September 4, 2026
GREATER HOUSTON EDITION
Vol.31, Issue 31
FREE
“Addressing Current & Historical Realities Affecting Our Community”
DUANE “KEFFE D” DAVIS
TUPAC’S KILLER CONVICTED
By: Aisha Robinson
THE DEBATE OVER BLACK POLITICAL ALIGNMENT By: Roy Douglas Malonson
The relationship between Black Americans and the American two-party system is one of the most consequential dynamics in modern politics. For over six decades, Black voters have largely operated as a unified voting bloc within the Democratic Party. However, this allegiance is neither monolithic nor historically permanent. Examining whether Black voters should maintain a unified coalition or diversify their political capital across both major parties involves a fundamental tension in political strategy: the trade-off between concentrated institutional influence and transactional, bipartisan leverage. The Historical RealignmentThe modern political landscape is the result of a significant mid-twentieth-
century realignment. Following the Civil War, Black Americans were staunchly aligned with the Republican Party—the “Party of Lincoln”—which championed the abolition of slavery, Reconstruction amendments, and early civil rights protections. Southern Democrats, by contrast, established the Jim Crow system of legal segregation and disenfranchisement. The transition began during the 1930s with Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal, which offered federal economic relief during the Great Depression. The realignment was solidified during the 1960s when President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. When conservative Republicans adopted Alignment on pg. 3
Nearly 30 years after the death of rap icon Tupac Shakur, a Las Vegas jury has found Duane “Keffe D” Davis guilty of first-degree murder, bringing a major development to one of hip-hop’s most closely followed cases. Davis, 63, was convicted on August 31, 2026, after jurors deliberated for less than three hours. He is the first and only person to be charged and convicted in connection with Shakur’s 1996 killing. Prosecutors argued that Davis orchestrated the shooting as an act of retaliation following an earlier confrontation involving his nephew, Orlando “Baby Lane” Anderson, and members of Shakur’s entourage. According to prosecutors, Davis helped organize the group that went looking for Shakur and Marion “Suge” Knight after the confrontation. Davis was not accused of personally firing the shots, but prosecutors successfully argued that he played a central role in arranging the attack. A major part of the prosecution’s case came from Davis’ own statements. Investigators pointed to interviews, recordings and his 2019 memoir, Compton Street Legend, in which Davis discussed his involvement in the events surrounding the shooting. Shakur was 25 when he was shot in Las Vegas on September 7, 1996. He died six days later, leaving behind a musical legacy that continues to influence generations of artists. His death became one of the most enduring mysteries in popular music. Davis faces a possible life sentence, with sentencing scheduled for October 13, 2026. He has indicated that he plans to appeal the conviction. The verdict represents a historic moment in the investigation, although authorities have not identified the person who actually fired the fatal shots. AA
2
September 4, 2026
AFRAMNEWS.COM
EDITORIAL
President/Chief Editor
Contributing Writers Dr. Bobby Mills, Travis McGee, Rachel Thompson, Fred Smith, Nicole Washington, Aisha Robinson, Marcus Williams, TJ Baker Meeko Graphics Social Media Houston Minority business marketing website JG Design Layout Design Blue Star Web Printing Printer
STORIES, PICTURES, LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, EMAIL TO
aframnews1982@gmail.com
713-682-1892
PO BOX 206 Prairie View, TX 77446
We are looking for historical writers That can produce stories that address current and historical realities affecting our community. PLEASE SEND YOUR INQUIRIES TO
AFRAMNEWS1982@GMAIL.COM
GREATER HOUSTON EDITION
A Revival of God Consciousness Bobby Mills, Ph.D.
