Many people know Rosa Parks as the first woman who refused to give up her seat on the bus. Although Rosa was known for that, she was not the first. The first was 15 year old Claudette Covin.
Claudette Colvin was a courageous young woman who took a stand against racial injustice at a time when doing so was not only unpopular but also dangerous. Born on September 5, 1939, in Montgomery, Alabama, she grew up in the deeply segregated South, where Black Americans were treated as second-class citizens. Segregation laws, also known as Jim Crow laws, dictated where Black people could sit, eat, go to school, and even which water fountains they could use.
One of the most oppressive segregation laws in Montgomery required Black passengers to give up their seats on city buses for white passengers if the bus became too crowded. On March 2, 1955, 15-year-old Claudette Colvin defied this unjust rule. She was riding the bus home from school when the driver demanded that she and three other Black students give up their seats for a white woman. While the others moved, Claudette refused, arguing that she had paid her fare and had every right to keep her seat. She later recalled feeling the weight of history on her shoulders, as if Harriet Tubman and Sojourner Truth were urging her to remain seated.
The bus driver called the police, and Claudette was forcibly removed, arrested, and taken to jail. She was charged with disturbing the peace, violating segregation laws, and assaulting an officer—though she had not physically harmed anyone. She spent several hours in a jail cell before her mother and pastor bailed her out.
Despite her bravery, Claudette’s act of defiance did not receive the widespread recognition that Rosa Parks’ later protest did. Civil rights leaders at the time were hesitant to rally around Claudette. She was young, dark-skinned, and from a working-class background, and some felt that she was not the ideal face for the movement. Additionally, she later became pregnant out of wedlock, which made civil rights leaders even more reluctant to publicly support her case.
However, Claudette’s resistance was not in vain. She became one of four plaintiffs in Browder v. Gayle, the landmark court case that ultimately led to the Supreme Court striking down bus segregation in Montgomery. Her testimony helped prove that segregation was unconstitutional, forcing the city to integrate its public transportation system in 1956.
For many years, Claudette Colvin’s contributions to the civil rights movement were overlooked. It wasn’t until decades later that historians and activists began to recognize her role in dismantling segregation. Her story serves as a reminder that history is often shaped by those who act with courage, even when they are not immediately celebrated for their efforts.
Today, Claudette Colvin’s legacy is more widely acknowledged, and her story continues to inspire those who fight for justice. She proved that change often begins with ordinary people who refuse to accept injustice, no matter their age or background.
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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.
