After abandoning my pursuit of a broadcast journalism career in 2017, I have basically removed myself from the public.
Hence, I have hardly posted any videos or written materials after my LinkedIn post describing my first-hand experience in television news as a first-generation college graduate attempting to launch a television career without any family support went viral.
What I learned in my stint as a television news reporter was this: Television news is one of the most racist industries out there. The industry is saturated with white privilege and elitism.
Just take a look at the White House Press Briefing Room. You will be lucky to see one black journalist there. Thank God for April Ryan, the White House correspondent and Washington bureau chief for American Urban Radio Network. She persists in the face of an onslaught of criticism by President Trump.
And it’s not just television: The #OscarsSoWhite hashtag is indicative of the racism in the entertainment business.
I applaud CNN’s Don Lemon for using his platform for calling out the well-to-do black folks by name on live television for their silence. In his segment, Lemon said to Hollywood elites: “Do something. Stop texting me. Stop sitting in your mansions and help these young people.”
The unrest in cities over the last few weeks have compelled me to share my thoughts over George Floyd’s death. His death was not in vain. As evidenced by the various peaceful protests around the country.
Being black is not a crime. The news industry plays a role in incriminating African Americans by its proliferation of news coverage of black-on-black crime. This leaves an imprint in people’s minds that black skin is synonymous with crime.
The issues at-hand are much deeper than police brutality. African Americans are fighting for equality for all across the board; yet very little progress has been made in black America.
Granted, these issues predated Donald Trump, but the President has exacerbated these issues through offensive tweets such as, “When the looting starts, the shooting starts.” The President’s tweet is racist.
Trump subsequently tweeted about “vicious dogs” which creepily sounded like an endorsement of the infamous Birmingham Public Safety Commissioner Bull Connor, who directed the use of fire hoses and police attack dogs against protestors during the height of the Civil Rights Movement.
In 2020, look at the state of black America. The prisons all across this county are filled with black and brown people; 250 years since slavery, 90 years since Jim Crow and 55 years since the Civil Rights bills of the 1960s.
“Can we all just get along?” That’s what Rodney King said in his plea to end the riots in ’92.
Good luck on expecting Trump to call for peace.
Finally, black men in America, are tired of everything being a major hurdle. We are tired of being harassed by police. We are tired of racist public policies like Stop ‘N Frisk.
We are tired of being left dead on street corners at the hands of police officers. We are tired of being pulled over by cops for a broken tail light.
We are tired of being demoted and rejected for high-paying jobs. We are tired of having an incident from years ago prevent us from employment. We are tired of having to immerse ourselves in major student loan debt just to obtain a college degree. We are tired of having to literally start at the bottom.
We are tired of not being able to achieve the American dream in the richest country in the world.
This America must change. Systemic change starts with acknowledging our country’s racist origins.
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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.
