by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Apr 24, 2026 | CMG News, News
(Memphis, TN – April 24, 2026) The family of Tennessee State Representative Goffrey
(“G.A.) Hardaway, Sr. announce his passing this morning at 5:22 a.m. after a brief
illness, at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, in Nashville, TN.
Rep. Hardaway represented TN House District 93 and has served as a state legislator
for 19 years with honor and distinction. He served as the Chair of the Shelby County
Legislative Democratic Caucus and former Chair of the Tennessee Black Caucus of
State Legislators.
The family requests privacy at this time and will announce services as soon as they are
finalized.
by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Apr 18, 2026 | CMG News, News
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (April 17, 2026) – The Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis (WFGM) will welcome nationally recognized journalist, producer, and philanthropist Soledad O’Brien as the keynote speaker for its 2026 Annual Tribute Luncheon, on Thursday, April 23, at 11:30 a.m. at the Renasant Convention Center. The sold-out event will bring together more than 1,400 of Memphis’ business, civic, nonprofit, and philanthropic communities.
This year’s luncheon will spotlight the power of bold vision, strong partnerships, and strategic community investment to create meaningful, measurable progress for women and families across Memphis. Centered on the theme Vision. Collaboration. Impact., the event reflects WFGM’s belief that stronger communities are built when philanthropy, leadership, and collaboration work in alignment to expand social and economic mobility and improve outcomes for future generations.
O’Brien, an award-winning journalist and co-founder of the PowHERful Foundation, is a leading voice in advancing access to higher education for young women from underserved communities. Through scholarships, mentorship, and support, her work closely mirrors WFGM’s mission to invest early, strategically, and collectively in women and families.
FedEx, a dedicated supporter of WFGM for more than 21 years, serves as the Presenting Sponsor of the Annual Tribute Luncheon—the Foundation’s largest annual fundraiser.
Since 1995, WFGM has invested more than $39 million in over 185 local nonprofits, along with key advocacy and research initiatives. In 2026, the Foundation will invest $1.9 million through 36 nonprofit grantee partners delivering high-impact programs that create pathways to opportunity for women and families across Memphis.
“The Annual Tribute Luncheon is a celebration of what becomes possible when vision is matched with action and collaboration is backed by meaningful investment,” said Shante K. Avant, President and CEO of WFGM. “This year’s theme reflects our shared commitment to building a stronger Memphis by investing in women and families, strengthening community partnerships, and advancing solutions that create sustained progress for generations to come.”
The event will also highlight the essential role of community leadership—from corporate and philanthropic partners to grassroots organizations working every day to create pathways to opportunity. As WFGM looks ahead, the organization remains focused on mobilizing resources, elevating partnerships, and supporting proven strategies that strengthen families and communities across the region.
“Strong communities are built through shared vision and collective action,” said Joanna Crangle, Market President and Publisher, Memphis Business Journal, and Ann Marie Wallace Peoples, System Community Involvement Senior Coordinator, Baptist Memorial Health Care, WFGM Board Co-Chairs. “When we invest together and work in partnership, we open doors of opportunity that move women, families, and our community forward.”
Attendees will also have the opportunity to purchase the 2026 Signature Scarf, an exclusive annual design by renowned fashion designer Hilton Hollis, sponsored by Independent Bank. Preorders are available at www.wfgm.org.
Proceeds from the event directly support the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis’ programs and strategic initiatives focused on advancing economic security, expanding opportunity, and strengthening outcomes for women and families across Memphis.
MEDIA OPPORTUNITY: Soledad O’Brien will be available for a 15-minute interview at 11 a.m. in Room 204.
About The Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis
For over three decades, the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis (WFGM) has played a major role as a backbone organization, aligning people and resources and coordinating community-based services through the two-generation approach to reduce poverty. WFGM is an organization of women helping women break the cycle of poverty through philanthropy, leadership and collaboration.
Philanthropy. Since its inception, WFGM has awarded $39 million to more than 668 programs involving more than 185 local non-profits, including investments in advocacy and research.
For more information, visit: https://wfgm.org/.
by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Apr 14, 2026 | CMG News, News
(PHILADELPHIA, PA. – April 14, 2026) The Greater Philadelphia Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. will host its annual Scholarship Gala, themed “Resilience in Red,” on Sunday, May 3, 2026, from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Springfield Country Club, located at 400 W Sproul Rd, Springfield, PA 19064.
