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LEGACY OF JUNETEENTH
By: Roy Douglas Malonson
e story of Juneteenth—the holiday celebrating the end of slavery in the United States—is a story of promises delayed. But it is also a story of hard work, celebration, and two incredible people who dedicated their lives to making sure America never forgot. ose two people are Al Edwards and Opal Lee. Because of their determination, a day that started as a local Texas tradition became a national holiday for the entire country.
However, Texas was far away from the rest of the country, and the news did not arrive right away. Enslaved people in Texas had to wait two and a half extra years to get their freedom. It nally happened on June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that the war was over and all enslaved people were free. e newly freed people celebrated, and the next year, they started calling the day “Juneteenth.”
By: Fred Smith
To understand their involvement, we rst have to look at what Juneteenth actually is. On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that all enslaved people in Confederate states were free.
For over a hundred years, Juneteenth was celebrated mostly in Texas and by African American families who moved to other states. It was a beautiful tradition, but it was not an o cial government holiday. Legacy on pg. 3
Monument on pg. 7
On June 19, 2026, the Obama Presidential Center o cially opens its doors in Jackson Park on Chicago’s South Side. Far more than a traditional, static archive of a past presidency, this 19.3-acre campus represents a fundamental shi in how presidential legacies are preserved and celebrated. By design, the Center functions as a forward-looking cultural institution and a vibrant community hub. It bridges the gap between historical preservation and active, modern civic participation. rough its architectural design, community integration, and global mission, the Center establishes a new template for the presidential library of the twenty- rst century.Architecturally, the Center is designed to be open, accessible, and deeply woven into the fabric of the surrounding neighborhood. Rather than a closed monument, the majority of the campus consists of public green spaces, including walking paths, a nature playground, and a custom sledding hill. At its heart stands the striking eight-story museum tower, which tells the story of the nation’s rst African American president alongside the broader history of the American civil rights movement. Yet, the inclusion of public amenities—such as a new branch of the Chicago Public Library and “Home Court,” an athletic facility—signals that this space belongs to the local community as much as it does to global tourists. Furthermore, the Center serves “Addressing Current & Historical Realities Affecting
al edwards
Opal Lee
A Revival of God Consciousness
Bobby Mills, Ph.D.
POLITICAL HYPOCRISY
President Trump and the MAGA movement have brought American society to a spiritual and moral crossroads: will the nation choose multicultural democracy or autocratic chaos rooted in White Privilege Racism? e MAGA-aligned GOP has become adept at moral hypocrisy, once again showing that there is no honor among thieves. Yet success in life cannot be measured by material possessions alone. As Scripture asks, “For what is a
EDITORIAL
man pro ted, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Matthew 16:25–26). Spiritually, Americans understand that no one can escape discomfort, pain, or death, for “it is appointed unto men once to die, but a er this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27a). True success begins and ends with selfdiscipline and a spiritualmoral vision; without vision, people perish. erefore, success is not de ned simply by what one owns. A er all, a person can drive only one car and wear only one out t at a time. e GOP includes many political hypocrites who are so spiritually and morally bankrupt that they are willing to lie, steal, and cheat for votes by any ungodly means
Roy Douglas Malonson, Publisher
IMPORTANCE OF BLACK FATHERS
A father plays a huge role in a child’s life, but Black fathers carry a truly unique and powerful importance. For a long time, movies, TV shows, and unfair stereotypes have o en le Black dads out of the picture or portrayed them negatively. However, the real story is completely di erent. Real life shows that Black fathers are incredibly present, deeply loving, and essential to the success of their children, families, and communities. First of all, Black fathers are major pillars of emotional support. Studies actually show that Black dads are highly involved in the daily lives of their kids, o en leading the way in things like eating meals together, helping with homework, and playing sports. When a Black father is there to give a hug a er a tough day or cheer loudly at a game, it builds massive selfesteem. He teaches his children that they are worthy of love and protection. is strong foundation helps kids grow up feeling con dent and secure in who they are.
