Russell Brooks's Blog

George Jefferson’s plans for an evening with Donald Trump go sideways.The Jeffersons’ Penthouse, Upper East Side Manhattan, New York

George Jefferson paced around the living room, excitedly checking his watch.

Louise walked in wearing a lavish gown. Without noticing it, George rushed to her, giddy as a schoolboy. “Weezie, this is gonna be big! Donald Trump’s coming to our penthouse for a Republican fundraiser. Imagine the business connections!”

Louise sighed and put both hands on her hips. “George, I don’t like this. Trump doesn’t care about people like us. And you know how he is with our community.”

“Oh, come on, Weezie. Why do you always have to see the bad in everything? Besides, I’m a businessman, so I know what’s best. End of discussion. Besides, this is about making more money, and Trump’s tax cuts are going to be good for business.”

The Fundraiser

The penthouse is filled with well-dressed guests. Trump and his entourage, including Eric Trump, are mingling. Florence is serving drinks wearing a traditional black and white servant uniform, clearly unimpressed. After Eric Trump took the last glass from her tray, she headed back to the kitchen and prepared the next tray.

Not wanting to feel left out, George interrupted a conversation between Trump and JC Vance and caught Trump’s attention. While they chatted, George turned towards the kitchen.

“Hey, Florence,” he yelled. “Do you mind speeding things up with the hors d’oeuvres? Can’t you see our guests are hungry?”

Florence enters from the kitchen, holding a tray of cocktail shrimp. “Oh yessuh, Mister Jefferson. Ah knows y’all shoooooo is hongry!”

George dropped both arms to his sides. “Will you cut out the shenanigans and do what I pay you to do?”

Florence dropped the act and brought the tray over to George and Trump.

“So, Jefferson, this is your penthouse,” said Trump as he grabbed some shrimp from Flo’s tray and glanced around. “Very nice. With her Black job, I suppose even people like Florence here can have a piece of the American dream.”

“And I suppose even people like you can buy their way out of everything, huh?” snapped Florence, maintaining her smile. “Speaking of money. I suppose if Matt Gaetz was richer than you, you’d be hanging with him and his underage girls like you did with Epstein, wouldn’t you?”

The room went silent as George consciously tried not to let his jaw drop to the floor. He then jumped between Trump and Florence, almost knocking her tray.

“Don’t mind Florence,” Jefferson laughed as he took her tray and grabbed her arm. “She’s had a bit too much to drink. Why don’t you take a break in the kitchen?”

With a shove, George sent Florence stumbling through the flapping kitchen door. He then rested the tray on the counter before he rushed back to Trump, nearly knocking over one of the guests. “Don’t worry. She’s already taking a long nap. That’s what she’s used to doing most days anyways.” George then laughed an overdone, fake laugh, hoping to break the tension.

“Ah, don’t worry, Jefferson,” said Trump. “She’s lucky her job doesn’t require any special skills. I’m sure she feels right at home. Well, not your kind of home, if you know what I mean.” Trump nudged George with his elbow, and they both chuckled.

Louise observed the exchange between Trump, Florence, and her husband. She knew this evening was a mistake and only wished she could’ve stood up to George. But this billionaire bigot just attacked her best friend. Balling up a fist, she marched towards Trump. She then let go of her fist and clasped both hands together as she smiled.

“Excuse me, Mr. Trump.”

Trump turned to her. “Oh, you must be Jefferson’s wife.”

“Yes, nice to meet you,” said Louise. “I couldn’t help but overhear what you just said about Florence.”

“Oh, yeah, the help. She’s a feisty one, but it doesn’t bother me.”

“I’m happy to hear that,” said Louise as she lowered her hands. “Then I’m sure you wouldn’t mind me being blunt.”

George’s head rolled back as he stared at the ceiling. Oooooh boy.

“My husband and I may be well to do,” said Louse. “But in this house, everyone will always be treated equally. Florence doesn’t only help out. She’s my best friend. And this house is as much as hers as it is ours.”

As the room progressively became silent, George knew his plans for the perfect evening with a Presidential candidate were over. He walked over to the couch, collapsed into it, and let his head drop into both hands.

“Speaking of homes,” Louise continued. “Our Black friends were turned down by your company when they wanted to rent an apartment. Fortunately, as I’m sure you’ve already seen our place, you couldn’t do to us as you did to them.”

A chuckle broke the silence. Everyone’s attention shifted to Trump’s son, Eric. “Perhaps if you didn’t come into the country illegally, a real American family would’ve gotten this Penthouse.”

George exploded from the couch and stared at Eric with flaring nostrils. “WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY TO MY WIFE?”

“That’s your . . . wife?” said Eric with eyebrows raised.

“You damn right, that’s my wife,” yelled George as Louise gestured with her hands as though to calm him down. “AND NO ONE TALKS TO WEEZIE LIKE THAT! I can see how you project your self-hatred on others because your daddy was never there for you in your childhood. Maybe it’s because he was too busy getting peed on by Russian prostitutes!”

An audible gasp was heard throughout the room.

“I beg your pardon?” said Trump.

“You heard me,” said George as he turned to Trump. “I’d call you Whitey if your face wasn’t looking one of the oranges those Mexicans didn’t want to pick!”

Loud whispers were heard as the guest funnelled their way out of the Penthouse.

“I don’t like your attitude,” said Trump as he made his way to the door with Jefferson close behind. As he stepped into the hallway, he turned around and pointed his index at him. “You’ve made a big mistake, Jefferson.”

“Like hell I did,” said Jefferson as he held the door. “I just got you out of my house faster than your people stormed the Capitol. And one more thing.”

“And what’s that?”

“I ain’t voting for you!”

Trump didn’t get a chance to answer before George slammed the door in his face.

After the Chaos

As George walked back into the living room with both hands in his pockets, Louise ran to him and hugged him tightly. Florence was not too far behind her when Louise gave him an audible kiss on the cheek. “I’m so proud of you, George.”

George rolled his eyes. “Yeah, yeah, Weezie.”

After Louise released George, Florence walked towards the kitchen, grabbing a half-empty bottle of Bordeau on the way when she heard George’s familiar yell.

“Hey, Florence! Don’t you see this mess?”

Florence glanced around and then back at George. “I sure do.”

She then nonchalantly walked off to the kitchen, leaving George shaking his head.

“Same old Florence.”

Louise looked back at the flapping door from the kitchen before she turned to her husband. “Yes, she is. And I wouldn’t have her any other way.”

She then hugged and kissed her husband.

The EndRussell Brooks is the author of five suspense thrillers. Find them on Amazon.

