this was different." The other engineer is named Kevin Oliver. The list also includes "grandfathered," which will become "legacy status," and "dummy value," which will become "placeholder value" or "sample value." American companies, JPMorgan Chase & Co and and GitHub Inc have also decided to remove these words from the coded languages. "This is not a trivial” investment by the bank, Griffel said. “This kind of language and terminology is so entrenched. It has to (change) and now is as good a time as any.” (With inputs from Reuters)

Twitter to remove words like 'master', 'blacklist' and 'slave' from its code

An Australian mountain range named after Belgium's King Leopold II was re-christened on Friday.

Authorities in Western Australia said the King Leopold Ranges in the remote Kimberley region would now be known as the Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges. The 600-kilometre (373-mile) range was named after the monarch in 1879.

Even in his native Belgium, Leopold has become synonymous with the horrors of European colonisation of Africa. He is believed to be responsible for millions of deaths in Africa between 1865 and 1909, primarily in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The death of African-American George Floyd while in US police custody has sparked calls to address systemic racism around the world.

Belgian protesters have torn down, or daubed with paint, several statues of Leopold.

Many were killed, mutilated or died of disease as they worked on rubber plantations belonging to Leopold, who was notoriously brutal even by the standards of the day.

Belgium's current monarch, King Phillipe, this week expressed his "deepest regrets" about that period in the country's history.

An Australian mountain range named after Belgium's King Leopold II was re-christened on Friday. Authorities in Western Australia said the King Leopold Ranges in the remote Kimberley region would now be known as the Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges.

An Australian mountain range named after Belgium's King Leopold II was re-christened on Friday. Authorities in Western Australia said the King Leopold Ranges in the remote Kimberley region would now be known as the Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges. The 600-kilometre (373-mile) range was named after the monarch in 1879. Even in his native Belgium, Leopold has become synonymous with the horrors of European colonisation of Africa. He is believed to be responsible for millions of deaths in Africa between 1865 and 1909, primarily in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo. The death of African-American George Floyd while in US police custody has sparked calls to address systemic racism around the world. Belgian protesters have torn down, or daubed with paint, several statues of Leopold. Many were killed, mutilated or died of disease as they worked on rubber plantations belonging to Leopold, who was notoriously brutal even by the standards of the day. Belgium's current monarch, King Phillipe, this week expressed his "deepest regrets" about that period in the country's history.

Australian mountain range named after Belgium's King Leopold II re-christened

United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday called New York City’s decision to paint ‘Black Lives Matter’ on Fifth Avenue a "symbol of hate," in a way decrying the rallying cry that has stirred worldwide protests against racism.

Trump also criticised cuts to the city’s police department and wrote on Twitter that Mayor Bill de Blasio’s decision to paint Black Lives Matter on the street outside Trump Tower is “denigrating this luxury Avenue”.

“This will further antagonise New York’s Finest, who LOVE New York &amp; vividly remember the horrible BLM chant, ‘Pigs In A Blanket, Fry ‘Em Like Bacon,’” Trump wrote. “Maybe our GREAT Police, who have been neutralized and scorned by a mayor who hates &amp; disrespects them, won’t let this symbol of hate be affixed to New York’s greatest street. Spend this money fighting crime instead!”

The street painting would be completed outside Trump Tower in a matter of days. The mayor's office ordered the letters painted on Fifth Avenue last week.

In the weeks since the police killing of George Floyd ignited mass demonstrations opposing police violence, Trump has not adopted the message of Black Lives Matter protesters.

Activists said Trump's tweet distracted from efforts to combat police brutality.

According to a report in POLITICO, the painting of Black Lives Matter on Fifth Avenue follows the passing of the city’s budget in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday called New York City’s decision to paint ‘Black Lives Matter’ on Fifth Avenue a "symbol of hate," in a way decrying the rallying cry that has stirred worldwide protests against racism.

United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday called New York City’s decision to paint ‘Black Lives Matter’ on Fifth Avenue a "symbol of hate," in a way decrying the rallying cry that has stirred worldwide protests against racism. Trump also criticised cuts to the city’s police department and wrote on Twitter that Mayor Bill de Blasio’s decision to paint Black Lives Matter on the street outside Trump Tower is “denigrating this luxury Avenue”. “This will further antagonise New York’s Finest, who LOVE New York & vividly remember the horrible BLM chant, ‘Pigs In A Blanket, Fry ‘Em Like Bacon,’” Trump wrote. “Maybe our GREAT Police, who have been neutralized and scorned by a mayor who hates & disrespects them, won’t let this symbol of hate be affixed to New York’s greatest street. Spend this money fighting crime instead!” The street painting would be completed outside Trump Tower in a matter of days. The mayor's office ordered the letters painted on Fifth Avenue last week. In the weeks since the police killing of George Floyd ignited mass demonstrations opposing police violence, Trump has not adopted the message of Black Lives Matter protesters. Activists said Trump's tweet distracted from efforts to combat police brutality. According to a report in POLITICO, the painting of Black Lives Matter on Fifth Avenue follows the passing of the city’s budget in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Trump says Black Lives Matter is a 'symbol of hate'

The police officer charged with the murder of Rayshard Brooks, who was killed on June 12, has been released from jail, a local television network WSBTV reported.

Garrett Rolfe, the officer in question, has been released on the condition of wearing an ankle monitor and obeying a curfew. The 27-year-old’s bond has been set at $500,000. He was charged with murder.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/ex-atlanta-policeman-charged-with-felony-murder-of-rayshard-brooks-306662" hreflang="en">Ex-Atlanta policeman charged with felony murder of Rayshard Brooks</a>

Brooks, a black man was killed amid protests over the murder of George Floyd at the hands of the police. Protests escalated after news broke that Brooks was shot in the back twice by Atlanta police on June 12, outside of a fast-food restaurant.

Over the last month, protests across the United States soared again racist behaviour by police, with many analysts backing the view that black folks are more susceptible to police brutality in the country, and have a higher rate of dying in an altercation with the police.

<h6><img alt="A Wendy’s burns following a rally against racial inequality and the police shooting death of Rayshard Brooks, in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fda07367-db75-47e9-959d-fc89c295f261" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design-6_5.jpg" /> 
A Wendy’s burns following a rally against racial inequality and the police shooting death of&nbsp;Rayshard&nbsp;Brooks, in Atlanta, Georgia, US | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

A second officer involved in the murder, Devin Brosnan, 26, was put on administrative duty and charged with aggravated assault. Following the uproar, the city's police chief had resigned.

Protesters had torched the Wendy’s restaurant where Brooks was killed. The employees of the restaurant had called the police saying that a man had fallen asleep in the parking lot.

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Brooks was killed amid a national wave of protests in the US sparked by the murder of George Floyd, a black man who died after a white police officer, Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for nine minutes. He was charged with second-degree murder and other three Minneapolis officers were charged with aiding and abetting.

Brooks was sleeping in his car when the police officer encountered him in the restaurant’s drive-through lane. Rolfe and Brosnan proceeded to administer a sobriety test, which led the situation to escalate.

In a video, Brooks was seen grabbing one of the officer’s Taser stun guns, and pointing it towards Rolfe before he was shot. However, investigators found that Rolfe had full knowledge of the fact that Taser had already been used twice, rendering it useless.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The police officer charged with the murder of Rayshard Brooks, who was killed on June 12, has been released from jail, a local television network WSBTV reported.