The event will celebrate the legacy and achievements of the Tuskegee Airmen while recognizing scholarship recipients pursuing careers in aviation, engineering, education, medicine and leadership. The afternoon will bring together community leaders, supporters and families to honor history while investing in the next generation.
“‘Resilience in Red’ represents both a tribute to the courage and excellence of the Tuskegee Airmen and a commitment to uplifting future leaders,” said Mel Payne, president of the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. “Through scholarships and programming, we continue to create pathways for young people to pursue careers in aviation, STEM and beyond.”
Proceeds from the gala will support scholarships and programs that align with the organization’s three-fold mission: sustaining the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, providing STEM-based training opportunities and supporting youth development through educational initiatives.
The Greater Philadelphia Chapter Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to honoring the men and women who served in the Tuskegee Experience from 1941 to 1946. The chapter continues this legacy by encouraging young people to pursue excellence, particularly in aviation, technology and aerospace fields.
“Our annual Scholarship Gala serves as both a celebration and a call to action, ensuring that the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen continues to inspire future generations to lead with purpose, resilience and excellence,” said Payne.
Additional information and tickets are available at www.phillyredtails.org.
About the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen:
Founded in 1974, the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen is composed of individuals committed to preserving the legacy of the men and women who supported military aviation both in the air and on the ground during World War II, including fighter pilots, navigator/bombardiers, instructors, maintenance and support staff, and other personnel who served at Tuskegee Army Air Field and across designated units through the inactivation of the 332nd Fighter Wing.
The chapter’s mission is to honor the accomplishments and perpetuate the history of those from Pennsylvania and the Greater Philadelphia area who contributed to the Tuskegee Experience while inspiring the next generation to pursue excellence, particularly in aviation and aerospace fields. To learn more, visit www.phillyredtails.org.
For more information or to request interviews, contact Ramon Johnson and Jennifer Sharp, The Carter Malone Group, at 901.278.0881 or rjohnson@cmgpr.com.
by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Apr 7, 2026 | CMG News, News
(MEMPHIS, TN – April 6, 2026) The Memphis community is invited to gather for a powerful day of faith, fellowship and restoration at Worship on the River, a Christian worship event taking place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Tom Lee Park on the TVA Lawn in downtown Memphis.
Worship on the River is a free, family-friendly event designed to bring people together across churches and communities for a shared experience of worship, prayer, healing and renewal. Set along the Mississippi River, the event will offer a welcoming space for spiritual encouragement and holistic support.
Throughout the day, attendees can expect:
- Live worship music
- Healing, restoration and renewal prayer
- Community resources and holistic support services
- Food trucks and fellowship
- A safe, uplifting environment for all ages
“Worship on the River is about creating space for God to move while bringing the community together in love, prayer and purpose,” Andria Marshall event founder shared. “We believe this gathering will be a source of encouragement and healing for Memphis.”
Free and open to the public, the event’s mission is to foster unity, hope and spiritual renewal while connecting individuals and families with practical resources that support overall well-being, including mind, body and spirit.
Tom Lee Park’s TVA Lawn provides a scenic and accessible setting, offering a meaningful backdrop for worship and community connection along the riverfront.
Community members, churches, families and visitors are encouraged to attend and participate in this day of worship and service.
For more information or event updates, visit www.worshipontherivermemphis.org.
About Worship on the River Memphis
Worship on the River Memphis is a Christian faith-based experience of worship, prayer and music. Additionally, community resources are available to promote holistic support for individuals and families across our community. For more information, visit www.worshipontherivermemphis.org.
by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Apr 2, 2026 | CMG News, News
MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 2, 2026 – The Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis (WFGM) will host its 2026 Leadership Symposium and Grants Showcase on Wednesday, April 8, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the University of Memphis University Center Ballroom.
This dynamic, half-day event will bring together some of Memphis’ most influential women leaders and 36 nonprofit grantee partners for powerful conversations centered on Vision. Collaboration. and Impact. — Stronger Investments for Stronger Communities. The event underscores WFGM’s commitment to encouraging philanthropy, advancing women’s leadership, and investing in programs that expand economic and social mobility for women and families.
As part of its ongoing impact, WFGM is granting $1.9 million this fiscal year to support 36 nonprofit organizations working across the community including investments in advocacy and research. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage directly with these partners during the Grants Showcase and learn more about the innovative programs advancing outcomes for women and families throughout Memphis.
