Within his first week in office, President Trump reversed DEI efforts within the federal government. The executive order was titled, “ending radical and wasteful government DEI programs and preferencing.” In 2021, President Biden was an advocate and promoted DEI programs within the federal government. President Trumps order required various companies to stop all programs that had federal contracts and grants related to DEI initiatives. Private sector business and companies were not required to stop DEI efforts but were strongly encouraged; private sector companies are run by businesses and or individuals instead of the government. An example of private sector companies is Walmart, Target, Netflix and Tesla. Since the reversal of DEI efforts, many private sector companies have decided to stop their DEI efforts.
Target has decided to stop its DEI efforts. Target is known for selling products from Black owned businesses and supporting the LGBTQAI+ community. Target sells Black owned hair brands such as TPH by Taraji, Carol’s Daughter, Mielle Organics, Donna’s Recipe, Miss Jessies, and many more. They also sell Black owned feminine hygiene products such as the Honey Pot and Here We Flo. In past years, Target has been an advocate and promoter of Black History Month, dedicating sections and selling Black History targeted merchandise the whole month of February.
In 2022, Black influencer and content creator Tabitha Brown who is known for her positive energy, vegan lifestyle, and love for natural hair announced her partnership with Target. The collaboration was originally supposed to be a limited collection of various items. However, her products sold quickly, and she was given a permanent partnership with Target selling cookware, vegan food items, and her haircare line Donna’s recipe. Brown is partnered with Walmart and Amazon as well; in an Instagram video she shared that her contract with Target does not expire for another year.
Many Black buyers are upset at Target stopping its DEI efforts and plan to boycott, but Brown is strongly against this idea saying it would hurt Black businesses. “I do business all over just like many other people, and what I can tell you is if we all decide to boycott… So many of us will be affected in our sales and our business will be hurt” she said via an Instagram video. Brown also said she understands and gets those who will continue with their boycotting plans. The Honey Pot Co, a Black owned feminine care brand took to their Instagram and said, “We are actively working to understand the impact of these changes and appreciate your patience and support to honor the importance of this matter.”
Many Black owned products have gone on sale at Target since the DEI announcement. Target attracts many Black shoppers, specifically younger people. If Black shoppers decide to follow through with the boycott, then the demographic of Target’s shoppers would change drastically.
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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.
