Sybil Wilkes Breaks Down What We Need to Know: May 5, 2026

Key Midwest elections shape policies affecting Black communities for years to come.
Cinco de Mayo celebrates resilience and cross-cultural unity in the Black community.
Black entrepreneurs can reduce tax liability by 25% through smart financial planning.

Sybil Wilkes What We Need to Know (updated Nov 2025) — Source: Reach Media / Radio One

Sybil Wilkes has long been a trusted voice for Black audiences seeking clear, useful news that speaks to both daily life and the bigger picture. In her “What We Need to Know” segment, she delivers concise updates that blend politics, culture, and practical advice in a way that feels relevant and grounded. Her latest roundup does just that, touching on key elections in the Midwest, the meaning of Cinco de Mayo, and smart tax strategies for business owners. Each topic offers a reminder that staying informed is not just about headlines. It is about understanding how those headlines connect to our communities, our values, and our future.

Voting Day: Spotlight on Indiana and Ohio Elections

The first major update centers on voting day in Indiana and Ohio, where state races are drawing sharp political interest. In Ohio, former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, now backed by Donald Trump, is favored in the Republican gubernatorial primary. At the same time, incumbent John Husted is running unopposed for the Senate seat once held by Vice President J.D. Vance. In Indiana, state-level contests are attracting unusual national attention and major financial backing. Conservative dark money groups are reportedly targeting Republican incumbents who resisted newly drawn voting maps. For Black voters, these races matter because state leadership shapes election access, district lines, and public policy in ways that can affect representation for years to come.

Celebrating Resilience: Cinco de Mayo’s Meaning in the Black Community

Today we highlight the cultural energy surrounding Cinco de Mayo and the way many Black Americans are embracing the celebration. Too often, the holiday is mistaken for Mexico’s Independence Day, but it actually marks the Mexican army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla. That history of overcoming the odds resonates deeply. For many in the Black community, Cinco de Mayo is more than a festive gathering. It is a moment to honor resilience, shared struggle, and cross-cultural connection. The celebration reflects how communities of color often find common ground through history, joy, and solidarity, turning public festivities into meaningful expressions of unity.

Building Wealth: Smart Tax Strategies for Black Entrepreneurs

CPA Katrina McCraft provides a direct message for us: many fast-growing seven- and eight-figure businesses are paying far more in taxes than necessary because they are still using outdated financial structures. McCraft argues that effective tax planning should not create more stress for already busy executives. Instead, it should fit smoothly into the way a business already operates. By using structured systems that connect long-term goals with a full financial review, owners may be able to cut tax liability by 25 percent or more. That insight is especially valuable for Black entrepreneurs focused on building wealth, protecting margins, and creating lasting businesses.

As Sybil Wilkes reminds us every day: be informed, be empowered.