“The Leadership Symposium and Grants Showcase is an opportunity to highlight the organizations and leaders shaping a stronger Memphis,” said Shante K. Avant, President and CEO of the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis. “We see WFGM as connective tissue—bringing partners together to align vision, strengthen collaboration, and drive intentional investment that creates stronger communities across our city.”
The morning will begin with registration, a continental breakfast, and the Grants Showcase from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Additional showcase engagement times will take place between symposium sessions, allowing guests to connect with nonprofit organizations and explore the breadth of work happening across the community.
Individual tickets are available for $50. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the website: Leadership Symposium and Grants Showcase.
Session One, Vision: Shaping Memphis’ Next Chapter, starts at 10 a.m. and explores how bold leaders are shaping the future of Memphis through strategy, foresight, and purpose-driven leadership. This discussion highlights how vision strengthens communities, sparks investment, and expands pathways to greater opportunity
Panelists – Vision: Shaping Memphis’ Next Chapter
- Roshun Austin, President/CEO, The Works, Inc.
- Carissa Hussong, Executive Director, The Metal Museum
- Lisa Lisson, President of Air Operations, FedEx
Moderator
- Rachel Knox, Senior Program Officer for Arts and Culture, Hyde Family Foundation
Session Two, Collaboration: The Power of Partnership, starts at 11:15 a.m. and offers the opportunity to discover how partnerships move communities forward. This conversation highlights how women leaders collaborate across sectors to align resources, strengthen neighborhoods, and ensure investments reach the people who need them most.
Panelists – Collaboration: The Power of Partnership
- Sondra Howell, SVP of Workforce Development, Greater Memphis Chamber
- Sarah Lockridge-Steckel, Co-Founder and CEO, The Collective Blueprint
- Tate Wilson, CEO, Kemmons Wilson Family Foundation
Moderator
- Anna McQuiston, Executive Director, MidSouth Development District
Session Three, Impact: Turning Vision into Results, starts at noon, with a focus on measuring what matters. This conversation explores how leaders measure progress, steward investments, and ensure resources create meaningful outcomes for communities across Memphis.
Panelists – Impact: Turning Vision into Results
- Penelope Huston, Chief Communications Officer, The City of Memphis
- Sylvia Martinez, CEO, Girls Inc. of Memphis
- Cynthia Bradford, System Community Involvement Manager, Baptist Memorial Health Care
Moderator
- Kandace Stewart, Vice President, Business Operations & Head of External Affairs, Memphis Grizzlies, WFGM Board of Directors.
2025/2026 Women’s Foundation For a Greater Memphis Grantee Partners
Case Management and Wraparound Services
- Hope House Day Care
- MIFA (Metropolitan Inter-Faith Association)
- Neighborhood Christian Centers, Inc.
- Room in the Inn-Memphis
- Salvation Army of Memphis and the Mid-South
- Urban Strategies, Inc.
Job Skills, Employment and Entrepreneurship
- Advance Memphis
- Boys and Girls Club of Greater Memphis
- DeNeuville Learning Center
- Dress for Success Memphis
- HopeWorks, Inc.
- Southwest Tennessee Community College Foundation
- WCA of Greater Memphis
Early Childhood Development
- ALLMemphis
- Early Success Coalition
- Families Matter
- Porter-Leath
Youth Development and Employment
- A Step Ahead Foundation
- Booker T. Washington Middle and High School
- Emmanuel Center, Inc.
- Girl Scouts Heart of the South
- Girls Inc. of Memphis
- JIFF (Juvenile Intervention & Faith-based Follow-up)
- Junior Achievement of Memphis and the Mid-South
- Kids in Technology
- Memphis Black Arts Alliance
- Memphis Inner City Rugby
- Mustard Seed Inc.
- New Ballet Ensemble and School
- STREETS Ministries
- University of Memphis Research Foundation-Herff-GEE
- Vance Avenue Youth Development Center
Financial Education and Asset Building
- Community Legal Center
- Knowledge Quest
- RISE Memphis
- South City a Community of Opportunity Revitalization Empowerment (SCORE CDC)
About The Women’s Foundation For A Greater Memphis
For over three decades, the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis (WFGM) has played a major role as a backbone organization, aligning people and resources and coordinating community-based services through the two-generation approach to reduce poverty. WFGM is an organization of women helping women break the cycle of poverty through philanthropy, leadership and collaboration.
Philanthropy. Since its inception, WFGM has awarded $39 million to more than 668 programs involving more than 185 local non-profits, including investments in advocacy and research.
