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A New Era Begins for the Country That Once Made Smoking Iconic

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2025-06-03

A New Era Begins for the Country That Once Made Smoking Iconic

France Moves to Ban Smoking in Public Outdoor Spaces, Targeting Youth Exposure

Beginning July 1, France will enact its most extensive smoking restrictions yet, banning smoking in nearly all outdoor public areas where children may be present. The move includes beaches, parks, gardens, playgrounds, sports venues, school entrances, and bus stops.

Health Minister Catherine Vautrin, who announced the policy, emphasized protecting youth from secondhand smoke. “Tobacco must disappear where there are children,” Vautrin said. “The freedom to smoke stops where children’s right to breathe clean air starts.”

Smoking Still Prevalent Despite Declining Rates

The law arrives as France continues to grapple with high tobacco-related death rates. Public health authorities report approximately 75,000 deaths per year due to smoking-related illnesses. While fewer than 25% of French adults now smoke daily — a historic low — the habit remains persistent among younger populations and in urban centers.

Health Advocates Push to End Cultural Normalization

According to France’s League Against Cancer, more than 90% of French films released between 2015 and 2019 featured scenes with smoking. This is over twice the rate of Hollywood films in the same period. Researchers note that normalization through media remains a challenge in curbing youth smoking rates.

France Follows Europe in Tougher Anti-Smoking Measures

France’s latest action follows similar policies in other European countries. Sweden banned smoking on outdoor restaurant terraces, bus stops, and schoolyards in 2019. Spain is currently expanding its ban to cover café and restaurant terraces.

France still allows smoking in some outdoor hospitality spaces, such as bar terraces — but those could be next as public health momentum builds.

Public Opinion Split on Smoking Restrictions

Public reactions in Paris have ranged from support to skepticism. Some see the law as necessary to protect children, while others worry it erodes personal freedoms in a country where smoking remains culturally embedded.

Vaping Exempt — For Now

The new rules do not apply to electronic cigarettes. As traditional smoking becomes more restricted, some French smokers are turning to vaping as an alternative. While viewed by some as a less harmful option, public health experts warn that nicotine exposure through vaping remains a concern, particularly among youth.

Smoking Restrictions Reflect a Cultural Shift

While France has taken steps in the past — including banning smoking on flights only in 2000 — this new law signals a broader public health push. It also suggests a turning point in how France approaches tobacco: less as a personal choice, and more as a public health threat, especially for younger generations.

For now, smokers face fines of up to €135 ($153) for violating the ban. The law marks one of the most significant moves in France’s evolving relationship with tobacco — and reflects growing efforts to reduce exposure and promote a smoke-free future.

No Tax on Social Security? Not So Sure.

Observer Staff

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2025-06-03

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Trump’s Social Security Tax Promise Scaled Back in House Bill: What Seniors Need to Know

President Trump’s campaign promise to eliminate federal taxes on Social Security benefits is getting a reality check. While many retirees were hoping for a full exemption, the latest House bill falls short—offering a temporary $4,000 tax deduction instead.

The proposal, which passed the House last week, is now heading to the Senate, where the debate is expected to intensify. Here’s what seniors 55 and older need to know.

A Promise, Rewritten

During his campaign, Trump pledged to stop taxing Social Security altogether. But the House version of the bill only includes a limited tax break for Americans age 65 and older.

“It’s a far cry from making Social Security tax-free,” said Tom O’Saben, Director of Government Relations at the National Association of Tax Professionals.

What’s in the Bill?

The legislation introduces a $4,000 per-person deduction for qualifying seniors from 2025 through 2028. The key details:

• Single filers earning up to $75,000 and joint filers up to $150,000 can claim the full deduction.
• The deduction gradually phases out above those income levels—reduced by $40 for every $1,000 over the limit.
• Seniors still keep their existing deductions ($2,000 for singles and $1,600 per person for couples).
• With higher standard deductions ($16,000 for individuals and $32,000 for couples), a married senior couple could deduct up to $43,200 in total.

But the reality is, many retirees may not benefit significantly. Those with lower incomes often pay no tax already, while higher-income seniors may not qualify due to income thresholds.

The bill also doesn’t help younger people who receive disability or survivor benefits, or those delaying Social Security past age 65.

Why the Change?

Two main reasons:

• Cost: Fully removing taxes on Social Security would cost around $100 billion per year. The scaled-down deduction costs closer to $18 billion annually.
• Legal Limits: Congress used a process called budget reconciliation to pass the bill, which restricts changes to the Social Security trust fund—partly funded by the taxes Trump had promised to remove.

