AframNews.com
Current & Historical Realities Affecting Our Community”
THEY’RE TRYING TO TAKE AWAY BLACK SCHOLARSHIPS
By: Roy Douglas Malonson
A new lawsuit led in April 2026 is raising serious concerns across the country, especially within the Black community. At the center of it all are scholarships created speci cally to help Black students— programs that, for years, have opened doors for thousands of young people chasing higher education. Now, those same programs are being challenged in federal court, with arguments claiming they violate a law meant to ensure equal rights. On the surface, the case is being framed as a ght for fairness. e argument is simple: no opportunity should be limited by race. But for many Black
families, the situation feels far more complicated— and far more personal.
ese scholarships were never just about money. ey were created to respond to real gaps that still exist today. Black students, on average, are more likely to face nancial barriers when it comes to college. From underfunded schools to limited access to generational wealth, the path to higher education has never been equal. For many, scholarships designed with their experiences in mind have been one of the few lifelines available.
Scholarships on pg. 3
By: Fred Smith TROY FINNER RETURNS AS MISSOURI CITY POLICE CHIEF
Former Houston Police Chief Troy Finner is stepping back into public leadership as Missouri City’s new police chief, a move that has some residents calling it a second chance and others asking whether accountability has been met.
Finner, a law enforcement leader who rose through the ranks of the Houston Police Department, was appointed to lead Missouri City’s police force and is scheduled to begin April 20, 2026. City leaders have pointed to his decades of experience, judgment and ability to build community trust as reasons for the hire.
But Finner’s return cannot be separated from the scandal that ended his Houston tenure. In 2024, HPD revealed that more than 264,000 incident reports had been suspended under a “lack of personnel” code. Among them were more than 4,000 sexual assault cases, leaving survivors and families questioning whether their pain had been taken seriously by the system.
For Black and brown communities, where trust in policing is o en fragile, the appointment lands with weight. Many residents understand that people can grow, serve and be redeemed. ey also know that public safety leadership must come with transparency, answers and measurable change.
Missouri City now becomes the place where Finner’s next chapter will be judged. His success will not be measured by title or past rank alone. It will be measured by how he listens to victims, supports o cers, releases information, responds
EDITORIAL
A Revival of God Consciousness
Bobby Mills, Ph.D.
VOTERS’ REMORSE
President Trump realizes that he made a horrible ungodly miscalculation initiating a war with Iran. Now, far too many of his MAGA-Cult supporters are abandoning ship, declaring I did not vote for this! Of course, only God knows what they thought they were voting for! To be sure, President Trump cannot blame “sleepy” Joe Biden or the Democrats for his misguided decision making. Sadly, Trump has no o ramp for face-saving purposes, because he created a never-ending WAR with Iran. America, Iran will never forgive nor forget. To add fuel to the re, President Trump’s governing cabinet serve him, as he serves himself, not the America people. What an ungodly shame! Actions have consequences: good or bad. Trump’s Iran War has had a direct impact on the price of gas, as well as other goods and services, especially ight fares. Recently, Tucker Carlson, a former popular FOX talk show host, and now popular conservative Podcaster said: “I’m sorry for supporting President Trump”. Voter’s remorse. Sorry is a sorry word. It’s too late now! Spiritual forethought is always better than regretful hindsight. is is why the Bible tells us to always “count the costs”. Even President Trump desires to look like what he perceives Jesus to look like, but he never attends church with his
family. Additionally, the sole occasion on which President Trump was observed at a church, he was positioned in the doorway holding a Bible with its cover inverted, potentially indicating disarray. Even Vice President J.D. Vance had the unmitigated Gaul to attempt to lecture the Pope on spiritual interpretations of the Gospel of Good News of Jesus Christ. America, let’s pray and hope that Vice President Vance’s politics is anchored in the TRUTH, not MAGATrumpism ungodly politics. Likewise, let’s pray that President Trump’s governing policies reflect American democratic exceptionalism, not self-serving MAGA-Cult Trumpism. Therefore, to be sure, the spiritual redemption of the soul of a nation is very costly.