The police officer charged with the murder of Rayshard Brooks, who was killed on June 12, has been released from jail, a local television network WSBTV reported. Garrett Rolfe, the officer in question, has been released on the condition of wearing an ankle monitor and obeying a curfew. The 27-year-old’s bond has been set at $500,000. He was charged with murder. Also read: Ex-Atlanta policeman charged with felony murder of Rayshard Brooks Brooks, a black man was killed amid protests over the murder of George Floyd at the hands of the police. Protests escalated after news broke that Brooks was shot in the back twice by Atlanta police on June 12, outside of a fast-food restaurant. Over the last month, protests across the United States soared again racist behaviour by police, with many analysts backing the view that black folks are more susceptible to police brutality in the country, and have a higher rate of dying in an altercation with the police. A Wendy’s burns following a rally against racial inequality and the police shooting death of Rayshard Brooks, in Atlanta, Georgia, US | Reuters A second officer involved in the murder, Devin Brosnan, 26, was put on administrative duty and charged with aggravated assault. Following the uproar, the city's police chief had resigned. Protesters had torched the Wendy’s restaurant where Brooks was killed. The employees of the restaurant had called the police saying that a man had fallen asleep in the parking lot. Brooks was killed amid a national wave of protests in the US sparked by the murder of George Floyd, a black man who died after a white police officer, Derek Chauvin knelt on his neck for nine minutes. He was charged with second-degree murder and other three Minneapolis officers were charged with aiding and abetting. Brooks was sleeping in his car when the police officer encountered him in the restaurant’s drive-through lane. Rolfe and Brosnan proceeded to administer a sobriety test, which led the situation to escalate. In a video, Brooks was seen grabbing one of the officer’s Taser stun guns, and pointing it towards Rolfe before he was shot. However, investigators found that Rolfe had full knowledge of the fact that Taser had already been used twice, rendering it useless. (With inputs from Reuters)

Former officer charged with murdering Rayshard Brooks released from jail

Jamaica has suspended the use of a badge representing one of the highest British royal honours after anti-racism protesters decried its imagery of a white angel standing on the head of Satan depicted as a chained man with dark skin.

The Order of St Michael and St George badge is an honour the Queen typically awards to British ambassadors and senior Foreign Office officials and royal representatives throughout the Commonwealth.

Protesters in Jamaica and elsewhere have likened the image to George Floyd, the Black American who was killed last month after a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes.

Clyde Williams, a Jamaican lawyer who was one of the first to raise the issue on social media, said the badge’s imagery was a clear depiction of “white supremacy.”

The Queen’s Representative to Jamaica said he had requested that the imagery on the badge be “changed to reflect an inclusive image of the shared humanity of all peoples.”

A British online petition calling for its redesign has garnered more than 15,000 signatures.

Also, in the wake of the global reckoning with racism, Jamaicans have staged a couple of protests, launched petitions agitating for changes to rectify remnants of colonialism and reignited discussions about becoming a separate republic from the monarchy.

Jamaica became independent from Britain in 1962, however, it is still a part of the Commonwealth of Nations, which is mostly composed of territories of the former British Empire. Successive administrations on the island have talked of also dropping Queen Elizabeth as head of state but never put it to a vote.

(with inputs from Reuters)

Jamaica has suspended the use of a badge representing one of the highest British royal honours after anti-racism protesters decried its imagery of a white angel standing on the head of Satan depicted as a chained man with dark skin.

Jamaica has suspended the use of a badge representing one of the highest British royal honours after anti-racism protesters decried its imagery of a white angel standing on the head of Satan depicted as a chained man with dark skin. The Order of St Michael and St George badge is an honour the Queen typically awards to British ambassadors and senior Foreign Office officials and royal representatives throughout the Commonwealth. Protesters in Jamaica and elsewhere have likened the image to George Floyd, the Black American who was killed last month after a Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes. Clyde Williams, a Jamaican lawyer who was one of the first to raise the issue on social media, said the badge’s imagery was a clear depiction of “white supremacy.” The Queen’s Representative to Jamaica said he had requested that the imagery on the badge be “changed to reflect an inclusive image of the shared humanity of all peoples.” A British online petition calling for its redesign has garnered more than 15,000 signatures. Also, in the wake of the global reckoning with racism, Jamaicans have staged a couple of protests, launched petitions agitating for changes to rectify remnants of colonialism and reignited discussions about becoming a separate republic from the monarchy. Jamaica became independent from Britain in 1962, however, it is still a part of the Commonwealth of Nations, which is mostly composed of territories of the former British Empire. Successive administrations on the island have talked of also dropping Queen Elizabeth as head of state but never put it to a vote. (with inputs from Reuters)

Jamaica suspends use of British royal emblem after anti-racism protests

The US Department of Homeland Security announce a special new task force Wednesday to protect historic monuments across the country, some of which have come under attack for glorifying the country's racist past. 
 
Acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf said in a statement that he was positioning "rapid deployment teams" around the country to protect monuments and statues during the July 4th Independence Day holiday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/four-men-charged-for-trying-to-pull-down-statue-outside-white-house-309230" hreflang="en">Four men charged for trying to pull down statue outside White House</a> 
 
Many monuments have come under attack, and some pulled down, in the past month as protestors against police abuse of African Americans target figures of the pro-slavery south in the 1860s Civil War and other symbols of the country's legacy of slavery. 
 
But the monument protests have extended to revered early presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, both slave owners. 
 
In some cases, local governments under popular pressure have decided to remove the monuments themselves. 
 
President Donald Trump expressed outrage when on June 22 demonstrators attempted to pull down a statue directly in front of the White House of president Andrew Jackson, another slave owner who presided over the mass expulsion of Native Americans from their homelands in the 1830s.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/trump-issues-wanted-poster-for-people-who-vandalized-statues-308903" hreflang="en">Trump issues 'wanted' poster for people who vandalized statues</a> 
 
Trump demanded US law enforcement arrest and prosecute anyone who damages a monument and imprison them for the maximum 10 years. 
 
"DHS is answering the president's call to use our law enforcement personnel across the country to protect our historic landmarks," Wolf said in the statement.&nbsp; 
 
"We won't stand idly by while violent anarchists and rioters seek not only to vandalize and destroy the symbols of our nation, but to disrupt law and order and sow chaos in our communities." 
 
The new "Protecting American Communities Task Force" will coordinate law enforcement and provide intelligence to protect monuments, he said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/trump-signs-executive-order-to-protect-statues-makes-it-twitter-official-308907" hreflang="en">Trump signs executive order to protect statues; makes it Twitter-official</a> 
 
Trump tweeted early Wednesday that his recent executive order to protect monuments and statues is now in effect, reminding that damaging federal property could bring more than 10 years in prison. 
 
"Please do not put yourself in jeopardy. Many people now under arrest!" he wrote.

The US Department of Homeland Security announce a special new task force Wednesday to protect historic monuments across the country, some of which have come under attack for glorifying the country's racist past.

The US Department of Homeland Security announce a special new task force Wednesday to protect historic monuments across the country, some of which have come under attack for glorifying the country's racist past. Acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf said in a statement that he was positioning "rapid deployment teams" around the country to protect monuments and statues during the July 4th Independence Day holiday. Also read: Four men charged for trying to pull down statue outside White House Many monuments have come under attack, and some pulled down, in the past month as protestors against police abuse of African Americans target figures of the pro-slavery south in the 1860s Civil War and other symbols of the country's legacy of slavery. But the monument protests have extended to revered early presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, both slave owners. In some cases, local governments under popular pressure have decided to remove the monuments themselves. President Donald Trump expressed outrage when on June 22 demonstrators attempted to pull down a statue directly in front of the White House of president Andrew Jackson, another slave owner who presided over the mass expulsion of Native Americans from their homelands in the 1830s. Also read: Trump issues 'wanted' poster for people who vandalized statues Trump demanded US law enforcement arrest and prosecute anyone who damages a monument and imprison them for the maximum 10 years. "DHS is answering the president's call to use our law enforcement personnel across the country to protect our historic landmarks," Wolf said in the statement. "We won't stand idly by while violent anarchists and rioters seek not only to vandalize and destroy the symbols of our nation, but to disrupt law and order and sow chaos in our communities." The new "Protecting American Communities Task Force" will coordinate law enforcement and provide intelligence to protect monuments, he said. Also read: Trump signs executive order to protect statues; makes it Twitter-official Trump tweeted early Wednesday that his recent executive order to protect monuments and statues is now in effect, reminding that damaging federal property could bring more than 10 years in prison. "Please do not put yourself in jeopardy. Many people now under arrest!" he wrote.