Despite these challenges, House Republicans are backing what Trump calls his “one big, beautiful bill.” But it may not fare as well in the Senate, where deficit concerns are expected to dominate.

“It’s politically unpopular to be the person to say ‘No tax relief for seniors’ when the president promised it,” said Alex Durante, a senior economist at the Tax Foundation.

What It Means for You

For a middle-income couple receiving $48,000 in Social Security and $50,000 in pension income, Trump’s original promise might have saved them $3,500 in taxes. Under the current bill, they’d see around $1,200 in savings.

While any relief is welcome, many seniors may feel this effort doesn’t go far enough. As the bill moves to the Senate, it remains uncertain whether this scaled-back version will pass—or if it will be adjusted once more.

Gutting Public Health: America’s Health Safety Net Is Crumbling

Health

Observer Staff

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2025-06-03

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Gutting Public Health: America’s Health Safety Net Is Crumbling

Trump’s Cuts Leave America Vulnerable to Disease and Chaos

Across the country, Americans are quietly losing the very people and programs that have long kept their communities healthy. From disease surveillance to restaurant inspections and mobile vaccine units, the country’s public health system is being hollowed out—fast.

Gone are the specialists fighting measles in Ohio. The mobile vaccine teams in Charlotte, North Carolina. The testing programs in Tennessee. Deep federal cuts have ripped out the backbone of local and state health departments, leaving them severely underfunded and understaffed just as new health threats are rising.

“Nobody wants to walk out their door and take a breath of fresh air and start wheezing,” said Lori Tremmel Freeman of the National Association of County and City Health Officials. “But that’s where we’re headed.”

Trump Admin Slashes $11 Billion, Ends 20,000 Jobs

Under the leadership of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Trump administration abruptly pulled $11 billion in federal public health support this spring, declaring the COVID pandemic “over.” But much of the money was also meant for non-COVID work—like tracking infectious diseases and providing vaccines.

An additional wave of layoffs followed at the CDC, where thousands of staff who partnered with state agencies were fired. Meanwhile, the administration has proposed further cuts that would slash the CDC’s budget in half—crippling an agency that sends 80% of its funds to states and cities.

“These cuts are not about abandoning public health — they’re about reforming it,” a Kennedy spokesman claimed. But local officials say they’re being forced to cut life-saving programs with no backup plan in sight.

Measles, Bird Flu, and a System Unprepared

The impact is already unfolding. Mecklenburg County in North Carolina laid off 11 community health workers and shut down its entire mobile vaccination team. In Columbus, Ohio, disease tracking staff were cut just as a measles outbreak surged. Nashville lost its free flu testing and mobile vaccine program.

Kansas City had to cancel plans to buy critical lab equipment. And federal support for smoking cessation, early childhood hearing intervention, and drowning prevention—one of the top killers of toddlers—was also eliminated.

“We’re left scrambling,” said Connecticut’s health commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani. “The current uncertainty puts lives at risk.”

Prevention Saves Lives — But Doesn’t Get the Headlines

Public health work is designed to be invisible. If done right, no one notices. But that’s part of the problem: when programs prevent outbreaks, they don’t get the same recognition as hospitals or emergency rooms.

“You come to work every day and think: What’s going to be my challenge today?” said Raynard Washington, health director in Mecklenburg County. “That’s why having a backbone infrastructure is so important.”

For every dollar spent on childhood vaccines, the U.S. saves $11. On asthma control, $70. But as funding dries up, departments like Washington’s—once staffed with over 1,000 workers—are being gutted.

A Cycle of Boom, Bust, and Burnout

Public health funding surges during emergencies, then vanishes when the crisis ends. COVID-era funding briefly strengthened departments. In Alabama, it even reopened a rural health clinic that had been shuttered for years. But by 2025, nearly all of that progress was wiped out.

In Santa Clara County, California, a COVID-era grant helped establish a new science branch. But now, director Dr. Sara Cody says, “We’re facing funding cliff after funding cliff.”

Chicago lost over half its health department’s budget. Mecklenburg lost 180 workers. Even a wastewater monitoring program that helped detect COVID variants—and could help identify new threats like bird flu—was cut.

Final Warning: The Next Outbreak Could Be Catastrophic

Public health officials across the board are ringing the alarm. The Trump administration’s deep, sudden cuts are leaving the U.S. unprepared not just for the next pandemic, but for everyday health crises already emerging.