GOP GROUPTHINK Groupthink is a socio-psychological approach to governance marked by irrationality, poor decision-making, and a deceptive sense of unity and harmony. President Trump has used groupthink within the GOP to personalize the federal government rather than promote inclusive, universal governance. This mindset encourages a “go along to get along” approach to public life. As a result, America is now seeing the damaging effects of groupthink across the federal government. Trumpstyle groupthink has pushed American society beyond a dangerous threshold, perhaps toward a point of no return, because it promotes irrational and emotionally driven decision-making. The conflict with Iran is a clear example. Starting an unnecessary war without a strategy for victory—and, above all, without allies, is profoundly unwise and reckless. Even the Lone Ranger had Tonto, and the Cisco Kid had Pancho. The question is whether MAGA truly wants America, as a multicultural nation, to succeed or whether it seeks to transform America into a White Privilege-only nationstate. It is disgraceful that, in the twenty-first century, such an ungodly question must still be asked, because by now we should all know: “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein”
(Psalm 24:1). And if anyone spiritually misunderstands, here is the Godly reminder: “and as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27a). America, it is unfortunate, but the spiritual question must be asked: Does Trump’s MAGA-Cult GOP want America, as a multicultural nation-state, to win? Or does the MAGA-Cult simply desire a false sense of peace? Groupthink in the Trump Administration is aptly captured by the phrase “wild child running wild,” because too many public officials have adopted a childish, selfserving mentality rather than an inclusive commitment to public service accountability. What an ungodly shame that (77+) million Americans voted for devilish GOP Groupthink: “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee, but his heart is not with thee.” (Proverbs 23: 7). Individuals who spend a lifetime chasing after fleeting fame and earthly treasures will do anything to achieve their goal (s) and success. This is precisely why the wisest leader to have lived, King Solomon, declared wisdom can be learned. Therefore: “Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not: neither decline from the words of my mouth. Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee. Wisdom is the principal thing: therefore, get wisdom, and with all thy getting get understanding.” (Proverbs 4: 5-7). America, President Trump and his MAGA GOP-Cult have a BAD UNDERRead more at STANDING! The aframnews.com
We Must Understand Roy Douglas Malonson, Publisher
AN INFORMED VOTE IS A POWERFUL VOTE For African Americans, voting has always represented more than simply choosing a name on a ballot. It is an opportunity to participate in decisions that can shape education, employment, public safety, housing, health care, economic opportunity and the future of our communities. Being politically liberal, conservative, independent or somewhere in between should not mean automatically supporting every candidate associated with a particular political party. Voters should examine what candidates actually stand for, what policies they have supported and whether their records match the promises they make during election season. The most important question should be: Which candidates and policies will create meaningful opportunities and address the concerns facing our communities? That requires looking beyond campaign slogans and political labels. Voters can examine positions on issues such as protecting voting rights, strengthening public education, supporting small businesses, expanding economic opportunities, improving neighborhoods, addressing discrimination and ensuring equal treatment
under the law. Candidates should also be held accountable for their records—not simply their campaign speeches. African American communities are not politically monolithic, and no party should assume that Black voters automatically owe it their support. Political leaders earn votes by listening to constituents, addressing their concerns and demonstrating a commitment to the principles they claim to support. Voting is also about local elections. City councils, school boards, county officials, judges and state legislators make decisions that can have an immediate impact on families and neighborhoods. Those races deserve the same attention as presidential elections. Ultimately, the responsibility belongs to every voter. Study the candidates. Compare their platforms. Examine their records. Question campaign promises. Discuss the issues with others. Then cast a ballot based on your values, priorities and judgment. The strongest political voice is an informed and engaged community that holds every party accountable. AA
GREATER HOUSTON EDITION Alignment the “Southern Strategy”— leveraging states’ rights Cont. rhetoric to appeal to
white Southern voters disaffected by federal integration mandates—Black voters moved almost entirely into the Democratic coalition, where they have remained a reliable anchor. Advocates of maintaining strong Democratic alignment argue that cohesive bloc voting maximizes electoral power and protects vital community interests. In a majoritarian political system, a disciplined voting bloc can function as a kingmaker, particularly in competitive primary contests and critical swing states. Federal Civil Rights Enforcement: Democrats prioritize federal protections
September 4, 2026 against systemic discrimination, advocacy for expanded voting access, and the appointment of progressive judges committed to civil rights precedents. The Social Safety Net: The Democratic platform supports federal investments in public education, Medicaid expansion, SNAP, and targeted infrastructure. Proponents view these programs as necessary counterbalances to historical wealth disparities. Legislative Leadership: Longstanding loyalty has secured senior leadership posts for Black lawmakers within congressional committees, shaping major policy agendas and executive appointments. AA
AFRAMNEWS.COM
3
4
September 4, 2026
AFRAMNEWS.COM
GREATER HOUSTON EDITION
THROUGH THE LENS OF TIME: BLACK HISTORY IS 24/7/365 1887
1896
1900
1905
1906
1909
1916
1887. The Thibodaux massacre occurs in Louisiana. An episode of white supremacist violence that occurred. It followed a three-week strike during the critical harvest season.
