October 3rd, 2024

A love For History

By: Chelsea Davis-Bibb, Ed.D.

A sixth generation Texan, Debra Blacklock-Sloan was born in the historic community Fifth Ward. She recalled how growing up in her community was “one of the best times” of her life. She attended Phyllis Wheatley High School and was a graduate of the proud class of 1974.

After high school, she attended the University of Houston for a little bit, worked a few different jobs before she landed in the Aldine Independent School District (AISD) as a Librarian Assistant in 1995. She loved this job as she had the chance to interact and work with students. She also enjoyed seeing them graduate, move on and go do great things. “It was one of the greatest jobs I had,” she stated.

She stayed in AISD for ten years before she received an offer to do historical research with Rutherford B H Yates Museum (RBHY) in Freedman’s Town. “Of course, I jumped right on it. I didn’t want to leave because I loved working for the district, but once I got hired, I knew that this is what I’m supposed to do.” She further stated, “It’s true what they say, if you love what you do and you’re passionate about it, it’s not work, and it’s never felt like work to me.”

Blacklock-Sloan has always had a passion for reading and a love for history. Even in elementary school, she recalled how the librarians would always get her to be their helpers. As a child, she also saw her father with a little paperback book in the back of his pocket, and when he put it down, she would read it and look up any words she did not know. “He instilled my love for reading and didn’t even know it.”

In addition to doing historical research, Blacklock-Sloan is a family genealogist. The RBHY Museum owns several historic homes and Blacklock-Sloan was able to research who lived there, how long they lived there, and what they did for a living. “I found out that most of those folks did some pretty wonderful things. Most of them had been enslaved and for the accomplishments that they did, it’s a story of persistence and determination.” She further mentioned how a lot of the things she’s been learning at the museum were not in her textbooks when she was in school stating, “When I got hired on at the museum, I got to see the history of Houston and see the African American footprint in Houston… none of that was in the books at all.”

It has been 20 years for Blacklock-Sloan, and she is still learning more and more things about Freedmen’s town and about the history of Houston. “Theres always some fascinating facet about the African American footprint. What those people did once they were emancipated, how they came to Houston and how they wanted to assimilate in white America. It did not happen right away, but the fact that they were able to maintain and do the things they did, that’s a great story and it is so relevant when I think about it, “she expressed.

When reflecting on African American history, she mentioned how it has been “omitted, diminished, and stolen.” She believes “we should teach our children the real history of Houston. Without slavery, this country would not have developed as fast. You can’t talk about how Houston or how the state of Texas evolved and just omit slavery. We need to talk about what happened, we need to talk about slavery, what happened after slavery. We need to tell our children the history of their ancestors whether they did something great or not and tell our story and not let anyone else tell it for us as they’ve been doing it.”

Blacklock-Sloan also received the opportunity to place the historical markers in Acres Homes. “I was hungry to hear that history, and it’s a rich history. People call me a historian, but I am a lover of history,” she stated.

There is a lot of history that many people are not aware of, and she made it known how important it is that we document and preserve our historic communities and resources. In addition, she strongly encourages people to research their family history, and have their DNA taken to find out their history and tell their story. “You really need to find out who your ancestors are because it is going to explain a lot about how you look, and what you’re doing for a living.”

Blacklock Sloan is currently the Historical Research Director and Tour Director for the RHBY Museum. She also has a Touring Texans Bus Company, created in 2014, which travels to African American sites in the South and DC. She is also a part of the Harris County Historical Commission, the Harris County African American Cultural Heritage Commission, and the Afro American Historical and Genealogical Society, Inc. (Willie Lee Gay H-Town Chapter).

In closing she stated, “We inherit our traits and our characteristics from our ancestors. When you find your ancestors, you find yourself. Do your family history, create your family tree, and spread it to anyone who will listen.”

 

 

 

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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