February 20th, 2025

Presidents Day

Presidents’ Day is observed the third Monday in February every year. It is a federal holiday honoring the current and former United States Presidents. Presidents’ Day became an official federal holiday in 1879, to give federal employees in the District of Columbia the day off. Formally, the holiday is called “Washington’s Birthday” to honor the first President George Washington whose birthday is on February 22nd. President Abraham Lincoln is also honored on Presidents Day, because his birthday is February 12th

 

Presidents’ Day may look a little different for those in the Black community, many people believe that Barack Obama was the first and only Black man to run for president in the United States. However, that is not true in 1888 Frederick Douglass was invited to speak at the Republican National Convention; after his speech there was a roll call vote, and he received one vote which automatically made him a candidate for presidency. After voting and conversations it is said that “Douglass was never a true contender for presidency.” 

 

In 1904, William Thomas Scott was selected to be a presidential candidate but was arrested for not paying a fine from a few years before. George Edwin Taylor was then picked to take Scott’s place, his campaign was unsuccessful, newspapers would not endorse his candidacy, and state laws kept his name from being officially listed on the ballots. Decades later at the 1968 Democratic National Convention, Channing E. Phillips was placed a presidential candidate nominee, he received 67.5 votes. At the same convention, Horace Julian Bond was nominated for vice president, he was the first Black person to be nominated for vice president by a major political party. Bond had to withdraw from the race because he did not meet the age requirement. According to Article II of the U.S. Constitution, “the president must: Be a natural-born citizen of the United States. Be at least 35 years old. Have been a resident of the United States for 14 years.” 

 

In 1972, Shirley Chisolm became the first Black woman to run for president, she was a candidate for the Democratic party, she participated in the Democratic primaries in multiple states, she campaigned in 12 states and won 28 delegates. In 1984 & 1988 Jesse Jackson ran for president, he was also a candidate for the Democratic party. He was the first Black candidate to run nationwide primary campaigns and to win individual states. In 1984, he had around 3 million votes and around 7 million in 1988. 

 

Barack Obama became president in 2008 and served two terms. Kamala Harris initially ran for president in the 2020 election but dropped out the race and started running alongside Joe Biden as vice president. She campaigned again as president but lost to President Trump. Since the beginning of time, Black people have tried their hand at running this country. As more efforts are being made, history is also being made. 

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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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