By: Stacy M. Brown / NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent Senate Republicans have again blocked a Democratic-led push for voter rights, with each of the 50 GOP members voting to block legislation that would help override some of the oppressive laws that have passed in several states as a result of the 2020 election. “This bill is a compromise, but a good one. It’s a bill that every Senate Democrat is united behind enthusiastically,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer demanded. President Joe Biden called the right to vote fundamental. “To vote freely, to vote fairly, and to have your vote counted is fundamental. It should be simple and straightforward,” the President stated. Before the vote, organizations like The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights sent a letter of support to Senators on the Freedom to Vote Act. Following the vote, Wade Henderson, the interim President and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, expressed disappointment. “It is absolutely critical that our nation has transparent elections process we can trust, where all Americans have equal freedom to vote, no matter our color, background, or zip code,” Henderson stated. “By preventing this bill from moving forward to a full floor debate, Senate Republicans have blocked access to our most sacred and fundamental right in a democracy — the right to cast our ballots freely, safely, and equally. Our voices and calls for federal legislation that will help realize the promise of our democracy will not be silenced. The American people cannot wait any longer.” In the 50-50 Senate, each Democrat and Independent supported the Freedom to Vote Act, but all 50 Republicans voted against the measure. At least 60 votes are needed to overcome a filibuster. Sen. Schumer changed his vote to “no” when he realized the measure wouldn’t pass. That procedural move allows him to move for the bill’s reconsideration later. The Freedom to Vote Act would establish federal standards for early and mail-in voting and make Election Day a national holiday. It blunts the oppressive laws passed in states like Texas and Florida. A compromise to […]
Poor and low-income people accounted for more than a third of all voters overall in the 2020 presidential election, and their turnout was especially strong in tight battleground states, according to a study that the Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival released Friday, Oct. 15. The study, titled “Waking the Sleeping Giant: Low-Income Voters and the 2020 Elections” also revealed that of the 168 million people who voted in 2020, 59 million – 35 percent – were poor or low-income, meaning they have an estimated annual income of less than $50,000. The 2020 presidential elections saw the highest voter turnout in U.S. election history, including among low-income voters. “This cuts against common misperceptions that poor and low-income people are apathetic about politics or inconsequential to electoral outcomes,” the executive summary of the study reads. The Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival (PPC:NCMR) held a news conference on Friday, October 15, to discuss the findings. Ahead of the 2020 vote, the PPC:NCMR launched a nonpartisan voter outreach drive across 16 states, targeting urban and rural areas. The action reached over 2.1 million voters, the vast majority of whom were eligible low-income voters. Low-income voters who were contacted by PPC:NCMR had a higher turnout rate than similarly positioned voters who were not contacted in those same states. “The drive had a statistically significant impact in drawing eligible low-income voters into the active voting electorate, showing that intentional efforts to engage low-income voters – around an agenda that includes living wages, health care, strong anti-poverty programs, voting rights and policies that fully address injustices of systemic racism, poverty, ecological devastation and the war economy – can be effective across state borders and racial lines,” the report says. For example, in Georgia, which Joe Biden carried, marking the first presidential victory for a Democrat in that state since 1992, PPC:NCMR’s voter outreach helped bring over 39,000 non-voters from 2016 into the 2020 elections. Those voters accounted for more than three times the final margin of victory in Georgia’s presidential tally. There’s no proven link that that outreach decided
No doubt about it, the GOP has a White Privilege racially oriented exclusionary socio-political-economic agenda based primarily upon the tenets of autocracy, not democracy. The real question is: can God conscience/ oriented Americans save America from herself? Seemingly, we will not receive any help from Christian Right Evangelicals, the GOP, and White Nationalists groups, because: “To open their eyes, and turn them from darkness to light, and the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.” Democracy requires equality and inclusion, and the mindset of autocracy is exclusion and privilege for the few. Therefore, “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” The GOP’s political platform is based primarily upon negative self-centeredness, anti-science; especially climate change issues, racial replacement fears, and fear of power-sharing. The GOP refuses to believe in and accept democratic principles of interdependence. Hence, generational survival (children) is reason enough for positive changes! However, the GOP is initiating the extinction of itself as a viable political party as well as America, as we know her to be. There are three primary reasons why American democracy cannot survive in a GOP-Russian style autocratic system: loss of hope, lack of spiritual healing, and individual and societal unhappiness. This is why even in Russia autocracy is not viable governing political form of government. Autocracy destroys lasting hope, and the ability of individuals as well as nations to spiritually heal; which in turn, leads to unhappiness, individually as well as societally. Autocracy creates confusion and destroys lasting hope. Thus: “Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” Self-centeredness causes individuals to demand their own way or the highway. Former President Trump was a classic example.
