October 4th, 2024

By: Laisha Harris

After a challenging four-day confirmation hearing and deadlock in the Senate committee, America has taken a step towards acknowledging and validating a Black woman in the highest court of the country. This summer, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, will be sworn in as the first Black woman to serve as Justice in the United States Supreme Court.

Presiding Houston Immigration Judge Erica Hughes stated, “It was amazing, watching the first Black female Vice President confirm the first Black female Supreme Court Justice.”

In 1776, when the Constitution was written, all men were created equal. In 1857, the United States Supreme Court said that the Constitution was not meant to include enslaved Black people. The framework has not always been designed to embrace or validate people of color. However, through the Civil Rights Movement and the enaction of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, legislative and executive opportunities that were typically dominated by White males became available to Black men and women. In 1967, Barbara Jordan was elected the first Black female Senator in Texas, while Thurgood Marshall became the first Black Supreme Court Justice.

History is typically filled with his stories of great triumph and rising above adversity. Throughout history, the tales and legacies of Black women have been overlooked and underrepresented. Before Dred Scott, there was Elizabeth Freeman. Before Frederick Douglass, there was Sojourner Truth and Maria Stewart. Before Barack Obama, there was Shirley Chisholm.

Black women have a way of contributing and reflecting the authenticity and compassion that holds the community together. “We’ve always been ready but never had that opportunity,” Judge Finch reflected. Thinking about how far we have come, we deserve a moment of pause and celebration.

Black women judges in Houston stated how “excited is an understatement.” The Presiding Judge of Harris County Criminal Court Toria Finch is “overwhelmed with joy! This confirmation legitimizes the place of Black women in the judiciary. It’s not common for people to consider Black women to be serious candidates.”

The work that Black women have put into contributing to the fairness and equity in America ought not go unnoticed. While the system is not fixed, there are a lot of people working on it. In 2018, Houston made news by appointing 19 Black women to the bench. For the first time, in more than one space, a defendant would come face-to-face with a person who can see, understand, and validate their humanity.

In a field typically dominated by White men, Black women like Barbara Jordan to Stacey Abrams are forging a path on the roads less traveled for little Black girls across the county. This new generation of children have seen a Black President, a Black Vice President, and a Black Supreme Court Justice. We have almost made it into every facet of the government that so diligently worked to exclude us. “It means the world to me, specifically because no matter who is against it – the world is changing,” stated Judge Hughes.

Judge Finch, along with Judge Hughes, were among the Houston-19. “We didn’t realize how big of a deal it was until it happened. Now, we have a stronger voice and appearance. Now, there’s Black women in almost every election,” Judge Finch said, “[Jackson’s] confirmation validates our seat at the table for consideration.”

This is a moment in our history that cannot be defined by one writer, one citizen, or even a few. The role in which Black women have in the lives of others is paramount. The impact of this moment will range from excitement to indifference, depending on who you ask. What is undeniable is the symbolism behind the confirmation. As a law-student with judicial aspirations, the applause and standing ovation for Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson fills me with joy. Justice Jackson reflects the aspirations of little Black girls who have dreams of being in rooms we were once excluded from. This moment in history reflects the shift from my existence as an exchangeable commodity to an interpreter of the highest court of the land.

Black women, we have been working vigorously to keep our families afloat, our dreams pruned, and our eyes on the prize. Whatever your prize, you deserve a moment of peace and celebration.

 

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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