In addition to love, Black fathers act as vital guides and role models. Growing up can be tough, and navigating the world comes with challenges. A Black father can share his own experiences and wisdom to help his children make smart choices. He teaches important life lessons about hard work, respect, and resilience—which means the ability to keep going even when things get di cult. By showing up every day, working hard, and treating others with kindness, he sets a great example for his children to follow.
Finally, the impact of a Black father stretches far beyond just his own household; it strengthens the entire community. When children have a supportive father gure, they tend to do better in school, build healthier relationships, and feel more connected to their neighborhoods. Black dads also pass down rich family history, culture, and traditions, helping their kids feel proud of their roots. ey show the world what dedication and leadership look like.
Ultimately, Black fathers are real-life superheroes. eir presence breaks down old, false stereotypes and proves how much power there is in a father’s love. By protecting, teaching, and loving their children, Black fathers are not just changing individual lives—they are actively building a brighter, stronger future for the next generation.
Hypocrisy on pg. 5
at is where Al Edwards entered the picture.
Al Edwards was an African American lawmaker who was elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 1978. He grew up in Houston, Texas, and knew how important Juneteenth was to his community. He believed that the day deserved real, o cial recognition from the state government. In 1979, he introduced a bill to make Juneteenth an o cial state holiday in Texas. It was not an easy ght. Many lawmakers did not think a new holiday was necessary, or they did not understand why Juneteenth mattered. But Edwards did not give up. He spent months talking to people, explaining the history, and convincing other politicians to vote for his bill. His hard work paid o . e bill passed, and on January 1, 1980, Texas became the very rst state in the country to make Juneteenth an o cial paid state holiday. Because of his e orts, Edwards became known across the state as “Mr. Juneteenth.” He spent the rest of his life traveling and encouraging other states to follow Texas’s lead.
While Al Edwards was working through the legal system in Austin, Texas, another champion was working in Fort Worth. Her name was Opal Lee, and she is o en called the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.”
Opal Lee’s passion for Juneteenth came from a personal tragedy. When she was twelve years old, on June 19, 1939, a mob of white rioters attacked and burned down her family’s home in a white neighborhood. is terrible event did not make her hateful; instead, it made her determined to spend her life teaching love, history, and
community unity. As a retired teacher and activist, she kept the spirit of Juneteenth alive by organizing huge community festivals in Fort Worth for decades.
As she grew older, Opal Lee decided that making Juneteenth a state holiday was not enough. She wanted it to be a national holiday, celebrated by every single American. In 2016, at the age of 89, she decided to do something unforgettable to get people’s attention. She started a campaign called “Opal’s Walk to DC.” She traveled to di erent cities across the country and walked two and a half miles in each place. She chose two and a half miles because it symbolized the two and a half years that Texas slaves had to wait for their freedom.
Her walks caught the attention of the entire nation. She started an online petition that gained over 1.5 million signatures from people who agreed that Juneteenth should be a national holiday. Politicians, celebrities, and regular citizens joined her cause.
Finally, in June 2021, when Opal Lee was 94 years old, Congress passed a law making Juneteenth a federal holiday.
President Joe Biden invited her to the White House to watch him sign the bill into law, giving her the rst pen he used to sign it.
Al Edwards and Opal Lee showed the world that two di erent approaches can achieve the same great goal. Edwards used his power as a lawmaker to change the rules from the inside, while Lee used her voice as a citizen to rally millions of people from the outside. Together, they made sure that the story of freedom in America is fully told and celebrated every single year.
THE HOUSTON NEGRO HOSPITAL
By: Fred Smith
e Houston Negro Hospital was established in 1926 during a time when segregation prevented many African Americans from receiving proper medical care. It was created to serve Houston’s Black community and provide healthcare services that were o en unavailable in other hospitals. e hospital became a symbol of hope and progress for African Americans who faced discrimination in many aspects of life.