“Without the appropriate funding,” warned Mecklenburg’s Michael Eby, “we can’t properly address these threats. We’re at risk of them getting out of control and really causing a lot of damage and death to individuals that we could have saved.”

Two Months of Tariffs: The Price Increases You’re Already Seeing

Observer Staff

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2025-06-03

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Two Months of Tariffs: The Price Increases You’re Already Seeing

From Groceries to Cars to Electronics, Tariffs Are Pushing Prices Up—and the Legal Fight Isn’t Over Yet

Tariffs Hit, Prices Rise

Over the past two months, Americans have started feeling the impact of tariffs—especially at the checkout line. From retail to tech to groceries, prices are climbing as companies adjust to higher import costs and disrupted supply chains.

The tariffs, introduced under former President Donald Trump, are now the subject of a legal tug-of-war. A U.S. trade court recently ruled that Trump overstepped his authority by implementing them without Congress. But just hours later, a federal appeals court put that decision on hold, keeping the tariffs in place while the legal fight continues.

The result? Businesses and consumers are stuck in limbo—and footing the bill.

Where You’ll See It First

Retail Price Hikes

•   Macy’s is increasing prices on China-sourced goods.
•   Walmart warns bananas and electronics will cost more.
•   Target anticipates price hikes on imported fruits and vegetables.
•   Best Buy expects vendors to pass on added costs.
•   Mattel is raising toy prices.
•   Shein and Temu, popular discount retailers, face rising costs as tax exemptions disappear.

Automakers Respond

•   Ford plans up to a 1.5% price increase on vehicles.
•   GM revised its forecast, bracing for a $5 billion tariff hit.
•   Volkswagen and Subaru say higher prices are likely for their U.S. models.

Household and Food Brands

•   Procter & Gamble is adjusting prices on products like Tide and Charmin.
•   PepsiCo increased prices 3% due to higher supply chain costs.
•   Nike, Adidas, and Ralph Lauren all plan apparel and footwear price hikes.

Grocery Aisles and Beverage Shelves

•   Produce from Mexico is becoming more expensive.
•   Imported coffee and wine are next in line for price increases.

Tech and Gadgets

•   Microsoft warned tariffs are impacting production costs.
•   Nintendo delayed pre-orders for its Switch 2 console due to pricing concerns.

What the Data Shows (So Far)

Despite all the price warnings, inflation hasn’t surged yet. The Commerce Department’s data shows prices only rose 0.1% in April, possibly because shoppers are becoming more selective or cutting back.

The Takeaway

For consumers between 35 and 55, this hits close to home—raising families, managing budgets, and watching every dollar. Tariffs may seem like a political issue, but they’re directly affecting your everyday costs. Whether it’s groceries, back-to-school shopping, or your next car, expect higher prices—and more uncertainty—as the legal battle plays out.

Red Bull Backs the Fastest Women in Racing

Observer Staff

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2025-06-03

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Red Bull Backs the Fastest Women in Racing

F1 Academy Breaks the Mold: All-Women Racing League Hits Netflix with Red Bull in the Driver’s Seat

Streaming the Revolution

Netflix has dropped a new docuseries, F1: The Academy, giving viewers a front-row seat to motorsport’s boldest new chapter — a racing league just for women. Launched in 2023 and backed by Formula 1, F1 Academy is already changing the game. The series, created with Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine, takes fans behind the scenes of the 2024 season, with emotional stories, competitive grit, and a look at how this league is rewriting the rules.

How the League Works

F1 Academy is built for women, ages 16 to 25, who get two seasons max to prove themselves. Each of the six teams runs three identical Formula 4-level cars. The 2025 calendar features seven race weekends — each one tied to an official F1 Grand Prix — giving the drivers major exposure and top-tier experience.

Netflix has dropped a new docuseries, F1 Coming 2025 — Netflix

Each weekend includes two practice sessions, a qualifying round, and two races. The first race flips the top 8 qualifiers, encouraging overtakes and action. The second race follows traditional F1 scoring. A rotating “wild card” driver also gets a one-time shot at competing in front of a home crowd, which can lead to a full-time seat.

Red Bull’s Full Throttle Plan

Red Bull isn’t just a sponsor — they’re going all in. Julia George, Director of Partnerships, said Red Bull has built a full strategy around the F1 Academy. “We care, and we’re integrating them into what we do,” she said. That includes training, visibility, and long-term investment.