Kamila Grabska, 36, loses $800k after being caught throwing Christmas Trees

In a quaint Irish town where the biggest drama is usually who won the annual sheep-shearing contest, enter Kamila Grabska – the unsuspecting protagonist in a tale that combines festive fun with a legal twist that even Shakespeare would find amusing.

Picture this: a car accident leaves Kamila with injuries that supposedly make daily life a Herculean task. The solution? An $800,000 disability claim because, you know, neck and back pain should come with a hefty paycheck.

But don’t laugh yet, because this story only gets better. Kamila, forced to bid adieu to her job, claims a loss of nearly half a million bucks in potential earnings. Apparently, she can’t lift her kids or manage household chores due to her crippling pain. Commence the tiny violin serenade.

Now, in a world where life imitates sitcoms, Kamila decides to participate in a contest that involves (drum roll please) throwing Christmas trees. After all, what better way to prove your inability to do daily tasks than by launching a festive coniferous projectile? The irony is thicker than a Karen’s Christmas fruitcake.

The irrefutable evidence that foils Ms. Kamila’s nefarious plot! (courtesy of NBCNews.com)

Lo and behold, the court gets wind of Kamila’s festive acrobatics and promptly delivers a verdict: Denied! The judge, probably sipping on hot cocoa with a dash of Bailey’s, is unimpressed with Kamila’s Oscar-worthy performance in the tree-throwing spectacle. The agility displayed in flinging a five-foot Christmas tree is apparently at odds with the struggles she claimed to face in her daily life.

In her defence, Kamila sticks to her story, insisting she was just “trying to live a normal life.”

As the gavel comes down, it’s clear that Kamila’s quest for an $800,000 jackpot has been dashed by the very tree she hoped would catapult her into holiday fame. The judge, likely fighting back laughter, dismisses her claim faster than you can say, “Ho, ho, no!”

In her defence, Kamila sticks to her story, insisting she was just “trying to live a normal life.” Because in Kamila’s world, normalcy involves heaving hefty evergreens instead of, say, Netflix and chill.

So, while Kamila might have clinched victory in the Christmas tree-throwing contest, the real winner here is irony. Who knew that a festive frolic would be the Grinch that stole her insurance claim? As the curtains fall on this tragicomic spectacle, one can’t help but wonder – is there an award for when throwing Christmas trees goes horribly wrong? If so, Kamila Grabska deserves a standing ovation.

When he’s not laughing at someone’s insurance fraud plot backfiring, Russell Brooks is busy writing crime thrillers. Brooks is also a Gala Dynastie Author of the Year finalist for his latest thriller, Jam Run. If you enjoyed reading this article, consider voting for Russell in the People’s Choice section HERE.

Russell Brooks’s boldest and spiciest thriller, Jam Run, made him a finalist for the prestigious award

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Montreal, February 14, 2024 — Celebrated Montreal suspense thriller author Russell Brooks has emerged as one of the five finalists for the prestigious Author of the Year award at the upcoming Gala Dynastie, as announced by the Gala on Friday, February 9. Brooks, recognized for his compelling work in the suspense genre, has been nominated for his latest novel, Jam Run.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Jamaica, Jam Run explores the gripping narrative inspired by the tragic murder of Dwayne Jones, a gay teenager who faced a brutal end after attending a “straight” party outside Montego Bay dressed as a woman.

“I’m elated. I’ve never had any of my books recognized by a prestigious group. It’s the first time I wrote a story that reflects my Caribbean roots,” said Brooks.

The novel marks a significant departure for Brooks, weaving a tale that dives into Caribbean culture and addresses poignant social issues. “This is what motivated me to write this book because, in my opinion, stories like this need to be told,” added Brooks, emphasizing the importance of shedding light on such critical matters.

“Since the story is set in Montego Bay and its neighbouring parishes, making it as authentically Jamaican as possible was important.”

Returning to the literary scene with a strong sequel, Jam Run brings back Eddie Barrow, a Montreal author and amateur sleuth, along with his outspoken best friend, Corey Stephenson. The storyline unfolds as they become entangled in a dangerous pursuit to uncover a killer, inadvertently stumbling upon a larger criminal conspiracy that places them in the crosshairs of ruthless assassins.

Brooks went the extra mile to ensure authenticity in Jam Run by visiting Montego Bay, collaborating with local experts and immersing himself in the Jamaican environment. His dedication to accuracy saw him personally exploring the locations in and outside Montego Bay where the story unfolds. “Since the story is set in Montego Bay and its neighbouring parishes, making it as authentically Jamaican as possible was important,” Brooks explained. “I wanted to tell the story from Eddie Barrow’s point of view.”

The novel has received acclaim from notable figures such as Mutsumi Takahashi of CTV News Montreal and Richard Burnett of Fugues Magazine. Takahashi lauded the book, stating, “The best of crime thrillers offer us page-turning entertainment but with an important message thrown in for good measure. From [Russell Brooks], we get just that.”

Burnett praised Jam Run as “A gripping crime thriller about the ever-present menace and violence the LGBTQ community faces daily.”

The Gala Dynastie invites the public to participate by voting for the Candidate of the Year. You can vote for Russell Brooks at: vote.galadynastie.com

About Gala Dynastie

The Gala Dynastie, now in its eighth edition, celebrates the outstanding achievements of personalities from Quebec’s black communities in media, arts, and culture. The Gala Dynastie, presented in two parts – Media Evening and Culture Evening, honours the richness and diversity of black talents that transcend borders, emphasizing their vital contribution to the cultural, artistic, and media industries.

About Russell Brooks

Russell Brooks, a Canadian author of Barbadian descent, has previously authored notable thrillers such as “Pandora’s Succession,” “Unsavory Delicacies,” “Chill Run,” and “The Demeter Code.” A former sprinter, Brooks represented Canada in various international competitions and holds a degree in Biology with a minor in psychology from Indiana University.

For more information on Jam Run and Russell Brooks, visit RussellParkway.com.

Contact:

Russell Brooks
Email: russell@russellparkway.com.

Review copies of Jam Run are available on request.

My Odyssey to Becoming an Author of the Year Finalist at the Gala Dynastie

Embarking on the literary journey is akin to navigating uncharted waters, with unpredictable highs and lows. As the author behind five novels partially crowdfunded by my ardent supporters and myself, the unexpected turn of events arrived with my latest thriller, Jam Run, earning me a prestigious Author of the Year nomination by the esteemed Dynasty Foundation. This recognition, set against the backdrop of multiple grant rejections, adds a layer of significance to my journey as a writer.

