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The Super Bowl is one of the most-watched sporting events in the world. It’s held annually on the first Sunday in February, marking the culmination of the NFL season. But apart from the sport, the event is also known for its halftime show: a major cultural event featuring A-list performers and surprise collaborations, all backed by massive productions. Though the halftime show has always been a part of the Super Bowl, it wasn’t focused on A-list performers until 1993, when Michael Jackson revolutionized the halftime.
As a result, the halftime show is now a standalone event that’s often as anticipated as the game itself, and for this year’s occasion, Kendrick Lamar will be the headline act for the Super Bowl LIX halftime show. Of course, this isn’t his first Super Bowl; he participated in the 2022 halftime show alongside Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Mary J. Blige. The American rapper, songwriter, and producer is the first non-classical or jazz musician to receive a Pulitzer Prize for Music, and he’s considered one of the most influential artists of his generation, so it’s not really a surprise that he’s headlining the show.
However, Lamar’s upcoming performance — while certainly the defining moment of the halftime show — might not be solely about the music. It could serve as an opportunity to shine a light on Compton’s rich culture. Despite negative characterizations in pop culture, Compton is rich in Black culture, resilience, and artistic expression, and Lamar often explores these dualities through his music. But he’s not the only one uplifting Compton; the Compton Cowboys are doing the same. Given their potential appearance at the halftime show, we’re taking this opportunity to learn more about their history.
Due to the aforementioned negative portrayals in pop culture, people often associate Compton with hip-hop, gang culture, social inequalities, and economic struggles. However, horses have been a part of the city’s history for decades, and Compton has deep roots in Black cowboy culture. This challenges both the mainstream perception of the city and the role of African Americans in equestrian history — especially since Black Cowboys have been a vital part of American history, whose contributions are greatly overlooked.
Most people only learned about white cowboys who roamed the frontier, herded cattle, and got into occasional gunfights with bandits and Native Americans — a false notion that was reinforced through cinema. However, historical facts say otherwise; the reality was more diverse, and the equestrian history of the West wasn’t exclusively white. There were Black cowboys. In fact, after white ranchers left to fight in the Civil War, slaves developed ranching skills, and as a consequence, one in four cowboys was Black.
After the Emancipation Proclamation, these newly skilled cattle herders found work moving livestock. However, their stories remain omitted from the pages of history. Fast forward to modern times, and Compton is now home to the Compton Cowboys, a group of Black equestrians who continue to challenge the stereotypes about their community and their city. Since Compton was shaped by systemic challenges, gang violence and drugs weren’t uncommon routes for kids to find themselves going down. In response, Mayisha Akbar founded the Compton Jr. Posse Youth Equestrian Program — an NPO in Richland Farms — in the 1980s with the idea of providing local youth with a safe alternative to the streets.
From this organization came the Compton Cowboys, and many of its members actually found their way to the organization by engaging and interacting with other cowboys riding through their neighborhoods or through family and friends’ recommendations. The Cowboys still work to provide a safe alternative and present as positive role models to inner-city youth, helping them find a path away from gangs and crime while also providing mentorship through horseback riding and equestrian culture and lifestyle.
Their influence now extends into the media, where the Compton Cowboys are at the forefront of challenging stereotypes about African Americans. Through their growing presence, they not only reshape perceptions but also highlight the broader issue of under-representation in the cowboy and rodeo world. This struggle for visibility echoes the experiences of many Black pioneers, including the legendary Bill Pickett, whose contributions remain largely overlooked despite their significance.
The Compton Cowboys, much like their predecessors, continue to ride through city streets to raise awareness. They also participate in parades and compete in various events. Given that Super Bowl halftime shows have historically featured performers such as drill teams and marching bands, there’s a compelling case for including the Compton Cowboys in this year’s performance. With the 2025 Super Bowl set to take place at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, which has a capacity of 83,000 spectators, and an anticipated television audience exceeding 120 million viewers, their inclusion could significantly enhance their visibility and amplify their message.
It could also strengthen local community support while helping to reshape historical narratives, bringing greater recognition to the vital role African Americans have played in the equestrian history of the United States.
The post A Brief History of the Compton Cowboys and Their Potential Super Bowl Spotlight appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.
The Super Bowl is one of the most-watched sporting events in the world. It’s held annually on the first Sunday in February, marking the culmination of the NFL season. But apart from the sport, the event is also known for its halftime show: a major cultural event featuring A-list performers and surprise collaborations, all backed by massive productions. Though the halftime show has always been a part of the Super Bowl, it wasn’t focused on A-list performers until 1993, when Michael Jackson revolutionized the halftime.
