Topic: Najee Ali

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Los Angeles riots: 20 years later, has LAPD reformed?

The view that the Los Angeles Police Department was corrupt and abusive fueled the Rodney King riots. Twenty years later, however, the LAPD has won over some of its harshest critics.
Rodney King riots anniversary: Have race relations in Los Angeles improved?

This Sunday marks the 20th anniversary of the Rodney King riots in Los Angeles. Some black community activists see significant progress, but others see a long way to go.
Trayvon Martin case shows evolving influence of black community

The black community – from actors to journalists – has played a crucial role in keeping the Trayvon Martin case in the public spotlight, media analysts say.
Billy Crystal in blackface: Are the Academy Awards out of touch on race?

Many African-Americans were, at best, rubbed the wrong way by the Academy Awards telecast. The performance by Billy Crystal was just one of the complaints.
Did California just take a big step toward political sanity?

California's gerrymandered political districts have been a primary cause of the state's partisan gridlock, experts say. New, nonpartisan redistricting maps released Friday could help.
National Day of Prayer a testament to America's uniqueness, backers say

National Day of Prayer activities include speeches and gatherings of many different faiths. Controversial to some, the National Day of Prayer has roots in the earliest days of the nation.
For US Muslims, Osama bin Laden death a 'relief.' Next: 'Kill the ideology.'

American Muslims say they hope that the death of Osama bin Laden will 'lower the temperature' and end the association of Islam with terrorism.
Mehserle trial verdict draws violence to Oakland, legal scrutiny

Protests erupted in Oakland overnight after the Johannes Mehserle trial ended Thursday with a conviction for the lesser charge of involuntary manslaughter. But legal experts call the outcome of the transit police officer's trial fair.
Racist acts at UC San Diego underscore deeper tension on campus

A racially themed party and an incident involving a noose have roiled UC San Diego. But if the school handles the incidents appropriately, some academic experts say, students could ultimately benefit from an enhanced classroom experience.
New LAPD chief known for innovative approach to gang violence

Charlie Beck, a 30-year-plus LAPD veteran from a police family, is expected to carry on the reforms of his former boss and chief William Bratton.
New LAPD chief's challenge: build on Bratton's legacy

The three finalists for the post – all from within the LAPD – have big shoes to fill with the departure of William Bratton, who is credited with turning the force around.
For black America, Jackson was an icon who transcended race

Many African-Americans look past the controversies and cosmetic surgery to his achievements as a barrier-breaking musical star.
In stunning reversal, LAPD goes from reviled to respected

The police department once known for beating Rodney King has resuscitated its public image by reaching out to the minority communities it once antagonized.