Never has a race of people come so far in so short of a time. In the early 1900’s, Sun Yat Sen, the father of Chinese nationalism predicted that enslaved Africans would be annihilated and destroyed in the same ruthless fashion of the native Americans. He threw in the towel for Black people because he assessed that we did not possess the cultural armor to fight back.
250 years of chattel slavery and 150-years of institutionalized racism failed to crush this mighty race.
Congress passed HR 1242 to commemorate the 400 years that mark the survival and resilience of the descendants of enslaved Africans. Never mind that the legislation only allotted $20,000 to be utilized for this nationwide effort, only five dollars per year of slavery.
1619 can be argued to be the real founding date of the United States. In August 1619, 20 Africans arrived at Point Comfort, near Jamestown Virginia. These twenty Africans were the first of twelve and one half million to follow in chains. Uncompensated slave labor was utilized to establish the foundations of this nation.
One should be mindful that Professor Van Sertima of Harvard has documented that Africans arrived in this hemisphere as traders and explorers long before Columbus arrived.
Can 1776 be the birthday of America when after the American revolution 4 million people were left in slavery?
Why bury ourselves in the past?
SANKOFA means that in order to go forward and improve the future, we must first acknowledge and learn our lessons from the past. Our ancestors departed Africa through the Door of No Return but evolved to possess a stronger genetic pool and a faith that would not shrink.
HR 1242 is an opportunity to devise and launch transformative activities that will further improve black well being and form a more perfect union. When the Black movement began to gain critical mass in the 1960’s, it was like a nuclear social bomb had exploded in America, Environmentalists, Peace and Justice, Women and Gender Equality, Animal Rights movements all gained inspiration and energy to insist on more and stronger democracy.
SANKOFA marks the arrival of another revival of Black progress that will only grow stronger over the next 400 years.
SANKFOFA is a burning spear that will lead to educational institutions that prepare for the new post-industrial economy, educational institutions that lead our people out of poverty. The medical engine in Houston Texas can absorb every Black child that finishes high school. Endless medical technologists, radiologists, RN s’ and nurse and physician assistant jobs abound. The chemical plants can absorb every Black child that aspires to be a welder or plant operator.
SANKOFA performs as an enzyme by entering into the interactions of sororities and fraternities, bike and horse riding clubs and barber beauty associations., poker and domino clubs, churches, mosques and social organizations. Going forward we seize the initiative and win the hearts and minds by respecting and adhering to the organizing principle of Unity without Uniformity. Unity without Uniformity is about working unity, not talking unity. All these organizations are called upon to sponsor a commemoration and use the energy released to launch game changing activities.
SANKOFA stresses RECLAIMING THE VOTE through voter education and voter registration. An unregistered non-voting adult black person will become as rare as a penguin and his family sunbathing in the July Texas sun.
SANKOFA succeeds when we understand that politics is about gaining and maintaining power for the good of all and not just CRONIES.
SANKOFA succeeds when we understand that religion is about the highest values that promote human life and development.
SANKOFA succeeds when we teach that LIFT EVERY VOICE and SING is the American national hymn.
SANKOFA succeeds when we shift our focus to family unity, cooperative economics for the sharing economy and building generational wealth over the next 400 years.
SANKOFA succeeds when Kaepernick and BLACK LIVES MATTER succeeds.
Le Bron James and Oprah Winfrey will do their job. The POTUS and Congress will do their job. The question is whether each of us will teach one, whether each of us will reach one.
LIVE GOOD, DREAM BIG, REACH HIGHER
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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.