As a result, the halftime show is now a standalone event that’s often as anticipated as the game itself, and for this year’s occasion, Kendrick Lamar will be the headline act for the Super Bowl LIX halftime show. Of course, this isn’t his first Super Bowl; he participated in the 2022 halftime show alongside Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Mary J. Blige. The American rapper, songwriter, and producer is the first non-classical or jazz musician to receive a Pulitzer Prize for Music, and he’s considered one of the most influential artists of his generation, so it’s not really a surprise that he’s headlining the show.
However, Lamar’s upcoming performance — while certainly the defining moment of the halftime show — might not be solely about the music. It could serve as an opportunity to shine a light on Compton’s rich culture. Despite negative characterizations in pop culture, Compton is rich in Black culture, resilience, and artistic expression, and Lamar often explores these dualities through his music. But he’s not the only one uplifting Compton; the Compton Cowboys are doing the same. Given their potential appearance at the halftime show, we’re taking this opportunity to learn more about their history.
Due to the aforementioned negative portrayals in pop culture, people often associate Compton with hip-hop, gang culture, social inequalities, and economic struggles. However, horses have been a part of the city’s history for decades, and Compton has deep roots in Black cowboy culture. This challenges both the mainstream perception of the city and the role of African Americans in equestrian history — especially since Black Cowboys have been a vital part of American history, whose contributions are greatly overlooked.
Most people only learned about white cowboys who roamed the frontier, herded cattle, and got into occasional gunfights with bandits and Native Americans — a false notion that was reinforced through cinema. However, historical facts say otherwise; the reality was more diverse, and the equestrian history of the West wasn’t exclusively white. There were Black cowboys. In fact, after white ranchers left to fight in the Civil War, slaves developed ranching skills, and as a consequence, one in four cowboys was Black.
After the Emancipation Proclamation, these newly skilled cattle herders found work moving livestock. However, their stories remain omitted from the pages of history. Fast forward to modern times, and Compton is now home to the Compton Cowboys, a group of Black equestrians who continue to challenge the stereotypes about their community and their city. Since Compton was shaped by systemic challenges, gang violence and drugs weren’t uncommon routes for kids to find themselves going down. In response, Mayisha Akbar founded the Compton Jr. Posse Youth Equestrian Program — an NPO in Richland Farms — in the 1980s with the idea of providing local youth with a safe alternative to the streets.
From this organization came the Compton Cowboys, and many of its members actually found their way to the organization by engaging and interacting with other cowboys riding through their neighborhoods or through family and friends’ recommendations. The Cowboys still work to provide a safe alternative and present as positive role models to inner-city youth, helping them find a path away from gangs and crime while also providing mentorship through horseback riding and equestrian culture and lifestyle.
Their influence now extends into the media, where the Compton Cowboys are at the forefront of challenging stereotypes about African Americans. Through their growing presence, they not only reshape perceptions but also highlight the broader issue of under-representation in the cowboy and rodeo world. This struggle for visibility echoes the experiences of many Black pioneers, including the legendary Bill Pickett, whose contributions remain largely overlooked despite their significance.
The Compton Cowboys, much like their predecessors, continue to ride through city streets to raise awareness. They also participate in parades and compete in various events. Given that Super Bowl halftime shows have historically featured performers such as drill teams and marching bands, there’s a compelling case for including the Compton Cowboys in this year’s performance. With the 2025 Super Bowl set to take place at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, which has a capacity of 83,000 spectators, and an anticipated television audience exceeding 120 million viewers, their inclusion could significantly enhance their visibility and amplify their message.
It could also strengthen local community support while helping to reshape historical narratives, bringing greater recognition to the vital role African Americans have played in the equestrian history of the United States.
The post A Brief History of the Compton Cowboys and Their Potential Super Bowl Spotlight appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.
It’s 2025, and you probably have a ton of resolutions around exercising more, eating healthy, saving money, or finding a new job. Having big goals can be motivating, but simple goals can also be beneficial.
What is a simple goal? An activity that you can easily implement and stick to. If nothing comes to mind, here’s your perfect goal: spending more time outside.
Benefits of being in nature
One of the most significant benefits of spending time in nature is improving mental health. Ever since smartphones became something we depend on more than water or food, society has become a place of overstimulation, constant distractions due to notifications, and seemingly never-ending anxiety about checking our phones.
However, you know what most green spaces don’t have? Outlets. While you can bring electronics into nature, it’s not required and is slightly frowned upon.
Heather Eliassen, a professor of nutrition and epidemiology, was quoted in a Pop Sugar article as saying that time spent in nature increases positive emotions, decreases anxiety and rumination, and helps with mental restoration.
But the benefits don’t stop there. If you are not sleeping well, try walking in the park, as being in nature can improve your sleep. If you struggle with high blood pressure, try going for a hike. Black women have some of the highest rates of hypertension across the globe. If you want to live longer, spending time in nature has been linked to reduced mortality rates.