US creates force to protect monuments amid anti-racism protests

A Minneapolis judge on Monday set the trial date for four ex-police officers charged in the murder of African American George Floyd for March 8, 2021, making clear he did not want the sensitive case to become a media circus with the presidential election looming.

As the protests over racial injustice continued to reverberate nationwide, Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill warned the four, their attorneys and state officials not to play the sensitive case through the news, even as one lawyer pointed out that President Donald Trump had already weighed in.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/black-lives-matter-political-agenda-of-radical-left-mike-pence-309254">Black Lives Matter political agenda of radical left: Mike Pence</a>

"I would like to see pre-trial publicity not include statements from family from either side, police or elected officials" about guilt or innocence, or the merits of the case, he told a court.

Derek Chauvin, the white officer filmed on May 25 pressing his knee into the handcuffed 46-year-old's neck for nearly eight minutes until he became unresponsive, faces second and third-degree murder charges.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-really-played-out-between-the-police-and-george-floyd-in-his-final-moments-302473">What really played out between the police and George Floyd in his final moments</a>

Three others who were with Chauvin, 44, when they detained Floyd are charged with aiding and abetting a murder.

None of the four formally entered pleas.&nbsp;

Robert Paule, defending Tou Thao, one of the three charged with abetting the killing, said his client would plead not guilty, arguing that he adhered to police guidelines on use of force.

But Paule also expressed concerns over prejudicial comments and actions by state and national officials that could impact the trial.

"In this case, we have comments made, I&nbsp; believe, by President Trump," as well as Minnesota's governor, the mayor of Minneapolis, the Minnesota attorney general and others, Paule said.

He noted that Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, whose office is leading the prosecution, and US Attorney Erica MacDonald met Floyd's family in Houston, adding that the trip was leaked to the press.

Paule said more publicity could lead to a push for a change of venue.

Chauvin, whose bail has been set at $1 million, appeared via video from the Oak Park Heights prison wearing an orange jumpsuit and a coronavirus mask.

The other defendants -- Thao, Alexander Kueng and Thomas Lane -- appeared in person.

The four, who were fired from the Minneapolis police force one day after Floyd's death, each face up to 40 years behind bars.

A Minneapolis judge on Monday set the trial date for four ex-police officers charged in the murder of African American George Floyd for March 8, 2021, making clear he did not want the sensitive case to become a media circus with the presidential election looming.

A Minneapolis judge on Monday set the trial date for four ex-police officers charged in the murder of African American George Floyd for March 8, 2021, making clear he did not want the sensitive case to become a media circus with the presidential election looming. As the protests over racial injustice continued to reverberate nationwide, Hennepin County Judge Peter Cahill warned the four, their attorneys and state officials not to play the sensitive case through the news, even as one lawyer pointed out that President Donald Trump had already weighed in. Also read: Black Lives Matter political agenda of radical left: Mike Pence "I would like to see pre-trial publicity not include statements from family from either side, police or elected officials" about guilt or innocence, or the merits of the case, he told a court. Derek Chauvin, the white officer filmed on May 25 pressing his knee into the handcuffed 46-year-old's neck for nearly eight minutes until he became unresponsive, faces second and third-degree murder charges. Also read: What really played out between the police and George Floyd in his final moments Three others who were with Chauvin, 44, when they detained Floyd are charged with aiding and abetting a murder. None of the four formally entered pleas. Robert Paule, defending Tou Thao, one of the three charged with abetting the killing, said his client would plead not guilty, arguing that he adhered to police guidelines on use of force. But Paule also expressed concerns over prejudicial comments and actions by state and national officials that could impact the trial. "In this case, we have comments made, I believe, by President Trump," as well as Minnesota's governor, the mayor of Minneapolis, the Minnesota attorney general and others, Paule said. He noted that Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, whose office is leading the prosecution, and US Attorney Erica MacDonald met Floyd's family in Houston, adding that the trip was leaked to the press. Paule said more publicity could lead to a push for a change of venue. Chauvin, whose bail has been set at $1 million, appeared via video from the Oak Park Heights prison wearing an orange jumpsuit and a coronavirus mask. The other defendants -- Thao, Alexander Kueng and Thomas Lane -- appeared in person. The four, who were fired from the Minneapolis police force one day after Floyd's death, each face up to 40 years behind bars.

US judge sets George Floyd murder trial for next year

League organisers have agreed to paint NBA courts with the words "Black Lives Matter" when the basketball season resumes next month in Florida, US media reports said.

NBA stars have been prominent supporters of the anti-racism protests that swept across the United States following the death in May of George Floyd, an unarmed black man, in police custody.

The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association are planning to paint the slogan inside the sidelines of all three arenas at Disney World in Orlando, ESPN reported Monday.

USA Today said the slogans would be painted on two sides of each court -- in front of the scorer's table and the broadcast booth.

The NBA is planning to go ahead with its restart plans for the coronavirus-delayed 2019-20 campaign on July 30.

League commissioner Adam Silver said last week that the goal of the NBA restart will be to promote social justice and combat systemic racism.

On Sunday ESPN reported that NBA players could also be allowed to wear jerseys bearing slogans supporting social justice causes or charities instead of their names when the league resumes.

Players are due to travel to Florida for training camp in early July, and the teams will play games without fans in a "bubble" designed to shield players and team staff from the outside world.

But some NBA players have expressed concern about being quarantined for the return at a time of major social change for the black community in the US.

League organisers have agreed to paint NBA courts with the words "Black Lives Matter" when the basketball season resumes next month in Florida, US media reports said.

League organisers have agreed to paint NBA courts with the words "Black Lives Matter" when the basketball season resumes next month in Florida, US media reports said. NBA stars have been prominent supporters of the anti-racism protests that swept across the United States following the death in May of George Floyd, an unarmed black man, in police custody. The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association are planning to paint the slogan inside the sidelines of all three arenas at Disney World in Orlando, ESPN reported Monday. USA Today said the slogans would be painted on two sides of each court -- in front of the scorer's table and the broadcast booth. The NBA is planning to go ahead with its restart plans for the coronavirus-delayed 2019-20 campaign on July 30. League commissioner Adam Silver said last week that the goal of the NBA restart will be to promote social justice and combat systemic racism. On Sunday ESPN reported that NBA players could also be allowed to wear jerseys bearing slogans supporting social justice causes or charities instead of their names when the league resumes. Players are due to travel to Florida for training camp in early July, and the teams will play games without fans in a "bubble" designed to shield players and team staff from the outside world. But some NBA players have expressed concern about being quarantined for the return at a time of major social change for the black community in the US.

'Black Lives Matter' to be painted on NBA courts: reports

On Sunday, Beyonce was honoured with 2020 BET Humanitarian Award, for her many initiatives and help that she has extended to the unprivileged. The award was presented by none other than the former first lady of America, Michelle Obama.&nbsp; 
 
Accepting the virtual award in a video message, Beyonce encouraged Black Lives Matter protestors. "Your voices are being heard and you're proving to our ancestors that their struggles were not in vain. I`m encouraging you to take action," she said. &nbsp;

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/Beyonce?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Beyonce</a>'s acceptance speech for her 'BET Humanitarian Award' <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BETAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BETAwards</a> <a href="https://t.co/FqNHBBWKQk">pic.twitter.com/FqNHBBWKQk</a>
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''We have to continue to do this together, to fight for each other and lift each other up. There are people banking on us staying home during local elections and primaries. We have to vote like our life depends on it because it does,'' she added.