As the Dynasty Gala gears up for its eighth edition this year, the nomination comes as a beacon of accomplishment and resilience. The rejection of grant requests, all seemingly devoid of clear reasoning, had left me in a state of perplexity. Each rejection fueled my determination to create and publish Jam Run, making the subsequent nomination all the more sweet and unexpected.

Having attended a previous Dynasty Gala, I recognized its importance in the Quebec cultural landscape.

Submitting my application to the Dynasty Foundation, I approached it with cautious optimism. A previous attempt at the Quebec Writers Federation Awards Ceremony had yielded no nomination, leaving me uncertain about what to expect from a ceremony focusing on the achievements of Quebec’s Black artists and media personalities. Little did I know that this submission would pave the way for a significant turn in my literary journey.

The rejection of Quebec’s French media to broadcast the Dynasty Gala in the past was met with criticism, emphasizing the event’s role in providing a platform for marginalized voices.

Having attended a previous Dynasty Gala, I recognized its importance in the Quebec cultural landscape. It served as a response to the underrepresentation of Black entertainers, reminiscent of the NAACP or Essence Awards in the United States. The Gala’s commitment to being “By Us, and For Us,” as eloquently expressed by host Bella Forte during the unveiling, underscored its cultural significance.

The rejection of Quebec’s French media to broadcast the Dynasty Gala in the past was met with criticism, emphasizing the event’s role in providing a platform for marginalized voices. For me, this added weight to the importance of the Gala, solidifying its place as a crucial space for recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Quebec’s Black artists.

The turning point in my journey arrived in December 2023, marked by an email notification declaring me a finalist for Author of the Year. The surge of excitement and pride was palpable, but the confidentiality clause meant I had to keep the news under wraps until the official unveiling on February 9, 2024. The private ceremony at Place Des Arts added an extra layer of prestige to the recognition, making it a momentous occasion.

The selection criteria for Author of the Year, as outlined on the Dynasty Gala’s website, shed light on the nuanced evaluation process. Criteria ranging from the quality of literary form to the influence of the work offered a comprehensive view of the considerations. Interestingly, these criteria differed slightly from those used by grant selection juries, providing insight into why Jam Run resonated with the Dynasty jury when grant applications faced rejection.

The VIP event that followed the nomination was nothing short of a night to remember. Organizers orchestrated a meticulously planned affair, with attendees dressed to the nines. Originally prepared to don a suit and tie, a conversation with organizers led to a decision to keep the attire casual yet classy. For the gala, I’ll wear a tailor-made suit, which will mark another first.

Mingling with fellow nominees brought forth a sense of camaraderie. Spending most of the evening with Jessy Jean-Bart, a professional skateboarder, and rapper Csmere, both of Haitian and Martiniquan origin, respectively, showcased the diversity among the nominees. Selfies, cheers, and a group photo on the Black Carpet captured the joyous spirit of the celebration.

The significance of the Dynasty Gala was further emphasized by the staggering number of applications received—673, a 49% increase from the previous year. The exhaustive task of analyzing submissions fell upon a jury comprising thirty-seven independent professionals in the media and culture sectors, responsible for evaluating entries across thirteen cultural and twelve media categories.

A unique aspect of the Dynasty Gala is the opportunity for the public to participate in the selection process. Online voting, accessible at vote.galadynastie.com, allows the audience to choose their favourite personality. My photo, among the finalists, beckons for the support of my readers and well-wishers, and every vote is deeply appreciated.

In conclusion, my nomination for Author of the Year stands as a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of recognition within a community that values and celebrates its own. As the Dynasty Gala approaches, I eagerly await the outcome of this prestigious event, poised for another milestone in my already illustrious career. The journey continues, and with each step, the narrative unfolds, weaving a tale of determination, triumph, and the enduring power of storytelling.

Russell Brooks is the author of Jam Run. Please click HERE to vote for him as the Dynasty Gala’s Candidate of the Year.

My Odyssey to Becoming an Author of the Year Finalist at the Dynasty Gala After Overcoming Grant Rejections

Embarking on the literary journey is akin to navigating uncharted waters, with unpredictable highs and lows. As the author behind five novels partially crowdfunded by my ardent supporters and myself, the unexpected turn of events arrived with my latest thriller, Jam Run, earning me a prestigious Author of the Year nomination by the esteemed Dynasty Foundation. This recognition, set against the backdrop of multiple grant rejections, adds a layer of significance to my journey as a writer.

As the Dynasty Gala gears up for its eighth edition this year, the nomination comes as a beacon of accomplishment and resilience. The rejection of grant requests, all seemingly devoid of clear reasoning, had left me in a state of perplexity. Each rejection fueled my determination to create and publish Jam Run, making the subsequent nomination all the more sweet and unexpected.

Having attended a previous Dynasty Gala, I recognized its importance in the Quebec cultural landscape.

Submitting my application to the Dynasty Foundation, I approached it with cautious optimism. A previous attempt at the Quebec Writers Federation Awards Ceremony had yielded no nomination, leaving me uncertain about what to expect from a ceremony focusing on the achievements of Quebec’s Black artists and media personalities. Little did I know that this submission would pave the way for a significant turn in my literary journey.

The rejection of Quebec’s French media to broadcast the Dynasty Gala in the past was met with criticism, emphasizing the event’s role in providing a platform for marginalized voices.

Having attended a previous Dynasty Gala, I recognized its importance in the Quebec cultural landscape. It served as a response to the underrepresentation of Black entertainers, reminiscent of the NAACP or Essence Awards in the United States. The Gala’s commitment to being “By Us, and For Us,” as eloquently expressed by host Bella Forte during the unveiling, underscored its cultural significance.

The rejection of Quebec’s French media to broadcast the Dynasty Gala in the past was met with criticism, emphasizing the event’s role in providing a platform for marginalized voices. For me, this added weight to the importance of the Gala, solidifying its place as a crucial space for recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Quebec’s Black artists.

The turning point in my journey arrived in December 2023, marked by an email notification declaring me a finalist for Author of the Year. The surge of excitement and pride was palpable, but the confidentiality clause meant I had to keep the news under wraps until the official unveiling on February 9, 2024. The private ceremony at Place Des Arts added an extra layer of prestige to the recognition, making it a momentous occasion.

The selection criteria for Author of the Year, as outlined on the Dynasty Gala’s website, shed light on the nuanced evaluation process. Criteria ranging from the quality of literary form to the influence of the work offered a comprehensive view of the considerations. Interestingly, these criteria differed slightly from those used by grant selection juries, providing insight into why Jam Run resonated with the Dynasty jury when grant applications faced rejection.

