NATIONAL
FORMER PRESIDENT OBAMA WEIGHS IN ON TRUMP’S MUSLIM BAN P3
facebook.com/DefenderNetwork
Houston’s Leading Black Information Source
Volume 86 | Number 13
FEBRUARY 2, 2017 |FREE
www.defendernetwork.com
twitter.com/DefenderNetwork
NEWSTALK BORRIS MILES blasts Gov. Abbott
P2 NATIONAL
BLACK IN BLUE H PAGE 6
EMMETT TILL accuser admits lying
P3 SPORTS MALON GARDNER stands out at Yates
P11
Vin Diesel
Michael Strahan
He’s one of Hollywood’s hottest movie stars and he’s made his mark in several actionpacked movies. But Diesel is also a prominent producer and filmmaker. He talks about his return to the screen in “xXx: Return of Xander Cage.”
The former NFL star-turned-talkshow-host is among those featured in Gridiron Glory, a Pro Football Hall of Fame display at Texas Southern University. The traveling exhibit gives viewers a panoramic view of the story of pro football. It’s the first time the exhibit hits an HBCU.
back on screen
H PAGE 5
on display at TSU
H PAGE 10
85 years defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 80
TOP EVENTS
Jackie Adams, Mary Young and Darian Ward at the Smahrt Girl Brunch and Ball Gowns Gala.
P12
2
DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 2 | 2017
newstalk
defendernetwork.com
State Lawmakers upset
Gov. Abbott ignores Blacks on UT Regent board Defender News Service
The state’s highest-ranking Black leaders are upset that there will be no Black regents on the University of Texas System board. “The University of Texas has had a history of overlooking African-Americans as it relates to the board of regents,” said State. Rep. Borris Miles, D-Houston. “It’s Borris Miles time for a change.” But that change won’t be coming anytime soon, after Governor Greg Abbott appointed three non-Black members to the board, despite calls for diversity. “An opportunity was missed to add a perspective that one of Texas’ flagship institutions has been without for nearly four years,” added State Sen. Royce West. “It is a void that cannot
be addressed for at least another two years.” Two of the current nine UT regents are Hispanic. If the Senate confirms Abbott’s newest recommendations, which include former regent and Houston businesswoman Janiece Longoria, that will Royce West increase to three. Of the 242 UT regents in the last 126 years, three have been Black. Regents serve six-year terms, so senators don’t often have the chance to weigh in on the men and women who wield considerable sway over the policies and priorities of Texas’ public colleges and universities. “As Texas continues into the 21st Century economy and
demographic trends persist, diversity will become more and more critical as changing populations represent our society and the workforce of the future. There is room at the table for the viewpoints of the many faces and ethnicities that are part of a population that is urban, rural and suburban and reflective of all walks of life,” said West. “We’re just asking for our people to shine and take a leadership position at the University of Texas,” added Miles. According to UT data from Fall 2015, the student body is 45 percent white, 20 percent Hispanic, 17 percent Asian, almost 10 percent foreign, 4 percent Black, and almost 5 percent other. Governor Abbot’s office sent the following response: “Governor Abbott is proud of the individuals he has appointed to direct Texas’ higher education institutions, and he will continue to seek out willing public servants who not only share his vision for Texas, but also reflect the diversity of the state.”
Residents address reclaiming neighborhoods and putting in the work.” A capital assessment presentation was made by To better meet the needs of the community, Charles White and John Cooper, X. White, executive director of Charity Productions, the director of Texas Target held an exchange partnership breakfast meeting with Communities and profeslocal Black residents to present a proposal on reclaiming sor of landscape architecneighborhoods. White said now is the time for change, ture and urban planning at “and you can’t expect change if you don’t work for it.” Texas A&M University. With a focus on four themes – education, safety, Cooper and his students economy and public health – White said the community discovered through recould no longer rely on local elected officials for change search approved methods Charles X. White and should step up to the plate. to improve neighborhoods. “The point of this breakfast is to call the community “My students and I took residents to do a bit more than what they’ve been doing a specific look at Sunnyside where we studied the use of because our neighborhoods are still the same and issues land, protection and use of the environment, public welhaven’t been resolved,” White said. “There will be no fare, and the design of the urban environment, including more talking. It’s now all about commitment, dedication, air, water, and the infrastructure passing into and out of By JASEMINE KNOWLES Defender
the area,” Cooper said. “But there is still more work and research to be done.” April Woods, director of National Disaster Partnerships with the American Red Cross, said the way to improve neighborhoods is through team work. “It takes committed people to inspire active citizenship, protect the environment, and take on change,” she said. “It begins with you [residents].” To improve their neighborhoods, White ended with a call to action for residents to commit to joining one of the People’s Political Action Committees (TPPAC) on public policy, human resources, research, and corporate partners. “There is value in our neighborhoods,” White said. “By joining one of these committees this’ will help us improve infrastructure, bring back jobs, and ultimately make the neighborhoods a better place.” The next meeting will be a committee report on May 4.
