Since the existence of Black folks, some White people have tried to do everything in their power to control Black people. Slavery was the ultimate example of control, and it has left a mark on Black people for hundreds of years. Even to this day, some of us are controlled and don’t even realize it.
William Lynch, who was an American military officer from Virgina was notorious for controlling slaves. It was noted that he was known for the term “lynching.” In the Willie Lynch Letters and the Making of A Slave, Lynch details and gives suggestions for how to control a slave. He stated, “I have a full proof method for controlling your Black slaves. I guarantee that everyone one of you, if installed correctly, it will control the slaves for at least 300 hundred years.” We weren’t meant to have a mind of our own. We weren’t even meant to live in this country that was built by “We the People.” We were not included in that, but here we are. We are still controlled in some ways, and a mental shift is needed for our race, our culture, and our history. We have to change our mindset and start thinking for us.
We are now in the year 2023, and we still have so much to fight for such as rights and equality. The great late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and many others fought for us to have rights and equality and demanded “separate but equal.” Separate but equal meant that we still have our separate spaces but are treated equal when it comes to water fountains, public restrooms, businesses, loans, and housing opportunities, and so much more. When we had our own communities and our own businesses, Blacks thrived. We would support each other and put money back into the community. Integration hurt us and quickly caused our Black communities to go under. If you look around now in some of our Black communities, they do not look the same and are deemed good property because of the location and proximity to downtown. We have to save our culture, our history, and our communities.
In addition, Black people have so much buying power, that if we stopped buying stuff at some of these big corporations, they would put out of business. In an article published by McKinsey Institute for Black Economic Mobility, it stated, “Despite the unevenly distributed human and economic devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic, Black consumers’ collective economic power is set to expand dramatically, from about $910 Billion1 in consumption in 2019 to $1.7 trillion (in nominal dollars)—equal to the projected GDP of Mexico—in 2030.” We have more power than we think, if we would support each other and stop supporting these major corporations who only put diversity, equity, and inclusion as part of their statements to check off a box, we could accomplish so much. Imagine if we put $1.7 trillion back into Black communities and businesses. The report further mentioned how there are still many inequities in the Black communities regarding products, experiences, and that “investments in Black consumers can help create Black wealth and community-level prosperity.” We cannot forget Black Wallstreet and how prosperous that community was doing until Whites came in and destroyed everything. Black Wallstreet can happen again in our communities if we work together.
A mantal shift is needed in 2023. We have to change the way we think, what we support, and what we claim as our culture and our future for generations to come. Our ancestors worked hard to build the life we have and we are truly standing on their shoulders. We need to continue to build off the foundation they left to ensure our future generations have a shoulder to stand on as well.
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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.