For Red Bull, this is about more than ROI. “You’re in it for the storytelling,” George said. The brand sees women’s motorsport as a space with huge potential — just like women’s soccer a decade ago.

More Than Just a Show

The Netflix series puts a spotlight on the league’s rising stars — including Bianca Bustamante and Abbi Pulling — and doesn’t shy away from the challenges of building something new. The first episode kicks off at the Miami Grand Prix and shows the real pressure these young women face on and off the track.

When storms canceled a Miami race, the league didn’t just move on — they fought for a makeup race in Canada, proving that equal opportunity isn’t just a slogan; it’s the mission.

What’s Next

F1 Academy is only in its third year, but it’s already setting new standards. With global streaming, big-name sponsors, and Red Bull pushing for more, the league is paving a new path for women in motorsport — and it’s only the beginning.

”‘We’re All Going to Die’ Sen. Ernst’s Medicaid Remark Unbelievable”

Observer Staff

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2025-06-03

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”‘We’re All Going to Die’ Sen. Ernst’s Medicaid Remark Unbelievable”

Senator Ernst Says the Quiet Part Out Loud: If You Die from Medicaid Cuts, ‘Oh Well’.

In a display that many found appalling, Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) responded to a constituent’s concern about potential deaths resulting from proposed Medicaid cuts by flippantly stating,

Well, we all are going to die. For heaven’s sakes, folks.

This remark came during a town hall meeting in Parkersburg, Iowa, where attendees expressed alarm over the implications of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”—a sweeping Republican initiative aiming to slash over $1 trillion from social safety net programs, including Medicaid and SNAP, while extending tax breaks for the wealthy.

Rather than issuing a sincere apology, Ernst doubled down on her dismissive attitude by posting a sarcastic video on Instagram. Filmed in a cemetery, she mockingly stated,

“I made an incorrect assumption that everyone in the auditorium understood that yes, we are all going to perish from this Earth. So I apologize. And I’m really, really glad that I … .” She concluded with a proselytizing message: “For those that would like to see eternal and everlasting life, I encourage you to … “ .

The proposed legislation, currently under Senate consideration, includes provisions that could lead to 7. … Medicaid coverage, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Critics argue that the bill’s work requirements and spending cuts would disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, potentially leading to increased mortality rates .

Senator Chris Murphy (D-Connect … condemned Ernst’s remarks, stating, “Everybody in that audience knows that … .” He emphasized that losing health care coverage increases the risk of early death and that the bill could lead to the closure of rural hospitals and drug treatment clinics .

Ernst’s callous response and subsequent mock apology have drawn widespread criticism, highlighting concerns about the Republican Party’s priorities and the potential human cost of their proposed policies.

WNBA: No Proof of Racist Remarks Toward Angel Reese

News
Sports

Observer Staff

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2025-06-03

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WNBA: No Proof of Racist Remarks Toward Angel Reese

League Concludes Investigation Into Fan Conduct at Sky-Fever Matchup

The WNBA says it has wrapped up its investigation into claims that racist remarks were made toward Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese during a recent road game against the Indiana Fever—and found no evidence to support the allegations.

In a statement, the league confirmed it had reviewed audio and video footage of the game and interviewed fans, arena staff, and team personnel. “We appreciate the quick action by the league and the Indiana Fever to take this matter seriously and to investigate,” said Sky CEO and President Adam Fox. “This process demonstrates the league’s strong stance on stopping hate at all WNBA games and events, and we will continue to support those efforts.”

Allegations Stemmed From Game Against Caitlin Clark and Fever

The allegations surfaced after the Sky’s 93-58 loss in Indianapolis earlier this month—a game that featured the latest chapter in the high-profile rivalry between Reese, who is Black, and Fever rookie Caitlin Clark, who is white.

Though details on what was allegedly said remain vague, a person familiar with the investigation confirmed the WNBA was specifically looking into claims of racist remarks being hurled at Reese from the crowd. However, Reese did not offer details when asked if she had personally contributed to the league’s inquiry, stating, “That’s not a me question.”

Players Shift Focus to the Court

Heading into a game against the Phoenix Mercury, Reese made clear that she had moved on. “I’m focused on the game today,” she said. “Going through this whole process, if it can happen to me, it can happen to anyone.”

Sky head coach Tyler Marsh said while the organization appreciated the league taking action, the team was focused on the task at hand: getting their first win of the season. “We hope that the league continues to make the steps necessary moving forward to ensure a safe environment for everyone, all players included,” Marsh said.

