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On Wednesday, the Supreme Court will address one of the biggest abortion cases in 20 years. Justices will examine a Texas law requiring that doctors have admitting privileges at local hospitals and clinics upgrade their facilities to hospital-like standards. Those who want to push the law forward claim it will protect women’s health, while others think it was designed to stop abortion. “The impact of these closures has been dire, delaying many women — and preventing others — from obtaining a legal abortion,” said Stephanie Toti, a lawyer for the Center for Reproductive Rights. “This, in turn, has led to an increase in abortions later in pregnancy and in illegal abortions.” Read more.


 

Nina Simone Biopic Starring Zoe Saldana Gets Release Date

When it was revealed that actress Zoe Saldana would be playing Nina Simone in a biopic, many people were up in arms. Despite the criticism, the project is moving forward and recently received a release date, a summary, and a poster. “She was one of the century’s most extraordinary talents, a 15-time Grammy nominee and Grammy Hall of Fame Recipient; her mesmerizing songs and passionate politics combined to make her the unforgettable Nina Simone (Zoe Saldana). But fame and fortune came with a price, and her later years were riddled with depression, alcohol abuse and isolation,” reads the official synopsis, released by RLJ Entertainment. “Rediscovering the meaning of her life and work took courage, strength and one true friend: Clifton Henderson (David Oyelowo), the man who started out as her assistant and eventually became her loyal manager. With Clifton’s encouragement, the “high priestess of soul” began a courageous journey back to her music … and, eventually, herself.” The film is slated to be released on April 22, 2016. Read more.


Idris Elba to Star in Stephen King Film Adaptation

Actor Idris Elba has nabbed the lead role in the upcoming film based on Stephen King’s The Dark Tower novel collection. In the past, King’s 1982 eight-book series has been recreated as short stories, online games, and comics. Sony Pictures has now decided to pick up the film adaptation. Elba was cast along with Matthew McConaughey. He will play the role of Roland Deschain and McConaughey will serve as his archenemy. The film, which is expected to hit theaters in January 2017, will be directed by Nikolaj Arcel and produced by Erica Huggins, Brian Grazer, Akiva Goldsman, and Ron Howard. During a recent interview, King said the movie will have a modern twist. On Tuesday, he took to Twitter to share news about the project: “It’s official: The man in black fled across the desert and the gunslinger followed. #DarkTowerMovie @McConaughey @IdrisElba,” he tweeted. Read more.


Ryan Coogler’s Next Project Will Focus on Juvenile Facilities

Director Ryan Coogler is known for taking on projects with powerful messages. His next venture doesn’t fall short. Coogler is teaming up with writer-directors Destin Daniel Cretton and Chinaka Hodge to develop a new series titled Minors. The show will delve into the development of children who are coming of age in juvenile facilities. Coogler wants the show to put a focus on the disconnection between the justice system and African-American males. “Lots of times people who don’t come in contact with African-American males have power over their lives. These are the people coming up with policy,” he said. “These are the people who are called to juries. These are the people who say ‘I want to be a cop,’ getting a badge and a gun and shooting up these communities. Protecting people who they never really come in contact with. So it’s a really interesting dynamic.” There are no details on when the series will be released. Read more.


Howard’s Library is the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s New Treasure

Howard University has hit another historic milestone. On Monday, the National Trust for Historic Preservation shared that they will launch Howard University’s Founders Library, its new national treasure. Founder’s Library opened its doors in 1939 and gained notoriety as one of the most contemporary libraries across the globe. In this day and age, it is a central place for social activism and higher education. It has one of the world’s largest collection of information about the Black experience in America. With the backing of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the library will be revamped to cater to a new generation while preserving its history. Read more.

VIDEO SOURCE: Inform