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More than 800 faith leaders demand Biden, Senate pass Voting Rights Bill

National, News, Politics /

Rev. Al Sharpton, Martin Luther King III, and more than 800 faith leaders from various religions are demanding that President Joe Biden and Senate Democrats immediately push through voting rights legislation. “We cannot be clearer: you must act now to protect every American’s freedom to vote without interference and with confidence that their ballot will be counted and honored,” the faith leaders wrote in the letter released on Thursday, December 23, 2021. “Passing comprehensive voting rights legislation must be the number-one priority of the administration and Congress,” they wrote. In addition to Sharpton and King, those signing the letter included a mix of Christian, Muslim, and Jewish faith leaders. Rev. Aaron Frank of Horseheads, New York, Rabbi Abby Cohen of Portland, Oregon, Rabbi Abby Michaleski of the Beth Israel Congregation, Rev. Abhi Janamanchi of Bethesda, Maryland, Rabbi Abram Goodstein of the Congregation Beth Sholom, and Rev. Adam Russell Taylor. King and his wife, Arndrea Waters King, organized the leaders and wrote the letter. The African American Christian Clergy Coalition joined them, Bend the Arc: Jewish Action and Faith in Public Life, and others joined. The Congressional Black Caucus has pushed legislation, including two voting rights bills blocked by the GOP. “This year, American democracy faced extraordinary challenges, from the violent insurrection on the U.S. Capitol to over 30 anti-voting bills pushed through state legislatures, intentionally designed to silence Black, Brown, Indigenous, immigrant, low-income, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, and elderly and young voters,” the faith leaders wrote. “During this season of giving and community, we are painfully aware that the promise of American democracy is thwarted by systemic racism and a system that works for the few at the expense of the public good.” The letter continued: “It will continue on this path without prompt, substantive federal action. During the Civil Rights era, prominent leaders were driven by their faith to fight for equality. This is why we continue the push for voting rights today – our faith teaches us that each one of us deserves dignity and freedom. “We cannot be clearer: you must act now to protect every American’s freedom […]

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Texas Proposition 3 and the Black church

COVID-19, Featured, Local, News, Politics, Religion, Texas /

By: Roy Douglas Malonson   The COVID-19 / coronavirus pandemic still has people trying to figure out how to protect ourselves and our loved ones, whether we dine in or dine out at restaurants, and what buildings should remain open or closed. Texas Governor Greg Abbott became the center of scrutiny at the start of the schoolyear after mandating that students and staff NOT wear masks, and now, on the Nov. 2 ballot is Texas Proposition 3, which decides what rights houses of worships have. Do you know what Texas Proposition 3 is? Not many do, but you should. If voted into the Texas constitution, it will forbid state and local governments from limiting in-person gatherings regardless of threats to overall public health. This proposed constitutional amendment, if passed, would protect churches and places of worship, as well as religious organizations, from being shut down by the government like they were when the pandemic first struck. “I am in support of protections of our religious freedom,” said Rev. T. Leon Preston II, Yale Street Baptist Church. “Religious leaders should have the freedom of choice to determine whether we would shut down, based upon all knowledge and wisdom we gain from the medical experts. Leave that choice in our hands. “ Steven T. Collis, founding director of Texas’ Law and Religion Clinic, says Proposition 3 is designed to ensure states can’t close or limit churches the way many governing bodies did at the start of the pandemic to combat the spread of COVID-19. “There are almost no circumstances where government should be able to order the closing of a church, but a truly deadly pandemic would be one of them. The new statutory and constitutional language would remove any flexibility for government to close churches even if it did have a compelling interest, even if we faced a pandemic far deadlier than COVID,” Collis said.  “If people don’t think through the consequences at all, I suspect most church-going people will vote in favor of it,” Collis says. But what are the consequences? And for the Black community, how could it affect us?