Earlier this week, the network announced that they would be honouring the singer for the charitable work she's done for the black community through her BeyGOOD initiative and her donations to groups helping provide health and mental resources to those in vulnerable communities. 
 
Beyonce will soon be releasing a new visual album called 'Black Is King', which features music from 'The Lion King' and has been written, directed, and executive produced by her.

The former first lady of America, Michelle Obama delivered the award to the 'Crazy In Love'&nbsp;singer as she dubbed her as 'the queen'.You inspire me, you inspire all of us," Obama said to the singer.&nbsp;

The 20th edition of the BET Awards was hosted by Amanda Seales and was aired on ViacomCNS networks.

On Sunday, Beyonce was honoured with 2020 BET Humanitarian Award, for her many initiatives and help that she has extended to the unprivileged. The award was presented by none other than the former first lady of America, Michelle Obama.

On Sunday, Beyonce was honoured with 2020 BET Humanitarian Award, for her many initiatives and help that she has extended to the unprivileged. The award was presented by none other than the former first lady of America, Michelle Obama. Accepting the virtual award in a video message, Beyonce encouraged Black Lives Matter protestors. "Your voices are being heard and you're proving to our ancestors that their struggles were not in vain. I`m encouraging you to take action," she said. .@Beyonce's acceptance speech for her 'BET Humanitarian Award' #BETAwards pic.twitter.com/FqNHBBWKQk — Beyoncé Charts (@yoncechart) June 29, 2020 × ''We have to continue to do this together, to fight for each other and lift each other up. There are people banking on us staying home during local elections and primaries. We have to vote like our life depends on it because it does,'' she added. Earlier this week, the network announced that they would be honouring the singer for the charitable work she's done for the black community through her BeyGOOD initiative and her donations to groups helping provide health and mental resources to those in vulnerable communities. Beyonce will soon be releasing a new visual album called 'Black Is King', which features music from 'The Lion King' and has been written, directed, and executive produced by her. The former first lady of America, Michelle Obama delivered the award to the 'Crazy In Love' singer as she dubbed her as 'the queen'.You inspire me, you inspire all of us," Obama said to the singer. The 20th edition of the BET Awards was hosted by Amanda Seales and was aired on ViacomCNS networks.

Beyonce encourages Black Lives Matter protestors in her BET award acceptance speech

Current Formula One champions Mercedes has launched a brand new black-liveried cars for the 2020 season to show solidarity to the Black Lives Matter campaign and further improve diversity within the team and the world of motorsport.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-great-ian-botham-claims-he-had-covid-19-but-mistook-virus-for-bad-flu-309450" hreflang="en">England great Ian Botham claims he had COVID-19 but mistook virus for 'bad flu'</a>

Team Mercedes have raced in silver in the Formula One since its debut in the motorsport but have decided to switch to black with 'End Racism' emblazoned on the halo of both cars.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/MercedesAMGF1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MercedesAMGF1</a> has chosen to race in an all-black base livery for 2020. It's a pledge to improve the team's diversity – and a clear statement against racism and all forms of discrimination. <a href="https://t.co/e7HP5JwxnI">pic.twitter.com/e7HP5JwxnI</a>
— Daimler AG (@Daimler) <a href="https://twitter.com/Daimler/status/1277545272042799106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In a statement released by the team, it said that the Black &nbsp;Lives Matter movement has "shone a searching light on how much we need new measures and actions in the fight against racism and all forms of discrimination".

These cars will make debut when &nbsp;Britain's world champion Lewis Hamilton and Finnish teammate Valtteri Bottas feature in the season-opening Austrian Grand Prix on Sunday.

"Racism and discrimination have no place in our society, our sport or our team: this is a core belief at Mercedes," Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said in a statement.

"But having the right beliefs and the right mindset isn’t enough if we remain silent.

"We wish to use our voice and our global platform to speak up for respect and equality, and the Silver Arrow will race in black for the entire 2020 season to show our commitment to greater diversity within our team and our sport."

According to Mercedes, just 3 per cent of the workforce belong from minority ethnic groups, whereas, just 12 per cent of them are women.&nbsp;

Six-times Formula One champion Hamilton said: "It's so important that we seize this moment and use it to educate ourselves whether you are an individual, brand or company to make real meaningful changes when it comes to ensuring equality and inclusivity."

Current Formula One champions Mercedes has launched a brand new black-liveried cars for the 2020 season to show solidarity to the Black Lives Matter campaign and further improve diversity within the team and the world of motorsport.

Current Formula One champions Mercedes has launched a brand new black-liveried cars for the 2020 season to show solidarity to the Black Lives Matter campaign and further improve diversity within the team and the world of motorsport. Also read: England great Ian Botham claims he had COVID-19 but mistook virus for 'bad flu' Team Mercedes have raced in silver in the Formula One since its debut in the motorsport but have decided to switch to black with 'End Racism' emblazoned on the halo of both cars. @MercedesAMGF1 has chosen to race in an all-black base livery for 2020. It's a pledge to improve the team's diversity – and a clear statement against racism and all forms of discrimination. pic.twitter.com/e7HP5JwxnI — Daimler AG (@Daimler) June 29, 2020 × In a statement released by the team, it said that the Black Lives Matter movement has "shone a searching light on how much we need new measures and actions in the fight against racism and all forms of discrimination". These cars will make debut when Britain's world champion Lewis Hamilton and Finnish teammate Valtteri Bottas feature in the season-opening Austrian Grand Prix on Sunday. "Racism and discrimination have no place in our society, our sport or our team: this is a core belief at Mercedes," Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff said in a statement. "But having the right beliefs and the right mindset isn’t enough if we remain silent. "We wish to use our voice and our global platform to speak up for respect and equality, and the Silver Arrow will race in black for the entire 2020 season to show our commitment to greater diversity within our team and our sport." According to Mercedes, just 3 per cent of the workforce belong from minority ethnic groups, whereas, just 12 per cent of them are women. Six-times Formula One champion Hamilton said: "It's so important that we seize this moment and use it to educate ourselves whether you are an individual, brand or company to make real meaningful changes when it comes to ensuring equality and inclusivity."

Formula One: Team Mercedes to use black cars for the season in stand against racism

Remember the evil witch’s obsession with fairness as she talks to the mirror in Snow White or Son Pari’s villain Kali Pari? Right from the shows we make our children watch to the filters we put in our photographs, the madness of looking fair is rooted very deep in our minds. Seems like this racial discrimination between fair and dark skin has been going on since the stone ages, it just refuses to budge! On the other hand, we have the beauty industry that plays on India's non-stop colour discrimination to get their profits to skyrocket.

Suddenly after years of giving us the definition of 'ideal beauty', FMCG brand HUL has announced that it will remove words such as ‘fair/fairness’, ‘white/whitening’, and ‘light/lightening’ from all its products and communications. More importantly its age-old product 'Fair and Lovely' will no longer include the word 'fair'.

Let me remind you that in India still many girls are rejected from jobs even after having the best resume because of dark skin. Even now women are judged not on the basis of their educational or professional qualifications but by their skin colour in dining room discussions. Still, it took HUL 45 years to finally wake up and understand the concept of &nbsp;'inclusive version of beauty'. Can the company erase years of discriminatory branding and advertisements by just a simple announcement? 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/loreal-to-drop-words-such-as-whitening-from-skin-products-308872">Also Read: L'Oreal to drop words such as 'whitening' from skin products</a> 
 
The answer is absolutely not. Just by removing one word from the name of the product doesn't change the fact that it still is a FAIRNESS product. Why should a product which just infuses inferiority complex be available in shops in the first place? Doesn't India already have a lot of colonial hangovers to deal with already? We don't need fairness products to reinforce our unsolicited obsession with fair skin.