The VIP event that followed the nomination was nothing short of a night to remember. Organizers orchestrated a meticulously planned affair, with attendees dressed to the nines. Originally prepared to don a suit and tie, a conversation with organizers led to a decision to keep the attire casual yet classy. For the gala, I’ll wear a tailor-made suit, which will mark another first.

Mingling with fellow nominees brought forth a sense of camaraderie. Spending most of the evening with Jessy Jean-Bart, a professional skateboarder, and rapper Csmere, both of Haitian and Martiniquan origin, respectively, showcased the diversity among the nominees. Selfies, cheers, and a group photo on the Black Carpet captured the joyous spirit of the celebration.

The significance of the Dynasty Gala was further emphasized by the staggering number of applications received—673, a 49% increase from the previous year. The exhaustive task of analyzing submissions fell upon a jury comprising thirty-seven independent professionals in the media and culture sectors, responsible for evaluating entries across thirteen cultural and twelve media categories.

A unique aspect of the Dynasty Gala is the opportunity for the public to participate in the selection process. Online voting, accessible at vote.galadynastie.com, allows the audience to choose their favourite personality. My photo, among the finalists, beckons for the support of my readers and well-wishers, and every vote is deeply appreciated.

In conclusion, my nomination for Author of the Year stands as a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of recognition within a community that values and celebrates its own. As the Dynasty Gala approaches, I eagerly await the outcome of this prestigious event, poised for another milestone in my already illustrious career. The journey continues, and with each step, the narrative unfolds, weaving a tale of determination, triumph, and the enduring power of storytelling.

Russell Brooks is the author of Jam Run. Please click HERE to vote for him as the Dynasty Gala’s Candidate of the Year.

The recent attacks on Dr. Claudine Gay renewed unfounded attacks against Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson.

Within days of President Joe Biden’s nomination of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court, the ensuing discussions on social media have shed light on not only a resistance to diversity but also a pervasive systemic bias that disproportionately scrutinizes the credentials of Black professionals. The controversy surrounding Dr. Claudine Gay’s resignation as President of Harvard laid the groundwork for a recurring narrative questioning whether Judge Ketanji’s appointment was based on merit or if it was merely a diversity-driven decision. These doubts, however, are not just unfounded but also emblematic of a disturbing trend where Black professionals, particularly women, are held to higher standards compared to their white counterparts.

Tucker Carlson, a prominent figure in this controversy, is no stranger to making controversial and racially charged comments for ratings. His questioning of Judge Ketanji’s LSAT scores, without a similar level of scrutiny for previous Supreme Court nominees, underscores a deeper issue. The insinuation that Black individuals need to surpass a higher threshold of qualifications is not only insulting but also reveals a systemic bias that pervades various facets of our society.

This isn’t an isolated incident but rather a symptom of a systemic problem that permeates various aspects of our society. The double standards faced by Black professionals, akin to the phenomenon of “Driving While Black,” demands our attention and introspection. The narrative surrounding Judge Ketanji’s nomination reflects the broader reality that Black individuals often find themselves under relentless scrutiny, regardless of their accomplishments.

Courtesy of the Washington Post (Adrian Blanco and Shelly Tan)The term “diversity hire” becomes a weapon that not only insults the person’s dignity but also dismisses their accomplishments and potential contributions.

Tucker Carlson’s behaviour is just one example of a pattern where Black professionals are subjected to unwarranted scrutiny, witch hunts, and efforts to discredit their achievements. Dr. Claudine Gay’s resignation amid harassment and bullying further highlights the challenges faced by Black individuals in high-profile positions. This systemic bias is not new; former President Donald Trump’s attempt to question President Obama’s education and the infamous Birther movement demonstrates a historical pattern of undermining Black leaders.

The term “diversity hire” becomes a weapon that not only insults the person’s dignity but also dismisses their accomplishments and potential contributions. Judge Ketanji’s extensive resume, as reported by the Washington Post, outshines her colleagues on various criteria. From attending public high school to serving as a Supreme Court Clerk and a District Court Judge, her qualifications speak for themselves.

Let’s delve deeper into a comparison of resumes among Supreme Court Justices. Judge Ketanji’s journey to the top has been marked by dedication and expertise, significantly different from her colleagues. Her courtroom litigation experience, combined with years of service and qualifications, positions her as an exemplary candidate for the Supreme Court.

When considering the number of years as a practicing attorney, Judge Ketanji’s eight years stand out against Amy Coney Barrett’s two years and Clarence Thomas’s zero years. Similarly, her eight years as a District Court Judge far surpasses Barrett’s zero years and Thomas’s zero years. Even when looking at the years as a Court of Appeals Judge, Judge Ketanji’s one year compares favourably to Barrett’s three years and Thomas’s less than one year. This stark contrast in experience highlights the disingenuous nature of reducing Judge Ketanji to being a mere diversity hire. Her accomplishments and qualifications speak volumes.

Judge Sonia Sotomayor, who is of Puerto Rican descent, deserves an honourable mention in this comparison. She had worked five years as a district attorney, seven years in private practice, six years as a U.S. District Judge, and seven years as a Court of Appeals Judge before President Barack Obama nominated her to the Supreme Court.

It’s essential to mention that Clarence Thomas, a Black Conservative, was never an active lawyer in a court of law. However, he was appointed as an appeals court judge for less than a year before being nominated to the Supreme Court. Yet, Thomas never faced the same criticisms from those who attacked Judge Ketanji.

As a society, we must confront the biases that fuel such controversies. Instead of perpetuating unfounded doubts, we should celebrate the accomplishments of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson’s nomination should prompt a broader dialogue on dismantling systemic biases, fostering inclusivity, and recognizing the invaluable contributions that individuals like her bring to positions of power. It’s time to challenge the status quo and ask ourselves: Are we truly committed to a fair and equitable society?

Russell Brooks, the accomplished author of five suspense thrillers, has consistently contributed to discussions surrounding social issues, drawing parallels between the fictional and real-world challenges we face.

Tucker Carlson tried, yet failed, to revive the debunked myth that George Floyd died from a fentanyl overdose

A few weeks ago, the digital landscape witnessed the resurrection of a discredited narrative when Tucker Carlson, a former FOX personality, took to Twitter on December 28, 2023, attempting to breathe life into the debunked myth surrounding George Floyd’s tragic demise. Carlson endeavoured to rekindle the unfounded notion that Floyd’s death resulted from a Fentanyl overdose rather than the prolonged and brutal actions of then-Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin, who callously knelt on Floyd’s neck for an agonizing nine minutes.

