October 9th, 2024

More than 1,000 Black Women Leaders Call on Biden Administration to Step Up Efforts to Free Brittney Griner

Signatories from Dr. Bernice King to Olympian and coach Dawn Staley Express Growing Concern for Olympic Gold Medalist Amid Four-Month Imprisonment in Russia

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A collective of nearly 1,200 intergenerational, intersectional Black women leaders across the United States are calling on the Biden administration to ramp up efforts to free WNBA superstar Brittney Griner from detainment in Russia.

In a letter to President Biden and Vice President Harris, the #WinWithBlackWomen collective urged the administration to “make a deal to get Brittney back home swiftly and safely and to meet with Brittney’s wife Cherelle immediately.”

“While it should not matter because she is an American citizen who is wrongfully detained on foreign soil, Brittney Griner cast her first ever vote in 2020,” reads the letter, signed by a litany of Black women leaders in business, sports, the faith community, labor, media, civil rights, education, government, tech, and entertainment.
“She voted for you and Vice President Kamala Harris. More than prioritizing her immediate return in word – you must do so in deed and make a deal to bring Brittney home.”

A full version of the letter is attached and linked here.
Among the signatories are Coach Dawn Staley, Dr. Bernice King, Tina Knowles-Lawson, Donna Brazile, Sunny Hostin, Jotaka Eaddy, Anika Noni Rose, Ledisi, Angela Rye, Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole, Tamika D. Mallory, Karen Finney, LaTosha Brown, Bishop Leah Daughtry and several university coaches, multiple WNBA players, including Nneka Ogwumike, WNBA Players Association Executive Director Terri Jackson, prominent business leaders, state and local elected leaders and NAACP New York State Chapter President Dr. Hazel N. Dukes.

Their letter comes as the 31-year-old Phoenix Mercury center recently made a personal plea for freedom to President Biden in a handwritten note.

Griner expressed fear that she would never return to the U.S. after being arrested on highly politicized drug charges at a Moscow airport on February 17.

“Much like in previous moments of great concern throughout our nation’s history, as Black women we are compelled to once again step up and leverage our influence and collective power to stand united in our unwavering call for this Administration to do everything within its power to bring Brittney Griner home,” stated Jotaka Eaddy, social impact strategist and founder of #WinWithBlackWomen.

“It has been more than 134 days – far too many days for any American to be subjected to conditions and treatment that Brittney has faced.

“She deserves the very best our nation has to offer, and we cannot fail her. In the days and weeks ahead, Black women will continue to organize and work to ensure that Brittney gets home” Eaddy added.
The #WinWithBlackWomen letter points out the U.S. government has done little to this point – despite Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s promise to Cherelle Griner that this is a “matter of personal priority.” Griner is due back in court this week, although many believe the trial is a mere formality before she is sentenced.
That, in turn, has prompted a national mobilization to increase efforts to free the two-time Olympic gold medalist as soon as possible.

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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