volume 30 Issue 4

February 14, 2025

GREATER HOUSTON EDITION

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African-American News&Issues

“Addressing Current & Historical Realities Affecting Our Community”

HOUSTON Texas Southern University names former Tuskegee University President, Dr. Gilbert L. Rochon, interim dean of the Barbara JordanMickey Leland School of Public Affairs.

DALLAS A new street sign was released to honor the first Black Dallas police officer to be killed in the line of duty. Officer William McDuff was killed by two teenagers on Christmas Day in 1896.

AUSTIN Harrison Eppright has seen the city of Austin change since he was born there in 1955. He has made it his mission to make sure the history of Austin is not lost as the city begins to develop and change, he is also an advocate for Black Austinites to learn about the history of the city they live in. For 17 years, he has been a tour guide for downtown and east Austin, he works as Visit Austin’s visitor services manager and tour ambassador.

GALVESTON MRS. CHARLOTTE KELLY BRYANT

A LEGACY OF SERVICE By: Chloé Richards

Mrs. Charlotte Kelly Bryant, a proud Houston native, has dedicated her life to the service and empowerment of her community. Born and raised on the west side of Houston, she is the second oldest of four siblings. Growing up in a segregated neighborhood, she and her siblings walked a mile and half each day to school, as the nearest school was for white children. Despite the challenges of segregation, she graduated third in her class from Booker T. Washington High School in 1948.

Mrs. Bryant’s pursuit of education did not stop there, she attended Texas Southern University in 1951 and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Medical Technology in 1955. In 1952, she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. where

she has been a dedicated member for over 70 years.

She is also a charter member of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church. Her introduction to civic work began in middle school when she was encouraged to join the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA). “I had a lot of experiences, fun experiences there,” she said. “It made me interested to work in the civic arena.” This interest ultimately led her to a lifetime of service in her community, she currently serves as Executive Director at the Blue Triangle Multi Cultural Community Center in Houston’s 3rd Ward.

In 1948, the same year Mrs. Bryant graduated from high school, a group of ten Black women purchased the property where the Blue Triangle now sits. The land was Service on pg. 3

The first regional launch of the National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE) Coalition of Allies will be at Moody Gardens. The launch will take place during the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators 40th State Conference.

CEDAR HILL Cedar Hill ISD discusses potential cuts as the district faces $7 million deficit. 65% of Cedar Hill students are Black, 47% of those students are economically disadvantaged.

PRAIRIE VIEW Former Prairie View HBCU credit union manager is sentenced to two years for embezzling $211,500 from an elderly couple. This credit union is of the oldest federal credit unions established by a HBCU in the United States.

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February 14, 2025

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A Revival of God Consciousness Bobby Mills, Ph.D.

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There is an ole adage: “the road to hell is paved with good intentions”. The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) serves as a prime example. Cutting waste and fraud in government operations is an excellent worthy goal. However, the method of achievement is the question of questions, because we all know that Trump is not a fiscal conservative. Six bankruptcies stand as substantial empirical evidence. Trump loves to spend the money of other people. In fact, President Donald J. Trump prefers money over people, and we all know: “He who loves money will not be satisfied with money, nor he who loves abundance with its income.

This too is vanity.” (Ecclesiastes 5: 10). President Trump invariably will position personal interests above national interests. Every workday in the week, and twice on Sundays, because he has absolutely no God conscience. Question: did President Trump and his family attend Sunday church services during his first term?

During one public appearance, President Trump was seen holding a Bible upsidedown in front of a church while decrying issues related to civil protests and the right to peacefully assemble. Sadly, Trump is recruiting the exact same governing mentality as Cabinet Secretaries and Department Officials. Pam

Bondi, the newly confirmed Attorney General, pledged to execute, defend, and prosecute with objectivity and fairness during her confirmation hearing. Immediately, after Justice Clarence Thomas administered the constitutional oath of office, Bondi began to enact Trump’s revenge programmatic agenda. The ceremonial symbolism itself was revelatory, because Justice Thomas is not lawfully creditable. Every American should know by now that it is absolutely nothing for a MAGA Republican to lie, break the law, and refuse to acknowledge that lying is the beginning of sin, societal confusion and socio-economic discord.

Lest we, never forget, the devil told Eve the first lie, and since that time, it’s been hell on earth rather than peace.