localbriefs A REPUBLICAN LAWMAKER HAS PROPOSED A BILL TO CRIMINALIZE ABORTIONS. Tony Tinderholt says the Abolition of Abortion in Texas Act would force women to be “more personally responsible” for their sexual behavior. It would effectively ban abortion at every stage of a pregnancy and make it possible for women and doctors to be charged with murder for the procedure. Tinderholt believes since there are “no exceptions to murder” there are to be no exceptions to the law for rape or incest. Men who assist in the abortion (calling a doctor, transportation) could also face murder charges…..THE ASTRODOME IS OFFICIALLY A STATE LANDMARK. This comes after the Texas
Historical Commission voted unanimously to recognize the Dome for its historic significance and providing it with important legal protections. The designation means that the Astrodome’s owner, Harris County, must consult with and receive permission from the historical commission before pursuing any significant alterations. The county and the commission have been working together closely since the county announced plans to repurpose the Astrodome….. STATE REP. RON REYNOLDS IS HOPING TO GET TEACHERS A RAISE. Reynolds introduced HB 861, which provides for a $400 pay raise for our teachers, full-time librarians and full-time counselors….. CONGRESSWOMAN SHEILA JACKSON LEE HAS
ANNOUNCED A $10 MILLION HIV GRANT. The money, from the United States Department of Health and Human Services to the Harris County Health Department, will provide emergency assistance to current HIV Relief Projects underway….HOUSTONIANS CAN TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FREE TAX PREPARATION, thanks to an effort by the United Way of Greater Houston and Neighborhood Centers Inc. IRS-certified preparers will assist families and individuals earning up to $58,000, helping them retain every dollar of their refund and saving the average $200 cost of professional tax preparation services. For more information on location and hours, visit www.freetaxcenters. org or call the 2-1-1 Texas/United Way HELPLINE.
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
defendernetwork.com
FEBRUARY 2 | 2017 | DEFENDER
national
U.S.briefs A NEW CAMPAIGN CALLS FOR CONGRESS to impeach President Donald Trump on the grounds that he is in violation of the Constitution because he has not dropped his business ties since taking office. Led by the nonprofit group Free Speech For People, the campaign has set up a website for supporters to donate to the cause and learn more about their argument that Trump’s business ties are an impeachable offense. On their site, the group argues that it is imperative, for the sake of the U.S. Constitution, to take action……. DETROIT’S MYYA JONES IS THE YOUNGEST PERSON to run for mayor of the city. Jones, 22, hasn’t graduated from college yet, but that didn’t stop the Michigan State University senior from announcing her candidacy for mayor of her hometown. Jones worked as a Google student ambassador and intern on Capitol Hill. She said the experiences encouraged her to pursue a career in politics. Jones wants to serve those who’ve endured hardship like native Detroit residents whose neighborhoods have yet to see any improvement despite Detroit’s revivals of its downtown and midtown sections…….A CIVIL RIGHTS LEADER IS CALLING ON BLACK NEWSPAPERS to fight President Trump and racism. The Rev. William Barber II, president of the North Carolina NAACP and leader of a movement in that state to overturn voter identification laws, told publishers of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) to fight Trump’s policies. Barber is the pastor of Greenleaf Christian Churches, Disciples of Christ in Goldsboro, N.C., and the architect of the Forward Together Moral Movement that protests the conservative policies of the North Carolina General Assembly. He told the publishers meeting in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., that being subservient to Trump’s agenda is unacceptable. He encouraged the publishers to write stories about the connection of white evangelism and racism in the country.