1896. Plessy v. Ferguson legitimizes state laws reestablishing racial segregation in Southern states.
1900. A majority of Southern states pass laws that required African Americans to be separated from white citizens in railroad cars and depots, and other establishments.
1905. W.E.B. Du Bois calls for social and political change for African Americans during the Niagara Movement.
1906. The Atlanta Race Riot of 1906 was a significant episode of violence in Atlanta, Georgia, during which at least 12, and possibly up to 25, African Americans were killed.
1909. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is founded.
1916. The Great Migration begins, where more than six million African Americans move from the rural South to various urban metropolitan areas.
TEXAS
TAKEAWAY
HOUSTON
DALLAS
Houston City Council approved a roughly $50 million agreement aimed at preventing the city from annexing The Woodlands. The deal would preserve The Woodlands’ status as a separate community while providing Houston with financial compensation through the agreement. The measure reflects years of debate over Houston’s potential expansion into surrounding areas and The Woodlands’ desire to maintain local control. Supporters say the agreement provides greater certainty for both communities and avoids a future annexation fight. ________________________________
A new community park at Fair Park could break ground as early as December as fundraising efforts move closer to their goal. The planned park is expected to provide residents with additional green space, recreational opportunities and a place for community gatherings. Organizers say reaching the fundraising target will be an important step toward turning the long-awaited project into reality.
AUSTIN Austin ISD continues to deal with HVAC problems, leaving some classrooms in the low-to-mid 80s. The ongoing issues have raised concerns about uncomfortable learning conditions for students and teachers.
________________________________
SAN ANTONIO San Antonio nonprofits are warning that proposed funding cuts could leave more residents without access to essential services. Leaders say reducing support would not eliminate the need for those services but instead shift the burden to other nonprofit organizations already operating with limited resources. They are urging officials to reconsider cuts and consider the broader impact
ELLA FITZGERALD Ella Fitzgerald, widely known as the “First Lady of Song” and the “Queen of Jazz,” was one of the most influential vocalists in American history. Over a career spanning more than six decades, she sold over 40 million albums and won 14 Grammy Awards, captivating audiences worldwide with her pristine clarity of tone, three-octave vocal range, and unparalleled ability to improvise like a jazz horn player through scat singing.
READ MORE AT AFRAMNEWS.COM
GREATER HOUSTON EDITION
September 4, 2026
AFRAMNEWS.COM
POLITICAL
5
COLIN KAEPERNICK TO RECEIVE MUHAMMAD ALI HUMANITARIAN OF THE YEAR AWARD By: Aisha Robinson
Former NFL quarterback, civil rights activist and entrepreneur Colin Kaepernick will receive the Muhammad Ali Center’s Humanitarian of the Year Award at the 13th annual Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards on November 7, 2026, in Louisville, Kentucky. The award recognizes Kaepernick’s continued work advocating for racial justice, equality and underserved communities. Kaepernick became
one of the most prominent athlete activists in the United States after protesting racial injustice during the 2016 NFL season. His decision to kneel during the national anthem sparked a nationwide conversation about race, policing and the role of athletes in social issues. Years later, his activism continues through philanthropic efforts and community programs. A major part of Kaepernick’s work has
been Know Your Rights Camp, an organization focused on educating and empowering young people and communities. The Muhammad Ali Center said Kaepernick was selected because of his courage in confronting racial injustice and his commitment to empowering underserved communities. Lonnie Ali, co-founder and president and CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center, said Kaepernick’s willingness to use his
platform for equality and social change reflects values associated with Muhammad Ali’s legacy. She also highlighted the personal and professional costs Kaepernick faced while remaining committed to his beliefs. For Kaepernick, receiving an award bearing Muhammad Ali’s name carries special significance. He has described Ali as someone who stood firmly behind his convictions and believed that public platforms
should be used to serve others. The Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards were launched in 2013 to honor Ali’s lifelong humanitarian work and recognize people making positive changes in their communities. The annual ceremony is also the Ali Center’s largest fundraiser, supporting its educational programs,
Next START CLASSES
ACHIEVE YOUR G ALS WITH OUR FLEXIBLE 8 14 WEEK COURSES LONESTAR.EDU/CLASSSTARTOPTIONS Enroll Anytime & Start Learning Today!