For more information, visit: https://wfgm.org/
by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Mar 13, 2026 | CMG News, News
(MEMPHIS, TN – March 13, 2026) A powerful new community-centered event is preparing to take the stage in Memphis with a mission to celebrate the men who quietly shape futures every single day.
The UNC Awards, which will be held Sunday, June 14, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Avenue Downtown Event Center, is an event that recognizes mentors, mentorship programs, and everyday men who exemplify leadership, service and a commitment to uplifting others throughout the community.
“UNC” is short for uncle, which is traditionally a relative who is connected by blood or marriage. But in the context of this event, “UNC” has evolved into someone who loves like a parent, advises like a friend and shows up right when it matters most. He is a guide, a protector, a voice of wisdom and often the steady presence young people need to thrive.
“Mentorship is one of those quiet superpowers,” said Antonio Jones, event organizer. “It builds confidence, creates opportunity and shapes futures. The UNC Awards was created to shine a very loud spotlight on the individuals who have been doing this work with heart, consistency and purpose.”
The event will begin with a cocktail hour from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., the award ceremony will start at 6:15 p.m. WREG News Channel 3’s sports anchor Colin Cody will serve as the host and R&B artist Adria Glenn will be performing.
The UNC Awards will honor:
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Individual mentors making a direct impact
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Structured mentorship programs serving local youth
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Community leaders who embody the UNC spirit
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Every day men who consistently show up for the next generation
By celebrating these role models, the UNC Awards aims to elevate the culture of mentorship and inspire more men to step into leadership roles within their communities.
Tickets are available at theuncawards.eventbrite.com, and the dress code is casual to semi-formal.
For more information or if you would like to interview someone from the UNC Awards team, contact Jennifer Sharp, The Carter Malone Group, LLC, at 901.278.0881 or jsharp@cmgpr.com.
by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Mar 9, 2026 | CMG News
(MEMPHIS, TN – March 4, 2026) Vintage901® will celebrate its 10th Annual Wine, Food and Music Festival with The Grand Tasting on Saturday, April 18, 2026 from 5–9 p.m. at the Scheidt Family Performing Arts Center.
“Over the last decade, Vintage901® has cultivated culinary experiences that provide wine and food education,” said Stephanie Ferreira, founder of Vintage901®. “We look forward to the next ten years of community, culture and purpose.”
Founded in 2016 as a heartfelt tribute to a loved one, Vintage901® has become a mission-driven staple of wine, education and togetherness in Memphis.
The Grand Tasting allows guests to explore an exclusive selection of wine vendors from Old World and New World wine producers, attend wine education classes, meet sommeliers, view chef demonstrations and enjoy live music.
Festival proceeds will support the Vintage901® Wine + Food Scholarship for students seeking careers in the culinary arts, oenology and viticulture.
Tickets for the Vintage901® 10th Annual Wine, Food and Music Festival can be purchased at www.vintage901.org/events.
About Vintage901®:
Vintage901® is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that promotes access to the culinary arts through education, enrichment, and engagement with their community. Vintage901® hosts thoughtfully curated culinary events that appeal to the connoisseur and the curious, the largest being its two-day Vintage901® Wine, Food and Music Spring Festival. To learn more, visit www.vintage901.org.
For more information or if you would like to interview someone from Vintage901®, contact Jennifer Sharp, The Carter Malone Group, LLC, at 901.278.0881 or jsharp@cmgpr.com.
Video: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1yD7HulcfapHJQbg7nOQ3mW1orBQYZPVe/view?usp=sharing
by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Feb 25, 2026 | CMG News
(MEMPHIS, Tenn. – February 25, 2026) The Tri-State Defender will host its next TSD in the Community Forum, focusing on women in leadership. The forum is scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, at 6 p.m. at 4651 American Way Dr, Memphis, TN 38118.
This free, public event will invite the community to hear from the women shaping our community every day in Memphis and Shelby County.
The event is free and open to the public, and registration is required through Eventbrite: www.tri-statedefender.com/community
“As we recognize Women’s History Month, we want to highlight women who are making a tremendous impact in Memphis and Shelby County,” said Stephanie R. Jones, editor of the Tri-State Defender. “This forum is about amplifying the voices of women who are breaking barriers, building businesses, strengthening institutions and mentoring the next generation.”
