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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.
Black Lives Matter
Black Lives Matter (BLM) is a movement that was created to tackle issues surrounding racism, discrimination, inequality, and social justice against Black people. Started in 2013, the organization was in response to the acquittal of Trayvon Martin’s murderer, George Zimmerman.
The movement started out strong and many began to follow and support the organization. BLM also brought national attention to many different injustices that were occurring across the nation. However, recently, many individuals have started to question the motives of the organization and if BLM is still accomplishing the same goals it set out to achieve. According to a survey by Pew Research, “About half of U.S. adults (51%) say they support the Black Lives Matter movement… but three years ago, following the murder of George Floyd, two-thirds expressed support for the movement. The survey also discussed how “a majority of Americans say the increased focus on issues of race and racial inequality in the past three years hasn’t led to changes that have improved the lives of Black people.” Why the shift?
For me, I was really excited when BLM came about. It was a turning point for Black people to get out and start protesting like our ancestors did, and to bring a wave of change to our nation. However, I have concerns now about the intentions of the organization and if the momentum and purpose is still the same? First off, there are two different organizations within BLM. There is Black Lives Matter, which is the name for the “modern civil rights movement” that is currently going on. Then you have Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation (BLMGNF), which is a separate entity that collects funds. Why do you need both?
In addition, what made me even more skeptical is when the organization purchased a $6 million dollar home in California (reports say around October 2020). For what? The organization claimed it was purchased to give Black creatives a space as their own and to use the house as a safe house for individuals who need it. If this is the case, why not purchase an office building for people to come and work out of? This makes me question where the money is going and how it is being spent. I have lost trust in this organization, and I think a lot of other individuals have to.
My other issue is that you really only hear about the organization when big news stories happen, and for me, if you’re going to be fighting issues about social justice, racial inequality, discrimination, etc.. That is a 24/7 job. That means this fight needs to happen all the time and not just when the cameras are rolling. I will say that this movement did start the fight and brought out issues that were not being heavily discussed. But I don’t think the meaningful change that was supposed to come from this organization has happened. We still have a lot of work to do.
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