community initiatives, partnerships and exhibitions. Kaepernick will join a distinguished list of previous Humanitarian of the Year recipients, including Shaquille O’Neal, Christina Aguilera, Michael J. Fox, Common and Geena Davis. AA
6
September 4, 2026
AFRAMNEWS.COM
CARRIAGE RIDE
CHEMICAL
PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE TO RESPONDENTS:
Lone Star College will receive Competitive Sealed Proposals for:
When Bugs are Near Have no Fear Call Premier
281.802.8654 www.prempest.com
$89.99
Dwain Stewart
SPECIAL FOR PEST CONTROL
CHURCH
VINTAGE CARRIAGE COMPANY, LLC
TERENCE J. REED, OWNER
FACEBOOK: GO VINTAGE, LLC INSTAGRAM: GOVINTAGELLC
713.489.8905 281.901.4966
CSP 26-08-10 LSC Kingwood Fire Science Water Line and Septic System Project Electronic responses are due by 9:00 AM on 9-25-2026 Contact: Lydia Sterling, Sr Commodity Manager @ Lydia. Sterling@lonestar.edu Must Register to Bid at: http:// 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.
SHOE REPAIR
PUBLIC NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE TO PROPOSERS
The Houston Independent School District Purchasing Services Department, located at 4400 West 18th Street, Houston, TX 77092, is soliciting Request for Proposals (RFP) via the District’s electronic bidding portal. Proposers may login to view specifications and submit their responses at the following link https://houstonisd.ionwave. net/Login.aspx until 10:00 a.m. (CST) Wednesday, September 30, 2026, for the following solicitation:
Request for Proposal will be received by Lone Star College for:
RFP 27-08-10 Maintenance, Supplies, and Services for Administrative Services A pre-proposal conference via Microsoft Teams will be held in conjunction with this RFP. Information regarding dates, times, and instructions to receive a link to join the meeting can be located within the electronic bidding portal under the “Event Details” tab specific to this solicitation.
RFP #26-08-07 - Career and Transfer Solution. Electronic submittals due by 3:00PM, Wednesday, September 23, 2026. Contact: pamela.johnson@lonstar.edu or (832) 813-6782. Must Register to Bid: https:// lonestar.ionwave.net/Login.aspx. If registered, please ensure your registration is up to date. For assistance with the on-line registration process, contact MC-Vendors@ lonestar.edu.
AFRAMNEWS.COM African-American News&Issues
GIFT SHOP
Rev. Curley Randle, Sr. Pastor
Rev. Dr. Edwin A. Davis, Pastor
Sunday School 8:15am Sunday Services 9:00am
BAPTIST CHURCH “We are a church on the move.” -Isaiah 40:30
Rev. Dayle Perry, Pastor
GREATER HOUSTON EDITION
INCOME TAX • Unfiled Tax Returns • Liens • Levies (Wage, Bank, Other) • Audits • Appeals • Offer in Compromise • Employment Taxes • Installment Agreements • Payment Plans • Other IRS Problems
• 401 (k) • 403 (b) • Pension • Profit Sharing • Deferred Comp. • IRA • ESOP • DROP • Teacher Retirement System (TRS) • Other Employer Retirement Plans
CLOSEOUT SALE
20-50% OFF EVERY SATURDAY 11AM – 4PM
GREATER HOUSTON EDITION
September 4, 2026
AFRAMNEWS.COM
LOCAL
7
HEALTH
2027 CHAIR OF THE BEST SOUTHWEST PARTNERSHIP By: Glenn Heights Media Info
HOUSTON FIREFIGHTER CRITICALLY ILL By: Houston Fire Fighters
Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association Local 341 is asking the community to keep Probationary Firefighter Carleon Jones and his family in their thoughts and prayers as he remains in critical condition following an off-duty medical emergency while playing basketball Wednesday evening. Jones, who graduated from the Houston Fire Department Training Academy just a month ago, is being treated in the ICU at Memorial Hermann Northeast Hospital. He is assigned to Houston Fire Station 20, A shift. “Carleon is just at the beginning of his career serving the people of Houston,” said HPFFA President Patrick M. “Marty” Lancton. “Right now, our entire Houston fire family is focused on him and the people who love him. We ask Houstonians to join us in praying for Carleon, his family and the medical team caring for him.” HPFFA representatives are with the Jones family and will provide additional information as appropriate. AA
