December 6th, 2024

By: Chelsea Davis-Bibb, Ed.D.

HOUSTON-When was the last time you visited Memorial Park in Houston? There is a lot of history that lies within Memorial Park, history that is not told as much as it should be, if it is told at all.

Memorial Park was once home to Camp Logan, 3,002 acres within a tract of 9,560 acres and was equipped to house an estimate of 40,000 troops. Camp Logan was created in response to Germany invading Belgium, which sparked Europe into war. On April 6, 1917, the United States (U.S.) entered the conflict unprepared.

According to the Heritage Society, the Selective Service Act was passed, and millions of men entered the draft, and they needed to be trained. There were 16 National Guard camps created across the U.S., and Houston was one of the cities who were granted a site. The camp was named after Mayor General John A. Logan, a veteran of the Civil War and U.S. Congressman who played a role in establishing Memorial Day as a national holiday in 1868.

On August 23, 1917, The Houston Riot occurred, which is known as the Camp Logan Mutiny, which impacted 156 soldiers, historically known as Buffalo Soldiers of the all Black 3rd Battalion, 24th infantry, according to Prairie View’s website. The 3rd Battalion, 24th Infantry was sent to Houston to guard and protect the construction of Camp Logan. It was noted that Black soldiers who were stationed in Texas were always subject to violence because Houston was a southern city that was governed under Jim Crow Laws. The soldiers were treated bad for weeks by local citizens as well as the police department. Tensions rose even higher when one of the Black soldiers was arrested and false rumors were made that he was killed while in the custody of police, which sparked a violent response.

More than a hundred of the soldiers marched down to the police station with their weapons. The city was placed under Martial law on August 24, 1917. A White mob of citizens from Houston responded to the soldiers with violence. There were 11 citizens and five police officers who were killed, thirty civilians were severely injured. Four of the mutinous soldiers were killed, with two of them being accidentally shot by their own men. Another soldier was killed by a citizen. The 24th Battalion Infantry was placed on a train the next day and sent away where they were all court martialed.

Not too long after, on December 11, 1917, thirteen Black soldiers were hung on Camp Travis in San Antonio. Sadly, the men were buried and were not identified by a name, only a number. Other soldiers were given life sentences and the following year in September 1918, six additional soldiers were also hung at Camp Travis. There was no evidence if the first soldiers participated in the riot, but six men in the second group were identified as soldiers who shot at civilians during the riot.

Many people do not know about this historic event that is known as the most tragic event that occurred in Houston. This is because people don’t talk about history like they should. It is easier to act as if nothing has happened then to acknowledge the past. Roy Douglas Malonson stated, “If you want to destroy a race, destroy its history.” Slavery and racism are a part of our past, and a part of our history. It has not defined Blacks but has molded us into the strong race we are today. It is important more now than ever that we teach our young people about our history.

There are several reasons why history is important, for one it teaches us about our culture. To know where we’re going, we must know where we come from. If we allow them to erase our history, then future generations would not know what slavery and racism is and how easily history can repeat itself.  We are enslaving our future by not discussing the past.

It also allows us to understand present day events and why they happen. Knowing this will allow you to make connections and identify patterns and trends that may be oblivious to others. The past teaches us about strength and endurance and how to persevere when it seems like all odds are against you. It also teaches us to learn from past mistakes so that they won’t be repeated. History also gives us a sense of identity and great pride, and finally, history teaches us appreciation. An appreciation for the struggle of our ancestors, an appreciation for their sacrifices and lessons they bestowed upon us, and an appreciation for the weight they carried so that we could live a better life.

On this Memorial Day, we honor those who have served and have sacrificed their lives for this country. We also honor history and the past that has led us to this very moment. To everyone who have served and are currently serving our country, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for your service. The next time you visit Memorial Park, take a moment to reflect on the history that lies there deep within.

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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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