Roadmap to Freedom and a Culture of Achievement

When the great Civil War began in America, April 12, 1961, there were about nine-million people in the South. Four -million of the people were Black-people of African descendant. Fully half of these were Black men.

Prior to the Civil War, the United States Supreme Court had ruled in the Dred Scott Decision that no Black man, slave or freed could be a United States citizen…no Black man had any rights that a White man was bound to respect… furthermore, that Congress could not abolish slavery.

Almost every Black man could be expected to be sold as property at least once, often multiple times. Families were separated and the slave father could not protect himself, nor his family. Slaves could not legally marry as full human beings.

Black men could not adequately protect and secure their children and families. Nevertheless, tens of thousands of Black men struggled to secure their bodies and protect their families. Black men and women were abolitionists before there was an abolitionist movement. Frederick Douglass was an abolitionist when he fought his master and escaped to the North.

Over 150-years later, Ta Nahesi Coates revisits the issue of the difficulty for Black men to secure their bodies and the bodies of their Black sons. 150-years later, in this great nation 1 out of every 4 Black men are ensnared by the criminal justice system – jails, penitentiaries and probation.

Hundreds of movements such as, My Brothers Keepers and Ultimate Enrichment, are challenging the institutionalized racism and the self-destructive behaviors that are re-enslaving millions of Black men.

In this hour of trial, millions of Black people are trying to secure their families, holding on and pressing forward toward the mark.

Thus, we secure our families, never abandon our children and create a meaningful future that draws on the inspiration of the ex-slaves that had an emancipation vision.

On January 1, 1863 slaves in the rebel states, were declared free. This declaration included Texas but did not become reality until June 1865. The burning question to ask is, “Have the ex-slaves mentally declared themselves free?”

The MBK six milestones www.mbkhouston.org, are a roadmap to renewal, securing of bodies, families and children.

Milestones 1 – 6

Getting a Healthy Start and Entering School Ready to Learn

• All children should have a healthy start and enter school ready – cognitively, physically, socially and emotionally.

Reading at Grade Level by Third Grade

• All children should be reading at grade level by age 8 – the age at which reading to learn becomes essential.

Graduating from High School Ready for College and Career

• All youth should receive a quality high school education and graduate with the skills and tools needed to advance to postsecondary education or training.

Completing Post-secondary Education or Training

• Every American should have the option to attend post-secondary education and receive the education and training needed for the quality jobs of today and tomorrow.

Successfully Entering the Workforce

• Anyone who wants a job should be able to get a job that allows them to support themselves and their families.

Keeping Kids on Track and Giving Them Second Chances

• All youth and young adults should be safe from violent crime; and individuals who are confined should receive the education, training, and treatment they need for a second chance.

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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