Clark, who said she didn’t hear any inappropriate comments during the game, acknowledged how loud it gets at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. “That doesn’t mean nothing happened,” she noted. “That’s why they’re looking into it. I’ll just trust the league’s investigation, and I’m sure they’ll do the right thing.”

Fever Organization Responds, Says Hate Has “No Place”

The Fever’s parent organization, Pacers Sports & Entertainment, also responded following the WNBA’s findings. “We appreciate the swift and thorough process undertaken by the WNBA to investigate these allegations, which were not substantiated,” said CEO Mel Raines. “At Gainbridge Fieldhouse, we are committed to providing the best possible basketball experience for players and fans where hate speech has absolutely no place.”

Both teams and the WNBA Players Association had previously voiced support for the investigation. The players union had not issued a follow-up comment at the time of the league’s final statement.

Reese, who had initially said she felt supported across the league, didn’t expand on what was allegedly said, but made it clear she views this situation as bigger than herself. “There’s no place in this league for that,” she said.

Mother and Daughter Graduate Nursing School After Life-Saving Kidney Transplant

Observer Staff

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2025-06-03

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Mother and Daughter Graduate Nursing School After Life-Saving Kidney Transplant

“She Gave Me Life Twice”: Mother Donates Kidney, Graduates Nursing School with Daughter

Nija Butler and her daughter, Ambrealle, have always shared a close bond—one that began when Nija had Ambrealle in high school. “She’s my best friend, my confidante,” Nija told WFAB9 News.

Diagnosis to Dialysis

That relationship grew even stronger after a health scare nearly took Ambrealle’s life. In her late 20s, during a routine checkup, doctors found one of her kidneys leaking protein. Follow-up tests revealed she had focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a rare kidney disease that can lead to failure.

“I was so young at the time,” Ambrealle said. “I thought I had forever.” The diagnosis forced her onto dialysis, hooked up to a machine for up to 13 hours a day for five years. “That tube was keeping me alive.”

Nija stayed close during the entire ordeal. “Sometimes I would crawl into bed with her during dialysis,” she said. “That was all I could do.”

It’s a Match

Eventually, Nija secretly got tested to see if she could be a kidney donor, even though doctors said it was unlikely she’d be a match. To everyone’s surprise, she was.

“It was probably the best news I’ve ever heard in my life,” Ambrealle said. “And I didn’t even know she was doing it.”

The transplant took place at Tulane Medical Center. Once both were stable, they reunited. “All I could do was kiss her, hug her, and make sure she was okay,” Nija said. “When I heard the kidney was working, I could finally breathe again.”

Second Chance at Life

Ambrealle, given a second chance at life, decided to follow her dream of becoming a nurse. Nija joined her. The pair enrolled in the 16-month registered nurse program at Baton Rouge General School of Nursing.

“We’re taught how kidneys work in textbooks,” said Ambrealle, “but imagine your nurse has lived it. I know what that patient is feeling.”

This April, Nija and Ambrealle will graduate together, proud and ready to serve others. They hope to start a business supporting kidney patients and families going through similar journeys.

“She gave birth to me—and she gave me life twice,” Ambrealle told WFAB9. “I’m just glad I get to do life with her.”

Walmart, Target Warn: Boycotts Are Bad for Business

Observer Staff

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2025-06-03

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Walmart, Target Warn: Boycotts Are Bad for Business

Political and Cultural Boycotts are Now a Real Business Risk

Big-name brands like Walmart, Target, and Home Depot are putting it in writing: political and cultural boycotts are now a real business risk.

In their latest filings to investors, these companies are warning that backlash over diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs — as well as environmental and social policies (ESG) — could damage their reputation, hurt sales, and trigger lawsuits. In short: politics is now part of the profit conversation.

“Consumers may be dissatisfied if a company takes a particular position on a social issue — or if it takes no position at all,” explained Kristen Jaconi, director at USC’s Peter Arkley Institute for Risk Management.

Target also admitted it’s getting squeezed from both sides. When it offered LGBTQ-themed items, conservative groups attacked. When it rolled back diversity programs, others pushed back. The result? A drop in sales and lingering distrust.

Walmart echoed that concern, warning that strong public opinions on both sides of DEI and ESG issues could spark “boycotts, negative publicity campaigns, litigation and reputational harm.”