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Martin Luther King III and wife talk voting rights, abolishing filibuster

#NNPA BlackPress, News, Video /

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia In 1963, more than 250,000 people marched on Washington, D.C., for jobs and freedom with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Nearly 60 years later, Martin Luther King III helped lead a massive march on the nation’s capital. This time the objective focused on voting rights. “John Lewis told us that the most powerful nonviolent tool we have is voting rights,” King told the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) during an exclusive interview broadcast over the social media channels of the Black Press of America. The NNPA is the trade association that represents the Black Press of America. “We are in a battle to protect our most sacred right,” King continued. The oldest son of the late civil rights leader called the more than 400 voter suppression bills in GOP-led states a reaction to the massive voter turnout in Georgia and other places that helped Democrats gain control of both chambers of Congress and the White House. King and his wife, Arndrea, said part of their mission is to register new voters and fight suppression laws. “The 400 pieces of legislation introduced since January are a reaction to the massive voter turnout, we saw last year and is a preparation for 2022,” said Arndrea King, a national merit scholar who studied psychology at Emory University. “If people come out and make themselves heard and press for federal protection, for the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, we can stop this,” Arndrea King insisted. In addition to the August 28 march, the King family set a goal of registering 2 million new voters ahead of 2022. The couple insisted that the Black Press of America remains the most prominent and trusted vehicle. The King family and other civil rights activists have gotten out vital messaging using the Black Press. “All of us greatly appreciate the Black Press because none of what we are doing, none of what my father did, and so many others would be known without the Black Press,” Martin Luther King III asserted. “The Black Press is so important. We

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Democracy: Voting Rights

Columnists, Commentary, Editorial, Featured, Opinion /

Voting rights is the moral-order cornerstone of democracy, because without voting rights/civil rights democracy does not exist. This is precisely why voting rights should never be about partisan politics, but the preservation of democratic principles of governance. Congresswoman Liz Cheney and Congressman Adam Kinzinger recognized and understood the dangers of former President Trump’s “Big Lie.” Yet, without shame, they voted in lock step with all other GOP Representatives against the John Lewis Voting Rights Act: shameful. Of course, the John Lewis Voting Rights Act is not radicalized legislation; it is only designed to strengthen the Voting Rights Act of 1965, because of Trump’s “Big Lie.” Hence, voter suppression is an unlawful attempt on the part of White Privilege oriented Whites to nullify Black and minority citizen’s voter rights, and consequently, circumvents true multi-racial democracy. Moreover, voting rights and economic justice are flip-sides of the same coin. Voting Rights is not political neither Democratic Party or Republican Party partisan politics; but it is American democracy, chosen by the people, of the people, and for the people: one person, one vote. Christian Right Evangelicals, The GOP, and White Nationalist Groups are mentally tripping-out, because minorities are becoming the majority population. These White Privilege oriented groups do not want to lose perceived socio-economic privilege over the economic structure of American society. What they fail to understand is that only a small minority of White Privilege oriented males control and will always control the pros and cons of the system. Know this: the system works for the system that is the individuals that control the system. Fear not White Privilege oriented Americans; it is highly unlikely that Blacks and other minorities will ever control the socio-economic system-structure of American society. Blacks and other minorities are American citizens who suffer collectively with other Americans in times of war, peace, pandemics, weather related acts of nature, as well as recessions and depressions. However, minorities never really enjoy the fruits of a booming economy, because minorities are always the last hired and the first fired. Moreover, from an economic development vantage point, minorities hardly ever or never

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Several Organizations Set to March on Washington

Black History, Community, Government, National, News, NNPA, Politics /

By: Stacy M. Brown Since January, 48 states have introduced 389 bills “that amount to shameful, outright voter suppression, and many have already become law,” March on Washington organizers said in a statement. Martin Luther King III, Yolanda King, Andrea Waters King, Rev. Al Sharpton and others plan to march with more than 140 organizations and thousands of Americans on Saturday, August 28, to advocate for eliminating the Jim Crow filibuster and passing three critical voting rights bills – the For the People Act, John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, and the Washington D.C. Admission Act. The mobilization comes just months after Black voters overcame significant barriers to the vote and organized their communities to change the course of the country — “and now ask that the White House and Congress do their part to protect our democracy and stand on the right side of history,” the leaders said in a news release. It also comes nearly six decades after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and civil rights activists led the 1963 March On Washington for Jobs and Freedom, that helped establish voting rights for millions of Black Americans, African American leaders will again descend on the nation’s capital to demand Congress protect the rights. Several groups have applied for permits to gather on the National Mall. The National Action Network has organized a “March on for Voting Rights,” an event across multiple cities. Other organizations that applied for permits to gather include “March On For Voting Rights,” “Douglass Commonwealth Coalition,” “Every Case Matters,” and “The Memorial Foundation, Inc.” Since January, 48 states have introduced 389 bills “that amount to shameful, outright voter suppression, and many have already become law,” March on Washington organizers said in a statement. “These laws suppress voting methods that enrich our democracy and lead to high turnout: banning ballot drop boxes and mail-in voting, reducing early voting days and hours, restricting who can get a mail-in ballot, prohibiting officials from promoting the use of mail-in ballots even when voters qualify, even criminalizing the distribution of water to voters waiting in the long lines these laws create.” They continued: “Racist, anti-democratic voter suppression

