PUBLISHER’S CORNER
MEMBERS OF
Houston Association of Black Journalists
CEO/Publisher
Nakia Cooper
Marketing Manager
Dana Patterson
Distribution Managers
Aaron Cooper, Vonte Cooper
Senior Writer
N.C. Greene
Contributing Writer
Natalie Greene
Columnist
Ikeoma Divine
Social Media
Alexandria Green - Jones
Graphics
Nathaniel Greene
Photography
Damanion Cooper-Lee
Live Correspondent
Ciara Ross
@Iamciaraross
Entertainment Coordinator
Cornel Grant
IG: @MusicMonopoly
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A moment of sincere thanks,
It takes a village…. to train, to support, to nurture, to protect, to uplift, to guide, to rise to greatness.
Shout out to the amazing village of parents, mentors and coaches who sacrificed and led these beautiful and gifted young athletes of the Lady FVV (Fred VanVleet) AAU basketball team as they ended their successful summer season in tournaments in Pennsylvania and Kentucky.
Thanks to WNBA legend Cynthia Cooper and Coaches Jeremy Peters and Tee Barefield for pouring into our champions.
Job well done, team!
#Run4TheRoses #EpicAcademy #CrossoverAthletics #PumaGirls #LadyFVV
With love,
Nakia Cooper Publisher, Bayou Beat News President, Houston Association of Black Journalists
TOP STORY
FAREWELL TO HOUSTON'S CONGRESSWOMAN FOR THE CULTURE'
TEXAS REP. SHEILA JACKSON LEE DIES AT 74
She was a Congresswoman for the Culture. Signature braid atop her crown and glory, Afro-centric garb, chocolate skin, a bright red lip, and never saw a camera she wouldn’t bless with her signature booming voice. Whether riding in a parade in an H-Town Slab (customized ‘candy paint’ vehicle), mounted on a motorcycle with Houston bike clubs, slapping the trunk of a vehicle after loading it with goods during disasters, or honoring community servants with proclamations, the Honorable Sheila Jackson Lee left no stone unturned when it came to helping her constituents. The fierce fighter who tirelessly served Texas' 18th District for the last three decades succumbed to pancreatic cancer at the age of 74.
“Today, with incredible grief for our loss yet deep gratitude for the life she shared with us, we announce the passing of United States Representative Sheila Jackson Lee,” her family said in a released statement on July 19. “A fierce champion of the people, she was affectionately and simply known as ‘Congresswoman’ by her constituents in recognition of her near-ubiquitous presence and service to their daily lives for more than 30 years.”
Jackson Lee announced her grim diagnosis in June, acknowledging that “the road ahead will not be easy” and saying she had “faith that God will strengthen me.”
Sadly, it was one of the few fights in her long life and career she ever lost.
Born on January 12, 1950, in Queens, New York, Jackson Lee was among the first women to graduate from Yale University and served as a Houston municipal judge and a city councilwoman before she was first elected to represent Texas’ 18th Congressional District in 1994,
unseating Democratic incumbent Craig Washington in the primary.
Throughout her career, Jackson Lee was a champion for numerous causes, notably her work on the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, which established June 19th as a federal holiday to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States. She also played a pivotal role in reintroducing the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, aiming to address
Jackson Lee's legislative accomplishments were numerous and impactful. She was instrumental in the passage of the Violence Against Women Act and was a vocal advocate for wage equality and accommodations for pregnant workers. Her efforts extended beyond national borders as she addressed human rights issues on an international scale.
In addition to her congressional career, Jackson Lee recently ran for mayor of Houston, but the position ultimately went to Senator John Whitmire. Continuing, she remained a prominent figure in the political landscape of Houston and continued to advocate for the issues she was passionate about.
police misconduct and enhance transparency. Additionally, Jackson Lee was a staunch advocate for reparations for African Americans, introducing H.R. 40, a bill to establish a commission to study and develop reparation proposals for African Americans. She was one of the key faces of Houston when it came to COVID-19 awareness, the 2020 Census campaign, Hurricane Harvey and other natural disaster recovery efforts.