By: Lauren Victoria Burke, NNPA Newswire Contributor On the evening of September 2, journalist Roland Martin, the host of #RolandMartinUnfiltered, announced an over-the-top media (or OTT) network that will broadcast directly to viewers free via the internet and a phone app. The new Black owned network, Black Star Network (curated by Roland S. Martin), will feature new shows and live stream Black news and information focused on news, politics, technology and culture. The first interview to debut on Black Star Network will be with legendary civil rights attorney Fred Gray, on September 4. Gray, 90, was the legal mastermind behind several civil rights victories and an advisor to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Martin announced his new network on the third anniversary of #RolandMartinUnfiltered, the first daily digital show specifically targeting African American audiences five days a week. The show has enjoyed expansive audience growth averaging 20 to 30 million views a month. Unlike several other Black content related news and information platforms, Black Star Network is 100 percent Black-owned. Black Star Network will be available on all platforms including AppleTV, Roku, Samsung, XBox and Amazon FireTV. The new network’s content will also be carried on a phone app for Apple and Android phones at Black Star Network. The network’s website, BlackStarNetwork.com is also now live. Even though many other TV networks charge viewers to see content, Black Star Network will not. “A lot of our people simply cannot afford to pay for a streaming service. We purposely chose to keep this free. We purposely chose for people to be able to access our content — that’s what we’ve done with this show as well,” Martin said referring to #RolandMartinUnfiltered. The network will be ad supported. Martin’s show #RolandMartinUnfiltered has been streaming live on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter with the support of the show’s Bring the Funk Fan Club donations which have totaled over a million dollars in the last 18 months. Martin recently announced the construction of a new studio space in Washington, D.C. close to The White House. The veteran journalist, who hails from Houston, also has plans to announce Black
By: NNPA The #SudanWomenProtest, which began in 2019, targeted the leadership of Omar al Bashir (former Sudan head of state). Thousands of women united in rejecting policies that gave credence to sexist and discriminatory laws. The revolt was a shock to many despite the years of resistance from Sudanese women. Social media provided them with a platform to spread their message abroad, resulting in an overthrow of the Bashir regime. “It is only by being “too much” that new cracks in the wall of patriarchal dictatorships can emerge.” These words from award-winning blogger and Pan-African feminist activist, Rosebell Kagumire in her essay entitled “African Young Women Resisting Beyond Borders” underscores young African women’s utilization of the Internet to bring attention to sexual violence, police brutality, and gender disparities. A recent chain of events emphasizing resistance on a global stage, has opened the doors for the composition to make its way to the forefront of conversations again. At the Tokyo Olympics, United States gymnast, Simone Biles, sent shockwaves throughout the world when she withdrew from the team competition and later individual events, to focus on her mental health. Citing the necessity of having her body and mind in sync, the now seven-time Olympic medalist chose not to follow the status quo of “pushing through.” Instead, she used her platform to emphasize the power of using one’s voice and actions to draw attention to unrealistic expectations, supremacy structures, and the muting of victims. Kagumire does the same by highlighting the various ways these women have developed a collective voice to demand an end to experienced injustices. Her essay begins with an explanation regarding last year’s Twitter uproar after dozens of Ugandan women disclosed they’re victims of sexual assault and harassment. Referencing movements that have pushed for accountability and consequences, Kagumire referred to the viral revealing as “Uganda’s own #MeToo movement.” “These young women were building on the bravery of women who had earlier told their stories despite the public wrath they faced.” Noting mounting displeasure, Kagumire explains how the “patriarchal power” structure uses its authority to silence women. Standing in the gap for those
NNPA NEWSWIRE — A member of the White House Coronavirus Task Force, Fauci has at times found himself at odds with President Donald Trump. For example, earlier this year, the president announced that he would withdraw U.S. funding and support for the World Health Organization (WHO). However, Dr. Fauci told BlackPressUSA that he still maintains a close relationship with the organization.
NNPA NEWSWIRE — Hamilton, the first R&B artist to sell an album at Cracker Barrel, joined BlackPressUSA’s #FIYAH! LIVE for a special interview, during the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s (NNPA) 2020 virtual conference.
#FIYAH! — LIVESTREAM 7.15.20 3PM ET During her 27-year career she served in virtually every department, including serving as Commander of the Special Operations, where she was responsible for some of Orlando’s highest profile tasks, including special events and dignitary protection. In 2007, Val Demings made history when she was appointed to serve as Orlando’s first female Chief of Police. Remarkably, the Orlando Police Department reduced violent crime by more than 40 percent while she was Chief.
#FIYAH! LIVESTREAM MON. 7.13.20 1PM: REP. ALEXANDRIA OCASIO-CORTEZ (D-NY) — After high school, Alexandria attended Boston University and graduated with degrees in Economics and International Relations. During this period she also had the opportunity to work in the office of the late Senator Ted Kennedy. Her role in Senator Kennedy’s office provided a firsthand view of the heartbreak families endured after being separated by ICE. These experiences led the Congresswoman to organize Latinx youth in the Bronx and across the United States, eventually, she began work as an Educational Director with the National Hispanic Institute, a role in which she helped Americans, DREAMers and undocumented youth in community leadership and college readiness.
It is telling that, of the female candidates who have exited the Democratic primary thus far, none has caused quite the same stir as Elizabeth Warren. Not Kirsten Gillibrand. Not Kamala Harris. Not Amy Klobuchar. Not (bless her heart) Marianne Williamson. Then again, it is also telling that, of the many columns published last week lamenting the demise of Warren’s campaign, most were written by white women.
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.