The panel will include:
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Gale Jones Carson, President, Memphis Urban League
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Dr. Telisa Franklin, Entrepreneur and Community leader
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Natalie McKinney, Chair, Shelby County Schools Board of Education
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Edith Kelly Green, Partner, The KGR Group
Lori Spicer Robertson will lead the discussion.
Upcoming TSD in the Community Forums include:
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Health and Wellness — Wednesday, May 6, 2026
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Government/Politics — Wednesday, June 3, 2026
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Education — Wednesday, July 1, 2026
TSD in the Community is sponsored by The Tri-State Defender and Google.
About The Tri-State Defender
The Tri-State Defender (TSD) is one of the longest, continuously published newspapers in the South that caters to the news and information needs of the African American community. In January 2024, TSD transitioned to a digital format to keep readers informed quickly as news hits that affect the community. First published on November 1, 1951, the weekly newspaper has been an anchor element in the multi-platform delivery of news and information. TSDMemphis.com is now the primary source for news, along with the TSD Daily Digital and social media platforms. To learn more about The Tri-State Defender, visit www.tri-statedefender.com.
For more information or if you would like to interview someone from The Tri-State Defender, contact Jennifer Sharp, The Carter Malone Group LLC, at 901.278.0881 or jsharp@cmgpr.com.
by The Carter Malone Group LLC | Feb 25, 2026 | CMG News, News
MOSCOW, TN (February 24, 2026) — The City of Moscow, Tennessee is partnering with MVP3 Foundation and its founder, Marie Pizano, who will serve as the Director of Film Development for Moscow, Tennessee, focusingon growing film and creative industry opportunities in the region.
The Director of Film Development role is a volunteer, non‑salaried, non‑governmental position created to help connect Moscow and surrounding communities with film, media and creative projects that can drive jobs, tourism, youth opportunities and community development. This position expands MVP3’s mission and aligns with Mayor Kristopher Tims’ plans by helping to attract film projects, training opportunities and investment to the area. Pizano has written a script for a feature film set in Moscow, planned to be filmed there as part of a broader slate of original films and series to be produced through MVP3 Network, further promoting Moscow and the region in a positive light.
“For more than 20 years, I’ve been working to connect film, music and business in a way that truly serves our communities,” said Pizano. “We’ve seen incredible student growth and community response. Now, with the City of Moscow’s support and partners across the state, we are building the infrastructure to consistently create strong jobs in film, TV, music and the creative industries.”
An informational community and stakeholder briefing will be held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 6 p.m. at Fat Charlie’s Speakeasy, located at 107 Harbor Town Square, Memphis, TN 38103. The event will introduce the vision of the MVP3 Trifecta Hub to leaders and residents from District 8 and surrounding areas, outlining how this step‑by‑step plan can deliver long‑term job creation and positive community impact for West Tennessee. Attendees will also learn how Moscow aims to be “on the map” as a film location, showcasing its unique settings and community as an attractive destination for future productions.
The February 25 event will:
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Explain the MVP3 Trifecta Hub concept and its regional goals
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Highlight potential economic, tourism, and workforce benefits for District 8
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Share how the ecosystem (Foundation, Network, Music Group, Hub) will create pathways for students into film, TV, music, and creative careers
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Invite collaboration and support from local leaders, businesses, educators, and community members
“We want to put Moscow on the map in innovative ways,” said Mayor Kristopher Tims. “By welcoming film and television production, particularly projects that can naturally leverage Moscow’s historic antebellum homes and distinctive natural landscape to create atmosphere without costly set construction, we’re not only supporting the arts, but we’re opening the door to new jobs, workforce development and regional collaboration that will benefit our community for years to come. We’re excited to have someone with Marie’s experience and passion helping to champion this effort.”
The MVP3 Trifecta Hub (The Hub), a project led by the MVP3 Foundation,, is being developed as a creative and economic engine for West Tennessee. The MVP3 Trifecta Hub brings film, music and community projects together to help communities heal through the arts, while creating pathways to real careers and economic growth. The Hub will serve as:
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Studio and production space for MVP3 Network and its production offices
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Program and community space for the MVP3 Foundation’s educational, cultural and outreach initiatives
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A platform to support film, TV, music, entrepreneurship and tourism in the region
MVP3 also supports students and emerging talent through grants and other positive opportunities, and that momentum continues to grow. In addition, other production companies are preparing to move into the region, further enhancing the ecosystem and strengthening Moscow and West Tennessee’s ability to become a truly sustainable and thriving production hub.