One of the hospital’s most important contributions was providing opportunities for Black doctors and nurses. During segregation, many medical professionals were denied access to training and employment in other healthcare facilities. e Houston Negro Hospital allowed them to develop their skills, gain experience, and serve their community with pride and dedication.
e hospital was more than a place for medical
treatment. It became a center of community support and empowerment. Families trusted the hospital because it o ered compassionate care and respected the dignity of its patients. Its sta worked tirelessly to improve the health and well-being of people who o en had limited access to healthcare.
As Houston grew, the hospital expanded its services and in uence. It eventually became known as Riverside General Hospital. Although its name changed, its mission of serving underserved communities remained an important part of its identity.
e institution continued to build on the foundation established by its founders and early supporters.
e legacy of the Houston Negro Hospital re ects the determination and resilience of the African American community. Despite the challenges of segregation and limited resources, community
leaders, healthcare workers, and supporters worked together to create an institution that saved lives and opened doors for future generations. eir e orts helped challenge barriers and promote greater equality in healthcare.
Today, the story of the Houston Negro Hospital and Riverside General Hospital remains an important part of Houston’s history. It reminds us of the struggles faced by African Americans in the past and the progress achieved through perseverance and unity. e hospital’s legacy continues to inspire people to work toward equal access to healthcare and opportunities for all.
e history of the Houston Negro Hospital is closely connected to the growth of Houston itself. During the early twentieth century, Houston was rapidly
1831 1839
1831. William Lloyd Garrison, a white man, begins publishing the antislavery newspaper e Liberator.
1850 1840 1848 1833
1833. e American Anti-Slavery Society, the main activist arm of the abolitionist movement, is founded under the leadership of William Lloyd Garrison.
1839. Enslaved Africans revolt on the Spanish slave ship Amistad near the coast of Cuba.
1843
1840. e Liberty Party holds its rst national convention in Albany, New York. In opposition to fellow abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison, members believe in political action to further antislavery goals.
1843. Henry Highland Garnet, African American abolitionist and clergyman, makes a controversial speech at the national convention of free Black people.
1848. e Free-Soil Party, a minor but in uential political party, nominates former U.S. president Martin Van Buren to head its ticket.
1850. Speaking on behalf of the abolitionist movement, Sojourner Truth, a Black evangelist and reformer, travels throughout the American Midwest. She draws large crowds.
HOUSTON
TEMPLE
TEXAS TAKEAWAY
The ZFT Run Club recently celebrated its 9th annual community run, bringing together runners, walkers, and fitness enthusiasts for a day focused on health, wellness, and community engagement. The event highlighted the club’s nearly decade-long commitment to promoting active lifestyles while fostering connections among participants of all ages and fitness levels. Organizers marked the milestone celebration with special activities, recognizing the growth of the run club.
SAN ANTONIO
San Antonio’s The Merc has announced its first wave of retail tenants, marking a major milestone for the highly anticipated mixed-use development. The initial lineup includes a variety of local and regional businesses that will bring shopping, dining, and entertainment options to the area. Developers say the new tenants reflect The Merc’s vision of creating a vibrant destination that supports economic growth while showcasing unique brands and experiences. Additional tenant announcements are expected as the project moves closer to opening.
DALLAS
A Temple nonprofit has installed the city’s first public pet microchip scanner, providing residents with a new tool to help reunite lost pets with their owners more quickly. The scanner allows anyone who finds a stray animal to check for a registered microchip and access the information needed to contact the pet’s family.
The Dallas City Council has taken its first steps toward potentially relocating from the current Dallas City Hall, discussions on future space needs and possible alternative locations.
Andrew Jackson Beard was an African American inventor whose work greatly improved railroad safety in the late 1800s. Although he was born in Alabama, his invention had a major impact on railroads across the South, including Texas, where rail transportation played an important role in the state’s growth. Beard invented the “Jenny Coupler,” an automatic device that connected railroad cars without requiring workers to stand between them, reducing serious injuries and saving lives. He also patented improvements to farming equipment and steam engines, becoming one of the most successful Black inventors of his time. His innovations helped make rail travel and transportation safer throughout the United States.