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NAACP, Black Leaders Demand Congress Act on Voting Rights

Community, Government, NAACP, National, News, NNPA, Politics /

By: Stacy M. Brown “With time not on our side, there is no reason we should still be debating whether to pass a civil rights bill that will indubitably strengthen our fractured democracy by achieving the one goal our nation’s essence depends on – lending a voice to the people.” With voter suppression laws taking shape in Texas, Georgia, Arizona, and just about every GOP-led state in the nation, NAACP President Derrick Johnson is pleading for Democrats and the White House to show a sense of urgency. In a scathing op-ed, Johnson said, “we cannot out-organize voter suppression.” “We organized in November to put people in office to address the issue of voter suppression. We did not organize in November to let elected officials off the hook to organize again and overcome a new hurdle. Voters did their job as citizens, and now they’re simply asking elected officials to do their job to protect our right to vote,” Johnson remarked. Nearly six decades after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and civil rights activists led the 1963 March On Washington for Jobs and Freedom, that helped establish voting rights for millions of Black Americans, African American leaders will again descend on the nation’s capital to demand Congress protect the rights. Martin Luther King III, Yolanda King, Andrea Waters King, and others plan to march with more than 140 organizations and thousands of Americans on Saturday, August 28, to advocate for eliminating the Jim Crow filibuster and passing three critical voting rights bills – the For the People Act, John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, and the Washington D.C. Admission Act. The mobilization comes just months after Black voters overcame significant barriers to the vote and organized their communities to change the course of the country — “and now ask that the White House and Congress do their part to protect our democracy and stand on the right side of history,” the leaders said in a news release. Martin Luther King III plans to appear this week on the National Newspaper Publishers Association live morning news program, “Let It Be Known,” to discuss the march

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PRESS ROOM: “Voting Rights Act Summit Weekend” to Answer the call Congressman John Lewis proposed regarding Protecting Voting Rights for All Americans

#NNPA BlackPress, Black History, Community, Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., Featured, National, News, NNPA, NNPA Special - NNPA Black Voter Drive, Politics /

Summit conveners include: the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., Barbara R. Arnwine, Esq. and Daryl D. Jones, Esq. under the auspices of the Transformative Justice Coalition (TJC) and The Rainbow PUSH Coalition (RPC), led by Arnwine and Rev. Jackson, respectively. The Summit will be held Thursday, August 6 through Saturday, August 8, 2020.

PRESS ROOM: “Voting Rights Act Summit Weekend” to Answer the call Congressman John Lewis proposed regarding Protecting Voting Rights for All Americans Read More »

IN MEMORIAM: John Lewis, an American Hero and Moral Leader Alongside Martin Luther King, Jr., Dies at 80

#NNPA BlackPress, Black History, Commentary, Community, Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., Featured, Government, In Memoriam, Lauren Victoria Burke, National, News, NNPA, NNPA Newswire, Politics /

NNPA NEWSWIRE — The 1965 Selma march was led by John Lewis. Lewis was perhaps the last remaining voice of moral authority from the civil rights era. Voting rights remains a challenge in the U.S. Lewis was on the front lines of that effort which was resisted by white racists in the South attempting to stifle Black voting power for decades. Lewis’ efforts and the increase in Black voting registration of African Americans in the South changed U.S. politics forever. The power of Black voters was first seen nationally with the election of President Jimmy Carter in 1976.

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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.

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