MVP3 Foundation has expanded into Clarksdale, Mississippi and is launching its hub model in Illinois and other locations. Over the past year, MVP3 programs have seen a 400% increase in student participation, filling critical gaps in creative education and workforce pathways.
About the City of Moscow, Tennessee
Moscow, Tennessee is a small rural community in Fayette County, located just east of Memphis, with historic charm, open land, and a close‑knit, family‑oriented atmosphere. The city iscommitted to smart economic development and aims to put Moscow “on the map” as a film‑friendly location and production destination for projects seeking authentic Southern settings. To learn more, visit www.cityofmoscowtn.org.
About Marie Pizano:
Marie Pizano is an award-winning producer, best known for the documentary Momo: The Sam Giancana Story, and the author behind the book series From Barefoot to Stilettos™. Her latest release, the 2025 workbook 12 Steps to Finding Your Yes, expands on her mission of empowerment. A pioneer in her own right, Pizano was the first person to record an audiobook at the legendary Royal Studios, working alongside Grammy-winning producer Boo Mitchell. Her creative endeavors have earned endorsements from iconic figures, including actor Morgan Freeman, Stax Records legend Al Bell and Chicken Soup for the Soul co-creator Jack Canfield.
Expanding into visual storytelling, she is currently set to release the comic book novel Stiletto: The Powerhouse Baroness. This project was created in collaboration with a former Marvel and DC writers, pencilers and colorists, including Marvel legend Ron Frenz. Ron Frenz is best known for his iconic work on The Amazing Spider-Man, Thor and for co-creating the character Spider Girl. Pizano is also actively developing the screenplay and film adaptation for the project.
For more information, visit:
by Brian Malone | Feb 5, 2026 | CMG News
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — February 5, 2026 — In a decision with national implications for religious institutions, public figures, and the responsible exercise of free speech, a federal court has issued a preliminary injunction prohibiting Moses Tyson, Jr. from continuing a campaign of defamatory statements against the Church of God in Christ, Inc.(COGIC), its governing body, and senior leadership.
The ruling, issued by the United States District Court for the Western District of Tennessee, follows an evidentiary hearing and extensive briefing. The Court found that the plaintiffs demonstrated a strong likelihood of success on their defamation claims, that the statements were made with actual malice, caused measurable reputational and financial harm, and were not protected by the First Amendment.
The Court emphasized that the injunction does not suppress dissent, criticism, or theological disagreement. Rather, it restrains the continued publication of false allegations of criminal conduct — including accusations of fraud, theft, and elder abuse — that the Court determined were unsupported by evidence and disseminated to a national audience through mass emails, social media, and online broadcasts.
“I’m pleased with the outcome of the evidentiary hearing,” said Bishop Drew J. Sheard, Presiding Bishop of the Church of God in Christ, Inc. “This case has had a negative impact on our denomination and I’m grateful that the Judge saw the need to provide this injunction.”
The Memphis, Tennessee law firm Bailey & Bailey, PLLC represents the plaintiffs. Attorney Walter Bailey and Attorney Taurus Bailey serve as counsel for COGIC for this case.
“This decision reaffirms a core constitutional principle,” said counsel for the plaintiffs. “Freedom of speech is among our most cherished liberties — but it is not a license to knowingly spread false accusations that destroy reputations, undermine institutions, and mislead the public.”
The Court recognized that the harm extended beyond individual leaders, citing evidence that the defamatory campaign caused confusion among church members, eroded trust in church governance, and led to a documented decline in charitable giving — impacts that could not be fully remedied by monetary damages alone.
Legal scholars have long noted the tension between robust public discourse and accountability for demonstrably false statements. This ruling reflects the judiciary’s role in preserving that balance: safeguarding open expression while providing recourse when speech crosses the line into deliberate falsehood.
For faith-based organizations, nonprofit leaders, and public figures nationwide, the decision serves as a reminder that constitutional protections operate in both directions — shielding critics who speak truthfully, and protecting institutions and individuals from calculated campaigns of defamation.
The preliminary injunction remains in effect pending final resolution of the case.
About the Church of God in Christ
Founded in 1907 and headquartered in Memphis, Tennessee, the Church of God in Christ is the largest Pentecostal denomination in the United States, with millions of members across the country and around the world. The Church is committed to spiritual leadership, charitable service, and the responsible stewardship of its institutions.
Interview Opportunities:
Presiding Bishop Drew J. Sheard
General Counsel – Attorney Walter Bailey and Attorney Taurus Bailey