And it’s not just the retailers. Brands like Kroger, Abercrombie & Fitch, and PVH Corp. (which owns Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger) are sounding the alarm too. They say the political climate — especially under Republican pressure — has made sustainability and diversity goals harder to pursue without fear of backlash.

Kroger pointed out that changes in the U.S. administration could “lead to increased criticism and associated reputational harm.” PVH warned of “retaliatory legislative treatment” and boycotts tied to their social policies.

So why the sudden caution?

Historian Lawrence Glickman, who studies consumer activism at Cornell, says it’s a sign of the times:

“Boycotts have been successful enough that companies are now worried about them.”

The bottom line? Whether companies lean into social issues or try to steer clear, they’re caught in the crossfire — and they know it.

Reclaimed: Black Remains and Images Returned

Observer Staff

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2025-06-03

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Reclaimed: Black Remains and Images Returned

From Skulls to Snapshots, America Reckons with a Violent Past

Two landmark moments unfolded this year in the ongoing battle to reclaim the dignity of Black Americans whose bodies were used and abused under the guise of science.

In New Orleans, 19 African Americans whose skulls were stolen and shipped to Germany in the 1800s for racist phrenology research were finally laid to rest in a ceremony marked by music, reverence, and cultural pride.

The remains of 19 African Americans whose remains were wrongfully taken from New Orleans in the late 1800s and sent to the University of Leipzig in Germany. Jacob Cochran / Dillard University

Meanwhile, Harvard University agreed to relinquish 175-year-old images of enslaved individuals Renty and Delia, ending a 15-year legal fight with their descendant, Tamara Lanier.

Both acts represent long-overdue attempts to repair the harm inflicted by so-called “scientific” institutions that once treated Black people—dead and alive—as data points, not humans.

New Orleans Buries the Exploited With Honor

At the Hurricane Katrina Memorial, a jazz funeral and multifaith service marked the return and burial of 19 African Americans whose remains were repatriated from the University of Leipzig in Germany. The skulls, taken from bodies that died at New Orleans’ Charity Hospital between 1871 and 1872, were originally provided by a local physician to support phrenology, the racist pseudoscience that claimed skull shape indicated intellectual and moral traits.

“These were really poor, indigent people at the end of the 19th century,” said Dillard University President Monique Guillory, whose institution led the repatriation effort. “But they had names, they had addresses, they walked the streets of the city that we love. We all deserve a recognition of our humanity and the value of our lives.”

Eva Baham, the Dillard historian who helped facilitate the return, said the project is part of a broader reckoning. “All kinds of experiments were done on Black bodies, living and dead—people who had no agency over themselves,” she said.

Harvard Surrenders Earliest Photos of Enslaved Americans

In a separate but related milestone, Harvard University will hand over daguerreotypes of Renty and Delia, two enslaved people photographed shirtless in 1850 without consent, to the International African American Museum in Charleston, South Carolina.

The settlement, reached with Tamara Lanier—who identified Renty as her great-great-great-grandfather—marks the end of a bitter legal fight over ownership and ethics. While Massachusetts courts ruled that Harvard legally owned the photographs, they also acknowledged the emotional harm and historical injustice, allowing Lanier to pursue damages.

Tamara Lanier holds an 1850 photograph of Renty, a South Carolina slave who Lanier said is her family’s patriarch, at her home in Norwich, Connecticut. Photograph: John Shishmanian/AP

“This is a moment in history where the sons and daughters of stolen ancestors can stand with pride and rightfully proclaim a victory for reparations,” Lanier said, standing alongside Susanna Moore, the descendant of Harvard biologist Louis Agassiz, who commissioned the images to promote white supremacist beliefs.

Harvard, in its statement, acknowledged the complexity of the case but stopped short of formally confirming Lanier’s familial link to the subjects. Lanier and her team, while supportive of Harvard’s current progressive stances, still pressed the university to own its role in perpetuating slavery.

Restoration Over Silence

Both events—a burial and a transfer—symbolize a growing effort to move stolen Black history out of the archives and back into the hands of descendants and the public. The International African American Museum has committed to collaborating with Lanier on how the images of Renty and Delia will be shared with the world. Dillard University is continuing its research to potentially identify descendants of the 19 New Orleanians returned from Germany.

“These images and remains were used to erase humanity,” said Lanier’s attorney, Josh Koskoff. “Now they’re being used to restore it.”

In a country where racist scientific practices once tried to quantify inferiority, the descendants are now demanding something deeper than data: dignity, memory, and justice.