Carlson’s audacious tweet didn’t merely stop at resurrecting this unsubstantiated theory; it went so far as to advocate for Chauvin’s innocence and release. This move by Carlson, known for his controversial views and documented racism, appeared not only as an attempt to distort the truth but also to sully George Floyd’s character. The timing of Carlson’s tweet, coinciding with the news of Derek Chauvin’s stabbing in prison, raises eyebrows and suggests a calculated, opportunistic effort to generate sympathy for Chauvin while further solidifying Carlson’s standing within the right-wing political landscape.

The MAGA movement swiftly seized upon this moment to perpetuate the falsehood.

As anticipated, the MAGA movement swiftly seized upon this moment to perpetuate the falsehood, despite the autopsy report remaining unchanged since its initial release on June 3, 2020. Frustrated by the vilification of yet another African-American victim of police brutality, I took to Twitter to express my concerns. In doing so, I found myself engaged with one of Carlson’s staunch supporters, whom I’ll refer to as SS. Despite presenting well-researched facts and countering SS’s claims with evidence, it became apparent that his mind was impervious to reason, firmly entrenched in preconceived beliefs.

SS, in an attempt to bolster his stance, shared a documentary and video footage, including a photograph of George Floyd seemingly with a pill in his mouth before the police encounter. I refrained from delving into the documentary, given that its producer, Liz Collin, is married to Minneapolis Union President Lt. Bob Kroll. Kroll is a vocal supporter of Derek Chauvin, a staunch advocate for former President Donald Trump, and an individual who has controversially labelled Black Lives Matter as a terrorist organization. Collin’s association with Kroll inevitably raises questions about journalistic bias, casting a shadow on the documentary’s integrity.

Released George Floyd body cam footage from former officers Thomas Lane and J. Alexander KuengHow long would it take a lethal dose of fentanyl to take effect?

In response to SS’s fervent defence, I posed a pivotal question: “How long would it take a lethal dose of fentanyl to take effect?” His conspicuous silence in the face of this query underscored a lack of understanding and further solidified the notion that his convictions were impervious to factual information. Notably, a lethal dose of fentanyl takes effect within two minutes, directly contradicting SS’s narrative that Floyd resisted arrest throughout the twelve to fifteen-minute video he posted. The video, upon scrutiny, depicted Floyd handcuffed and fully conscious, directly challenging the claims of an overdose. Had Floyd indeed overdosed, he would have succumbed long before Chauvin’s knee pressed into his neck.

Despite the availability of facts, some individuals choose deception for ratings or political agendas.

The absence of a response from SS left lingering doubts about whether he had a moment of self-reflection. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the power wielded by influential individuals in perpetuating unfounded narratives. Despite the availability of facts, some individuals choose deception for ratings or political agendas. In a parallel vein, George Floyd’s family has taken legal action against rapper Kanye West for similar false claims, prompting a hope that they will pursue similar measures against Carlson and others who persist in propagating the discredited Fentanyl overdose narrative.

Russell Brooks, the accomplished author of five suspense thrillers, has consistently contributed to discussions surrounding social issues, drawing parallels between the fictional and real-world challenges we face.

Black Scholar Dr. Carol Swain chooses conjecture over facts in her response to Dr. Ibram X Kendi over DEI.

In recent days, Black Scholar Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, an influential figure in discussions on race and equity, provided historical context on the opposition faced by diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in their nascent stages during the 1960s and 1970s. Dr. Kendi highlighted the adversarial stance of Jim Crow segregationists and the subsequent rebranding of DEI efforts as “discrimination” and “racism.” He observed that despite societal evolution, the opposition’s playbook has endured.

Dr. Swain contended that DEI, akin to “affirmative action on steroids.”

Predictably, Dr. Kendi’s perspective faced criticism, particularly from the far right. One noteworthy response, however, diverged from the expected discourse. Dr. Carol Swain, a Black scholar, articulated a dissenting opinion, asserting that DEI diverges significantly from the diversity initiatives initiated after landmark legislations such as the 1964 Civil Rights Act, the 1965 Voting Rights Act, and the 1968 Open Housing Act. Dr. Swain contended that DEI, akin to “affirmative action on steroids,” contravenes Civil Rights Laws and the U.S. Constitution, advocating instead for pursuits aligned with nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and integration.

This response, marked by surprise and concern, prompted further inquiry into the academic underpinnings of Dr. Swain’s assertions. The subsequent examination revealed a disconcerting lack of nuanced understanding or potential deliberate misrepresentation of the objectives of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs. In light of this, I wrote the following open letter, emphasizing the expectation that individuals holding advanced degrees engage in comprehensive research before formulating conclusions on complex subjects, particularly when such conclusions carry the weight of public discourse.

Dear Dr. Carol Swain,

I regret to inform you that your recent commentary on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs reflects a serious misinterpretation of the subject matter. It appears that your assertions may be rooted in either a lack of comprehension of the genuine objectives of DEI initiatives or a purposeful misrepresentation thereof, aligning with your biased political perspective. Given your esteemed position as a Black scholar holding a Ph.D., I implore you to prioritize factual accuracy over conjecture in your discourse.

It is disconcerting to note that your unsubstantiated claims inadvertently contribute to the amplification of individuals such as Bill Ackman and Christopher F. Ruso, both known for their intolerant views reminiscent of the Jim Crow era. This inadvertently fosters an environment where misinformation regarding DEI proliferates, playing into the hands of white nationalists who aim to reintroduce historically detrimental systemic biases that have perpetually marginalized communities. Your involvement in this narrative is regrettable and stands in contradiction to the principles of scholarly conduct.

While your commentary lacks specific examples, my research has identified instances where white employees have been awarded damages for wrongful termination, often citing claims of reverse discrimination. However, even if you had referenced such cases, it is imperative to clarify that these isolated incidents do not substantiate the assertion that inherent flaws exist within DEI initiatives. Rather, they underscore shortcomings in employer training and understanding of DEI principles, indicating a failure to implement and adhere to these policies as intended.

In conclusion, it is imperative to acknowledge that isolated legal cases should not be extrapolated to imply systemic flaws within DEI programs. Effectively addressing these challenges necessitates a collective endeavour to elevate education and comprehension of DEI policies, thereby guaranteeing their accurate and equitable implementation within the workplace and fostering an inclusive environment.

Respectfully,

Russell Brooks

Definition of DEI as per the University of TorontoRussell Brooks holds a BS in Biology from Indiana University. He is the author of five suspense thrillers.

The forced resignations of two prominent Black Women highlight the fierce opposition to DEI programs.