We Must Understand
Roy Douglas Malonson, Publisher
PERSEVERANCE AND IMPACT
Read more at aframnews.com
e Trump Administration has created an unholy intersection and devilish alignment of Power, Money, and Racism in American society to the detriment of multi-cultural democracy. America, empirically there is absolutely nothing exceptional about White Privilege Autocracy. In fact, the notion of racial superiority is the devil’s lie from the pit of hell, because: “God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands, as though he needeth anything, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things, and hath made of one blood all nations of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and
e story of Eroy Brown is a gripping legal thriller that serves as a mirror to the soul of the Texas justice system. It is a narrative de ned by a “perfect storm” of corruption, racial tension, and a landmark federal intervention that fundamentally altered the American carceral landscape. Summarizing this case requires looking beyond the blood spilled at the Ellis Unit to the systemic rot it exposed. e Incident: A Fight for Survival e case began on a sweltering a ernoon on April 4, 1981. Eroy Brown was an inmate at the Ellis Unit, a prison known for its harsh conditions and “plantationstyle” management. Brown was a “trusty,” a role that gave him limited freedom to work outside the fence, but it also placed him in close proximity to the inner workings of prison leadership. at a ernoon, Brown was involved in a violent struggle that le two powerful white men dead: Warden Wallace Pack and Farm Manager Billy Moore. e initial report from the Texas Department of Corrections (TDC) was chillingly simple: a dangerous convict had murdered two respected public servants during a botched escape. But when Brown surrendered,
his story was vastly di erent. He claimed he had uncovered a “racket”—a corrupt scheme where Pack and Moore were stealing prison equipment, including tractor tires and fuel, to sell for personal pro t. Brown testi ed that the o cials had lured him to a remote drainage ditch to execute him and preserve their secret. In a desperate scu e, Brown managed to seize Moore’s pistol, shooting him, and later struggled with Warden Pack in the water until the warden drowned. e Legal Battle: Craig Washington’s Masterclass When the state sought the death penalty, most observers believed Brown’s fate was sealed. However, he was represented by Craig Washington, a brilliant Houston attorney who understood that to save Brown, he had to put the entire TDC on trial. Washington’s defense was built on three pillars: 1. e “Racket”: He presented evidence that suggested the o cials were indeed involved
at that le two powerful white the Texas Department of was chillingly simple: had murdered public servants during a botched escape. But surrendered,
May 1, 2026
And the need is real. Each year, thousands of students apply for these programs, hoping for a chance to continue their education. Only a fraction are selected. For those who receive the support, it can mean the di erence between enrolling in college or putting their dreams on hold. What makes this moment even more intense is the timing. is lawsuit doesn’t exist in isolation. It comes a er a series of legal decisions and challenges that have already begun reshaping how race can be considered in education and opportunity. One by one, programs that were once seen as tools for leveling the playing eld are now being questioned—and in some cases, dismantled. For many in the Black
community, it feels like progress is being slowly chipped away. Not erased overnight, but challenged piece by piece. e concern isn’t just about one scholarship. It’s about what happens next. If these programs are ruled unlawful, will others follow? Will companies, nonpro ts, and institutions begin to pull back from e orts designed to support underserved communities?
Supporters of the lawsuit argue that equality means treating everyone the same, regardless of background. But critics push back, saying that idea ignores history—and the reality that not everyone starts from the same place. ey argue that removing targeted support without xing the deeper issues only widens the gap. At its core, this isn’t just
a legal ght. It’s a battle over how America de nes fairness. Is fairness about equal treatment, or equal opportunity? And can you truly have one without addressing the other?
For Black students watching this unfold, the uncertainty is real. e fear is real. And the impact could be immediate. If these scholarships disappear, the ripple e ect could be felt for years—changing who gets access to education, who gets to build wealth, and who gets a real shot at the future. is case may start in a courtroom, but its outcome will be felt in classrooms, homes, and communities across the nation. And right now, a lot of people are asking the same question: if doors start closing again, who will be le standing outside? AA
March 1st, 1864- Rebecca Lee Crumpler became the
Claudette Colvin, a 15-year-old Black woman was arrested for refusing to give up her seat to a white woman in Montgomery, Alabama.
March 3rd, 1991- Rodney King was severely beaten by Los Angeles police o cers.
March 4th, 1877- Garett Augustus Morgan was born on, he is best known for inventing the tra c signal and gas mask.
2nd, 1955-
March 5th, 1959Twenty-One Black boys were burned to death a er being locked in a segregated and neglected Arkansas “reform” school.
March 6th, 1857- e
U.S. Supreme Court declared in Dred Scott v. Sandford that: Any person descended from Africans, whether slave or free, is not a citizen of the United States, according to the Constitution.
March 7th, 1965- “Bloody Sunday”, Alabama state police o cers attacked unarmed civil rights marchers in Selma, Alabama. e march was for the 600 people who were attacked on the Edmund Pettus Bridge.
HOUSTON
DALLAS
TEXAS TAKEAWAY
As conversations continue about transforming the former mall site into a future high-speed rail terminal, many Houstonians are also re ecting on the memories the mall created over the years. For generations, the shopping center served as more than a retail destination — it was a gathering place lled with family outings, rst jobs, weekend traditions, and community events. While some see the site’s redevelopment as a symbol of Houston’s growth and modernization, others remember the mall as a cherished part of the city’s cultural history.
SAN ANTONIO
e former chief of sta for Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones has con rmed their resignation, marking another leadership change within the mayor’s administration. While details surrounding the departure have not been fully disclosed, the resignation comes as city o cials continue addressing key policy and administrative priorities. e transition is expected to prompt discussions about the future direction of the mayor’s o ce and its leadership team.
AUSTIN
Following a lengthy late-night meeting, the state-appointed board overseeing Fort Worth Independent School District voted to move forward with a controversial restructuring plan that includes eliminating positions and closing a school campus. Supporters say the changes are necessary to address nancial and operational challenges.