President Joe Biden praised the congresswoman, saying she was unrelenting in her leadership.
"Always fearless, she spoke truth to power and represented the power of the people of her district in Houston with dignity and grace," a portion of his statement read. "Sheila Jackson Lee is part of a long line of patriots who delivered the promise of America to all Americans. May God bless our friend."
Former Mayor Sylvester Turner remarked, "Even if you disagreed with her politics, you had to respect her work ethic. Sheila Jackson Lee left it all on the field."
Those sentiments were shared by Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo.
By: Nakia Cooper
“Her strength and stamina were truly never-ending and her determination to rally a chorus to the fuse of justice was unwavering," Hidalgo said.
Hidalgo and new Houston Mayor John Whitmire were alongside Jackson Lee at a recent press conference for Houston's storm victims.
"Only a few months ago, we worked together at the Houston Office of Emergency Management and with FEMA to help Houstonians recover from the derecho. I ask Houstonians to join me in praying for her husband, children, grandchildren and extended family. May she rest in peace."
Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis also shared a heartfelt tribute about the beloved congresswoman.
“My friend, ally, and long-time political partner, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, passed from this world and into the pantheon of legendary Texas leaders," he said. "Holding dear the memory of those who pass before us is the greatest homage we can pay to those we love. And I know Sheila Jackson Lee will dwell fondly in our memories for years to come.”
Jackson Lee is survived by her husband, Elwyn Lee, her children, Erica and Jason Lee, and her grandchildren.
Options for filling Jackson Lee's vacant seat include a special election, as she was running to secure another term. Her most notable opponents in the upcoming election were Amanda Edwards, a former Houston City Council member, and Robert Slater Jr., a chef and business owner. Texas law requires the governor to call a special election to fill a vacancy in the U.S. House, ensuring her constituents will have continued representation.
LOCAL
FEMA
Assistance for Hurricane Beryl
By: Staff
Homeowners and renters in several counties are now eligible for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Beryl.
Eligible applicants may qualify for serious needs assistance, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other eligible expenses related to storm damage. To date, residents of Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Orange, Polk, San Jacinto, Walker and Wharton counties are designated for FEMA Individual Assistance.
To apply, homeowners and renters can:
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices
• Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. CT. Help is available in most languages.
• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, go online to fema.gov/drc.
To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/ disaster/4798. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at X.com at x.com/ FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook. com/FEMARegion6/.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
FEMA Civil Rights Office works to ensure assistance is distributed equitably, without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the Civil Rights Office if they feel that they are the victim of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted toll-free at 833-2857448. Multilingual operators are available upon request. For Spanish, press 2.
ON THE BEAT
‘Slut Walk’ creator Amber Rose faces backlash after supporting Trump at RNC
By: Natalie Greene
Amber Rose, an outspoken model and actress, has recently come under fire for her unexpected support of Donald Trump at the Republican National Convention (RNC). Known for her progressive stances on social issues, Rose's appearance and endorsement at the RNC surprised many of her fans and followers, leading to a significant backlash on social media.
Rose's support for Trump stems from her belief in certain policies that she claims align with her views on economic and criminal justice reform. During her speech at the RNC, she emphasized the need for a strong leadership approach to these issues, which she believes Trump embodies. However, her endorsement has not been well-received by her largely liberal fan base, many of whom feel betrayed by her alignment with a figure they view as divisive.
Critics argue that Rose's support for Trump contradicts her previous advocacy for women's rights and social justice. Social media platforms have been flooded with negative comments, with many users expressing disappointment and calling for a boycott of her projects. Despite the backlash, Rose remains steadfast in her decision, urging her followers to look beyond partisan politics and consider the policies she believes are beneficial for the country.
The ”Slut Walk” creator’s controversial stance has sparked a wider conversation about the complexities of celebrity endorsements in politics and the impact of such endorsements on public opinion.
