October 15th, 2024

Freedom’s Journal was the first Black newspaper that was created in 1827 by several free Black men in New York City and was edited by Samuel E. Cornish and John B. Russwurm. The paper was published “to counter racist commentary published in the mainstream press,” according to PBS. The newspaper was a four-page, four column standard that was published weekly.

The paper consisted of editorials, events, anecdotes, and addressed current issues like slavery, colonization, birth, and death announcements, and so much more. Freedom’s Journal was a voice for the Black community and the publication was not afraid to speak the truth. It is newspapers like Freedom’s Journal that have set the foundation for other newspapers to continue the work that the founding group of men intended to do.

One newspaper that picked up that challenge is the African American News and Issues Newspaper (Afram News). Since 1996, Afram News has been educating the Black communities about historical and current realities affecting our communities. Roy Douglas Malonson, one of the publishers discussed how the Black press has evolved. He stated, “There’s a lot of Black papers in Houston, and when integration came in, they quit being Black. They got away from the mission and their purpose, and that’s why we started it. We started it to be the peoples’ paper and the peoples’ voice and started documenting history, because every time someone died, our history died with it.” He also challenges all Black newspapers to be Black and get back to that mission.

Mr. Malonson also believes in the importance of preserving our history and teaching younger generations about our history so they can continue what our ancestors fought for us. In a world that is trying to erase history, the Malonsons’ goal has always been to document it. Schools don’t want to talk about slavery, and want to exclude certain books, and create textbooks that may not include certain aspects of history. Some people want certain statues taken down and just want to erase all the bad that has happened in our country like it never happened. We know that there are some terrible things that occurred, but that does not mean we have to act as if it didn’t happen. We must acknowledge the past to embrace a better future. Let’s talk about these conversations. They are difficult but it’s how we move forward towards racial healing and towards “a more perfect union.” If you didn’t know, the day after the MLK holiday, is National Day of Racial Healing. If you’re not familiar with the term, racial healing has been known as restoring “individuals and communities to wholeness.” In addition, “Racial healing repairs the damage caused by racism. It facilitates trust, builds authentic relationships, and bridges divides.” We can’t move forward and heal if we ignore the past. There is so much to learn about the past and how the past can help shape our present and future.

Publisher Shirley Ann Malonson believes in speaking the truth even when it is information that may be hard to hear for readers. Mrs. Malonson noted that it is important that when people read the newspaper that they “are not afraid of what’s written, “because the truth is what will be published. She also talked about mainstream media and how they won’t report information about us. This includes information about our communities, our stories, and our history, which is why the Black press was created in the first place, and why it is still needed.

Mr. Malonson also discussed the importance of being aware of what information you are taking in. Not all information is good information, and in the days of technology and social media, there is a lot of information that can be fake or may change the way you think, which can be “dangerous,” he said. He further mentioned, “It is really important that people know how to sort through this information because there is too much information out there. The Black press needs to figure out how we can do a better job in educating people about that and making them more aware.” If people aren’t aware, then they can’t be educated properly on certain events, news stories, and so much more. Mr. Malonson stressed, “The more miseducated Black folks get, and the changing of their thinking, the more they may see there is not a need for a Black paper.”

When asked about where the Black press is headed, Mr. Malonson said, “There will always be a mission and a purpose of people knowing who they are and who their people are. Once you know who you are, you really start having pride and greatness for yourself, so there will always be a purpose for Black media to be a voice for Black people.”

Angel Jones, an avid reader of Afram News discussed her reasons why the Black press is important. “The Black press is important as it expresses our purpose for existence and our culture’s beauty. It’s our voice, our truth, and our legacy. I love African American News and Issues for its diversity and inspiration of hope that allows small voices to be heard in a powerful way to create change to help our communities be heard.” She concluded with, thank you African American News and Issues, for your strength gives us strength.”

Mary G. Ellison, who also reads Afram News said, “I like to read the African American news to stay current on what is happening in the black community. There’s a major difference (both positive and negative) in today’s world and generation compared to my generation’s beginning in the 1930s.”

Afram News is proud to serve and be a voice for the people. Black news was important back then, and is still important today, and will remain important in the future. In the words of Mr. Malonson, “We will tell the truth, without fear or favor.”

 

 

 

 

 

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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