President Trump has assembled a White Privilege Governing Cult; unlike none other ever seen in modern times. At least, George Wallace was honest with himself when he stated after being defeated the first-time in the Governor’s race in Alabama: “I really do not believe what I am saying. I am only saying what I am saying to get elected. Initially, when I lost the Governor’s race, I got “Out-Niggered” by my opponent”. On the other hand, President Trump has assembled a governing body of true White Supremacy believers.

One of Elon Musk’s twentythree-year-old “DOGE” officials is an open public racist, not an undercover racist. His embarrassing comments and behavior led to his public dismissal. Of course, we all know that the Trump administration Read more at will not tolerate aframnews.com

Coping, Creating, Conquering

By Chloé Richards

WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT? Happy Valentine’s Day! The older we get, some of us might look forward to this day and the rest of us might dread it. Everything is heartshaped, a dinner reservation becomes top priority, and our timelines are filled with everyone popping out with their “boo.” Love is “in the air”, but what about self-love?

In February 1985, Tina Turner received three grammy’s for her hit song “What’s Love Got to Do with It.” If love is just about romance, depending on who you ask the answer might be not much. But if love includes the way we see, treat, and care for ourselves then love has everything to do with it. Too often, especially in today’s world self-love can be mistaken for selfishness, but self-love should really be considered selflessness. If you love you first, you can better love everyone around you.

Taking care of yourself mentally, emotionally, and physically is not a luxury but a necessity.

It is important to set boundaries, let your no be your no and let your yes be your yes. Protecting your peace and knowing your worth, is true love. Waking up every day and choosing yourself in a world that

often tells you that you have to prove your value, is true love. If you can’t fully love and respect yourself, how will you be able to do that for anyone else? It’s not about perfection, because sometimes you will get it wrong, but it is about showing up for you first. The way you talk to yourself, the standards you set, the way you allow yourself to rest, heal, and grow, is true love.

Self-love isn’t just about dressing up, chocolate covered fruit, face mask, and solo dates. It’s unlearning toxic behavior, giving yourself grace, and being intentional about your happiness. Fully knowing and understanding that you are more than enough, without validation from a relationship, job, friend, or social media approval. It’s knowing that love, true love, begins within and shines outward. I encourage you to be vulnerable with yourself, acknowledge the parts of you that need healing, growth, and change. The moment you embrace all of who you are, flaws included, you unlock a love so deep that it will shape every other relationship in your life.

Love is an action word, don’t just say it do it. LOVE ON YOU! So, this Valentine’s Day and every day after, whether you’re with your boo or riding solo, take a few moments to pour into yourself. It starts with you, and if you don’t love you, no one else will. And what’s love got to do with it? Everything.

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GREATER HOUSTON EDITION Service Cont.

originally home to Fredrick Douglass Elementary School and was purchased from the Houston Independent School District (HISD). The city of Houston was impressed with the purchase and launched a capital campaign to help the women raise money, they successfully raised $350,000 for a new building. “This purchase is significant to me because so many houses, that we now live in, cost around that amount of money,” she said. “This purchase enables us to have the whole block that surrounded the building, which gives us a lovely place for a play yard for the kids.”

The design of the building was groundbreaking, as it was built to serve the children and families of the community. It accommodated a childcare agency, a gymnasium, and spaces for young people to engage in activities. In one of the building’s rooms, Dr. John T. Biggers painted a mural that has since been appraised for over two million dollars.

In the late 1990s, the YWCA of Houston which had been running the building, faced financial difficulties and put the property up for sale. Mrs. Bryant, with advice from the late Rev. William A. Lawson, Founding Pastor Emeritus of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, was able to gather 2,000 signatures to keep the building in the neighborhood. “I started doing what he told me to, establish ourselves with the business,” she said. “I was able to get 2,000 signatures behind me saying this was a need, so that we can keep the building in the neighborhood for community establishment.”

After much negotiation and conversation with the YWCA Board, the building was saved and renamed from the YWCA Branch of Houston to the Blue Triangle Multi Cultural Association. “It would become not just a s significant area for people of color, but for everybody,” she said. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the center’s new direction, ensuring that it remains a resource for the community.

Unfortunately, gentrification has led to a decline in the number of children attending the center, as many families are moving further away. To address

February 14, 2025 this, Mrs. Bryant and her team have been working to attract other ethnic groups to ensure the Blue Triangle continues to serve those in need.