By: Nathaniel J. Greene
Joe "Jellybean" Bryant, the father of NBA legend Kobe Bryant, passed away on July 16, 2024, at the age of 69. His death was attributed to a massive stroke, following previous health challenges. Joe Bryant, a notable figure in the basketball community, had a profound impact on the sport both as a player and a coach.
Born on October 19, 1954, in Philadelphia, Joe Bryant had a successful basketball career. He played for La Salle University before being drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 1975. Joe spent eight seasons in the NBA, playing for the Philadelphia 76ers, San Diego Clippers, and Houston Rockets. He also had a significant career in Europe, particularly in Italy, where he continued to play professionally.
Joe Bryant's influence extended beyond his playing career. He coached various teams, including a stint as the head coach of the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks. His legacy in the basketball world is marked by his dedication to the sport and the mentorship he provided to many players, including his son Kobe Bryant, who tragically passed away in 2020.
The basketball community has expressed deep sorrow over his passing. Tributes from former players, coaches, and fans highlight his contributions to the game and his role in shaping Kobe Bryant's illustrious career. Joe Bryant's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of basketball enthusiasts and players. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the basketball community.
Joe 'Jellybean' Bryant, father of Kobe, dies at 69
BAYOU HEAT
BILL PICKETT RODEO INVITATIONAL BRINGS THE ‘GREATEST SHOW ON DIRT’ TO FORT WORTH STOCKYARDS
May 18th will always be a day for my son to remember. Prayers were up as we left the Bayou City to North Texas avoiding the aftermath of a major storm. Growing up in southeast Texas, I was aware of cowboy culture because my great uncle had a stable of quarter horses and would take us to some of the local rodeos; however, I never knew there was an actual African American led rodeo in existence. The experience was electrifying where my son was glued to his seat from the competitive feats and the sounds from DJ Music Man kept us on the beat at Cowtown Coliseum in Fort Worth, TX.
That weekend, The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo (BPIR)
joined forces with the Professional Bull Riders (PBR) in Fort Worth, TX, for an unforgettable western experience of two shows drawing crowds of thousands to the Cowtown Coliseum. The event kicked off with a stunning performance by national recording artist Howard Johnson at the BPIR Ft. Worth Texas Connections Series. Johnson captivated the audience with renditions of "Last Train Home," by Pat Metheny, the Black National Anthem, "Lift Every Voice and Sing," and introduced a new Bill Pickett Rodeo song, “It's My Rodeo.”
The rodeo opened with America’s favorite doctor James Pickens, from Grey’s Anatomy, on horse and (BPIR) Honorary
By: Rebecca Briscoe
Grand Marshal. As a longtime supporter of (BPIR), Pickens has served as the Deputy Grand Marshal of this rodeo for 30 years.
The rodeo showcased fierce competition across nine events, with fast-paced action, impressive catches, thrilling rides, and dramatic misses. The Peewee division stole the show, drawing standing ovations and loud cheers from the audience as the young contestants displayed their skills. Winners from each event proudly took home their prizes, satisfying both the crowd and them.
Through the support and generosity of BPIR Sponsors such as: Ariat, Crown Royal, US Border Patrol, Upscale Magazine and Yeti, they can fulfill their mission, offer generous prizes, and engage youth with the Bill
Foundation (BPIRF). For 40 years, the BPIRF has remained committed to rodeo, education, and legacy, introducing new initiatives nationwide, including regional scholarships, community wellness programs, Rodeo for Kidz Sake, and Anti-Violence Venture, aimed at uplifting youth and communities.
There is still time to catchyour seat at the next Bill Picket Invitational Rodeo with another date in Fort Worth on Saturday, August 17.