Glenn Heights Mayor Sonja A. Brown has been named 2027 Chair of the Best Southwest Partnership, positioning her to lead one of the region’s most established collaborative organizations as it continues its work to strengthen communities throughout Southern Dallas County and Northern Ellis County. Brown currently serves as Chair-Elect of the Best Southwest Partnership and will assume the chairmanship in 2027. Founded in 1986, the Best Southwest Partnership brings together municipalities, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, utilities, financial institutions, businesses and other community partners to advance regional priorities, promote economic development and improve quality of life throughout the Best Southwest region. “I am deeply honored to have been entrusted with the opportunity to serve as Chair of the Best Southwest Partnership in 2027,” Brown said. “The cities that make up the Best Southwest are individually unique, but our greatest strength is found in recognizing that our futures are connected. Transportation, economic development, education, workforce development, healthcare, infrastructure, and quality of life do not stop at municipal boundaries. When we approach these issues regionally, we amplify our collective voice and expand what is possible for the people we serve.” As Mayor of Glenn Heights, a community spanning both Dallas and Ellis counties, Brown has consistently advocated for regional cooperation and partnerships that connect municipal government with education, business, transportation, healthcare, and other sectors. Her selection as 2027 Chair will provide an opportunity to further elevate Glenn Heights within regional conversations while advancing initiatives that benefit the broader Best Southwest area. “Regionalism is not about diminishing the identity of any individual city. It is about recognizing the power we gain when we bring those identities, resources and voices together around a common purpose,” Brown said. “My goal as Chair will be to build on the tremendous work already underway, strengthen the relationships that make this Partnership successful and ensure that the Best Southwest continues to be recognized as a region of opportunity, investment and innovation.” Read more at aframnews.com
PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS MONTH By: Anthony Priwer
This September, the American Cancer Society encourages men to talk with their doctor about their personal risk for prostate cancer and whether screening is right for them. The number of new cases continued to increase by 3% per year from 2014 to 2022, according to the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Statistics 2026 report, with the steepest rise occurring in advanced-stage diagnoses. The report estimates that in 2026, 333,830 new cases of prostate cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. and 36,320 men will die from the disease. The increase in prostate cancer diagnoses is largely due to more men being screened. This creates opportunities for early intervention and improved patient outcomes, although too many men are still not being screened early enough. “We’re seeing two things happen at once: more men are being diagnosed with prostate cancer, and a growing share of those cases are happening at a more advanced stage,” said Dr. William Dahut, chief scientific officer at the American Cancer Society. “That tells us screening conversations are happening too late for too many men, particularly those at high risk for the disease.” There are well-established risk factors for prostate cancer that can be assessed for free using the online tool ACS CancerRisk360TM. The chance of having prostate cancer rises rapidly after age 50, and the disease occurs more often in Black and Caribbean men. When it does develop in Black men, they tend to be younger. In fact, compared with White men, Black men are nearly 70% more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer and two times more likely to die from the disease. When it comes to prostate cancer screening, one size does not fit all. The American Cancer Society recommends men at average risk for prostate cancer speak with their doctor at age 50 about whether screening is right for them. Men at high risk should have this discussion at age 45, including African American men and those with a Read more at family history of prostate cancer. aframnews.com
8
AFRAMNEWS.COM
September 4, 2026
GREATER HOUSTON EDITION
SCORE TIME BACK Get delivery in as little as an hour.*
*Subject to availability. Restrictions and fees apply. Delivery time not guaranteed. See app or heb.com.
©2026 HEB, 26-485644