Essence Communications Inc.

In this pivotal election, Black women everywhere could, for the first time, see a reflection of our grandmother’s dreams as Commander in Chief. This moment isn’t just about casting a ballot; it’s about claiming our space, our rights, and our future. That isn’t lost on Vice President Kamala Harris. She knows where she stands, firmly at the intersection of freedom and power. We’re not just voting; we’re shaping a legacy of freedom for generations to come. The stakes are high, but so is her spirit. In a very special Chief -to- Chief interview filmed at the 30th ESSENCE Festival of Culture, ESSENCE Ventures CEO and President Caroline Wanga sat down with Vice President Kamala Harris to discuss what inspired her to enter politics, her plans as President, and the potential impact of the upcoming election on everyone. This is our special, Collector’s Edition September / October subscriber cover. Read her cover story here: https://lnkd.in/eB-8TDCd

Law #1: Confidence Few names resonate like Law Roach in the ever-evolving landscape of fashion. Known as the “image architect,” he has masterfully transformed how we perceive the interception of style, identity, and self-expression. That type of achievement only comes with great confidence and the will to bet on yourself, no matter what. Law is set to release his highly anticipated new book, inviting us to explore the layers beneath the surface—where authenticity meets ambition and every outfit tells a story and shows us how to find the Icon within. ESSENCE Ventures VP of Content & Senior Content Director Nandi Howard sat down with Law to discuss his new book, “How to Build a Fashion Icon”. To watch the full sit-down, visit our YouTube channel: https://lnkd.in/gKjyK39r

Tonight we talk about Battleground States! Battleground states will decide the future of our democracy, and we’re going straight to the heart of the fight. Join us tonight October 2 at 8 pm EST to learn about battleground states, what they are, and how we can mobilize to protect our future. Our freedom to vote holds immense power, and we must wield that power to protect and support our communities. Don’t miss this chance to hear from leaders and experts nationwide. Watch on essence.com, the Global Black Economic Forum's YouTube, or RSVP to watch at https://lnkd.in/gyt_Xi_c

Tonight we talk about Battleground States! Battleground states will decide the future of our democracy, and we’re going straight to the heart of the fight. Join us tonight October 2 at 8 pm EST to learn about battleground states, what they are, and how we can mobilize to protect our future. Our freedom to vote holds immense power, and we must wield that power to protect and support our communities. Don’t miss this chance to hear from leaders and experts nationwide. Watch on essence.com, the Global Black Economic Forum’s YouTube, or RSVP to watch at https://lnkd.in/gyt_Xi_c

With only 35 days until election day, the first and only vice-presidential debate saw Senator JD Vance face off against Minnesota Governor Tim Walz in a surprisingly civil debate. Governor Tim Walz and Senator JD Vance sparred over key issues like gun control and abortion rights. Walz pushed for stricter regulations and reproductive freedom, while Vance defended his conservative stance. The lively exchange highlighted the deep political divides shaping our nation today. Here are the top five takeaways: https://lnkd.in/efQ96JAF

John Amos, pioneering actor, has passed away. John’s performances transcended the screen, offering authenticity and depth to characters that resonated and reflected the spectrum of who we are. John’s work as James Evans in “Good Times” and Cleo McDowell in “Coming to America” showed the richness and important dynamic of a Black father and laid the groundwork for future generations of Black dad’s on television. Ain’t we lucky we had good times with you! Rest well. 📸: Getty Images

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted on five federal charges related to bribery, wire fraud, and soliciting campaign contributions from foreign nationals, according to a 57-page indictment that was unsealed. He is charged with bribery and conspiracy to commit wire fraud, as well as with receiving campaign contributions from foreign nationals. Visit ESSENCE.com for more breaking news.

ESSENCE Announces Executive Leadership Appointments To Meet New Market Opportunities ESSENCE is proud to announce that Barkue Tubman Zawolo has been appointed Chief Community Officer, and Monique Manso, previously of WME and People en Español, joins us as Chief Revenue Officer. Welcome to the ESSENCE family! Read more about their new roles here:  https://lnkd.in/gke8k7mY

This isn’t just a dream; it’s a given promise. Jennifer Hudson is walking in it. With her new Christmas album “ The Gift of Love” and third season of her award winning talk show, she’s inspiring us all to dream bigger. “God always has a little bit more for you than what you ask for. So, I stay in awe,” she says. “Every time I come out those double doors that say ‘Jennifer Hudson,’ I think: Is this real? Is this really happening? But that’s why I never sleep. Why sleep if you’re busy living your dream?” Our latest “Of The ESSENCE’ digital cover star opens about her career, motherhood, and finding her “happy place.” Read her cover story here: https://lnkd.in/g8A9Ep9D

Jennifer Hudson is in her “Happy Place” Twenty years after the star was introduced to the world on American Idol, she’s earned some incredible titles that many could only dream about. What a dream it’s been. Hudson has won an Academy Award for playing Effie White in Dreamgirls in 2007. She’s joined the ranks of only 9 Black EGOT winners and, since 2022, has been the host of her very own syndicated daytime talk show (which is in its third season). And now, with a new Christmas album,’ The Gift of Love,’ Jennifer is giving back the love her fans have given her. Our latest "Of The ESSENCE" digital cover star opens up about her dream come true career, motherhood, and finding her "happy place". Read her cover story here:https://lnkd.in/g8A9Ep9D