Virginia State University students recently heard from media personalities and social justice activists about issues that disproportionately impact people of color.

Virginia State University students recently heard from media personalities and social justice activists about issues that disproportionately impact people of color. At the same time, students gained insight on how to inspire positive change in their world.

The free discussion, “Safe Spaces for Black Men,” at VSU on Sept. 22 also included a special focus on African-American men and mental health as part of several “HBCU Across America” forums as part of “Real Talk Drives Real Change” events taking place throughout the country. Presented by NewsOne, an Urban One/iONE Digital owned digital property, speakers included, from left, Dondré Whitfield, who starred in the OWN series “Queen Sugar,” Richard Gray, director of the Center for Community Organizing & Engagement, New York University; moderator, Mike Muse, a political commentator and host of SiriusXM’s “The Mike Muse Show”; Shane Ward, an artist and shoe designer; and Ellery Lundy, founder and president of the Broken Men Foundation in Richmond.

Tropical Storm Ophelia’s heavy rains, flooding and strong winds sweep through the city Sept. 23. A motorist navigates pouring rain along Meadow Street and Overbrook Road in Richmond.

Rain-kissed leaves in Henrico County