ANDREW JACKSON BEARD
Hospital Cont.
expanding, but African Americans o en faced unequal access to public services, including healthcare. Community leaders recognized the need for a hospital that would serve Black residents and provide quality medical care regardless of race. eir e orts led to the creation of an institution that became a vital part of Houston’s development.
Located in Houston’s ird Ward area, the hospital served generations of families and became a trusted healthcare provider for many residents. It played an important role during times of public health challenges, helping patients receive treatment when other options were limited. e hospital’s presence strengthened the surrounding community and contributed to the social and economic growth of the area.
e hospital also re ected the spirit of cooperation within Houston’s African American community. Local citizens, business leaders, churches, and civic organizations supported the institution through fundraising and volunteer e orts. eir commitment helped ensure that the hospital could continue operating and serving those in need. is community involvement made the hospital a source of pride throughout Houston.
As Houston evolved into one of the nation’s largest cities, the legacy of the Houston Negro Hospital remained an important part of its history. e hospital demonstrated how determination and community action could overcome barriers created by segregation. Today, its story helps historians and residents understand the contributions of African Americans to Houston’s healthcare system and the city’s broader progress toward equality.
Hypocrisy Cont.
necessary. As a result, behavioral and voting hypocrisy has become the norm within the GOP, not the exception. When combined with ungodly ideology, political hypocrisy creates profound social confusion. We know that confusion is the devil’s primary weapon, because Scripture teaches that “God is not the author of confusion, but [of] peace” (1 Corinthians 14:33a). e devil is a liar, and the truth is not in him. us, he told the rst lie in the Garden of Eden, attempting to convince Eve that she could be like God through sexual-desire and selfgrati cation.
Sadly, President Trump treats politics as an absolute zerosum contest: I win, and you lose. To President
Trump’s MAGA cult, the opposition party is not a group of fellow Americans with di erent governing ideas but a total enemy. is is why democracy depends on—and indeed requires—a spiritually intelligent citizenry. President Trump and his MAGA cult understand only win-lose politics, not win-win governance. In a democracy, all parties have a voice; in an autocracy, only the ruling class prevails. is is precisely why the Bible declares that the carnal mind is enmity against God. e one thing that all Americans know is that the GOP has become a MAGACult that is consistently inconsistent, both in words and deeds. However, we all know that in the nal analysis: “Be not deceived; God is not mocked:
EDUCATION
PVAMU SCHOLARS EARN RESEARCH AWARDS
By: Prairie View A&M
for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his esh shall of his esh reap corruption, but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well-doing: for in due season, we shall reap, if we faint not. (Galatians 6: 7-9)”. America, a spiritual warning to the wise be careful of embracing and glorifying leaders who go out of their way seeking undeserved honor searching for popularity. e life of Jesus is a Godly example that if an individual desires greatness, he/she must be willing to be a Servant Leader, not seek ungodly self-serviceglori cation. So Be It!
Fedd is just one of three Honors students from PVAMU selected to receive Fulbright research awards. Spring ‘24 alumnus Ehiguese Obiomon will pursue prostate cancer research in Brazil, and graduating senior biology student Anisa Cole will conduct cancer research in Switzerland. is momentous occasion marks another milestone for PVAMU, as the University celebrates its second Fulbright U.S. Student cycle producing awardees. Previous Fulbright applicants primarily pursued English Teaching Assistantships. is year, PVAMU had a historic wave of ve student applicants for the Study/ Research award; the cohort re ects a growing student interest in opportunities to engage in research abroad.
“ is shi signals a deepening of academic engagement and research capacity among
our students, positioning them not only as global participants, but as contributors to global knowledge,” said the Dean of Prairie View A&M University Honors College, Dr. Quincy C. Moore III. Dean Moore stressed that the achievement is not the result of chance, but of intentional strategy and sustained investment in preparing PVAMU students and alumni to thrive as global scholars and researchers.