3
Emmett Till accuser finally admits she lied Defender News Services
The woman who accused 14-yearold Emmett Till of flirting with her in 1955 revealed for the first time that those claims were fabricated. Timothy Tyson, the author of a new book titled “The Blood of Emmett Till,” spoke with Carolyn Bryant Donham, who was 21 years old when she accused Till of making verbal and physical advances toward her. Donham’s claims against Till enraged two white men, Carolyn’s husband Roy Bryant and his half-brother J.W. Milam, who abducted and murdered Till three nights later, leaving his body bludgeoned, bruised and left at the bottom of the Tallahatchie River in Emmett Till Mississippi. The shocking crime underscored racial hatred and injustice in America. Both Milam and Bryant were ultimately acquitted by an all-white, all-male jury. They later admitted to their crime in a story for Look magazine, for which they were compensated $3,000. Donham, who is now 82, testified at the trial. Her testimony further criminalized Till, whose humanity meant little to the jury of white men charged with seeking justice for a young Black man accused of whistling at a white woman. However, as Donham revealed to Tyson in his new book: “That part’s not true.” “Nothing that boy did could ever justify what happened to him,” she said. Donham, who told Tyson that she couldn’t recall what happened during the remainder of the evening, took
Carolyn Bryant
the stand during the trial and claimed she was “scared to death” in the moments that Till approached her. She reportedly asserted that Till had grabbed her and verbally threatened her.” Tyson is the first author to interview Donham, who actually approached Tyson initially because she was writing her memoirs ― which reportedly will not be released until 2036. Donham didn’t “officially repent” for her actions but she admitted to feeling “tender sorrow” for Till’s mother, Mamie Till-Mobley, who died in 2003 and committed her life to relentlessly fighting for civil rights. Tyson’s book, which was released on Jan. 31, reveals more about Donham’s actions, and is described as “cinematically engaging, harrowing and poignant.”
Obama speaks on Trump’s immigration order VOLUME 86 • NUMBER 13 FEBRUARY 2, 2017 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler Digital Editor LaGloria Wheatfall Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Proofer Maia Shelby
Editors ReShonda Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writers Aswad Walker Jasemine Knowles Amber Vernon Sports Editors Max Edison Darrell K. Ardison
The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For subscription, send $60-1 year to: Defender, P.O. Box 8005, Houston TX 77288. Payment must accompany subscription request. All material covered by 2012 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).
Defender News Services
Former President Barack Obama has criticized President Donald Trump’s executive order curbing immigration from seven Muslim countries, backing protesters who have taken to the nation’s airports to express their displeasure with Trump’s action. “The President fundamentally disagrees with the notion of discriminating against individuals because of their faith or religion,” said Kevin Lewis, spokesman for the former president, in a statement. Lewis added that Obama feels the individuals protesting are “exactly what we expect to see when American values are at stake.” This is the first time Obama, who ceded power to
Trump on Jan. 20, has criticized the current president, breaking with an unwritten rule that former presidents refrain from criticizing the current White House occupant. It is also Obama’s first statement since leaving the White House and rejects the comparison between a 2011 temporary immigration order by Obama that halted Iraqis coming to the U.S. and the broader ban by the Trump administration on citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries. Though the current White House has compared Trump’s action to what Obama did in 2011 when “he banned visas for refugees from Iraq for six months,” Obama’s move was much narrower in scope.