The company can't just decide to take a U-turn from all its promotional strategies, especially the before and after advertisements. Its tried and tested method to tell the audience that just because the woman got 'fair' using the cream she got a job as a doctor and air hostess and even got married. The product will always be associated with providing a fair skin tone, nothing can change that, especially not a name change.

The memory of huge billboards of HUL's 'Fair and Lovely', showing a fair skin tone woman (who was mostly a Bollywood actress) and a woman of a dark skin tone at the back will always be the thing I remember the product by. HUL, the damage is done. The road to recovery will not be an easy one.

Honestly, the move might be a cover-up as well. With the already existing racial tensions and the Black Lives Matters protests across the world, it seemed like the easiest escape route for the brand before someone pinpointed what the cream actually stood for. But you know what the saddest part of all this is? It took the brand a racial uprising in the US to understand the troubles (or at least we hope so) of women living in India. Many would even call it a safety PR strategy. &nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unilever-to-remove-whitening-and-fairness-shaadicom-removes-fairness-filter-308502">Also Read:&nbsp;Unilever to remove 'whitening' and 'fairness'; Shaadi.com removes fairness filter</a> 
&nbsp; 
Another point to put here is that it is not only HUL but many other beauty companies that promote the concept of good skin equals to fair skin. How often do we get to see a dark-skinned person selling a beauty product other than the times when we are told to pity them because of their complexion. Just like the size of the beauty industry, even its fairness products are not restricted to creams. You will find fairness cleanser, mist, moisturizer, sunscreen, serum...the list just goes on.

Some might say something is better than nothing right? Okay, it is good that HUL has finally woken up. BUT, this name change should not be the end to it. There is a lot of repair work that is expected out of this announcement.

While the company has set an example for others like L'Oréal to follow suit, it should just not stop at that. This should bring a change to the multi-billion dollar beauty industry as a whole. The way it ideates the products to the marketing and advertisement strategy. It's high time they realise that they should celebrate the diversity of beauty and stop this obsession with the fair skin tone.

Rebranding HUL's Fair and Lovely is a wait and watch game! Because it needs to tell the consumers what they should expect from a 'fairness' cream, if not providing a fair skin. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

Remember the evil witch’s obsession with fairness as she talks to the mirror in Snow White or Son Pari’s villain Kali Pari? Right from the shows we make our children watch to the filters we put in our photographs, the madness of looking fair is rooted very deep in our minds.

Remember the evil witch’s obsession with fairness as she talks to the mirror in Snow White or Son Pari’s villain Kali Pari? Right from the shows we make our children watch to the filters we put in our photographs, the madness of looking fair is rooted very deep in our minds. Seems like this racial discrimination between fair and dark skin has been going on since the stone ages, it just refuses to budge! On the other hand, we have the beauty industry that plays on India's non-stop colour discrimination to get their profits to skyrocket. Suddenly after years of giving us the definition of 'ideal beauty', FMCG brand HUL has announced that it will remove words such as ‘fair/fairness’, ‘white/whitening’, and ‘light/lightening’ from all its products and communications. More importantly its age-old product 'Fair and Lovely' will no longer include the word 'fair'. Let me remind you that in India still many girls are rejected from jobs even after having the best resume because of dark skin. Even now women are judged not on the basis of their educational or professional qualifications but by their skin colour in dining room discussions. Still, it took HUL 45 years to finally wake up and understand the concept of 'inclusive version of beauty'. Can the company erase years of discriminatory branding and advertisements by just a simple announcement? Also Read: L'Oreal to drop words such as 'whitening' from skin products The answer is absolutely not. Just by removing one word from the name of the product doesn't change the fact that it still is a FAIRNESS product. Why should a product which just infuses inferiority complex be available in shops in the first place? Doesn't India already have a lot of colonial hangovers to deal with already? We don't need fairness products to reinforce our unsolicited obsession with fair skin. The company can't just decide to take a U-turn from all its promotional strategies, especially the before and after advertisements. Its tried and tested method to tell the audience that just because the woman got 'fair' using the cream she got a job as a doctor and air hostess and even got married. The product will always be associated with providing a fair skin tone, nothing can change that, especially not a name change. The memory of huge billboards of HUL's 'Fair and Lovely', showing a fair skin tone woman (who was mostly a Bollywood actress) and a woman of a dark skin tone at the back will always be the thing I remember the product by. HUL, the damage is done. The road to recovery will not be an easy one. Honestly, the move might be a cover-up as well. With the already existing racial tensions and the Black Lives Matters protests across the world, it seemed like the easiest escape route for the brand before someone pinpointed what the cream actually stood for. But you know what the saddest part of all this is? It took the brand a racial uprising in the US to understand the troubles (or at least we hope so) of women living in India. Many would even call it a safety PR strategy. Also Read: Unilever to remove 'whitening' and 'fairness'; Shaadi.com removes fairness filter Another point to put here is that it is not only HUL but many other beauty companies that promote the concept of good skin equals to fair skin. How often do we get to see a dark-skinned person selling a beauty product other than the times when we are told to pity them because of their complexion. Just like the size of the beauty industry, even its fairness products are not restricted to creams. You will find fairness cleanser, mist, moisturizer, sunscreen, serum...the list just goes on. Some might say something is better than nothing right? Okay, it is good that HUL has finally woken up. BUT, this name change should not be the end to it. There is a lot of repair work that is expected out of this announcement. While the company has set an example for others like L'Oréal to follow suit, it should just not stop at that. This should bring a change to the multi-billion dollar beauty industry as a whole. The way it ideates the products to the marketing and advertisement strategy. It's high time they realise that they should celebrate the diversity of beauty and stop this obsession with the fair skin tone. Rebranding HUL's Fair and Lovely is a wait and watch game! Because it needs to tell the consumers what they should expect from a 'fairness' cream, if not providing a fair skin. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

It took a brand 45 years to understand that everything fair is not lovely!

Vice President Mike Pence has described the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement as a political agenda of "radical left", saying that it intends to defund the police and bringing down monuments.&nbsp;

"What I see in the leaders of the Black Lives Matter movement is a political agenda of the radical left that would defund the police, that would tear down monuments, that would press a radical left agenda," Pence said in an interview to CBS.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tweets-then-deletes-video-of-a-man-chanting-white-power-wh-defends-309218">Trump tweets, then deletes, video of a man chanting 'white power'; WH defends</a>

Highlighting that "all lives matter", he also added that George Floyd's death was inexcusable.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-issues-wanted-poster-for-people-who-vandalized-statues-308903">Trump issues 'wanted' poster for people who vandalized statues</a>

The vice president said that he cherishes "the progress that we have made toward a more perfect union for African Americans throughout our history". Pence said that African American leaders have made it clear to the US administration "they want law and order" and "peace in our streets".&nbsp;

Black Lives Matter movement has gained prominence first in the US and then worldwide after the death of George Floyd, an African American, in Minneapolis, US after a police officer kneeled on his neck for several minutes.&nbsp;

Vice President Mike Pence has described the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement as a political agenda of "radical left", saying that it intends to defund the police and bringing down monuments.