The news about Dr. Claudine Gay’s resignation as President from Harvard University was deeply disappointing. She was the first Black person and Black woman to lead this prestigious university. The resignation comes after a right-wing crusade against her by right-wing activist Christopher F. Rufo, hedge fund CEO Bill A. Acman, and Republican congresswoman Elise Stefanik. They attacked Gay over her congressional testimony where they accused her of not being tough on anti-Semitism on Harvard’s University campus. They then alleged she had plagiarized articles she had written. Even though Gay said she regretted her answer before Congress, she stood by what she wrote. Nevertheless, she resigned after six months—making it the shortest tenure for a President in Harvard’s history.

The more I read about the attacks that led to Dr. Gay’s downfall, the more I noticed the similarities between Gay’s resignation and the forced resignation of Tamara Thermitus—the first Black female President of the Quebec Human Rights Commission (QHRC). Both cases demonstrated a conscious effort by people with racial biases to prevent Black women from occupying leadership positions. If one were to analyze both cases, it would become abundantly clear that the attacks against both women had nothing to do with plagiarism in the case of Dr. Gay or abuse of power as in the case of Ms. Thermitus. It was a conscious attempt to push back against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, which are designed to address major systemic problems that disproportionately impact marginalized communities.

Tamara Thermitus

Thermitus embarked on her academic journey at the University of Ottawa, graduating with a law degree in 1987 and a Master’s in law at McGill University. Her professional trajectory commenced in 1993 with a tenure in the revenue ministry in Quebec City. Transitioning into the legal arena, she served as a civil litigation lawyer for the Canadian government.

In 2003, an important chapter unfolded as Thermitus assumed the role of chief of staff to the deputy minister tasked with addressing the grave repercussions of residential schools—an educational system funded by the Canadian government to assimilate Indigenous children marred by abuse. Her engagement with this profoundly troubling legacy marked a significant turning point. Her accomplishments were recognized when she was awarded the Quebec Bar’s Award of Merit for her work in the fight against discrimination and inequality.

The subsequent year marked a pivotal moment as she engaged in negotiations representing the government in discussions with Indigenous groups regarding reparations for the multigenerational harm inflicted by residential schools. This endeavour was fraught with complexity. However, Thermitus’s impact transcended the negotiations. Her unique perspective, borne from her lived experiences, resonated profoundly.

Phil Fontaine, former national chief of the Assembly of First Nations, attested to her invaluable contributions. Fontaine highlighted her deep understanding of the survivors’ endurance through psychological abuse and racism, which complemented their perspectives, enriching the approach to the $2 billion compensation package negotiation process. Thermitus’s empathy and insight not only facilitated dialogue but also fostered a more comprehensive and compassionate resolution.

Dr. Claudine Gay

Gay, an esteemed figure in academia, assumed the prestigious role of the Wilbur A Cowett Professor of Government at Harvard in 2015, marking a pivotal moment in her illustrious career. Simultaneously, she holds the esteemed position of professor of African and African-American studies, exemplifying her multifaceted expertise.

The year 2023 witnessed Gay ascending to the esteemed position of the 30th president of Harvard University, succeeding Lawrence S Bacow, who had dutifully served as president since 2018. Her inauguration on July 1, 2023, marked the commencement of her transformative leadership journey at this renowned institution.

Primarily a political scientist, Gay’s journey at Harvard began in 2006 when she joined the Department of Government as a professor. This path led her to complete her Ph.D. in 1998 within the same institution. Her academic pursuits were preceded by a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Stanford University in 1992, laying the groundwork for her remarkable scholarly trajectory.

Born to Haitian immigrants in the United States, Gay’s upbringing encompassed diverse landscapes, from New York to Saudi Arabia, where her father served with the US Army Corps of Engineers. Her educational journey included attending the distinguished Phillip Exeter Academy in New Hampshire, shaping her formative years.

Judge André Prévost ruled in favour of Ms. Thermitus, faulting Quebec’s Ombudsman for rushing to a decision without hearing Ms. Thermitus’s version of the facts.

Thermitus resigned after Premier Francois Legault of the CAQ threatened to impeach her if she did not resign. His statement came after an investigation report from the Protection du Citoyen—Quebec’s Ombudsman—claimed that she abused her power during her tenure at the QHRC. This decision resulted from an investigation into her after a few employees simultaneously filed anonymous complaints. The decision was later quashed after Thermitus took the Quebec Ombudsman to the Quebec Superior Court. There, Judge André Prévost ruled in favour of Ms. Thermitus, faulting Quebec’s Ombudsman for rushing to a decision without hearing Ms. Thermitus’s version of the facts. Furthermore, according to Walrus.ca, essential parts of Thermitus’s testimony were omitted from the Ombudsman report.

Several reports state that the QHRC was marred with severe problems before Thermitus was nominated. In 1988, lawyers Andrée Côté and Lucie Lemonde conducted a comprehensive study, scrutinizing 174 cases encompassing racial and gender discrimination, sexual harassment, and related issues. Their findings sparked concern, revealing a mere 4.5 percent success rate for plaintiffs in cases investigated by the QHRC. They highlighted the commission’s rigid interpretation of discrimination, severely limiting the cases it accepted and impeding its efficacy in winning those it undertook. Moreover, they raised doubts about the objectivity and effectiveness of the QHRC’s investigative processes, likening filing a complaint to an exercise in futility.

Nearly three decades later, Thermitus encountered echoes of these problems within the QHRC. The commission grappled with governance issues, a matter that deeply troubled Thermitus. She was particularly dismayed by what appeared to be the preferential distribution of high-ranking managerial roles, accompanied by substantial $30,000 salary hikes, seemingly granted as favours to longstanding employees. At that time, the commission boasted five such managers, also known as ‘cadres juridiques.’ However, Thermitus advocated for a necessity of just two.

As one could observe, Ms. Thermitus’s concerns aligned with those articulated in a 2018 report commissioned by the justice minister, revealing that these promotions were often awarded to individuals lacking essential skills. This discordant practice only exacerbated the challenges within the QHRC, raising significant doubts about its effectiveness and fairness in carrying out its mandate. These were the issues Ms. Thermitus sought to correct—a move that would threaten the employees at the QHRC who wrongfully benefited from these promotions.

News broke from Business Insider that Ackman’s wife, Neri Oxman, plagiarized her doctoral thesis.

Understanding why both women faced such opposition involves learning more about their critics. For instance, Bill Ackman made it clear on social media that he’s against all DEI programs. Assuming that Ackman knows what DEI is, for him to be against programs designed to fight systemic racism is abhorrent. Since I began writing this essay, news broke from Business Insider that Ackman’s wife, Neri Oxman, plagiarized her doctoral thesis. Even more embarrassing for Ackman was that Business Insider provided proof that Oxman copied and pasted paragraphs from Wikipedia without crediting the author.

