The World Cup

The U.S. women’s soccer team won the 2019 FIFA World Cup about a week ago. Everyone was flipping out, and many of the women scored endorsement deals, which will hopefully offset the disparity in pay for winning. The women’s World Cup prize is less than 8% of the men’s World Cup prize. Various corporations and organizations have donated to the team in light of the pay gap. What’s wonderful was the number of out women who participated in the 2019 FIFA World Cup. Nearly 40 players who participated identify as lesbian or bisexual. Among players who identify are U.S. players and engaged couple, Ashlyn Harris and Ali Krieger. In a spirited quote, out U.S. player Megan Rapinoe stated, “You can’t win a championship without gays on your team.” The video below features a locker room celebration after winning the final.

ICE raids begin as 3 new detention camps open

Remember when Trump delayed ICE deportations for 2 weeks in order for republicans and democrats to reach bipartisan agreement? Not only did raids begin this weekend, but ICE opened three more detention centers, one in Mississippi and 2 in Louisiana. The raids were scheduled for 9 major U.S. cities including but not limited to Atlanta, Baltimore, Denver, and Houston. Bill de Blasio, Mayor of New York City, criticized Trump for again inciting fear in individuals and families for no reason. Mayor de Blasio confirmed no arrests have been made yet. Thus far, there have not been any confirmed reports the raids occurred.

The Farewell movie

The Farewell premiered across select theaters in a record breaking weekend and went on to snag 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. Directed by Lulu Wang, the film stars rapper/actor Awkwafina as a woman returning to visit her ailing yet unsuspecting grandmother in China. The film features an all-Asian cast of actors who tell a story that closely resembles a piece of tapestry of Wang’s own family. The film also stars Wang’s great aunt, who she affectionately calls Lil’ Nai Nai. The Farewell is slated to open nationwide August 2, 2019.

Serena Williams’ Harper’s Bazaar cover

Harper’s Bazaar unveiled their August issue cover and Serena Williams graces the front page in a powerful and seductive cheeky pose that made the internet’s jaw drop. Harper’s Bazaar posted the cover on Instagram with a quote from Williams describing the hurtful names she’s been called in the past and body shaming she experienced. Williams has been candid about these experiences before, and continues to use her platform to affirm herself and other women who do not conform to narrow Eurocentric beauty standards. Williams also faced off against Simona Halep, who went on to win her first Wimbledon title!

New Orleans braves another storm

NOLA residents are enduring Barry, the tropical storm turned tropical depression that hit via the Gulf of Mexico. Winds from the storm had reached 70 mph, and areas such as The French Quarter and the Lower Garden District flooded during the thick of the rainfall. The storm has now tapered into a tropical depression, but areas are still reporting flooding. Stay safe, stay dry.

Femme it Forward Tour

Singer Myà announced an upcoming tour via Instagram over the weekend. Known as the Femme it Forward tour, it kicked off back in April when Rico Nasty performed at Harvard. Jill Scott, Brandy, Keri Hilson, Lil Mo, Monica, Myà herself, and many more are also featured on the tour. As the flyer below suggests, the vibe is sure to be about women empowerment and the love of music. According to Live Nation, it’s more than a tour, but rather, “a series of multi-format, multi-market events throughout the year celebrating the depth, power, and talent of women in music and entertainment.” Tickets can be found here.

Big Freedia’s Bouncing Beignets

Fans of Big Freedia got to enjoy a little Freedia for themselves via Ben & Jerry’s new Bouncing Beignets, created in partnership with The Queen of Bounce herself. The vanilla treat swirled with caramel, and was available for a limited time in New Orleans. The collaboration between Big Freedia and Ben & Jerry’s is also philanthropic. Proceeds from the event went to No Kid Hungry, a New Orleans non-profit organization that feeds children throughout the city. If you missed your chance at getting your hands on Bouncing Beignets, there’s still more Freedia to go around! Be sure to catch Big Freedia’s upcoming single featuring Ke$ha releasing in August.

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The Juncture Mag staff