Essence fans and supporters have had concerns, and they've let Essence and others know. U.S. Rep. Troy Carter, home from his duties in Washington, D.C., attended the festival and got an earful.

Beyond the Podium: Lessons From Black Women Mayors on Leadership, Pressure and Progressives Join our own New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell and Former Mayors, the Honorable Keisha Lance Bottoms and ...