Justice Clarence Thomas was appointed to the Supreme Court in 1991, after the death of Justice Thurgood Marshall, the first Black Justice. Thomas is the second Black Justice to serve on the Court, appointed by President George H. Bush, and his appointment was troubling because of accusations made by Anita Hill, a longtime associate....
[Photo: Facebook] In the world of culinary arts, few names resonate with as much vibrancy and flair as Marcus Samuelsson. Known for his striking blend of global flavors and commitment to cultural storytelling through food, Samuelsson has become a towering figure in contemporary cuisine. This article delves into his journey, achievements, and the impact...
With profound sadness and deep appreciation, we share the news of the passing of Reverend William A. Lawson, on May 14, 2024. His unwavering dedication and leadership have left an indelible mark on our community and our hearts. Throughout his nearly 96 years, Reverend Bill Lawson has exemplified the roles of husband, father, grandfather,...
By: Dr. John E. Warren, Publisher Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968, a day those of us who are old enough will never forget. But April 4th is significant for another reason, because on April 4, 1972, the Rev. Dr. Adam Clayton Powell, Jr., Congressman from New York, died...
By Jazz Paz It is no coincidence that the month of new year’s resolutions is the month of mental health awareness, especially for Black and brown people. Sixty-seven percent of Texans declared themselves to be African American or brown in the 2020 national census. In these communities self-care is often seen as self-indulgence rather than urgently necessary. When expressions of emotional distress are taboo, they become difficult to recognize and admit to. Too many individuals experience a mental health diagnosis as a label that implies a weakness. Being a “strong person” encourages victory in athletics and other physical successes, but not in activities that promote emotional or mental growth, especially for men. According to the National Institute of Health, Black and brown people are twice as prone to depression. anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder than whites, and that racism, discrimination, and poverty all contribute to psychological disorders. These burdens foster the temptation to unwisely hide our mental struggles to defend against further bigotry, especially since the media (like, Silence of the Lambs or the Joker), flaunt mental impairment through characters that are dangerous, crazy, murderers. An exacerbating contributor to mental stress is that helpful resources can be difficult to obtain when people lack health insurance, work irregular schedules, or are without reliable transportation, but relief exists for those who su er. The Hope Line (832-831-7337) at the Hope and Healing Center offers free 30-minute peer counseling over the phone as well as free support for adults (https://hopeandhealingcenter.org/). e Harris Center for Mental Health (24/7 crisis line 713- 970-7000; toll-free 866-970-4770) serves those with or without legal status, in English and in Spanish, and can provide transportation (https:// www.theharriscenter. org/). If you need immediate suicide or mental health support or are worried about someone else, call or text 988. If you are called upon to assist a friend or family member besieged by distress, recommend that they get or continue seeing a professional advocate as well as: • Listen to them. Empathize. Avoid judgment, just be a safe understanding hearer Remind the person of their inherent worth and...
Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis issued the following statement on the passing of the Rev. William A. Lawson: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend and a towering figure in our community, the Reverend William A. Lawson. His life’s work as a civil rights icon, educator, and relentless advocate for the underserved has left an indelible mark on Houston and beyond. I am profoundly grateful personally for his friendship and mentorship and for the transformative impact he had on our community. Reverend Lawson’s legacy is monumental. He was a pioneering force in the Civil Rights movement, courageously hosting the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at his church and supporting the brave Texas Southern University students during the sit-ins that spurred integration in our city. His commitment to justice and equality knew no bounds. To honor his monumental contributions, I recently had the privilege of naming a park after him and his beloved wife, Audrey. The Reverend William and Audrey Lawson Park will serve as a lasting tribute to their shared commitment to uplifting every member of our community. Reverend Lawson’s spirit will forever resonate in the hearts he touched and the lives he transformed. Though we mourn his loss, we celebrate a legacy that will guide us for generations to come. My wife, Licia, and I are praying for his family during this difficult time.”
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[Photo: Instagram] Tomekia Reed, the celebrated head coach of the Jackson State women’s basketball team, is leaving her position to join the Charlotte 49ers. The official announcement, posted on social media by the UNC Charlotte women’s basketball program, marks the end of a transformative era for Reed and Jackson State. Her tenure with the Tigers has been nothing short of remarkable, with multiple championships and high accolades marking her journey. In her six seasons at Jackson State, Reed achieved considerable success, earning four Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Coach of the Year awards and three Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Coach of the Year honors. Under her leadership, the Tigers reached the NCAA tournament in 2021, 2022, and 2024, achieving a feat that put Jackson State on the national radar. Her departure to UNC Charlotte, which competes in the American Athletic Conference (AAC), represents a significant step in her coaching career. During her tenure, Reed’s coaching style and commitment to her players were instrumental in propelling Jackson State to the forefront of women’s collegiate basketball. She fostered a culture of excellence, discipline, and resilience, leading the Tigers to five SWAC regular-season titles and three SWAC tournament titles. Her ability to bring out the best in her players earned her widespread recognition and respect within the basketball community. This past season, Reed guided the Tigers to the NCAA tournament, where they faced the formidable UConn Huskies, ranked third nationally. Although Jackson State fell short in that game, the team’s journey to the tournament demonstrated the remarkable progress Reed had made with the program. Her players competed with tenacity and skill, reflecting the strong foundation she had built. Reed’s move to the Charlotte 49ers represents a new challenge and an opportunity for her to continue her impressive coaching career at a higher level. The UNC Charlotte program is eager to benefit from Reed’s expertise and leadership, anticipating that her winning mindset will lead to significant success in the American Conference. For Jackson State, Reed’s departure raises questions about the future of the women’s basketball program. While her...
