North Carolina Court Commutes Death Sentence Over Racial Bias

Hasson Bacote, sentenced to death for the murder of Anthony Surles in 2007, had his sentence commuted to life in prison by former North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper following a ruling that racial discrimination influenced his sentencing. At a recent hearing, evidence was presented showing bias in Bacote's trial, which could impact over 90 other death row inmates who have filed similar motions under North Carolina's Racial Justice Act. Meanwhile, ESPN's Mina Kimes faced backlash for highlighting the Pentagon's removal and subsequent reinstatement of a tribute to Jackie Robinson, which was linked to a broader elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion content by the Defense Department. Critics argue this is part of an ongoing trend to erase discussions of race within prominent historical contexts. Notably, Robinson's military service and his role in breaking Major League Baseball's color barrier are central to the debate surrounding this incident. The controversy has drawn responses from various commentators, including Al Sharpton, who condemned the Pentagon's actions as emblematic of institutional racism.