Every Texas heart hurts for El Paso. Senseless hate-driven murder that tears families apart in ways that will never mend has shocked and deeply saddened every community across our state.
What is even more tragic is the occurrence of multiple mass shootings within a very narrow timeframe. Over a week ago, a gunman killed three people and injured more than a dozen in Gilroy, California. And just hours after the horrific shooting in El Paso, another gunman killed 9 people and injured 27 others in Dayton, Ohio. Our nation is in a real crisis!
Lord knows that the thoughts and prayers expressed to comfort the victims and families of those murdered and injured are badly needed, but we must accept that none of them are adequate. Thoughts and prayers without the will or courage to act is a shameful negligence that can no longer be tolerated.
251 times this year alone lives ended, and families were shattered by mass murder. Time and again, we absorbed the shock, shook off sadness and then went about our business – until it happened again, and again, and again. These high-profile shootings are only the most visible consequence of uncontrolled access to guns. Everyday gun violence in the United States leads to an average of 100 deaths per day.
It’s not enough to point to elected leaders and say “do something” before going on with our lives. They will offer up sympathetic words for victims and tough talk about the killers. But don’t expect any meaningful action. They won’t act until we do.
Elected leaders know most Americans support universal background checks and other common-sense gun laws. Donald Trump and Mitch McConnell know the House of Representatives has already passed a background check bill that Americans support across the board.
One party’s leaders have tolerated racial division and hatred within their ranks for a generation. They let it fester and grow to the point that racism is their driving force and appeals to hate and exclusion come directly from the White House. The path from hatred to violence is short and can traveled quickly when it is paved by the President.
The other party’s leadership shares some fault too. They have underestimated the danger of hatred and raw appeals to racial division. Too often they have become absorbed in their own internal differences. They lose focus on their responsibility to not just oppose on principle but to do the hard work to prevail and win.
Gun laws won’t change until we change the law makers. The violence won’t end until we elect leaders with the will to end it.
We must decide what type of country we want and what type of people we want to be. We can respond to El Paso, Dayton, and other mass shootings again by pointing to politicians and saying, “do something.” Or, we can break this unacceptable, inexcusable cycle of violence by uniting, mobilizing and putting into office lawmakers with the courage to move beyond thoughts and prayers.
CWA District 6 Vice President Claude Cummings, Jr. heads CWA’s Human Rights Program.
About CWA: The Communications Workers of America represents working men and women in telecommunications, customer service, media, airlines, public service and manufacturing.
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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.