Why Black women must spend time in nature
Besides reaping the benefits mentioned above, spending more time in nature means Black women can live free of judgment. The trees and the flowers aren’t going to pull a Karen.
When I spend time in nature, I don’t have to worry about changing my voice or wearing my hair a certain way. I can simply exist.
Additionally, in many spaces, such as work or even shopping at the store, Black women consistently experience microaggressions. Yet the only microaggression you might express in nature is getting scratched by a branch, and I promise it wasn’t because you’re Black.
With some DEI programs ending, it’s difficult not to feel like the country is disregarding not only Black women but other minority or underrepresented groups. Yet nature can be the accepting space you retreat to when you feel like the world is too much.
Ways to spend time in nature
So, if you’re convinced you need to put on your tennis shoes and sunscreen and go outside, here are some ways to fulfill your New Year’s resolution to spend time in nature.
Visit a park
Chances are there is a park near your home. Instead of going straight home from work and decompressing with a bottle of wine, try going for a walk in nature.
Remember to check out parks in your area or visit a national park.
Take a stroll on the beach
If the weather is cold, you probably don’t want to go for a swim; you can still enjoy the beach by walking along the boardwalk or sand. You can also find a spot to sit and meditate while you listen to the waves. Even take a few moments to gaze out onto the ocean. Simply gazing out into the vast open space can help you alleviate your vision from staring at screens most of the day.
Studies have also shown that panoramic vision can help with problem-solving, as widening your vision can help expand your mind.
Go for a hike
Hiking is an excellent form of exercise and a way to meet new people. Look up local hiking trails and ensure you are prepared with the right equipment. You can also join a hiking group to get you started.
When the world seems overflowing with hate and violence, I like to go on hikes to remind myself of the beauty in this world.
Try camping
Try camping to disconnect from the world and connect with nature. When I was younger, my parents took my brother and me camping, and I’ve done it a few times as an adult.
While it does take planning and preparing, it’s an excellent way to reset your nervous system. You can trade phone notifications for singing birds and sleep under the stars.
Do some gardening
Maybe you have a green thumb you never knew about. Gardening is a great way to spend time outside. Get your hands dirty by feeling the earth and planting flowers, vegetables, fruits, or whatever your heart desires.
Exercise outside
If you like being outside but don’t want to commit to anything too intense, you can exercise outside, whether running or power walking in the park. You can even look for fitness classes that are held outside.
Play outdoor sports
Baseball, volleyball, basketball, and tennis all take place outside. If you’re tired of going to a stuffy gym space to get fit, try an outdoor sport.
Women to follow for outdoor inspiration
If you’re making spending more time in nature your New Year’s resolution, you might need some motivation along the way. Here are some organizations and women to follow to help keep you on track.
Black Women in Nature
A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in Central Ohio was created to provide equitable access to the outdoors for Black women. Started by Ivory Levert and Angela Mitchell, it focuses on creating safe spaces for Black women to explore nature and reap the healing benefits of being in green spaces.
Outdoorsy Black Women
This community of Black women who love nature focuses on creating spaces that encourage women to enjoy the great outdoors. They host regular retreats and chapters nationwide so you can connect with nature and other nature enthusiasts.
Black Girl Country Living
An account run by Hillarie Maddox, who left the big city and now lives in the country, encourages others to reconnect with nature.
You never know what benefits you can reap if you step outdoors, feel the sun on your skin, and enjoy nature.
The post Why Spending More Time in Nature Is One of the Best New Years Resolutions for Black Women appeared first on Black Girl Nerds.
Patti LuPone has no filter. She also has neither the time nor the need for BS. So when she says Agatha All Along showrunner Jac Schaeffer told her the show won’t have a second season, we know the Broadway legend is telling the truth. Normally that kind of news would bum us out because we loved the series, but not this time. It means Schaeffer is free to do something unique on television. Just like Agatha All Along served as a sequel to her first MCU series WandaVision, Schaeffer can now make the first-ever TV trilogy with a show focused on Wiccan. And considering what we know about both his comics and MCU story, the series could make this Harkness Trilogy a full, satisfying circle.
“I don’t do second seasons.” That’s what Patti LuPone said Jac Schaeffer told her about potentially returning to Agatha All Along. Schaeffer also told LuPone she passed on doing more WandaVision, even though Marvel Studios wanted another season. Schaeffer said she only does “one-offs” because “there’s too much to write.” That doesn’t mean she has to say goodbye to her MCU witches, though. She certainly didn’t after WandaVision.
