The Black Lives Matter Plaza is a two block long pedestrian section of 16th Street NW in downtown Washington, D.C. it was constructed in June 2020 during the George Floyd and Breonna Taylor protest. The Department of Public Works painted “Black Lives Matter” 35 feet tall in yellow, along with the D.C. flag. George Floyd was murdered by a Minneapolis police officer in May 2020, D.C., Breonna Taylor was murdered in March 2020 by Louisville Police Officers. like many other cities across the country demanded justice, many people gathered near the White House calling for change, dignity, and for their voices to be heard.
At the time, President Donald Trump ordered law enforcement to forcefully clear peaceful demonstrators from the area. The next day, in an act of defiance and solidarity, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser had city workers paint the words “Black Lives Matter” in massive yellow letters on 16th Street NW, leading right up to the White House. She also officially renamed that stretch of road “Black Lives Matter Plaza.” It became more than just paint on asphalt, it was a powerful statement, a space where people could gather, grieve, and demand justice. For many, it was a symbol that their voices mattered, that their struggles were seen.
But now, almost five years later, that symbol is being erased. The city says it’s part of a redesign project, but the decision follows pressure from Republican lawmakers who want the mural gone. Some people feel like removing it is a sign that the city is moving on from the movement, as if the fight for racial justice was just a moment instead of an ongoing struggle. Others say that real change isn’t about murals but about policies and actions that protect Black lives every day.
According to Fox News, Mayor Muriel Bowser is calling the reconstruction an “evolution”, Bowser’s X account said the reconstruction is a part of D.C.’s America 250 Project, “where we will invite students and artists to create new murals across all eight wards.” The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) said the project will take six to eight weeks to complete.
As workers scrape away the yellow letters, the question remains: What happens next? Was Black Lives Matter Plaza just a temporary statement, or will its message continue to shape the city and the country in years to come?
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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.
