October 15th, 2024

I grew up during segregated times in the Black community and we had everything we needed. Being segregated allowed us to be a true Black community where we had our own schools, our own grocery stores, our own doctors, clinics, and so much more. It was a time where Black people were willing to help and support each other because we had to.

And when it came to law enforcement, we even had Black officers patrolling our communities. There were no White police officers in our neighborhoods. The Black officers were responsible for keeping us in line and arresting us if needed be. The Black officers were not allowed to arrest any White people and were not allowed to ride in patrol cars. Whether we liked it or not, that’s just the way it was. This scenario seems very familiar with the events that occurred in Memphis, where the five Black police officers beat Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man who was pulled over on Jan. 7 for reckless driving, according to police. He later died three days later from the injuries.

We can’t address crime outside of our race, until we address crime within our race. This goes for police officers or just your everyday citizen. If a White officer or individual kills a Black guy, it is wrong, and if a Black officer or individual kills a Black man, it is wrong.

If you have watched the video of Tyre Nichols, it is disturbing. It is sad to see that another Black man died by the hands of police. What does this mean? It means that just because these officers were Black, it doesn’t mean we need to be silent. In Memphis, and in other states across the nation, people are protesting and expressing their concerns and frustrations. For those protesting in Memphis, they shut down the I-55 bridge over the Mississippi River and chanted, “no justice, no peace…and justice for Tyre.” It is also time for organizations to step up just like they did when White officers killed a Black man. Where is the Urban League, the NAACP, the ACLU, Black Lives Matter, and many other organizations. We have witnessed too many Black men get killed to the point of it becoming part of our everyday life. Enough is enough. Now is not the time to be silent. Now is the time to act and fight back against injustice. We cannot continue to sit around and wait for action to be taken. We must demand it and seek it.

The officers who were charged for Tyre Nichol’s death “were part of an elite unit known as Scorpion that was set up to crack down on high-crime neighborhoods.”  This unit was formed in 2021 and has now been disbanded. When reflecting on high-crime neighborhoods, statistics will show that they are referring to Black neighborhoods. Why is it that only Black officers can patrol these types of neighborhoods? And why couldn’t five trained officers gain control over one individual? In addition, there have been some news reports that have said a sixth officer was involved who was White. Why hasn’t his face been flashed across news channels like the other five Black officers? Why are we just now learning about the sixth White officer? What other information is being withheld? It seems as if the narrative is being controlled and we are not getting the full story.

When these incidents occur, one may start thinking about their own local law enforcement and how they plan to address the issues that continue to arise. Chief Troy Finner of the Houston Police Department (HPD) said, “The Memphis Police Chief has fired those five officers involved and they have been charged with second-degree murder. Please know their actions do not reflect the great work the men and women do every day in our profession.” Chief Finner also asked those who want to “exercise their right to demonstrate” to do so responsibly.

When speaking with Dr.  Edwin A. Davis, a Captain with Precinct One’s Constable’s Office and who was a police officer with HPD for 30 years, a Major for Harris County Sheriff’s office for seven and a half years, and who holds 48 years of experience in law enforcement, discussed his perspective on the issue. He first discussed the issue of the police shortage that is currently taking place and how the expectations and qualifications to be an officer have changed. He reflected on how when he applied for the police department, they did an extensive background check. “They investigated me, went through my elementary school records, talked to people from the church and in the community,” he said. He even mentioned how there were stricter rules back then like officers not being allowed to enter the police force with tattoos unless they were under cover and had to wear temporary ones. The rules were stringent back then and if you violated them, you were disqualified right away. He also discussed how not a lot of people are wanting to be police officers because of the anti-police climate we are in with police officers being killed and targeted.

When Captain Davis first started the police force with HPD in 1977, he was the 68th Black officer to be added to the force out of 3,000 officers, and there was a certain culture within the police department that revolved around respect and looking out for each other. He discussed how a lot of the newer police officers are younger and have a different view today in how they are handling and approaching different situations.

So, what can the community do to bring change within our community? We need to continue to speak up and hold our police officers and city officials accountable. Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmitt Martin III, Desmond Mills Jr., and Justin Smith should be held responsible and deserve whatever charge and sentence they get.

When looking at the video of Nichols I was taken back to prior deaths that have occurred. One incident in particular was Rodney Green, a Black 49-year-old in Louisiana who was involved in a high-speed police chase, and it was noted that “he died on impact” but later it was reported that he struggled and spent his last moments being “kicked, dragged, on his stomach by the leg shackles.” We will also never forget the tragic death of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and so many others.

We as a community must address the issues within our own race and not be afraid to call others out. We must speak the truth and stand up for what is right. This starts with learning our history, preserving it, and teaching future generations behind us.

 

 

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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