Schaeffer followed up her first Disney+ MCU series with a de facto sequel that worked as its own standalone show. Agatha All Along had direct, meaningful connections to WandaVision, but it featured an a different main character, tone, and purpose. That kind of sequel series is what Agatha All Along set up in its final moments. The show ended with Ghost Agatha going off with Billy Maximoff to find his missing brother Tommy. Whatever happens next to the MCU’s witches is about Billy, not Agatha, just as whatever happened to Agatha after the Hex fell was about her and not Wanda.
That’s exactly the show Schaeffer should make next. A Wiccan series would tie into its predecessors in meaningful ways yet it could also be something new. It would be the third part of an MCU Harkness Trilogy. Each installment would serve itself and be part of a bigger cohesive story, like a classic movie trilogy.
TV spinoffs are not like movie sequels. Cheers and Frasier are two of the best sitcoms ever, but no one thinks of Frasier as a sequel. It was a spinoff. (The recently cancelled Frasier reboot/sequel was even less connected to Cheers.) Even when a series leads to multiple spinoffs as part of a larger universe, like The Walking Dead, the new shows aren’t operating together the way a cohesive film trilogy does. The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Rhoda, and Lou Grant are not bound together the way A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi are. Even anthology series that exist in the same universe and timeline and have direct connections don’t work that way. True Detective has through lines, but it is not equivalent to The Dark Knight trilogy.
TV can deliver shared cinematic worlds like the Arrowverse, Star Trek, and The Defenders, but those aren’t created or connect the way film series do. No one would equate those shows with movie series like Back to the Future or The Matrix. Mostly because it’s never really been something anyone could do. TV’s traditional episodic structure and typical sandbox-style storytelling makes that all but impossible. The modern television format of fewer episodes with a tighter, season-long major arc doesn’t easily lend itself to recreating the kind of connected stories you can tell with a film series, either. You can focus on a different major story every season, the way shows like Mad Men or The Wire did, but those are still self-contained shows. They would never be confused with a film trilogy and they shouldn’t be.
The only person that has done something similar to Schaeffer on TV is what Vince Gilligan did with Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul. His shows were intimately connected and interwoven, but told very different stories following very different lead characters in a very different manner. (Though not nearly as different as WandaVision and Agatha All Along told theirs.) But even Gilligan didn’t attempt a third show. The closest he came was the underwhelming El Camino sequel, a movie whose existence makes a compelling case against applying this film format to TV.
Schaeffer’s big advantage is the length of Disney+ MCU shows. WandaVision and Agatha All Along run 18 episodes combined. Breaking Bad alone had 62. With dramatically fewer episodes to worry about Schaeffer can tell a tighter, more movie-like story with each of her shows. She did exactly that with both WandaVision and Agatha All Along. Now she can do so with her next main character, Billy Maximoff. Agatha All Along ended by setting up the beginning of his story, where him and his goals are the focus. His brother Tommy found a body just like Billy did when the Hex collapsed. Billy, with the help of ghost Agatha, is now going to go off and find him, a story set up at the end of both WandaVision and Agatha All Along. It’s also the type of journey his comic counterpart is very familiar with.
As viewers learned, Wiccan is an immensely powerful witch. And despite never getting his own standalone series (him and his boyfriend Hulkling have co-headlined a short run), he’s been a major figure in some important Marvel Comics storylines. One of those included doing the very thing his onscreen counterpart is setting out to do: look for a missing family member. Only instead of his brother, comics Wiccan went looking for his powerful mom, the Scarlet Witch. She’s a major character who just so happens to be missing in the MCU right now.
A Disney+ Wiccan series, telling its own story in its own way with its own lead character, just as Agatha All Along did, could also see Billy (and possibly Tommy) looking for their mother. And that would bring Schaeffer’s Harkness Trilogy full circle, the fitting ending for any multi-part series. It began with Wanda creating the Hex and Agatha coming to find her. Now instead of working against a Maximoff witch, Agatha can support the Scarlet Witch’s children to find the woman who binds all them and their stories together. (Which would also provide a bonus of servicing the MCU at large.)
Jac Schaeffer doesn’t want to do another season of WandaVision or Agatha All Along. Yet she left major questions about her witches unanswered, as though she’s not done with them yet. We hope she’s not. And we hope she continues telling her magical story in a way that would be unlike anything that’s ever been done on TV before. She can help a studio that built an empire adapting the best concepts of television serialization for movies do the opposite. Marvel could bring the best of movie serialization to television. And, with apologies to the great Patti LuPone, that would be even better than a second season of any TV show.
Mikey Walsh is a staff writer at Nerdist willing to walk the Witches’ Road. You can follow him on Bluesky at @burgermike. And also anywhere someone is ranking the Targaryen kings.
The post Why a WICCAN Series Should Complete the MCU’s Harkness Trilogy appeared first on Nerdist.