Dr. Umar Criticizes Vanessa Bryant’s Philanthropy Choices

Vanessa Bryant unexpectedly became a trending topic after Pan-Afrikan activist Dr. Umar Johnson criticized her philanthropic choices during an appearance on the “Joe Budden Podcast.” Dr. Umar, known for his strong opinions on interracial dating and Black individuals dating outside their race, directed his attention toward Vanessa Bryant, the widow of the late Kobe Bryant.

Umar questioned whether Vanessa, who inherited Kobe’s wealth after his passing, has contributed to the Black community with the substantial fortune. He specifically criticized her decision to partner with six predominantly white college basketball programs for the Mamba & Mambacita Sports Foundation, despite not choosing a single Historically Black College or University (HBCU).

“Vanessa Bryant had the courts fully remodeled for the kids in the area,” commented one person, defending Vanessa’s philanthropic efforts. Others expressed disapproval of Dr. Umar’s critique, considering it disrespectful and unnecessary, especially given the challenges Vanessa has faced since the tragic loss of her husband, Kobe Bryant, and daughter, Gianna “Gigi” Bryant, in a helicopter crash nearly four years ago.

I lived across the street from a community center in North Philadelphia (predominantly black) where Vanessa Bryant had the courts fully remodeled for the kids in the area. People just be talking to talk. https://t.co/acUBPc1mc2 pic.twitter.com/gqyt3kiZOp

— Chris Giddens (@CanPrinceLive) December 27, 2023

Despite the backlash, Dr. Umar remained firm in his stance, reigniting debates on interracial relationships and the responsibility of Black individuals with significant wealth to uplift their communities.