History is important. Black history is important! We live in a world that is constantly trying to find ways to erase black history. Without our history, we are lost. If we are lost, then the generations behind us are lost. History helps define who we are, and where we come from. History also holds lessons that we can take and pass them on to the generations that come behind us so that we can continue to progress as a race.
Let’s take Acres Home (also known as the “44”) for example. For starters, the original name of the community was “Acreage Home.” Not much is mentioned on the origin of the community except that it was developed during World War I (1914-1918), and the land was sold by the acre and not the lot, which is how it received the name Acreage Home. There were some early developments in the early 1900s that used “Acre Homes.” These subdivisions included “Roslyn Heights Acre Homes” and “Highland Acre Homes.” Depending on who you ask, they may say the community’s name differently because of how they were raised, or even the time they were born.
Research notes that in the “official record,” that the name is fluid. There are several entities that use the name differently including the Acres Homes Multi-Service Center, Harris County’s Acres Home Health Center, the Shepard-Acres Homes Neighborhood Library, and the Acres Home Chamber for Business and Development. Some have included an “s” at the end of homes, and others have left the “s” off.
There is a lot of rich history in the Acreage Home Community, and many organizations have been established which shows the growth and progression of the community. The “Acres Homes Transit Company was formed in the 1950’s, the Acres Homes Volunteer Firefighters Department was active in the 1960’s, The Acres Homes Beautification Organization was created by Edna Washington in 1981, and The Acres Homes War on Drugs Committee received federal recognition from former President George Bush. In his remarks at the Acres Homes War on Drugs Rally in Houston, he referred to the community as “Acres Homes.” He stated, “Acres Homes has a proud history. Once the largest unincorporated Black community in the South, it’s quiet, tree-lines neighborhoods were mainstream America-the embodiment, if you will, of the American dream.”
Even though the name of the community may seem irrelevant to some, the history behind it is so powerful. It is historical elements such as these that we are not taught growing up. We can’t rely on schools anymore to discuss any aspects of our history, and I think we have been too reliant on schools to educate our kids effectively when it comes to black history. Learning first and foremost starts at home. The first “textbook” a child will ever learn from will come from the tongues of their parents.
We need to do more. We must do more. I often think that we take history for granted, when we can learn a lot from it. We must be careful before we lose our history. Many people just live in the now and are not worried about the past. My question to you is how can we have a future if we don’t know where we’ve come from?
In the words of Martin Luther King Jr., “We are not makers of history. We are made by history.”
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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.