Building a Campus Culture Grounded in Research Excellence
e Fulbright U.S. Student Program sends students, artists, and early-career professionals abroad to study, research, and teach in more than 160 countries.
e program o ers three types of awards: the Study/Research Award, which supports independent research or graduate study at a host institution abroad; the English Teaching Assistantship (ETA),
which places fellows in classrooms within a host country to teach English; and the Critical Language Enhancement Award, which provides additional language training for students in host countries where pro ciency in the local language is essential to their work.
As one of the most prestigious international exchange programs, the Fulbright application and selection process is very competitive, with only about 20% of applicants selected each year. PVAMU Fellowship Advisor Alexis Agard formalized an advisory cohort to give students a competitive edge. e cohort included Dean Moore, Dr. Nathan Mitchell, and Dr. Stephanie Tilley ’24, PVAMU’s rst Fulbright student recipient in 2023. e cohort was part of a greater collaborative e ort, led by Agard, to unite the Honors
University
Pictured from L-R: Fedd, Obiomon, Cole
Awards Cont.
College and the O ce of International Programs to mentor students and strengthen their applications.
“Dr. Nathan Mitchell sacri ced a great deal of his time to help me research my topic and locate credible sources and data….he continues to show up for me even in his most demanding seasons. I am truly grateful for his support and remain deeply appreciative of all he has done for me,” said Fedd.
Anisa Cole, a member of both the Honors College and the Undergraduate Medical Academy (UMA), says her campus experiences helped shape her leadership path. With encouragement from the Honors College and Dean Moore, she took on roles as Vice President
Monument Cont.
of Research for the Student Government Association and as an executive board member of the Student Music Union. Cole is a Goldwater scholar and noted that Dean Moore, the campus representative for the scholarship, provided steady guidance throughout the application process.
Cole also credited the O ce of International Programs as being instrumental in her journey to becoming one of PVAMU’s rstever Goldwater Scholars last year and now a Fulbright awardee in this historic cycle.
“Ms. Agard helped me through the process of choosing a country to apply to, reaching out to host labs, and preparing a winning personal statement,” said Cole. She added that mentorship from the
UMA was also central to her development as an aspiring physician scientist.
For Obiomon, this is an opportunity to conduct research that can serve as a model for reducing health disparities and improving cancer care. His research at the University of São Paulo’s Comprehensive Center for Precision Oncology will examine how a patient’s DNA in uences whether a drug will work well or cause side e ects. Currently, most pharmacogenomic data come from populations of European descent, limiting their applicability to more diverse populations. Obiomon’s goal is to focus on scalable, cost-e ective approaches to precision oncology.
Read more at aframnews.com
as an economic and cultural engine for Chicago’s South Side. Historically, presidential libraries have been built in isolated enclaves or university settings. By choosing Jackson Park—a historic space with deep roots in Chicago’s Black community—the Center intentionally invests in an under-resourced area. It creates jobs, stimulates local business, and honors the speci c community that shaped the early careers of both Barack and Michelle Obama. e collaboration with local culinary leaders and the creation of public gathering spaces ensure that the economic bene ts remain rooted in the neighborhood.Most importantly, the Center embodies a philosophy of active citizenship. While the museum exhibits showcase the political victories and challenges of the Obama administration, the core mission of the underlying Obama Foundation is to inspire the next generation of leaders. e campus is designed to host leadership summits, educational programs, and community organizing workshops. It challenges visitors not merely to look back at history, but to ask how they can shape the future of democracy in their own communities.In conclusion, the Obama Presidential Center is a living monument. It honors the history of the 44th presidency not by sealing it in the past, but by using it as a catalyst for future civic action. By blending a worldclass museum with public parks, athletic facilities, and educational spaces, it seamlessly integrates into the daily life of Chicago. e Center ultimately stands as a powerful reminder of the Obama campaign’s de ning ethos: that change does not happen from the top down, but from ordinary people coming together to do extraordinary things.
CELEBRATES
with a collective commitment to empower, inspire and build a better future for all.