June 19, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – This morning, former At-Large Houston City Council Member Amanda Edwards launched her campaign today to succeed Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee to serve Houston’s 18th Congressional District. Surrounded by community stakeholders in the heart of 5th Ward, she announced the news of suspending her bid for Houston mayor in order to run for Congress.
As a native Houstonian, attorney, non-profit leader and former At-Large Houston Council Member, Amanda possesses a strong ability to be the type of servant leader that the community needs. Amanda’s ability to solve the complex challenges, as well as to seize opportunities for our community makes her uniquely prepared to deliver the results the community needs. Her fierce advocacy, consistent grassroots community-based approach, combined with her ability to bring innovative solutions to the district will benefit the residents in the District tremendously.
While on City Council, Amanda was very effective at leading efforts to support a community where everyone can thrive. She led efforts to reduce disparities that women and minority small businesses face. Amanda also initiated and led the city’s task force and efforts to cultivate our innovation economy, which resulted in the creation of Houston’s Innovation District, among other things. Amanda has also led efforts to promote more multi-modal transportation and infrastructure in our community. As a result of Hurricane Harvey, Amanda has mobilized hundreds of volunteers to go door to door to help support vulnerable residents (i.e. low-income seniors) who have still yet to recover. Her priorities for her Congressional bid will focus on themes ranging from economic opportunity to healthcare access and education.
“I am running for Congress to place people over politics, and to deliver the results our community deserves. As Congresswoman Jackson Lee seeks to come home to serve as Houston’s next mayor, I seek to continue the strong legacy of servant leadership in the 18th Congressional District. From Congresswoman Barbara Jordan, Congressman Mickey Leland, Congressman Craig Washington to Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, the people of the 18th Congressional District deserve the next leg of this relay to continue to be strong, bold, effective and focused on the people.” Edwards states.
“Amanda Edwards is a true servant leader at her core. She places the community and outcomes first. She is ready for the challenge ahead and I am excited about what her leadership means for our community, this District and its strong legacy of service.” Ms. Jacqueline Bostic states.
In addition to her time on City Council, Amanda has served on the National League of Cities Board of Directors, the Advisory Council for Accelerator for America, Houston Exponential Board of Directors, as President of the Board of Directors for Project Row Houses in the Historic Third Ward community, and on numerous other civic boards and committees, including Texas Lyceum and the Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals.
Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD and Emory University in Atlanta, where she earned a degree in political science, served as student body president for the college and was inducted into the Emory University Hall of Fame. Edwards also earned a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes.
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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.
