By: N.L. Preston HOUSTON – It is commonly said that journalists work on passion; working around the clock as the truth tellers bringing you the daily updates during the floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards, battlefields of war and, as with today, health crises. And oftentimes, these dedicated journalists are putting themselves in the elements and on the front lines for little or no money – and more often these days, for free. Why? Because the economic downfall due to the coronavirus has had an even greater impact on the already diminishing print news industry. And when it comes to minority publications, things are even more brutal. “The black press is needed more now than ever to educate the black community, which has been totally miseducated since integration,” said African-American News&Issues publisher Roy Douglas Malonson. “We will continue to stick to our mission, to address the current and historical needs affecting our community.” An estimated 1,800 newspapers closed between 2004 and 2018 after the number of people buying print editions dropped, and now during the pandemic, it appears most small publications – especially minority-based ones – will be phased out altogether. “An extinction-level event will probably hit the smaller ones really hard, as well as the ones that are part of the huge chains,” said Penny Abernathy, the Knight chair in journalism and digital media economics at the University of North Carolina. In 2018, Abernathy released a study citing that 1,300 US communities have completely lost news coverage, thus creating “news deserts” – where local information and scrutiny of elected officials is non-existent. That is not our business model. Without fear or favor, AANI vows to keep circulating our printed newspapers, servicing the needs of our most vulnerable community members – those who do not have access to the internet and digital media. We will not only continue to bring the coverage needed to aide in the fight against the pandemic, we will still call on and call out our city, state and congressional leaders, etc. when necessary. “We are bold and unapologetic in our news coverage. Because of our growth and […]
With the spread of Coronavirus, people are being asked to choose between their livelihoods and their very lives. Businesses are pairing down to “skeleton crews,” keeping just enough workers on board to get by and doubling remaining employees’ duties. Never before have we realized just how interconnected we all are in our quest for survival.
The outbreak of COVID-19 has many historians drawing comparisons to the 1918 flu epidemic. Much like the coronavirus, authorities in 1918 responded to the epidemic with a combination of church, school and theater closures, cancellations or prohibitions of public gatherings in attempts to quarantine the ill.
COVID-19. Coronavirus. Those two scary words have been in the headlines of every major and minor media outlet, and have landed nearly a million Americans in the Intensive Care Unit in hospitals across the nation, with sadly, not everyone returning home. What’s even more alarming, is data released showing that Black Americans are dying from the novel Coronavirus at disproportionately high rates.
City and State officials spoke out at a press conference Tuesday against a concrete batch plant some say is causing pollution and major health care concerns for residents in Houston’s historic Acreage Home.
By: Dr. Salvatore J. Giorgianni, Jr., PharmD African-American boys and men in America continue to kill themselves at an alarming rate. Over the past several months the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has released several reports about the demographics of this national disgrace. African-American men and boys continue to have a higher death rate in nine of the 10 leading causes of death than is seen in women. It is most unfortunate that the overall healthcare system is inherently non-male friendly, and, in some health care situations men tell us they do not feel welcome at all. One consequence of this shocking and disturbing reality is the male suicide rate in America. Males are 3 to 7 times more likely than females to commit suicide, which explains why suicide is the 6th leading cause of death for males. According to the Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, African Americans are 20% more likely to experience serious mental health problems than the general population. African American youth, particularly young-men, who are exposed to violence are at a greater risk for PTSD by over 25%. African Americans are also more likely to be exposed to factors that increase the risk for developing a mental health condition, such as discrimination, social isolation, homelessness and exposure to violence. In the African American community, people often misunderstand what a mental health condition is and therefore the subject is uncommon. This lack of understanding leads many to believe that a mental health condition is a personal weakness or a form of punishment and that impedes boys and men from talking about emotional issues let alone seeking medical help. A careful reading of the CDC data shows that the current rate of suicide for males is the overwhelming majority of all suicides. And the news gets worse. Recently, the CDC highlighted a significant increase in the number of suicides for teens and younger men. The incidence of suicide for Millennials increased almost 300% from the 1950s for the Baby Boomer generation. Most male suicides occur in boys and men who have not been diagnosed as depressed
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.