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
4
DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 2 | 2017 defendernetwork.com
Trayvon Martin’s parents consider entering politics Defender News Service
Since the death of their son Trayvon Martin, five years ago, his parents Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin have been in the public eye, fighting for justice and raising awareness for not only their son’s death but the murders of other innocent, often unarmed Black men and women. In today’s political climate the parents are thinking about their future in activism and service to their community. “Since Trayvon’s death, we saw how divided the country is on these issues, and we saw how the country can come together,” said Martin Sybrina Fulton, Tracy Martin where they can say, ‘We’ll change the laws, “You have those that are for and we’ll make it tougher.’” uniting the country, and you have those that This position is a far cry from where want to be apart. And what this new presithey saw themselves five years ago “before dency does, it takes those that want to be our life got interrupted,” as Fulton puts it. apart and it puts them right in the position
“Before, I was just comfortable with my average life, but now I feel like I’m just obligated to be part of the change,” Fulton said. “The only way we can be part of the change is if we start with local government and we work our way up.” The couple, who are releasing a new book this year, “Rest in Power”, know that their son’s death was not in vain. Instead, it sparked protests and a national conversation about racial injustice and discrimination. When it comes to politics, Fulton said the sky is the limit. “It could go all the way up to the White House,” Fulton said of their possible upcoming bids, but she said they would begin with a city or county commissioner position.”
defendernetwork.com
FEBRUARY 2 | 2017 | DEFENDER
entertainment
5
Vin Diesel returns in ‘xXx’ sequel
N
By KAM WILLIAMS Contributing Writer
ew York City native Vin Diesel is one of Hollywood’s hottest movie stars. In addition to his huge box-office success, Diesel is a prominent producer and filmmaker and has been honored with both a Hands and Footprint Ceremony at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre as well as a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. “Furious 7,” which he starred in and produced, grossed more than $1.5 billion in worldwide box-office and is the No. 1 grossing film in China’s history. In 2013 he starred in and produced the box-office smash hit “Fast & Furious 6,” which grossed almost $800 million worldwide. He is also set to star in the highly-anticipated “The Fate of the Furious,” which will be in theaters on April 14 and in Disney’s “Guardians of the Galaxy 2,” which will be released in May. Here, Diesel talks about reprising the title role in “xXx: Return of Xander Cage.” Kam Williams: You did sequels to “Pitch Black” and “The Fast and the Furious,” but previously declined when it came to the “xXx” franchise. What made you finally decide to reprise the role of Xander Cage? Vin Diesel: The reason I declined in 2002 was sort of a silly reason. The studio had promised me that I was going to be able to direct Hannibal, and they wanted me to do “xXx 2” before Hannibal. But the script wasn’t
strong enough for me to do that. It had become something other than “xXx.” It was more like “Three Days of the Condor without the fun of “xXx.” But, in truth, a large part of my decision was based on my feeling that I had been promised that I would be able to direct “Hannibal the Conqueror.” After I produced the fourth “Fast and Furious” film, and saw the success of that, I was inspired and challenged by the idea of creating these sagas, these franchises. KW: What would you say was your biggest challenge in returning to the role of “xXx?” VD: Time! These studios can get very
Vin Diesel
Mafia. Universal never wanted me to make this movie. They would just love to keep the golden goose at Universal, and just keep turning out their billion-dollar franchise, from my being the brainchild of it, to then going on set and producing and acting in it. So, it really was a matter of time where I had one little window of opportunity at the beginning of 2016 where I could go make the movie. And we just went for it. To be 100 percent honest, that’s how Hollywood is nowadays. Most people don’t realize that. KW: What’s the biggest difference between who you are at home as opposed to the person we see on the red carpet? VD: When I’m at home, I’m just Daddy. I’m at peace, and not self-aware at all. On the red carpet, I’m a commodity. I realize that, for that moment, I belong to the world, in a way. I try to maintain my truth and my individuality, but I’m mindful that anything I do or say could easily be misconstrued. They’re two very different worlds. I don’t even know if I could articulate just how different they are in one conversation. The person I am at home is so at peace. But even my family knows that once I go out those doors I belong to the world.