Vice President Mike Pence has described the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement as a political agenda of "radical left", saying that it intends to defund the police and bringing down monuments. "What I see in the leaders of the Black Lives Matter movement is a political agenda of the radical left that would defund the police, that would tear down monuments, that would press a radical left agenda," Pence said in an interview to CBS. Also read | Trump tweets, then deletes, video of a man chanting 'white power'; WH defends Highlighting that "all lives matter", he also added that George Floyd's death was inexcusable. Also read | Trump issues 'wanted' poster for people who vandalized statues The vice president said that he cherishes "the progress that we have made toward a more perfect union for African Americans throughout our history". Pence said that African American leaders have made it clear to the US administration "they want law and order" and "peace in our streets". Black Lives Matter movement has gained prominence first in the US and then worldwide after the death of George Floyd, an African American, in Minneapolis, US after a police officer kneeled on his neck for several minutes.

Black Lives Matter political agenda of radical left: Mike Pence

US President Donald Trump on Sunday shared a video of a stand-off between his supporters and naysayers in which a man chants "white power". He later deleted the tweet amid an outcry.&nbsp;

"Thank you to the great people of The Villages," Trump tweeted above the video clip. "The Radical Left Do Nothing Democrats will Fall in the Fall."

The footage was apparently taken in a Florida retirement community, and showed a man driving a golf-cart bearing "Trump 2020" and "America First" signs being heckled by a roadside protester chanting "racist."

As they yelled at each other, the driver repeatedly mouthed the words "white power" with a raised fist.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-wasnt-briefed-on-russia-taliban-bounty-intelligence-309193">Also read |&nbsp;Trump says he wasn't briefed on Russia-Taliban bounty intelligence</a>

"White power! There you go, white power. Did you hear that?" the protester yelled back at him.

<img alt="Donald Trump's deleted tweet" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4827cb65-7cd9-43ee-b11d-269f87322543" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/trump%20tweetw.jpg" />

The tweet was removed from Trump’s account hours after it was posted.

This is the video Trump quoted and tweeted.

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Seniors from The Villages in Florida protesting against each other: <a href="https://t.co/Q3GRJCTjEW">pic.twitter.com/Q3GRJCTjEW</a>
— Fifty Shades of Whey (@davenewworld_2) <a href="https://twitter.com/davenewworld_2/status/1276965068048158720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The "Villages" video triggered an immediate backlash on social media, and Trump allies were pressed to defend it on the Sunday morning talk shows.

To this end, the White House later said Trump had not heard what the man was shouting.

"The president is a big fan of The Villages. He did not hear the one statement made on the video. What he did see was tremendous enthusiasm from his many supporters,"&nbsp;White House spokesman Judd Deere said.

Trump has long been accused of fanning racial tensions, including during the nationwide reckoning over racial inequality triggered by the death-in-custody of African American George Floyd a month ago.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday shared a video of a stand-off between his supporters and naysayers in which a man chants "white power". He later deleted the tweet amid an outcry.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday shared a video of a stand-off between his supporters and naysayers in which a man chants "white power". He later deleted the tweet amid an outcry. "Thank you to the great people of The Villages," Trump tweeted above the video clip. "The Radical Left Do Nothing Democrats will Fall in the Fall." The footage was apparently taken in a Florida retirement community, and showed a man driving a golf-cart bearing "Trump 2020" and "America First" signs being heckled by a roadside protester chanting "racist." As they yelled at each other, the driver repeatedly mouthed the words "white power" with a raised fist. Also read | Trump says he wasn't briefed on Russia-Taliban bounty intelligence "White power! There you go, white power. Did you hear that?" the protester yelled back at him. The tweet was removed from Trump’s account hours after it was posted. This is the video Trump quoted and tweeted. Seniors from The Villages in Florida protesting against each other: pic.twitter.com/Q3GRJCTjEW — Fifty Shades of Whey (@davenewworld_2) June 27, 2020 × The "Villages" video triggered an immediate backlash on social media, and Trump allies were pressed to defend it on the Sunday morning talk shows. To this end, the White House later said Trump had not heard what the man was shouting. "The president is a big fan of The Villages. He did not hear the one statement made on the video. What he did see was tremendous enthusiasm from his many supporters," White House spokesman Judd Deere said. Trump has long been accused of fanning racial tensions, including during the nationwide reckoning over racial inequality triggered by the death-in-custody of African American George Floyd a month ago.

Trump tweets, then deletes, video of a man chanting 'white power'; WH defends

Four men have been charged for attempting to remove a statue of former president Andrew Jackson from outside the White House as part of anti-racism protests in the United States.

On Monday evening, a group of protesters attacked the statue of the former president, a slaveowner who led the United States from 1829 to 1837, which stands in Lafayette Park next to the White House.&nbsp;They wrapped ropes around the monument and tried to knock it down.&nbsp;

Based on video footage, four were identified tying or pulling the ropes, or passing a hammer to another demonstrator.&nbsp;Aged between 20 and 47, they were charged on Friday with "destruction of federal property".

The charge is punishable by one to 10 years in prison.

On Friday, Donald Trump tweeted calling for arrest of protestors involved in this week's attempt to pull down the statue of Andrew Jackson from a park directly in front of the White House.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-issues-wanted-poster-for-people-who-vandalized-statues-308903">Also read | Trump issues 'wanted' poster for people who vandalised statues</a>

One of them was arrested on Friday and presented to a judge on Saturday, while the other three were named but have not yet been apprehended.

The death of George Floyd, an African-American killed by a white police officer on May 25, has ignited mass civil unrest across the country. On the sidelines of those protests, several statues, including of Confederate generals and pro-slavery leaders, have been targetted or pulled down.

Trump, who is running for a second term, on Friday signed an executive order pledging&nbsp;to enforce prosecution for protesters who vandalise public memorials.&nbsp;

Four men have been charged for attempting to remove a statue of former president Andrew Jackson from outside the White House as part of anti-racism protests in the United States.

Four men have been charged for attempting to remove a statue of former president Andrew Jackson from outside the White House as part of anti-racism protests in the United States. On Monday evening, a group of protesters attacked the statue of the former president, a slaveowner who led the United States from 1829 to 1837, which stands in Lafayette Park next to the White House. They wrapped ropes around the monument and tried to knock it down. Based on video footage, four were identified tying or pulling the ropes, or passing a hammer to another demonstrator. Aged between 20 and 47, they were charged on Friday with "destruction of federal property". The charge is punishable by one to 10 years in prison. On Friday, Donald Trump tweeted calling for arrest of protestors involved in this week's attempt to pull down the statue of Andrew Jackson from a park directly in front of the White House. Also read | Trump issues 'wanted' poster for people who vandalised statues One of them was arrested on Friday and presented to a judge on Saturday, while the other three were named but have not yet been apprehended. The death of George Floyd, an African-American killed by a white police officer on May 25, has ignited mass civil unrest across the country. On the sidelines of those protests, several statues, including of Confederate generals and pro-slavery leaders, have been targetted or pulled down. Trump, who is running for a second term, on Friday signed an executive order pledging to enforce prosecution for protesters who vandalise public memorials.

Four men charged for trying to pull down statue outside White House

Donald Trump does not like toppling of the statues of racists and he has made it clear in the past too, in his speeches and tweets.

This time, the President of the United States has gone to the limit of creating a 'wanted' poster for the people who even attempted to topple the statues.

On Friday, Donald Trump tweeted calling for arrest of protestors involved in this week's attempt to pull down the statue of Andrew Jackson from a park directly in front of the White House.

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MANY people in custody, with many others being sought for Vandalization of Federal Property in Lafayette Park. 10 year prison sentences! <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIWFO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBIWFO</a> <a href="https://t.co/mrLyxbWNvq">pic.twitter.com/mrLyxbWNvq</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1276564734465249280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The President also announced that he has cancelled his plans of spending the weekend at his New Jersey home to make sure that law and order is maintained.