About the Bill Picket Invitational Rodeo:
“Celebrating 40 years of the Black Cowboy and Cowgirl”
Pickett Invitational Rodeo
The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo celebrates and honors Black Cowboys and Cowgirls and their contributions to building the west. They highlight the irrefutable global appeal of Black Cowboys and Cowgirls in the West and the stories behind a sub-culture that is still strong today. BPIR also serves as a cultural event and opportunity for families to enjoy and embrace the cowboy culture, while being educated and entertained with reenactments, history highlights, and western adventure. For more information, visit https://billpickettrodeo.
building the west. They highappeal of Black Cowboys and also serves as a cultural event families western com/
Photo Credit: BullStock
POLITICS
‘TRUE PATRIOT’ PRESIDENT BIDEN DROPS 2024 REELECTION BID, PASSES BATON TO VP HARRIS
By: N.C. Greene
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, President Joe Biden has announced that he will not seek reelection. This unprecedented decision comes amidst mounting pressure from within his own Democratic Party, raising significant questions about the future direction of the party and the country.
A
Selfless
Act of Patriotism
President Biden’s decision to step down is undeniable proof of his selflessness and dedication to the country. By prioritizing the party and the nation’s needs over his personal ambitions, Biden has been called a “true patriot” by several political commentators on CNN. It is a sacrifice reminiscent of other significant transitions in recent American politics, such as Nancy Pelosi passing the baton to Hakeem Jeffries.
As Biden prepares to address the nation later this week, the country must acknowledge his contributions and the heavy weight of his decision. Biden’s choice reflects a profound understanding of leadership and responsibility.
Biden’s Decision
President Biden, currently recovering from COVID-19, made the announcement Sunday from isolation. He emphasized his commitment to the nation and the Democratic Party, stating, "While it has been my intention to seek re-election, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term."
Biden’s letter to the American people, posted on his X account, highlighted his administration's achievements,
including historic investments in infrastructure, lowering prescription drug costs, expanding healthcare access, and significant climate legislation. He expressed his gratitude to Vice President Kamala Harris, endorsing her as the party’s new nominee.
A Legacy of Diversity and Inclusion
Since taking office, President Biden has made significant strides in promoting diversity and inclusion within the White House and the federal government. He appointed the most diverse cabinet in American history, with people of color and women holding key positions. Notable appointments include:
• Kamala Harris, the first female, first Black, and first South Asian Vice President.
• Lloyd Austin, the first African American Secretary of Defense.
• Deb Haaland, the first Native American to serve as Secretary of the Interior.
• Xavier Becerra, the first Latino to lead the Department of Health and Human Services.
• Cecilia Rouse, the first African American woman to chair the Council of Economic Advisers.
These appointments reflect Biden’s commitment to ensuring that the federal government represents the diversity of the American people. His administration has also focused on advancing racial equity and addressing systemic racism, making historic investments in communities of color.
A Life Marked by Resilience
The president’s life has been marked by significant personal and professional challenges. In 1972, just weeks after being elected to the U.S. Senate, Biden faced an unimaginable
tragedy. His wife, Neilia, and their one-year-old daughter, Naomi, were killed in a car accident. Biden’s sons, Beau and Hunter, were critically injured but survived. Despite this profound loss, Biden was sworn into the Senate at the hospital bedside of his sons.
As a single father, Biden balanced his senatorial duties with raising his boys, commuting daily from Delaware to Washington, D.C. His resilience and dedication to his family and country were evident as he continued to serve with distinction.
Tragedy struck again in 2015 when Beau Biden, Joe's eldest son, succumbed to brain cancer at the age of 46. The decorated military officer and rising political star was a source of immense pride for Biden.
Despite these personal losses, Biden continued to serve the American people. As Vice President under Barack Obama, he played a crucial role in passing significant
legislation, including the Affordable Care Act, and was instrumental in foreign policy decisions.
Democratic Disarray
The decision to not seek reelection comes after Biden’s poor performance in the June CNN presidential debate, which led to increased calls from prominent Democrats and donors for him to step aside. Concerns about his age and mental fitness to serve another term were at the forefront of these calls, reflecting a broader unease within the party about his ability to defeat former President Donald Trump in the upcoming election.