In 2017, during Hurricane Harvey, the building suffered significant damage. The Blue Triangle applied for assistance from the city, but interest rates were too high. Hope came from the state of Qatar, through a generous $4.9 million grant, the Blue Triangle underwent a complete renovation.

The building now includes a gymnasium sponsored by the NCAA, a swimming pool, and a commercial kitchen, all additions designed to encourage even greater use of the facility. With the renovation, the center’s yearly budget has increased greatly. “We’re proud of it today because it shows what God has done, demonstrating what happens when your faith in God encourages you to do His will and give Him glory. That’s what it means to me, and what it continues to mean for me,” she said.

In 2008, the Blue Triangle was officially recognized as a Texas registered historical site, ensuring its preservation for future generations. “This is significant because no one will ever be able to demolish it or take any parts of the property,” she said.

Mrs. Bryant credits the success of the Blue Triangle to the support of many individuals and organizations, including Rev. William A. Lawson, board members, the Friends of the Blue Triangle, artist, photographers, the state of Qatar, the Kinder Foundation, the NCAA, and the Houston community. “I am grateful for the sweet memory of Rev. William A. Lawson, who not only encouraged me but gave me the steps in order to get the ownership of that property,” she said.

The journey has been no easy feat, filled with some challenges and setbacks along the way, Mrs. Bryant has remained steadfast in her faith, giving God all of the glory for the center’s success. Reflecting on the obstacles and triumphs, she quotes the scripture, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him from them all.” (Psalm 34:19). This faith continues to guide her work and the legacy of the Blue Triangle.

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February 14, 2025

GREATER HOUSTON EDITION

THROUGH THE LENS OF TIME: BLACK HISTORY IS 24/7/365 1944 February 8th, 1944: Harry S. McAlpin became the first Black reporter to cover a White House press conference, he covered President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

1995 February 9th, 1995: NASA astronaut Bernard Harris became the first Black man to walk in space.

1976

1961

February 10th, 1976: President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month; the holiday officially went from “Black History Week” to a month-long celebration.

February 11th, 1961: Robert Weaver was sworn in as administrator of the Housing and Home Finance Agency. At the time, it was the highest federal post by an African American.

BLACK HISTORY FUN FACTS - The traffic light as we know it today was invented by Garrett Morgan in 1923.

His original design included a “caution” signal which made driving safer.

- Thurgood Marshall was the first Black Supreme Court Justice. He was appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1967 by President Lyndon B. Johnson. Before that, he was a leading lawyer in the Brown v. Board of Education case.

1923

1867

February 13th, 1923: The first Black professional basketball team called “The Renaissance” was formed.

February 14th, 1867: Morehouse College was founded in Augusta, Georgia and later moved to Atlanta in 1879.

1909 February 12th, 1909: The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was founded by figures like W.E.B. DuBois and Ida B. Wells.

“

EDUCATION MUST NOT ONLY TEACH WORK, IT MUST TEACH LIFE.”

- Freedom’s Journal was the first Black owned newspaper. It was published weekly in New York City from 1827 to 1829.

- Hattie McDaniel was the first Black woman to win an Academy Award for her role as Mammy in Gone with the Wind.

- Bessie Coleman was the first Black woman to earn a pilot’s license, she achieved this in 1921.

- Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball (MLB) in 1974 becoming the first Black person to play in the MLD, he played for the Brooklyn Dodgers.

W.E.B. DUBOIS

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February 14, 2025

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HEALTH

AMERICAN HEART MONTH By: Chloé Richards

February is observed annually as American Heart Month, it is a nationwide celebration to raise awareness about heart health, encourage the prevention of heart disease, and support research.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States for all people, but Black adults are at greater risk than white adults and all other minorities because of a combination of genetic, social, and economic factors.

According to research

Black Americans are 30% more likely to die from heart disease than white Americans. Heart disease also develops at a younger age in Black people than in white people, the chance of developing heart disease is also increased when a person already has other health issues such as hypertension (high blood pressure), obesity, and diabetes.

Black adults are 40% more likely to have high blood pressure than white adults, heart disease can sometimes

cause irreversible damage to the heart before symptoms are noticeable. In a 2018 study, Black adults were 1.3 times more likely to be obese than white adults; Black adults are also 60% more likely than white adults to be diagnosed with diabetes.