A new immersive entertainment concept created by a co-founder of Meow Wolf is set to debut in Austin next year, bringing another interactive art experience to the city’s growing creative scene. e project is expected to blend storytelling, technology, and large-scale installations designed to attract both locals and visitors. Organizers say the attraction will o er a fresh take on experiential entertainment while further cementing Austin’s reputation as a hub for innovative arts and culture.
Lonnie Johnson is an American engineer and inventor best known for creating the iconic Super Soaker water gun, one of the most successful toys ever sold. A former NASA engineer, he worked on missions like the Galileo spacecraft before turning his attention to innovation in consumer products and energy technology. Johnson holds more than 100 patents and later focused on developing clean energy solutions, including advanced battery and thermoelectric systems, making him a leading figure in both entertainment and scientific innovation.
LONNIE JOHNSON
rst Black woman to earn a medical degree.
March
EDUCATION LOCAL
HOUSTON ARTIST GOES FROM GOSPEL ROOTS TO CHARTING R&B STAR
By: Michelle Mackel
Sterling began his journey at just 14 years old in the gospel music industry, performing alongside artists such as Yolanda Adams, Earnest Pugh, and Mary Mary. Since then, he has evolved into a multifaceted entertainer, R&B recording artist, performer, and reality TV personality, building a strong following both locally in Houston and beyond.
Cannon, and GloRilla.
TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY AND CITY OF HOUSTON UNVEIL NEW AVIATION FACILITY
wave of authenticity and visibility in R&B.
Up-and-coming music
artist Sterling is quickly making a name for
Known as Houston’s “Turn Up King,” Sterling has built an organic buzz while connecting with major gures like Megan ee Stallion, Nick Cannon, and GloRilla. He also represents a new wave of authenticity and visibility in R&B. Up-and-coming music artist Sterling is quickly making a name for
himself with a unique sound that blends emotional storytelling, modern production, and undeniable stage presence. Known for delivering heartfelt lyrics and smooth melodies, Sterling has been gaining attention from listeners who connect with his authentic style and creative energy. As independent artists continue to thrive in the digital era, Sterling is using streaming
is using streaming
platforms and social media to expand his audience and showcase his evolving talent to fans across the country. With growing momentum behind his music, Sterling represents a new generation of artists determined to carve out their own lane in the industry. From latenight studio sessions to local performances and online releases, his dedication to the cra is helping build a loyal following. Supporters stands out because of its relatable themes, fresh
By: TSU
positioning him as an
Texas Southern University, in partnership with the City of Houston and the Houston Airport System, o cially celebrated the grand opening of Texas Southern University at Houston Spaceport with a ribboncutting ceremony on Saturday, April 25. e new 20,000-squarefoot hangar will serve as a satellite campus for the University’s Aviation Program, housing a newly acquired eet
of 12 Cirrus SR20 aircra purchased in 2025. e facility also includes 4,500 square feet of classroom and o ce space to support expanded on-site instruction, as well as future coursework tied to Texas Southern’s developing aerospace engineering program.
“ is facility represents a transformative step forward for our aviation program,” said Dr. Terence Fontaine,
is helping build a loyal following. Supporters say Sterling’s music stands out because of its relatable themes, fresh sound, and passiondriven approach, positioning him as an artist to watch in the coming years.
Executive Director of Texas Southern University Aviation. “By providing our students with access to modern aircra , expanded instructional space, and real-world training environments, we are positioning them to compete and excel in the rapidly evolving aviation and aerospace industries. We are
NOTICE TO RESPONDENTS:
NOTICE TO RESPONDENTS:
Lone Star College will receive “Request for Proposals for Elevator PM Maintenance and Inspection Repair Services:
Lone Star College will receive Competitive Sealed Proposals:
RFP 26-02-04 Elevator Preventive Maintenance and Inspection Repair Services Electronic responses are due by 9:00 AM on 6-062026 Please refer to the Activity Tab in Ion Wave for Site Visits dates, times, and locations. Contact: Lydia Sterling, Sr Commodity Manager @ Lydia.Sterling@ lonestar.edu
Must Register to Bid at: https://lonestar.ionwave. net/Login.aspx If registered, please log in to Ion Wave for additional information. For assistance with the online registration process, contact MC-Vendors@lonestar.edu.
CSP 26-03-13 Roof Replacement for LSC Cy-Fair Arts Building Electronic responses are due by 10:00 AM on 5-25-2026
Please refer to the Activity Tab in Ion Wave for the Site Visit date, time, and location. Contact: Lydia Sterling, Sr Commodity Manager @ Lydia.Sterling@ lonestar.edu
Must Register to Bid at: https://lonestar.ionwave. net/Login.aspx If registered, please log in to Ion Wave for additional information. For assistance with the online registration process, contact MC-Vendors@lonestar.edu.
BOILS FOR OUR Join us