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I was going to go to Bedminster, New Jersey, this weekend, but wanted to stay in Washington, D.C. to make sure LAW &amp; ORDER is enforced. The arsonists, anarchists, looters, and agitators have been largely stopped...
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1276625240341307398?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"I am doing what is necessary to keep our communities safe — and these people will be brought to Justice!," he further tweeted.

The tweet came out after last week a group of people tried to remove the statue from&nbsp;Lafayette Park, a park which lies opposite to the White House, and was opened to the public after a series of Black Lives Matter protests.

This incident happened after the crowd pulled down Albert Pike's statue on June 19, aka Juneteenth, which greatly upset the President, who called it a "disgrace to the country".

"I have authorized the Federal Government to arrest anyone who vandalizes or destroys any monument, statue or other such Federal property in the U.S. With up to 10 years in prison, per the Veteran's Memorial Preservation Act, or such other laws that may be pertinent.....," he had tweeted on Tuesday.

Donald Trump does not like toppling of the statues of racists and he has made it clear in the past too, in his speeches and tweets. This time, the President of the United States has gone to the limit of creating a 'wanted' poster for the people who even attempted to topple the statues.

Donald Trump does not like toppling of the statues of racists and he has made it clear in the past too, in his speeches and tweets. This time, the President of the United States has gone to the limit of creating a 'wanted' poster for the people who even attempted to topple the statues. On Friday, Donald Trump tweeted calling for arrest of protestors involved in this week's attempt to pull down the statue of Andrew Jackson from a park directly in front of the White House. MANY people in custody, with many others being sought for Vandalization of Federal Property in Lafayette Park. 10 year prison sentences! @FBIWFO pic.twitter.com/mrLyxbWNvq — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 26, 2020 × The President also announced that he has cancelled his plans of spending the weekend at his New Jersey home to make sure that law and order is maintained. I was going to go to Bedminster, New Jersey, this weekend, but wanted to stay in Washington, D.C. to make sure LAW & ORDER is enforced. The arsonists, anarchists, looters, and agitators have been largely stopped... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 26, 2020 × "I am doing what is necessary to keep our communities safe — and these people will be brought to Justice!," he further tweeted. The tweet came out after last week a group of people tried to remove the statue from Lafayette Park, a park which lies opposite to the White House, and was opened to the public after a series of Black Lives Matter protests. This incident happened after the crowd pulled down Albert Pike's statue on June 19, aka Juneteenth, which greatly upset the President, who called it a "disgrace to the country". "I have authorized the Federal Government to arrest anyone who vandalizes or destroys any monument, statue or other such Federal property in the U.S. With up to 10 years in prison, per the Veteran's Memorial Preservation Act, or such other laws that may be pertinent.....," he had tweeted on Tuesday.

Trump issues 'wanted' poster for people who vandalized statues

Amid rising protest against the racism faced by the African-American community in the US, several institutions and organisations are doing their best to show solidarity with the 'Black Lives Matter' campaign.

In such an attempt, the state of Mississippi might change or remove the confederate symbol from its flag. Lawmakers are getting ready to cast vote to pass a bill to remove the Confederate battle emblem from the state flag.

Tate Reeves, the 65th Governor of Mississippi, on Saturday said he is willing to sign a bill to change the flag if the Legislature passes one. This is coming after he previously said he would not veto a bill.

"The legislature has been deadlocked for days as it considers a new state flag. The argument over the 1894 flag has become as divisive as the flag itself and it’s time to end it," he tweeted.

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The legislature has been deadlocked for days as it considers a new state flag. The argument over the 1894 flag has become as divisive as the flag itself and it’s time to end it. 
If they send me a bill this weekend, I will sign it. <a href="https://t.co/bf3vyzuObt">pic.twitter.com/bf3vyzuObt</a>
— Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) <a href="https://twitter.com/tatereeves/status/1276883982974627840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The problem that arises is that the&nbsp;Mississippi's annual legislative session is almost over. As it takes two-thirds majority of the House and Senate to consider a bill after the deadline has passed, the leaders and lawmakers are working their way to secure these majorities.

First, the lawmakers will have to secure a majority, and then they have to secure a majority to pass it to the Governor. The whole process, which could take anything between one to three days, is underway right now.

The state of Mississippi is the only one in the US which has a confederate symbol in its flag now. The symbol has been a part of the flag since 1894, when white supremacists added it to the flag as a silent protests against the rise in political power of the African-American community post the Civil War.

Amid rising protest against the racism faced by the African-American community in the US, several institutions and organisations are doing their best to show solidarity with the 'Black Lives Matter' campaign.

Amid rising protest against the racism faced by the African-American community in the US, several institutions and organisations are doing their best to show solidarity with the 'Black Lives Matter' campaign. In such an attempt, the state of Mississippi might change or remove the confederate symbol from its flag. Lawmakers are getting ready to cast vote to pass a bill to remove the Confederate battle emblem from the state flag. Tate Reeves, the 65th Governor of Mississippi, on Saturday said he is willing to sign a bill to change the flag if the Legislature passes one. This is coming after he previously said he would not veto a bill. "The legislature has been deadlocked for days as it considers a new state flag. The argument over the 1894 flag has become as divisive as the flag itself and it’s time to end it," he tweeted. The legislature has been deadlocked for days as it considers a new state flag. The argument over the 1894 flag has become as divisive as the flag itself and it’s time to end it. If they send me a bill this weekend, I will sign it. pic.twitter.com/bf3vyzuObt — Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) June 27, 2020 × The problem that arises is that the Mississippi's annual legislative session is almost over. As it takes two-thirds majority of the House and Senate to consider a bill after the deadline has passed, the leaders and lawmakers are working their way to secure these majorities. First, the lawmakers will have to secure a majority, and then they have to secure a majority to pass it to the Governor. The whole process, which could take anything between one to three days, is underway right now. The state of Mississippi is the only one in the US which has a confederate symbol in its flag now. The symbol has been a part of the flag since 1894, when white supremacists added it to the flag as a silent protests against the rise in political power of the African-American community post the Civil War.

Mississippi gears up to remove Confederate symbol from state flag

Princeton University, a private Ivy league research university in New Jersey, has decided to remove the name of former US President Woodrow Wilson from a campus building.

The decision has been taken following the controversial beliefs and racial policies inflicted by Woodrow Wilson in the past.

Princeton president Christopher Eisgruber said in a statement that "Wilson's racism was significant and consequential even by the standards of his own time".

The board of trustees decided that&nbsp;"Wilson's racist views and policies make him an inappropriate namesake".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mississippi-gears-up-to-remove-confederate-symbol-from-state-flag-309080">Also read:&nbsp;Mississippi gears up to remove Confederate symbol from state flag</a>

Woodrow Wilson served as the US President from 1913 to 1921, but was infamous for his racially motivated thought process. He, reportedly, did not allow black students to enter the Princeton University when he served as the university president.&nbsp;

He also, reportedly, spoke in favour of the highly-criticised white supremacist group&nbsp;Ku Klux Klan.

The name of the school will be changed to the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs.

Princeton President said that Princeton had honoured Wilson for so long&nbsp;"not because of, but without regard to or perhaps even in ignorance of, his racism".

"That, however, is ultimately the problem," he added. "Princeton is part of an America that has too often disregarded, ignored, or excused racism, allowing the persistence of systems that discriminate against black people."

The decision has been taken following the surge in protests against the racism inflicted upon the African-American community in the US, which came to light after the death of unarmed George Floyd by a white policeman.&nbsp;

Princeton University, a private Ivy league research university in New Jersey, has decided to remove the name of former US President Woodrow Wilson from a campus building.

