By: Nevaeh Richards The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo awarded 70 Texas 4-H program members a grand total of $1.4 million in scholarships, but while that’s a great thing, you’ll notice a glaring similarity among the scholarship recipients – they are overwhelmingly WHITE! While there may be a few people of color (POC) dotted among the students who received the award, not one of them is a Black student, and as a Black student, that really ticks me off! A Facebook post highlighting the “Where’s Waldo” missing Black students gained a lot of comments, and it first made me MAD, but then it made me THINK, and ask myself, “WHO’S RESPONSIBLE?” The scholarship recipients were chosen from 51 counties across the state of Texas, and I have a hard time believing that there was not one Black student within these 51 counties that qualified for an award. Your immediate thought might be to place blame on the majority white Executive Committee members of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, and wonder if the lone African American member – Warner Ervin – is speaking up for the people we hope he represents – US! I’m here to tell you, the exclusion of Black children from agriculture programs is, not only on the hands of the 11 HLSR Executive Committee members, but it’s on our school districts, business and political leaders, and the Black community as a whole. I proudly went from being an honor roll student at Jack Yates High School to a current freshman at Howard University, and I can honestly tell you, I have NO memories throughout my elementary, middle or high school years of being introduced to any agriculture courses, and upon research, I see they are CLEARLY available at many schools including Stephen F. Austin, Chavez, Bellaire and Madison and high schools, but not many students are participating (nor encouraged to participate) in the programs. Worthing High School, in the historical Sunnyside area, has a Future Farmers of America (FFA) program, but has never won a livestock or agriculture competition. Are they not getting the resources or […]
What about us? Time to step up and support Black students in agriculture! Read More »
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.
