November 13th, 2024

The Trayvon Martin case sparked national outrage and started a trend that has left many Black lives shattered. Trayvon Martin was a 17-year-old African American male who was shot and killed by George Zimmerman on February 26, 2012, in Sanford, Florida. Zimmerman, a “neighborhood watcher” saw Martin returning from a convenient store and thought he looked “suspicious.” Zimmerman called the police and was told to stay in his vehicle. He did not listen. Instead, he confronted Martin, things escalated, and he ended up shooting Martin in close range and killed him. Zimmerman, who remained uncharged for a little while claimed self-defense, and because the state permitted the “use of deadly force in self-defense,” they couldn’t charge him.

This angered many across the United States as many people demanded justice. Zimmerman was eventually charged and went through due process, and on July 13, 2013, he was found not guilty. Many people felt that this incident could have been avoided and that Zimmerman simply profiled Martin as nothing more than a criminal. After the Trayvon Martin case, this prompted the birth of an organization called Black Lives Matter (BLM). Founded in 2013 by Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi, BLM was created to help combat racism and injustice that continues to impact Black people daily.

While the original intentions of BLM began as pure and were needed as the organization brought many Black people across the world together like Martin Luther King Jr. once did during the Civil Rights Movement. However, there has been skepticism regarding BLM and their motives. Some people now think the movement has turned into a scam, one that is purely out for money. For one, there are now two separate organizations. There is BLM and the T Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation (BLMGNF). It has been noted that BLM is the “modern Civil Rights Movement,” while BLMGNF simply “collects the funds.” Sean Campbell, an investigative journalist, and adjunct professor for Columbia University made it known in an interview that BLM and BLMGNF are two different things run by different people and leadership. According to National Public Radio, the movement allegedly made $90 million dollars in 2020 and spent $30 million by 2021. Skepticism rose even more when BLM purchased a $6 million dollar home.

According to BLM, the purchase was made so that people could have a safe house if they feel threatened and a place for Black creators where they can come and create art. Many were upset by the purchase and did not understand the need for it and have questioned how the funds are being managed and why the need for two separate entities. One of those individuals who has had his doubts about the organization includes Kanye West, also known as Ye. West is no stranger to controversy and has been in recent controversy due to wearing a White Lives Matter shirt to his daughter’s basketball game.

Many have been upset and disappointed by the singer’s recent publicity stunt, but West has been vocal in the past about his thoughts about BLM, so this act may not be surprising to some. As a Donald Trump supporter, there was also speculation about him running for president, and some might view him wearing this shirt as a political move to increase his support from the “right wing.”

Regardless of what some may think of the movement, it has brought a movement of diversity, equity, and inclusion, which has seemingly become a trend amongst various employers and other entities.

Nonetheless, West has been disrespectful to what the movement represents and to the Black race. Wearing a shirt that says “White Lives Matter” only creates more racial tension, shows the lack of unity we have within our race, and promotes hatred. Why not wear a shirt that says All Lives Matter instead? Because it wouldn’t have created the attention that he is getting now. All of this only adds to the millions of followers he already has. It continues to create his image and set him up for more global success. It’s no secret that West has suffered from bipolar disorder, and some have speculated that his image and mental state changed when his mom died.

In response to West’s comment, BLMGNF stated, “Black Lives Matter means fighting to dismantle this system that causes institutional harm…our mission will never become a White Supremacist capitalistic commodity — a dangerous machine that consumes its own for profit.”

When it comes down to it, All Lives Matter, but All Lives Can’t Matter until Black Lives Matter too.

 

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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