Approving Texas Open Carry Approves More Open Season on Blacks

HOUSTON – Just recently, the House Bill 910 was approved by the Texas House, on a vote of 101 to 42. The bill is one that has been strongly supported by the National Rifle Association and sponsored by State Representative Larry Phillips. The basis of the bill according to the Homeland Security and Public Safety Committee Report is to allow licensed handgun holders the opportunity to carry their handguns.

The report indicated that, “Interested parties note that Texas is one of only a few states that completely prohibit the open carry of a handgun and that many surrounding states allow for the open carry of a handgun in some form. These parties assert that Texas law should allow the open carry of a handgun because concealed handgun license holders in Texas have a long-established record of law-abiding and responsible behavior. C.S.H.B. 910 seeks to provide for the open carry of a holstered handgun.”

Therefore, this bill will alleviate the past requirement whereas concealed handgun license holders keep their firearms concealed. Under this bill license holders will have the option to carry their handgun on them fully or partially displayed in a belt or shoulder holster. Currently, 43 states allow open carry for concealed handgun licensed holders. Since approval by the Texas House the bill will now be passed onto the Texas Senate for further consideration.

While lobbyists for the National Rifle Association, other organizations, representatives and concealed handgun license holders are elated that the bill has been approved and appears to be on its way into effect in the state of Texas; not everyone shares those same sentiments. Members of the Black community have already begun to weigh out what this new implementation could mean for African-Americans.

Just last year, activists, politicians and concerned residents from the Fifth Ward community united together against the tentative plans of members of Open Carry Texas to perform a demonstration in the historical neighborhood.

Open Carry Texas is a group comprised of individuals who have been lobbying to change gun laws in the state of Texas. Local police officials were present as, both members from Open Carry Texas and the Fifth Ward community attempted to discuss the group’s plans in regards to the demonstration.

Initially, the meeting began with a calm tone, but eventually escalated as residents began to interrogate the true intentions of representatives of Open Carry.

Some residents argued that, “the group’s motives were racist.” Local activist and Minister for the New Black Panther Party, Quanell X expressed at the gathering that, “We have a bad history with White men who would come into Fifth Ward with guns in the name of a lynch mob.”

In wake of the slew of deaths in recent years caused by police officials within African-American communities; members of the community remain passionate about protecting and voicing their concerns. Many African-Americans are associating the passing of open carry, to the careless loss of lives of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Eric Garner, Jordan Baker, and most recently Walter Scott.

Though the list remains endless of Black males who have unjustly loss their lives due to police officials across America; many believe that the invasion of open carry, into the African-American community may potentially raise the levels of deaths similar to the occurrences of the fore-mentioned instances.

Bro. Kofi Taharka, of Houston’s National Black United Front and concerned residents sit down and discuss with Open Carry Texas members their plans to perform a demonstration in Houston’s Fifth Ward Community. Police officials were on site to monitor the meeting. -Photo: NewsFix

Local pastor Rev. Lamar Jenkins offered his opinion on the bill that has created much talk within the African-American community. He said, “Anybody that carefully researches this bill can understand that there are some hidden agendas. What they are doing is making it more possible for a police officer to fire. Because truthfully it’s going to be African-Americans and White people alike, going out getting guns, some for protection and some for intimidation purposes. And police officers who wear guns and have tasers will make sure anything that they do is going to be justified in the eyes of the law.”

He continued, “No matter what police officers have guns, and they also have a badge which states that they are to, ‘protect and serve’. So if everyone is walking around with guns rather concealed or unconcealed, there is still a threat to the general public especially in the African-American community.”

Pastor Jenkins comments are parallel with the feelings and emotions of other African-Americans, groups and leaders around the state of Texas. A group in Texas known as the Huey P. Newton Gun Club has joined in on the efforts of protesting open carry.

Huey P. Newton Gun Club has a mission similar to the Black Panthers, receiving its name from the co-founder of the party. Members from the club have marched and protested unjust police shootings of unarmed Black males throughout the African-American community. Protesters of the group remain committed to marching to, “promote self-defense and community policing”.

Just last month, the Huey P. Newton Gun Club congregated for a, “Black Lives Matter” march performed in Austin; at the State Capitol Building in reference to open carry. The club adamantly revealed during their march that, “Black open carry is here to stay.”

Concluding, African-Americans should be aware of all the ramifications for invoking their right to open carry. As some leaders of the Black community argue that the law has made room for even more potential hazards that work to continue the season of open fire amongst member of its community.

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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