Princeton University, a private Ivy league research university in New Jersey, has decided to remove the name of former US President Woodrow Wilson from a campus building. The decision has been taken following the controversial beliefs and racial policies inflicted by Woodrow Wilson in the past. Princeton president Christopher Eisgruber said in a statement that "Wilson's racism was significant and consequential even by the standards of his own time". The board of trustees decided that "Wilson's racist views and policies make him an inappropriate namesake". Also read: Mississippi gears up to remove Confederate symbol from state flag Woodrow Wilson served as the US President from 1913 to 1921, but was infamous for his racially motivated thought process. He, reportedly, did not allow black students to enter the Princeton University when he served as the university president. He also, reportedly, spoke in favour of the highly-criticised white supremacist group Ku Klux Klan. The name of the school will be changed to the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs. Princeton President said that Princeton had honoured Wilson for so long "not because of, but without regard to or perhaps even in ignorance of, his racism". "That, however, is ultimately the problem," he added. "Princeton is part of an America that has too often disregarded, ignored, or excused racism, allowing the persistence of systems that discriminate against black people." The decision has been taken following the surge in protests against the racism inflicted upon the African-American community in the US, which came to light after the death of unarmed George Floyd by a white policeman.

Princeton University to remove 'racist' Woodrow Wilson's name from buildings

The lawmakers in&nbsp;Mississippi have passed a resolution paving way to strip the Confederate emblem from the&nbsp;state flag.

The state House and Senate both approved a resolution to suspend legislative deadlines and introduce a bill to have a commission redesign the 126-year-old state flag.&nbsp;

The vote passed in both chambers of the Mississippi legislature: in the House of Representatives by a margin of 84-35, and then in the Senate by 36-14.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mississippi-gears-up-to-remove-confederate-symbol-from-state-flag-309080">Mississippi gears up to remove Confederate symbol from state flag</a>

The resolution calls for the immediate removal of the current flag and for a commission to design a new flag in which all Confederate symbols will be removed and the words "In God We Trust" will be added. The new design will be put to a public vote in November.&nbsp;

Mississippi is the last state in the US to feature the emblem on its flag.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/statue-of-confederate-general-toppled-in-washington-trump-calls-it-a-disgrace-307290">Statue of Confederate general toppled in Washington, Trump calls it a 'disgrace'</a>

The resolution comes as&nbsp;Confederate monuments of all kinds&nbsp;are being banned, removed and transformed across the nation after protests and demonstrations erupted in response to&nbsp;systemic racism against Black Americans.&nbsp;

The Confederate emblem is viewed by many as a racist symbol, with recent protests over the death of George Floyd reigniting debate over its use.

The flag was originally used by the slave-owning states who lost the US Civil War (1860-65).

The lawmakers in Mississippi have passed a resolution paving way to strip the Confederate emblem from the state flag. The state House and Senate both approved a resolution to suspend legislative deadlines and introduce a bill to have a commission redesign the 126-year-old state flag.

The lawmakers in Mississippi have passed a resolution paving way to strip the Confederate emblem from the state flag. The state House and Senate both approved a resolution to suspend legislative deadlines and introduce a bill to have a commission redesign the 126-year-old state flag. The vote passed in both chambers of the Mississippi legislature: in the House of Representatives by a margin of 84-35, and then in the Senate by 36-14. Also read: Mississippi gears up to remove Confederate symbol from state flag The resolution calls for the immediate removal of the current flag and for a commission to design a new flag in which all Confederate symbols will be removed and the words "In God We Trust" will be added. The new design will be put to a public vote in November. Mississippi is the last state in the US to feature the emblem on its flag. Also read: Statue of Confederate general toppled in Washington, Trump calls it a 'disgrace' The resolution comes as Confederate monuments of all kinds are being banned, removed and transformed across the nation after protests and demonstrations erupted in response to systemic racism against Black Americans. The Confederate emblem is viewed by many as a racist symbol, with recent protests over the death of George Floyd reigniting debate over its use. The flag was originally used by the slave-owning states who lost the US Civil War (1860-65).

US: Mississippi lawmakers pass resolution to remove Confederate emblem from state flag

One person was killed and another wounded in a shooting at a Black Lives Matter rally in the US state of Kentucky, police said.

The incident Saturday took place at Jefferson Square Park in the center of Louisville where protestors have gathered for weeks over the killing of African American woman Breonna Taylor.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-walmart-shooting-kills-2-people-4-wounded-309110">Also read|&nbsp;US: Walmart shooting kills 2 people; 4 wounded</a>

Her death in March helped fuel a campaign against racism and police brutality in the United States that has since spread across the globe.&nbsp;

Louisville Metro Police Department said officers were called to the park at around 9:00 pm. &nbsp;

"Calls then came in that Sheriff's Department personnel were in the park performing life-saving measures on a male who eventually died at the scene," the department said on Twitter.&nbsp;

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Just about 9 p.m., there were reports of shots fired in Jefferson Square Park. Calls then came in that Sheriff’s Department personnel were in the park performing life-saving measures on a male who eventually died at the scene.
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Soon after another person was shot across the street at the city's Hall of Justice, police added.&nbsp;

It was unclear if there was more than one shooter and authorities have yet to release any details of the victims.&nbsp;

Louisville mayor Greg Fischer said he was "deeply saddened by the violence."

Before the shooting, Fischer had urged counter-protesters to stay away from the park, after local newspaper Louisville Courier Journal reported that "armed patriot groups" were planning on confronting the demonstrators.&nbsp;

Louisville has seen especially passionate Black Lives Matter protests due to the police killing Taylor in her own apartment.

The 26-year-old emergency room technician was shot dead after police barged into her home, alleging that drug dealers had used the apartment to receive packages.

The case helped trigger fresh waves of anger in the United States over racial injustice and police brutality.

Those protests expanded dramatically after the May 25 killing of George Floyd, an unarmed black man who died in Minneapolis after a white police officer pinned his knee to Floyd's neck for more than eight minutes.

One person was killed and another wounded in a shooting at a Black Lives Matter rally in the US state of Kentucky, police said. The incident Saturday took place at Jefferson Square Park in the center of Louisville where protestors have gathered for weeks over the killing of African American woman Breonna Taylor.

One person was killed and another wounded in a shooting at a Black Lives Matter rally in the US state of Kentucky, police said. The incident Saturday took place at Jefferson Square Park in the center of Louisville where protestors have gathered for weeks over the killing of African American woman Breonna Taylor. Also read| US: Walmart shooting kills 2 people; 4 wounded Her death in March helped fuel a campaign against racism and police brutality in the United States that has since spread across the globe. Louisville Metro Police Department said officers were called to the park at around 9:00 pm. "Calls then came in that Sheriff's Department personnel were in the park performing life-saving measures on a male who eventually died at the scene," the department said on Twitter. Just about 9 p.m., there were reports of shots fired in Jefferson Square Park. Calls then came in that Sheriff’s Department personnel were in the park performing life-saving measures on a male who eventually died at the scene. — LMPD (@LMPD) June 28, 2020 × Soon after another person was shot across the street at the city's Hall of Justice, police added. It was unclear if there was more than one shooter and authorities have yet to release any details of the victims. Louisville mayor Greg Fischer said he was "deeply saddened by the violence." Before the shooting, Fischer had urged counter-protesters to stay away from the park, after local newspaper Louisville Courier Journal reported that "armed patriot groups" were planning on confronting the demonstrators. Louisville has seen especially passionate Black Lives Matter protests due to the police killing Taylor in her own apartment. The 26-year-old emergency room technician was shot dead after police barged into her home, alleging that drug dealers had used the apartment to receive packages. The case helped trigger fresh waves of anger in the United States over racial injustice and police brutality. Those protests expanded dramatically after the May 25 killing of George Floyd, an unarmed black man who died in Minneapolis after a white police officer pinned his knee to Floyd's neck for more than eight minutes.

One dead in shooting at US Black Lives Matter rally

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