what’sup Former President BARACK OBAMA could receive an advance of more than $20 million for his next book. With such a huge price tag, it also has the potential to be the largest paycheck that any former president in U.S. history has received for a post-presidency memoir. By comparison, BILL CLINTON earned $15 million for his 2004 autobiography, “My Life,” while GEORGE W. BUSH snagged $7 million to write the 2010 memoir, ”Decision Points”…..NBC is canceling the third hour of “Today” to make way for MEGAN KELLY. A source said that she will either take over the 9 a.m. hour from TAMRON HALL and
AL ROKER or will replace HODA KOTB and KATHIE LEE GIFFORD…….TINA CAMPBELL of MARY MARY fame has opened up about her support of President DONALD TRUMP. The gospel singer wrote an open letter detailing why she both forgives Trump and why she supports him as president. In the letter, she goes so far as to give biblical reasons as to why everyone should pray for him……..The family drama between PAULA PATTON and ROBIN THICKE has heated up. Patton was recently granted a restraining order against her ex-husband and sole custody of their son, Julian, 6, after alleging that Thicke spanked the child. The
couple has been involved in a contentious divorce… ….”The New Edition Story” proved ratings gold for BET. The three-day series brought the network 19 million viewers. Simulcast on sister network Centric, the telecast was the highest-rated in five years for BET. Also dominating social media, BET was the No. 1 social television network. The series followed the lives of RALPH TRESVANT, MICHAEL BIVINS, RONNIE DEVOE, RICKY BELL and BOBBY BROWN, starting from their Boston roots singing in talent shows to international stardom. The group experienced the roller coaster of fame as they learned the cost of success.
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
6
DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 2 | 2017
cente
African-American police officers face challenges
T
he contentious relationship between Blacks and police has a troubled history that goes back much further than Ferguson police shooting victim Michael Brown or the Black Lives Matter movement (BLM). Often finding themselves in the middle of this fray are Black law enforcement officers forced to wrestle with allegiances and challenges from both sides. Roderick Garner, a Waller County Precinct 3 captain, can relate. Roderick Garner “The most challenging aspect of my job is trying to perform my duties in a community-oriented capacity when the community views you as an enemy,” said Garner, a graduate of Willowridge High School and Texas Southern University’s Thurgood Marshall School of Law (TMSL). Garner represents the middle ground between Blacks and police, readily acknowledging and even defending calls made by many Blacks demanding police reform. “I believe the recent polarization Herbert Ashford of police shootings is, unfortunately, business as usual for many in law enforcement and Black communities,” Garner said. “I would like for those who oppose the BLM movement to consider the existence of simultaneous issues in the Black community. “Yes, Blacks are killing each other, and police are killing Blacks as well. There doesn’t have to be one issue over the other; both need to be addressed,” he said. Garner argues that the Black community has its own work to do to improve the relationship, and believes the best advice for Blacks encountering police is to comply in the moment, and argue later. “Certainly, there have been incidents where the victim did comply only to be shot or abused anyway. However, I’ve witnessed citizens go to great lengths to argue and rebut a case on the side of the road when the courtroom is where the argument should take place,” stated Garner, whose path to law enforcement was unconventional. As his childhood dreams of playing professional baseball dimmed, he sought a career that could hold his interest. “A girlfriend’s father worked for the Houston Police Department. I wanted to impress him as a ‘career-seeking’ young man, and I suppose my pursuit of policing started there.” Sheryl Victorian, who recently became only the second Black woman to reach the rank of HPD captain, knew since she was 9 she wanted to be a cop.
Amazingly, as a toddler Victorian feared police so strongly that when her mother attempted to get her to shake an officer’s hand she fell out kicking and crying. But her mindset changed dramatically after her father’s death. During his funeral Victorian said she saw police at their best. “To avoid being overwhelmed by all that was going on during funeral proceedings I focused on the police who were escorting our family,” she said.” “I saw their compassionate side, how they looked out for my family. I saw the respect they received from others, and I fell in love.” Though numerous Black officers testify to being viewed by other Blacks as “the enemy,” such was not Victorian’s experience. “When I was on the street as a sergeant from 2007 to 2009, people knew me, and trusted me. There may be apprehension and distrust from people in general, but it’s all in an officer’s approach,” she said. Like Garner, Victorian graduated from TMSL and believes Black Lives Matter. “For the community to see a person they know in law enforcement with the community’s best interest at heart is important,” she said. “I can bridge that gap between community and police, because yes, I am African-American and believe Black Lives Matter and in treating all people with respect. I also believe in working with the community for better policing.” Herbert Ashford, a commander (lieutenant) with the Dallas Police Department with nearly 30 years of law enforcement experience, shares Victorian’s commitment to community policing but holds a different opinion of protesters calling for police reform, labelling their tactics “unnecessarily antagonistic.” “Everyone has the constitutional right to protest government but I ensure you that today’s police departments want to listen and work with the community they serve,” Ashford said. “This process is easier if all come to the table with open minds and not seeking self-serving tactics that don’t promote dialogue.” Ashford, also a Willowridge alumnus with a master’s in Human Resources and Training from Amberton University, hopes to dispel what he identifies as the biggest misconception citizens have about police – that they are out to get people. He unequivocally rejects the notion that police are targeting Blacks. “In no way am I excusing or trying to justify all of the
BLACK
By ASW D
Sheryl Victorian is the second Black woman to become HPD captain.