By: Carolyn Evans-Shabazz, Council Member for District D It is with a heavy heart that I reach out to you today to pay tribute to an extraordinary individual whose impact on our community will be felt for generations. Clara Caldwell was not only a beacon of light in our beloved city but a personal inspiration to me and many others. Clara’s journey began as a union steward at the Weingarten grocery chain, marking the start of a remarkable career in labor advocacy that saw her rise through the ranks of U.F.C.W. Union Local 455. Her tenure with the Texas AFL-CIO and presidency of the Texas State A. Philip Randolph Institute highlighted her deep commitment to the trade union movement and her efforts to bridge the gap between labor needs and the African American community’s concerns. As your Councilwoman, I have the privilege of recognizing influential figures in our community, and when my staff recently asked whom I would like to honor as the Civic Leader of the Month for District D, Clara Caldwell was the undeniable choice. I am truly glad that I gave her her flowers while she could smell them. A phenomenal woman, a dedicated mother, and a pillar of strength, Clara tirelessly served the people of Houston. Her contributions to our city are beyond measure. She believed in accountability. Yet when I received her delicious spaghetti while working the polls, I knew she loved and supported me. Clara also made significant contributions to civic engagement through her active participation in the League of Women Voters, life membership in the NAACP, and board membership at Houston’s Sunnyside Multi-Service Center. Her devotion to St. Philip Neri Catholic Church and dedication to her family, including six children and ve grandchildren, highlight her multifaceted role as a leader, advocate, and family pillar.
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[Photo: Facebook] In the world of culinary arts, few names resonate with as much vibrancy and flair as Marcus Samuelsson. Known for his striking blend of global flavors and commitment to cultural storytelling through food, Samuelsson has become a towering figure in contemporary cuisine. This article delves into his journey, achievements, and the impact he has had on the culinary world. Early Life and Culinary Beginnings Born in Ethiopia and raised in Sweden after being adopted following the death of his mother, Marcus Samuelsson’s culinary journey began at an early age. Influenced by his Swedish grandmother, who taught him the basics of cooking, Samuelsson’s early experiences in the kitchen sparked a passion that would define his life’s path. He honed his skills at the Culinary Institute in Gothenburg before embarking on apprenticeships in Switzerland and Austria, setting the stage for his global culinary approach. Rise to Prominence Samuelsson’s career took a significant turn when he moved to the United States in the mid-1990s. At just 24 years old, he became the executive chef of Aquavit in New York City, where his innovative take on Scandinavian cuisine earned him a three-star review from The New York Times. His unique ability to integrate the flavors of his Ethiopian heritage with Swedish dishes quickly distinguished him in New York’s competitive culinary scene. Culinary Philosophy and Achievements Marcus Samuelsson’s culinary philosophy centers on the fusion of cultures, much like his own personal background. His dishes often feature a blend of the spices and flavors from Africa, Asia, and Europe, which he skillfully melds with traditional Western techniques. His restaurant, Red Rooster, located in Harlem, is a testament to this approach, offering a menu that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of the neighborhood alongside Samuelsson’s own cultural heritage. His contributions to the culinary world have been recognized with multiple accolades, including several James Beard Foundation Awards. Samuelsson has also become a familiar face on television, appearing on numerous cooking shows and competitions, and as a mentor to aspiring chefs, further solidifying his influence in the industry. Cultural Impact and Future...
N B U F 99TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION FOR MALCOLM X Special Edition SOUL SUNDAY at The Black House May 18 – May 19, 2024 Houston, TX – From May 18, through May 19, 2024, The National Black United Front (NBUF) will be hosting a celebration of the 99th birthday of Malcolm X at the National Black United Front Headquarters 2428 Southmore Blvd., Houston, TX 77004. There will be a host of activities happening for those two days, in the general vicinity of the National Black United Front HQ Building, known as the “Black House” including: • A Community Self-Determination March (Please bring pictures/posters of Malcolm X for the march). • A Work/Education Session in the Acoli/Sankofa Self-Determination Garden; • NBUF FEED the HOOD Community Food Distribution; • Soul Sunday Buy Black Market, complete with vendors, music, and edutainment, including children’s activities and story-time; • A Theatrical Presentation about the life of Malcolm X by Baba Aundar Ma’at; • Solidarity Statements from Community Allies and Open Mic Poetry. The two-day celebration will build on the 44-year NBUF legacy of social justice activism, humanitarian aid/relief and organizing for self-determination.. For more information, schedule, sponsorship, vending, and more information call 832-422-7806. Please follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @nbuf_houston @National Black United Front Houston Chapter @TheRealNBUF. Struggle, Service, Sacrifice, KOFI TAHARKA NBUF NATIONAL CHAIRMAN
...By Travis McGee Houston, we have a problem and that problem is too many lights, cameras, and no action. Press conference a er press conference, march a er march, election after election, townhall after townhall, Imma do speech after Imma do speech, and dead body a er dead body the problem of” CRIME” remains...
HOUSTON (May 9, 2024) – The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation (JKCF) awarded Alexis Lopez, a Lone Star College-Tomball student, the prestigious Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. The national scholarship will cover a significant share of a student’s educational expenses to complete their bachelor’s degree. “Receiving a Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship can be...
By: Mike LaFirenza The American dream of homeownership often begins with a starter home—a manageable property that allows young adults and families to establish roots, build equity, and lay the groundwork for fi nancial security. This initial step on the property ladder fuels the housing market and strengthens the economy by creating a generation...
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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.
