He woke up that morning with a bounty on his head. Sadly, he did not know it as he laced up his shoes and set out for a standard jog. He never stood a chance. Because two white men were seemingly looking for a kill and another innocent black man was, unfortunately, going to unknowingly cross their paths at “their” right time for murder.
It’s the storyline that happens all the time for those shades “darker than acceptable” in a world full of jealousy – and hate.
Now, yet another “trial of a century” is gearing up for center stage as a white father and son, Gregory and Travis McMichael, were arrested May 7 in the death of 25-year-old Ahmaud Arbery, who was jogging through a Georgia neighborhood on February 23 when he was racially profiled and murdered.
The McMichaels claimed Arbery fit the description of a person suspected in a “rash of break-ins” in the neighborhood at that time. The problem is, police records do not show there were any series of crimes, as the men claimed. And Arbery, who was wearing a white T-shirt, khaki shorts, Nike sneakers and a bandana was clearly wearing exercising gear.
The McMichaels chased down the unsuspecting “suspect,” cut him off and confronted him. Travis McMichael, 34, was armed with a shotgun and shot Arbery multiple times as they struggled over it. Gregory McMichael, 64, a recently retired Glynn County police officer, was also armed.
Arbery died in the middle of the street and the McMichaels went back home to live out their peaceful white lives until a 36-second video of the deadly altercation surfaced and public outcry began. The authorities finally arrested the father-son duo, charging them with murder and aggravated assault.
But will there be JUSTICE? There rarely ever is.
Why did it take so long for charges to be filed? Were local Georgia officials on the cusp of a cover-up before the video came out and FORCED federal officials to take action?
I know we live in an integrated society, but Black people need to learn that this country has been divided in half from the Civil War era to the Trump administration. We ALL can find ourselves in the wrong place at the wrong time. Is this country really free? Do we have true freedom?
Remember a young man with a name we will never forget — Trayvon Martin – who was tracked down by another blood-thirsty racist who made almost the same claim of protecting his neighborhood? And right here in Texas, how can we ever forget James Byrd, who was murdered by three white supremacists in Jasper County in 1998? They dragged Byrd behind a pickup truck for three miles until his body began to break apart. So, while we have legal right to go anywhere we want, we need to understand that in many places, it’s still open season on us.
Black men, be on the lookout, be on the alert. Even during a global pandemic, when it comes to racism and a bulls eye on the backs of blacks, the hunt is still on.
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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.