Definition of DEI as per the University of Toronto

This demonstrated that Oxman’s plagiarism was far worse than Gay’s, thus obliterating Ackman’s argument that faults DEI. This caused Ackman to embark on a second witch hunt, which targeted Oxman’s former colleagues at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where Oxman worked. It appears to be an act of desperation to find others who may have plagiarized their work, so he may then argue: “See, my wife isn’t that bad because her other colleagues did the same.”

Along with Ackerman, there was also Republican congresswoman Elise Stefanik and right-wing activist Christopher F. Rufo—another DEI opponent, who were silent when news broke that Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch plagiarized material to write his book. Stefanik also pushed the racist “Great Replacement” rhetoric that was used by Payton Gendron, the white nationalist who shot and killed ten Black people inside a grocery store in Buffalo two days earlier. Recently, Stefanik came under fire for referring to the January 6 Capitol rioters as “hostages.”  

The attacks against Ms. Thermitus began when rumours spread about her nomination for the top job of the QHRC. The most egregious attack against her came from Jean-Francois Lisée, claiming she was “too multicultural” for the position. Anyone living in Quebec who has either experienced racial discrimination firsthand or witnessed it has reasonable grounds to call out Lisée’s comments as a racist dog whistle. Fortunately, Lisée’s comments received enough public backlash that he reversed his position roughly an hour later.

In both cases, the similarities were that they were two Black women who were qualified to fulfill the leadership roles they worked in. The only difference was that Gay was at fault for neglecting to add quotation marks in the right areas—even though she credited the authors. This was the one mistake that her political foes exploited as a pretext to blame Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs designed to respond to systemic discriminatory practices that negatively impact marginalized communities.

As for Ms. Thermitus, she was attacked for doing her job. Her forced resignation resulted from a concentrated effort from her colleagues, who most likely felt threatened by the changes she would implement. What is even more suspicious are the motives of the Quebec Ombudsman to omit her testimony from their report to justify recommending she be fired. Ultimately, the CAQ-led Quebec Government led by Francois Legault—whose own racism towards Quebec’s ethnic communities is well documented—accepted a report they knew or should have known was biased and incomplete, further demonstrating that they will never accept a Black woman (or any qualified Black person) in a leadership position with white people as the subordinates. This leaves no doubt about their positions in DEI programs.

On a side note, in March 2023, the Canadian government disclosed that it had found instances of discrimination against Black and racialized employees within the Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC). The Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat (TBCS), which is responsible for government human resources, reached this determination following a grievance filed by nine employees through their unions in October 2020.

No, your eyes are not deceiving you. The Canadian Human Rights Commission, whose mandate is to protect Canadians against discrimination in accordance with the Canadian Human Rights Act, was implicated in racially discriminating against their own racialized employees. This further demonstrates how serious the problem is in both the United States and Canada when DEI initiatives aren’t honoured.

The cases of Dr Gay and Ms. Thermitus serve as a prime example that when Black women prove their worth to be leaders in their professions, there will be conscious efforts to topple them because of their racial biases. As Dr. Ibram Kendi X stated on social media:

“When programs and offices for what’s now called diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) started to be created in the 1960s and 1970s, do you know what group opposed them the most? Jim Crow segregationists. Do you know what Jim Crow segregationists renamed efforts toward diversity, equity, and inclusion? Discrimination. Racism. 

Times have changed, the racist playbook remains the same.”

The critiques levied against Dr. Claudine Gay and Ms. Tamara Thermitus were unrelated to allegations of plagiarism or misuse of authority. Rather, these criticisms consistently pertained to racial considerations and opposition to the preservation of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs.

Russell Brooks is the author of Jam Run and four other suspense thrillers.

How Quebec’s Human Rights Commission Drove Out Its First Black Female President

Navigating Anti-Semitism Allegations: My Resilience Against Unfounded Attacks

Writing a novel has many challenges. For me, the challenge is researching the subject matter to ensure the content is factually correct. Another challenge is fact-checking sensitive topics such as race, religion, and anything controversial to avoid offending marginalized communities. The latter was especially vital for me in my latest suspense thriller, Jam Run, as it dealt with hot-button topics such as homophobia and sexual assault.

Despite a conscious effort to ensure all my I’s were dotted and all my T’s were crossed, I was surprised when a podcaster accused me of anti-Semitism. More specifically, I inserted anti-Semitic tropes in Jam Run. In the past, I’ve received negative reviews and have also been the victim of trolls like every author—which I usually ignore. However, this allegation was too serious to brush off.

To avoid making this essay personal, I won’t name the woman who made the allegation. For the sake of this blog, I’ll call her Jane Doe. To avoid spoiling Jam Run, I won’t mention the Israeli character’s name.

Jane Doe—who is Jewish—was referred to me by my publicist. She has a podcast and was interested in reading Chill Run and Jam Run. About a month after Jane Doe received my books, she contacted me and invited me to join her for coffee. When we met, Jane Doe then told me her thoughts about both books. Her first impression was they were a bit violent. I responded, explaining that crime novels inspired by actual violent events rarely aren’t—a fact she appeared to accept.

She then dropped the bombshell, saying she was uncomfortable with me introducing a female Israeli villain and the attention I brought to her classy outfit. This character is introduced in the epilogue of Jam Run. According to Jane Doe, the expensive outfit the character wore is an anti-Semitic trope because it perpetuates the stereotype that all Jews are wealthy.

According to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), they define anti-Semitism as: “A certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of anti-semitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.”

I thought Jane Doe was joking, and my first instinct was to look around to see if I was on a candid camera TV show. However, it turned out she was serious. For the rest of our meeting, I struggled to see things from Jane Doe’s point of view. However, I kept calm and responded by discussing my artistic approach regarding characters to reasonably explain why this character wore the outfit.

My artistic approach

As an author, it’s essential to learn from your mistakes so you can evolve. I told Jane Doe after my first book, Pandora’s Succession, was published, my readers were more drawn to Ridley Fox—the male protagonist. Based on the reviews, Doctor Nita Parris—the female co-protagonist—was not as popular. I expected female readers to be drawn more to her, but that was not the case.

In exploring solutions to make Doctor Parris more attractive to women readers, I thought outside the box and binge-watched a popular TV show called Sex and The City. I aimed to study the four female protagonists to help me improve Doctor Parris’s character. One of the biggest takeaways was the show’s focus on fashion and designer clothes. Therefore, while writing The Demeter Code, I gave Doctor Parris a killer fashion sense. When the reviews came out, it was clear the minor adjustments made Doctor Parris a hit among female readers.

