“At the end of the day it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished… it’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.” – Denzel Washington
Since I have been dealing with the “Accountability” series, I decided to target business owners within our community and Black entrepreneurs alike. Because the Black community is one of the most neglected in terms of small business owners and major corporations giving back. We MUST Understand, “Our Money” and “Our Vote” are two of the most powerful tools WE have, so WE should be careful who WE give them to. We MUST Understand any person or entity WE give “Our Money” and “Our Vote” to are amongst what WE empower. This is one of the reasons I am stressing emphasis on holding business owners in Our community and those WE patronage in accountable.
Nowadays, Black folks leave out of the community, passing up several Black businesses who operate in the community and give back to the community, only to invest and patronage individuals and businesses who could care less about US or Our Families. We MUST Understand some of the same people WE choose to support are some of the very same people who were in support of segregation. Sure, they will take your money for their children and grandchildren’s education, but do you think they will offer a scholarship to your children and grandchildren? Chances are, they will not.
For decades, business owners who Do NOT look like US, have built their market off of the strength of the Black Buying Power. But, when it is time for them to give back they dispense their funds into communities and those who look like them. Majora Carter once said, “If we are going to be part of the solution, we have to engage the problems.” As true as this statement is, the reality of those who look to make their bucks off of Black folks is that, they could care less about engaging in the problems of Our Communities. Clearly, this is not a show of equal reciprocation. Especially when Nielsen estimates that the, “Black buying power will rise to $1.54 trillion driven by gains in population, income and education in 2019.”
Furthermore Christine Michel Carter indicated that, “African-Americans make up 14% of the United States population, but are being called the key voters to win in 2020; represent over 40% of the overall spending in the baby food category ($813m) and led the ensemble cast of a $1.4 billion grossing film (Black Panther)”.
So, the facts show that WE have the power to use Our Money to hold business owners accountable. Now, it is up to us to assert that power in a way to show them that we are holding them accountable. To that regard, I will conclude with the words of former President Barack Obama. “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”
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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.
