By: Laisha Harris

Last Monday, Politico shared a first draft copy of the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and Planned Parenthood v. Casey. These cases provided all women access to an abortion in all fifty states. Recent legislation, mostly proposed in Texas, will essentially outlaw abortions for women.

In 1973, a Texas statute prohibited abortions except when the abortion would save the life of the mother. Unmarried and pregnant, Roe was forced to give birth to a daughter who she would put up for adoption. The Supreme Court said forcing motherhood forces a stressful life and future, requiring one to care for the mental and physical well-being of a child. Therefore, the right of having the choice to terminate a pregnancy is a choice left to the individual, not the state.

In 1992, Pennsylvania had an Abortion Control Act, requiring informed consent 24 hours before a procedure, parental consent for minors, and exceptions for medical conditions. Casey also established a viability rule, stating that abortions can be performed before the third trimester. In 1992, the Center of Disease Control reported 1,359,145 abortions in the United States, 91,113 in Texas. 76% of those abortions were for unmarried women. In 2019, 629,898 legal abortions were performed, 57,275 in Texas. Historically, White women make up 60% of abortions nationwide, Black women representing 33%. By banning to an abortion, politicians are threatening the health and medical safety of women who lack in resources, most notably, Black women.

“They’re making it harder for Black people to survive financially, physically or mentally,” adds Vinny B. The issue is bigger than simply preserving the life of an unborn child. Politicians claim to care about unborn life, but what about the life of the already born? There are 3,378 children waiting to be adopted in Texas. Texas exceeds the national average with 19% of children living below the poverty line, 56% of Texas women living below poverty. It makes no sense to force women into childbirth without forcing additional support to ensure those children get out of the cycle of poverty. People living in poverty do not have the means to provide a quality of live necessary for themselves, let alone to raise a productive member of society.

Not only are they meddling with a woman’s right to choose, but they are jeopardizing the health of Black women who are unable to safely carry a fetus to term. “My gynecologist has made it very clear that if I get pregnant off her timeline then we would have to terminate the pregnancy. So, what other options are they giving women in these cases? Do I further endanger my life or take matters into my own hands? Either way, I’m not having a child that I don’t want,” says Britnie Price. By telling women to stop having abortions is not going to stop women from having abortions. There are about 16 clinics in Houston that provide abortions. If clinics refuse women the service of abortion, women who are desperate to not give birth may resort to unsafe practices. PhD Candidate Ce’Ne Harris tells us, “The medical, societal, and structural systems cannot sustain an influx of births, children dependent on care, and the abundance of unsafe abortions that overturning Roe v. Wade will undoubtedly cause.”

What is most perplexing to me is the audacity of men dictating what a woman can or cannot do with her body. Historically, White men have always had their nose in business that did not belong to them. Even so, these decisions are being made by men who have no realistic understanding of what it is like to be pregnant, give birth, and independently raise a child in an environment or society that sees you as not enough. White men having the authority to remove the only legal option for women to terminate a pregnancy is an inappropriate overstep of the boundaries of all women. Governor Abbott does not control my body. This November, use your vote to elect someone who acknowledges the rights of the people.

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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