This is why I applied the same approach to my Israeli character and others. A critical writing technique I learned from my writing coach was to show and not tell. Even though this character was very minor—with a few lines of dialogue, it was vital to make an impression to show readers that she’ll become a potential threat to my protagonist, Eddie Barrow, in a future novel.

Courtesy of tomandlorenzo.com. No copyright infringement intended.

When creating characters, I pretend I’m a casting director. For the Israeli character, I modelled her after French actress, Marion Cottilard. For the scene in which this character appeared, I asked myself, “What would Marion Cottilard wear?” Since I’m not a fashion expert, I had to be creative. So, I Googled photos of Marion Cotillard and found a suitable outfit.

I even reminded Jane Doe that one of the Jam Run’s main villains, Stepmother, worked for the same organization as my Israeli character. I stressed that Stepmother is a Black woman, another villain described as being a cross between Alfre Woodard and Viola Davis. Throughout the story, Stepmother wore different outfits–some of which would be pricey.

By Jane Doe’s logic, I’d be perpetuating a racist stereotype that Black women who wear expensive outfits are criminals. When I mentioned this to her, she was incapable of responding. She even admitted she did not know who Alfre Woodard was.

I emphasized another villain because Jam Run has multiple villains. This is why it’s relevant to quote the IHRA when they mentioned:

“[Anti-Semitic] Manifestations might include the targeting of the state of Israel, conceived as a Jewish collectivity. However, criticism of Israel similar to that levelled against any other country cannot be regarded as anti-Semitic.“

The main villains in Jam Run are not Jewish. There also wasn’t any mention or reference in the story that a reasonable reader would interpret as being a criticism or an attack against Israel. Considering the multiple villains who were more prominently featured than my Israeli character—who was limited to a few paragraphs at the end of the story, a reasonable person would not interpret her appearance as a form of anti-Semitism.

As I mentioned earlier, it’s essential to show and not tell when describing a character or a situation. Focusing on my Israeli character’s clothes and that she called the shots demonstrated her leadership role in this organization. Common sense would dictate that a supervillain with a specific leadership status within a powerful organization wouldn’t be shopping at Wal-Mart.

Another fact I mentioned to Jane Doe was that I gave minute details on this character’s background. I did this deliberately to peak the curiosity of readers so they would look forward to the next book in the series. And even though I mentioned she was Israeli, I never mentioned anything about her religious background. Furthermore, I reminded Jane Doe that not everyone from Israel is Jewish. My Israeli character could even be an atheist.

Had I not been blindsided by her allegations of anti-Semitism, I would’ve asked Jane Doe if she had ever watched an episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm. Since she was bothered that my Israeli character wore an expensive outfit, I wonder how she feels about Larry David creating a show with wealthy Jewish characters. By Jane Doe’s logic, Larry David would be the biggest Jewish anti-Semite in Hollywood.

Jane Doe’s Counterargument

After dismantling Jane Doe’s argument, she countered with another. This one concerned a villain whose surname was Weiss. Even though there‘s more than one villain in Jam Run, she argued that it was anti-Semitism to have a Jewish villain.

Honestly, the comment came so far out of left field, I was in such a state of disbelief that I could not respond with a proper counter-argument. Jane Doe even dared to tell me that I needed to do a better job researching the surnames of my characters.

Our meeting ended shortly after when Jane Doe told me she would need to consider whether she would have me on her podcast.

The following 24 hours were a whirlwind of emotions. I tried very hard to see the story from Jane Doe’s point of view. I was incapable of sleeping that night because I wondered whom Jane Doe would’ve shared her opinions with and how this could impact my reputation and career.

The following morning, I sent Jane Doe an email reiterating my arguments. I even shared the photo of Marion Cotillard wearing the same outfit my Israeli character wore. I did this to prove that I wasn’t making things up about my artistic approach.

Jane Doe never replied.

I spoke to some of my closest friends about the situation—two of them were Jewish. They unanimously disagreed with Jane Doe. In fact, they told me one could not expect a woman working in a leadership position for a powerful and influential criminal organization to be shopping at a thrift store—especially when they are working in specific environments or showing their status.

As for the Weiss surname, two of them told me that even though Weiss has its origins among the Ashkenazi Jews in Germany, it’s also a common surname among non-Jews.

I researched the Weiss surname and found facts that corroborated what my friends told me. One of them is an online quote from someone named Elana Najman. According to her profile on Quora.com, she studied Jewish Studies. She wrote:

Yes, but it’s even more common among non-Jews. Ashkenazi Jews didn’t have surnames until the 18th century, when they were required by law for the first time to register their names with the non-Jewish state. Since they were already using patronymics and matronymics, most people took on Yiddish/Germanic or Slavic versions of the names they were already using.

But not everyone did. Some people used place names as sources or words describing something about them or related to their work.

Someone named Weiss might be Jewish, but since that’s just a German word meaning “white,” it’s no real indicator that the person with that name is Jewish.

I tried to find Najman’s contact info to learn about her sources but was not successful. However, Najman’s claims are corroborated by . The website provides several statistics about the Weiss surname. The biggest takeaway from this website was that 50% of Irish citizens with the Weiss surname are Catholic. 100% of the Weiss’s in Kenya are Christian.

As I mentioned earlier, Jane Doe had the audacity to tell me I needed to do a better job researching character surnames. Yet, the facts prove that she’s the one who should’ve studied the Weiss surname before accusing me of anti-Semitism. Had she done so, she would’ve considered my villain was most likely of German or Irish ancestry.

My next step.

I contacted my publicist—who is Jewish. This was vital because, as her client, it was in her best interest to know what Jane Doe said to me. In response to my Israeli character, my publicist also said a woman in her position wouldn’t be shopping at Wal-Mart. She also told me that Weiss is also a German surname. Since she and Jane Doe are friends, my publicist did not believe Jane Doe had malicious intent. However, she admitted that her anti-Semitism opinions were off.

Furthermore, my publicist told me this situation was unfortunate because it could’ve been an excellent discussion topic for her podcast. It would’ve also given me a chance to get ahead of any future unfounded allegations of anti-Semitism from her audience. Since my publicist told me not to worry, I assumed she would talk to Jane Doe.

Since Jane Doe never responded to my last email, I did not make further attempts to contact her. I learned years ago that there are people who are against anything and everything. Even if you present multiple facts that contradict their opinions, they will never acknowledge their errors.

A close friend told me I had a legitimate reason to be offended by Jane Doe’s comments, and I should not have anything to do with her. Since Jane Doe has not apologized for her comments, I’m no longer interested in being a guest on her podcast.

Russell Brooks is the author of Jam Run and four other suspense thrillers.