In a phone call with CNN, Trump was quick to criticize Biden, calling him “the worst president by far in the history of our country.” Trump suggested that Harris, now
the presumptive Democratic nominee, would be easier to defeat than Biden, signaling the beginning of a new phase in the campaign.
The Path Forward for Democrats
With Biden out of the race, the Democratic Party faces a critical juncture. Delegates will need to select the party’s nominee during a virtual roll call or on the convention floor in Chicago next month. Harris, who has been an extraordinary partner in the administration, is widely considered the frontrunner.
There was, however, a critical conversation within the Democratic Party. Harris still had to win over the delegates, and she did. The potential to overlook Harris in favor of another candidate could have been seen as a significant misstep. Many say it would have been a disservice to women, people of color, and all those who see her as a
beacon of progress and representation in American politics. Harris, despite being sidelined at times during her vice presidency, is ready and as qualified as any politician to lead the nation. A flip phrase today is “at the end of the day, the day’s gonna end.” Joe Biden has proven himself to be one heck of a man throughout his life and career proven through his resilience, dedication, and love for America. From personal tragedies to the highest office in the land, he has continually put the needs of the nation above his own. His decision to step down, though painful, is a final act of service, ensuring the Democratic Party and the country have the best chance of moving forward united and strong. Whether you are a Democrat or a Republican, let’s salute and wrap our arms around Biden, recognizing his sacrifice and commitment to America’s future. And for Black women, and ALL women of color around the world, it is safe to say, this battle tested woman will give Trump a REAL run for his money. #BlackJobs
SISTER 2 SISTAH IMPACTING FAMILIES, YOUTH
By: Natalie Greene
Sister 2 Sistah was honored to be able to provide scholarships to eight deserving students this summer at its annual S2S Scholarship Dinner Party, sponsored by H-E-B. Students from Kashmere, Willowridge, Sam Rayburn and Klein Cain high schools were presented with $2,000 each from H-E-B to help them on their academic journeys this fall at Louisiana State University (LSU), Texas Southern University (TSU), Lamar University, Sam Houston State University and Blinn College. In addition, Union Pacific provided sponsorship dollars that were given as microgrants to additional students. The event was held at the fabulous Davis Street at Hermann Park restaurant where attendees were treated to Chef Mark Holley's famous Fried Chicken Dinner. (If you have NEVER had it, you better get in line to try it fast! You will become addicted. ) The entire evening was an experience to remember as attendees shared heartfelt stories. S2S co-founders Rebecca Briscoe and Nakia Cooper said they were humbled and grateful to be able to serve the community and honor the parents, educators and business leaders working hard to secure our children's futures, thanks to H-E-B.
ATLANTA -- Dr. Lakiea Bailey has spent over a decade bringing attention and resources to those living with rare diseases. A prominent advocate and research scientist with a Ph.D. in Molecular Hematology and Regenerative Medicine, Dr. Bailey was diagnosed with sickle cell disease at age three and has dedicated her life to supporting and empowering the sickle cell community.
Despite the devastating symptoms of sickle cell, Dr. Bailey was determined to complete her educational goals. At the completion of her doctorate training, she founded and began working as the Executive Director of the Sickle Cell Community Consortium, a coordinated network of sickle cell community-based organizations (CBOs), patient and caregiver advocates, community partners, and healthcare/research advisors.
The Consortium functions as an organizing entity allowing this diverse group of stakeholders to identify, prioritize, develop, and execute solutions for patient-identified needs and gaps within the sickle cell community.
Bayou Beat News spoke with Dr. Bailey during a recent interview where she discussed the Sickle Cell Consortium’s 11th Annual Warriors Convention, the importance of returning the conference to Atlanta, Georgia and the recent surge of sickle
HEALTH
cell awareness in television and mainstream media.
