Legendary Houston HIV/AIDS activist Barbara Joseph dies at 73
HOUSTON – The family of legendary Houston HIV/AIDS activist and pioneer Barbara Joseph has confirmed that Joseph passed away on Sunday, March 29.
Joseph became a pioneer in the HIV/AIDS community after contracting HIV in 1984 from a blood transfusion during routine surgery. She has revealed in multiple interviews that although she was infected, she wasn’t officially diagnosed with HIV until six years after the transfusion.
Determined to educate others, Joseph founded Positive Efforts (PE), which provides HIV education about risk reduction for those most vulnerable to exposure. She also co-founded the National Black Women’s HIV/AIDS Network and became an avid policymaker in the U.S. Congress.
Joseph participated in the initial stages of developing the National HIV/AIDS Strategy, Ending the HIV Epidemic: A Plan for America and was a huge proponent in the fight for health care reform as well as affordable care for HIV and AIDS.
Many who had the privilege to know or meet Joseph would say that there was never a time when she wasn’t working tirelessly in the community.
“She was concerned about everybody. If you were impacted by the virus, she advocated for you, no matter what your race or ethnicity was. She was a true star and the world is going to be a little dimmer because of her passing,” said Christopher Bates, former director of the HHS Office of Infectious Disease and HIV/AIDS Policy (OIDP).
A virtual Memorial will be held on Saturday, April 11, at 11 a.m. on Facebook Live.
“My mother loved her community, and since we are not allowed to have a funeral at this time I wanted to give them the opportunity to say their goodbyes. COVID-19 will not stop us! We are going to celebrate Barbara because she celebrated every uphill battle that she fought to make a difference,” said Danielle Joseph, daughter of Barbara Joseph.
Those wanting to pay their respects to joseph can view the Memorial at the following link. https://www.facebook.com/PEHouston/
For more information contact AG Media at 832-545-1359.
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.
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