There’s a massive misconception that Black women don’t run. Whether it is our hair or not wanting to sweat, Black women have been labeled with this stereotype. African American women have the highest rates of obesity compared to other groups in the United States as four out of five African American women are overweight or obese.
In 2009, Black Girls Run (BGR) was created to tackle the growing obesity epidemic in the African American community, providing new and veteran runners encouragement and resources encourages and motivates Black women to practice a healthy lifestyle. They want to serve as a fitness resource for runners and gym rats. BGR provides tips and literature on staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. They also want to start a movement encouraging all women to get off the couch and get busy.
BGR wants to encourage African American women to prioritize fitness and healthy living. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 80% of African American women are overweight. BGR wants to create a movement to lower that percentage and subsequently lower the number of women with chronic diseases associated with an unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle.The organization has 70 cities with Ambassadors who motivate women to run every day. This is an organization that is changing the lives of thousands of women across the country.
BGR Houston was started in 2011. The run coordinators are committed to parks in 12 locations across Houston. Each location has different times and dates for Black women to meet and run together at their assigned areas. This promotes a safe, consistent, and healthy way to get fit. The BGR Houston Run groups have unique names to match the parks. The run groups include; The Princesses (Tom Bass Park), The Gems (Pundt Park), The M&Ms (Meyer Park), The Explorers (Clearlake), The Sparklers (Spotts Park), The Hockley Honeybees (Zube Park), The Pearls (Oyster Creek Park), The Dolls (Schotts Park), The Sapphires (Katy), Before Breakfast (Memorial Park), The Hotties (Herman Park), and The Divas (The Woodlands Waterway).
BGR Houston Ambassador Shermain Joseph is one of three ambassadors who coordinates the activities and citywide meetups for BGR Houston. The other BGR Houston Ambassadors are Sylvia Grimes and Lisa Wells. Ambassador Joseph said, “I have a severe case of FOMO (fear of missing out) that’s what led me to BGR! Sure, I ran in High School, but back then a “long-run” for me was a mile. I hated distance running. In my very first meetup, they were speaking this foreign language…2:1s, out and back, 2 abreast, 5Ks, 10Ks, 1/2s, and the next race/run. I hadn’t run in at least 20 years.”
She further mentioned, “What inspires me is the “Vision of All that Melanin” out on the pavement getting it in and at all levels.” Her favorite race is one she has no intention of running, which is The Chevron Houston Marathon. In closing she stated, “I’ve volunteered for three years and the excitement of cheering on the runners and the looks on the faces of my BGR Sisters when they see us is Priceless.”
BGR Houston is truly making a difference in the lives of many Black women across Houston. Women shouldn’t be intimated by the word run because there are several members who walk as well. It is all about keeping your body moving, sisterhood, and getting healthy one step at a time in a safe environment. Every run coordinator regularly posts run times on the Black Girls Run Houston Facebook Group. You can request to join when you are ready to join the movement.
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.
