By: Roy Douglas Malonson
It always comes down to race. Out of all the examples Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito could have used, he decided to joke about Black kids dressing up as the Ku Klux Klan and Black Santa.
It all started because of a case about a web designer who doesn’t want to work on same-sex weddings because of her religious beliefs. Lorie Smith of Colorado is seeking to be exempt from a Colorado law that forbids discrimination “on the basis of sexual orientation in public accommodations.” Smith, who is a Christian, sued the state back in 2016 questioning the basis of the First Amendment.
The scenario of Black Santa and kids dressed up in KKK outfits was derived from Supreme Court Justice Kentanji Brown Jackson’s hypothetical scenario. She proposed a scenario where a business at the mall is offering pictures with Santa that focused on a particular era. In order to perfect this area, Justice Brown Jackson mentioned how only White kids would be allowed to take pictures with Santa and that the business will gladly refer families of color to the Santa at the other end of the mall who will take anybody.”
Justice Alito went off of this example and took it up a notch and asked if Black Santa at the mall is inclined to take a picture with a child dressed up in a Ku Klux Klan outfit. Justice Elena Kagan chimed in about if the same would apply regardless if the child was White or Black, or any additional characteristics. Justice Alito then said, “You do see a lot of Black children in Ku Klux Klan outfits, right? All the time.” He also mentioned another hypothetical scenario that involved Jewish people.
We can understand why the scenarios were used and Justice Brown Jackson’s scenario was appropriate, but Justice Alito took it too far. When have you ever seen Black kids dressed up as the Ku Klux Klan? And knowing the historic background of what the KKK represents and the things they have done, why would you even use this as an example? It’s insensitive and downright inappropriate.
Founded as a terrorist organization towards the end of the United States Civil War (1865), the KKK used fear tactics against African Americans who were free. The main purpose of the KKK was to push White Supremacy as the “political and social” order for the south. There were rights that were put in place to protect African Americans, but the KKK did whatever they could to strip those rights away through violence. The KKK would beat, lynch, burn crosses, bomb places, terrorize the homes of African Americans, and so much more.
The mission of the KKK was accomplished with the creation of the Jim Crow Laws (1875-1965) that made segregation legal.
Justice Alito, who is known as a conservative wrote the majority opinion that overturned Roe v. Wade case this past summer. It is not surprising that the conservative Justice would make such remarks or feel a certain way, but that does not make it right. This is one of the reasons why this country will remain stagnant and divided.
This is one example of why history is so important. We must teach our kids about slavery, racism, discrimination, and the KKK. It is important so that when comments such as these are made, they will understand why it is wrong. They will understand the historic pain that lies behind the comments. We also need to teach our kids about respecting each other’s differences, and that even though bad things were done to our race and culture, we don’t have to be angry and carry that anger with us every day of our life. Teach them about the history, but make sure they understand that just because the past was that way, it doesn’t mean that the present or the future has to be that way. We must teach them to process the information in a healthy manner that allows them to adequately express how they feel, but more so allows them to function in a world that may not like them because of the color of their skin.
In this life or another, we will always have race issues. It is what help set the foundation of this country. This country was built by “We the People,” and was never built for Black people. We live in a nation that tolerates our skin but doesn’t fully accept it. In the words of Malcom X, “You can’t separate peace from freedom because no one can be at peace unless he has his freedom.” We will never be at peace as race because we will never be free from our skin color and the judgement that has come with it.
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.