In 2019, coronary heart disease (CHD) caused the death of over 20,000 Black men and over 18,000 Black women.

Black men have a 70% higher risk of heart failure compared to white men; Black women

have a 50% higher risk of heart failure compared to white women.

Unfortunately, Black people are more likely to experience delayed diagnoses and inadequate treatment due to issues within the healthcare system.

Heart health is shaped by more than personal choices, it is also influenced by environmental and economic factors. Underserved Black communities experience limited access to fresh and healthy foods, as

well as fewer spaces for physical activity. Stress related to economic instability can contribute to high cortisol levels, which negatively impacts heart health overtime. Cortisol is the hormone the body releases when stressed, too much of it is bad for the heart. Black cardiologist could increase the heart health of Black patients, but only 3% of cardiologist are Black. The American Heart Association (AHA) said, “Underrepresented medical

professionals are more likely to practice in their communities where cultural sensitivity can create trust and their presence have been shown to improve outcomes.” “This connection is particularly important among Black Americans when it comes to heart health.”

Despite these challenges there are many ways to reduce the risk of heart disease and encourage Read more at better aframnews.com

AWARD-WINNING HEART & STROKE CARE Harris Health Ben Taub Hospital

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February 14, 2025

GREATER HOUSTON EDITION

POLITICAL

BLACK LIVES MATTER MOVEMENT By: Chloé Richards

On February 5th, 2025, Trayvon Martin would have turned 30 years old. His life was tragically cut short at just 17, but his death became a turning point that sparked the creation of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement. Trayvon’s tragic story, along with the acquittal of his murderer, George Zimmerman, created a wave of grief, anger, and a demand for justice. Trayvon’s memory lives on as a symbol of the fight against racial violence and the ongoing struggle for equality.

His story is a reminder of the continuous fight for justice that the BLM movement represents today.

The Black Lives Matter (BLM) Movement was officially founded in 2013 by three Black women, Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors and Opal Tometi.

Since then, BLM has grown into a global movement aimed at raising awareness of the unjust deaths of Black men and women, at the hands of white individuals. Over time, however, the movement has become a controversial topic. Despite countless deaths, protests, and calls for justice, change has often felt difficult. In 1955, it was Emmett Till, in 2020, it was George Floyd and in 2024 it was Sonya Massey the only thing that seems to the year on the calendar. change is BLM started as a hashtag on social media and has now

grown into a global network, with over 40 chapters around the world. The movement gained nationwide recognition following the murder of Michael Brown in 2014 by Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson, who, like Zimmerman was also acquitted. Each time a Black person lost their life at the hands of a police officer the movement grew stronger. Tragically, the list of victims has expanded beyond Trayvon Martin and Michael Brown to include Tamir Rice, Sandra Bland, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Sonya Massey and many more lives lost.

The BLM movement holds many meanings and can be seen as a modern-day Civil Rights Movement. It promotes awareness, positivity, and unity, bringing people together to focus on the issues that matter. In today’s world, where social media is central to communication, BLM as a hashtag enables everyone regardless of age, race, or social standing to participate, since almost everyone has access to some form of social media. It’s especially impactful for younger generations who may not regularly follow the news or read newspapers.

With the deaths of Black men, women, and children at the hands of police officers, BLM offers a platform for Black communities to unite, advocate for change, and bring positivity to their

neighborhoods. Without action, the world will remain unchanged. Black Lives Matter provides a powerful focus on the struggles within the Black community. While the movement was created to address issues specific to Black people, it is not exclusive. BLM is a global movement, and anyone who believes in the protection and upliftment of Black lives is welcome to join the fight for justice.

Countless Black men, women, and children have lost their lives at the hands of police officers who often claim, “I feared for my life.” Whether or not those claims are justified, the result has been extreme and unjust actions. George Floyd’s life was taken when a knee was pressed into his neck for eight minutes. Tamir Rice, just 12 years old, was fatally shot within seconds of police arrival.

Breonna Taylor was shot six times while sleeping in her own home during a botched drug investigation. Sandra Bland, after a routine traffic stop, was found dead in her jail cell, allegedly by suicide. In each of these cases, the officers responsible were acquitted, and no true consequences followed the loss of these precious lives. The absence of justice in these situations shows the deep historical issues within law enforcement that continue to affect Black communities. AA

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