How Far Have We Really Come?
By Roy Douglas Malonson
“Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do God’s will. And He’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over. And I’ve seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the promised land!”
– Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Recently, I sat and thought on the ending of the last sermon Dr. King preached in Memphis, Tennessee, just a day before he was assassinated in 1968. My mind went on a 50-year journey, reflecting back on all of the changes, we Africans living in America have experienced over the years.
No one will ever really know if Dr. King’s prophetic words that day before were a mere glimpse of what he knew would take place the very next day. However, we do know that many of the prophesies he had previously spoken of did come to pass. Even still, though fifty years has brought about a lot of change in many ways, in other ways some things still remain the same. As a matter of fact, some things have gotten a lot worst, as others have been bandaged to appear as a healing point in history that has not truly come.
Just recently, me and some of my classmates celebrated our 50th Class Reunion from George Washington Carver High School. Thinking back to that time in history when we attended school, really showed me how fortunate we were to live in a segregated society back then. Of course, there were many who wanted to experience living in an integrated society; but, the truth is we did not inherit equal rights just because integration came on the scene.
We MUST Understand even though we were separated from everyone else, we didn’t have equal rights and right now today, in 2018 we live in an integrated society and still do not have equal rights.
Over the course of fifty years, I have saw the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X and various other martyrs who have died for varying causes; I have witnessed the first man to go to the moon, I lived through segregation to see integration measures commence and have also been able to see the election of the first “acknowledged”African-American president in the White House – who was the most disrespected POTUS the country ever seen.
But, even through all of those changes Black folks have yet to secure equality. We MUST Understand Blacks in the U.S. are the most overworked, yet, underpaid and unappreciated race of people in this nation; and yet we still are screaming from the mountaintop, that #BlackLivesMatter. So again, I ask, ‘How far have We Really Come’?’
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.