When asked about her excitement for this year’s convention, Dr. Bailey said, “I am most excited about the children. We have tracks for all age groups and a free nursery for babies between 18 months and four years. We partner with an organization licensed to take care of the young ones, and we have activities, education, and a STEM room available for the children.”
This year’s highly anticipated Sickle Cell Warriors Convention was hosted at the Atlanta Westin Perimeter North Hotel from July 17 to July 21, after last year’s success in Houston, Texas.
Excitement surrounded the convention partly due to Atlanta’s recent establishment of a first-of-its-kind sickle cell sanctuary, thanks to the Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia.
This year’s theme, ‘Lead the Way: From Patient to Powerhouse,’ embodies the journey and transformation of those affected by sickle cell disease.”
The convention was uniquely designed entirely by and for the sickle cell patient and family community. It featured the reintroduction of the Sickle Cell Consortium’s Warrior University classes, a faith-based brunch, a family game night, a campus carnival, and dedicated sessions for various groups including
SICKLE CELL CONSORTIUM WARRIOR CONVENTION HELD IN ATL AS NEW NETFLIX SERIES SHINES MAINSTREAM SPOTLIGHT ON DISEASE
men, young adults, caregivers, and newly diagnosed families.
The Consortium anticipated record numbers this year thanks to the new Netflix series Supacell, whose premise is based on the discovery that having sickle cell gives you superpowers. Dr. Bailey also cites the younger generation being more vocal about sickle cell through social media. I think it’s fantastic to see us being discussed,” she said. “Although, it’s unfortunate, for example, with the Saturday Night Live that happened a few months ago when misin-
By: Bryanna Washington
formation is pushed out on a big network in a big way. That episode had a lot of bad information about curative therapies and gene therapy. When that happens, it’s unfortunate, but it gets people talking. For a long time, people thought sickle cell wasn’t a thing anymore because no one was talking about it. So I’m of the opinion that anything that gets people talking is a good thing, even if we have to then go back and correct misinformation.”
IKEOMA’S EYE
AS WE RISE: A CALL FOR SPIRITUAL SOCIAL JUSTICE
Without spiritual protection, there is no physical protection. Throughout our history in the Diaspora, colonization and forced assimilation stripped us of our ancestral languages, cultures, and familial identities. Chattel Slavery bred and sold us away from the oral teachings of our DNA lineage. Despite the conditions we've endured in this society, the backbone of our strength and protection through all of this has come from our spirituality. Intercessory prayer and spiritual "work" from our ancestors is the reason most of us are here today. The power of our prayers are unprecedented. Those who try to control us fear it. This is why we are taught that "it" is evil. Historically, our spiritual protection (when activated) has been instrumental in our freedom. A key ingredient in the success of the Haitian Revolution
was the infamous Bois-Caiman ceremony conducted by Cecile Fatima. This happened BEFORE the guerilla warfare began to spiritually protect the Maroons who fought. There is a village in Suriname named Dahomey. It consists of descendants of enslaved Africans who escaped. The original founders put a "curse" around the village which will kill any white people who
By: Ikeoma Divine
try to visit. The spell is still active today. In the US, there is a strong tradition of prayer before our revolutions like the Civil Rights Movement. Intercessory prayer and fasting was the pinnacle that preceded strategic tactics that resulted in freedom for years to come.
I believe that the indoctrination of an "individualistic", or "selfish" society has led us to not only stop praying for us as a collective, but to use spirituality against each other instead for the greater good of us all. This mentality has led to our demise. Practicing spirituality for social justice is the lost art that is necessary for our survival. Don't let distractions keep us divided. It is our ability to come together on one accord spiritually that will be the catalyst of our success. It shouldn't matter what form of practice you use. We should all be focusing on the same thing at the same time.
I encourage you to look beyond our minor differences and come together to save our communities and lineages. When we cry, our tears are heard. Go to your churches, mosques, Ile's, alters… wherever you worship and intercede for our survival. Let's not forget that PRAYER comes BEFORE the WORK.