shootings but I believe that media and some groups are sensationalizing shootings,” he said. “The dynamics of officer use of force are complex and do not lend themselves to surface and snap assessment based on limited information.” Ashford insists officers do not take the use of deadly force lightly and understand the serious criminal investigative consequences involved. “Like any organization you have officers that do things wrong but most officers only want to serve the community.” As a rookie officer, Ashford was nearly shot. He kept the bullet to remind him of the dangers of his profession, a reality that became all too real for him when five members of the Dallas law enforcement community were killed in July by Micah Johnson. “Officers understand from day one that the job is inherently dangerous and as a by-product of the job officers are always on a higher state of alert,” Ashford said. “The issue today is what appears to be retaliatory attacks on police officers for perceived unjust uses of force.” Victorian said bridging the police/Black community divide requires communication. “It’s like being in a spousal relationship – both sides want to be heard and their issues addressed,” she said.
i
Capt. ployed alo volved in within the Capt. communit about peo with peop compariso that gap. T ing down. job.” Lt. H of departm programs communit public via pel misco
defendernetwork.com • Serving th
erfold
K IN BLUE
WAD WALKER Defender
Suggestions for improving relations
. Roderick Garner: “I believe a special prosecutor should be emong with an independent investigation whenever an officer is ina shooting. To allow a prosecutor who has ties and relationships e police department to pursue justice in these cases is absurd.” . Sheryl Victorian: “Police officers need to be more engaged in ty activities, get out of police cars and show a genuine concern ople and their concerns. When possible, officers should follow up ple after a specific call. I don’t think we [HPD] do a bad job. In on to other larger cities, we do a decent job of trying to bridge There may be a few smaller cities that have this community polic. Are there areas we can improve? Yes. But we don’t do a bad
Herbert Ashford: “Police should continue what the majority ments are doing, maintain and grow their community policing . Law enforcement has to be responsive to the concerns of the ty. Educate the public from small group programs to the general a various types of media, working to foster relationships and disonceptions about police work.”
he Houston area for over 85 years
defendernetwork.com
BLACKS & POLICE
A troubled history Police origins
According to Victor E. Kappeler, Ph.D., professor, School of Justice Studies, Eastern Kentucky University, “The birth and development of the American police can be traced to a multitude of historical, legal and political-economic conditions. The institution of slavery and the control of minorities, however, were two of the more formidable historic features of American society shaping early policing. “Slave patrols and night watches, which later became modern police departments, were both designed to control the behaviors of minorities…In 1704, the colony of Carolina developed the nation’s first slave patrol. Slave patrols helped to maintain the economic order and to assist the wealthy landowners in recovering and punishing slaves who essentially were considered property.”
Police & Black equality
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, FBI records reveal the federal government under the banner of the FBI’s Counter Intelligence Program (COINTELPRO) targeted groups and individuals deemed subversive. Many of these groups were part of the “New Left,” including those connected to the Civil Rights and Black Power Movements.
The FBI solicited the services of state, county, and local police to serve as frontline troops. Local police were involved in shootouts with the Black Panthers in several incidents across California, and were used to raid the headquarters of Chicago’s Black Panther Party, where they shot and killed its leader, Fred Hampton. J. Edgar Hoover, who led the FBI for nearly 50 years, was the architect of COINTELPRO. Hoover began his career working to neutralize Black leader Marcus Garvey and his Universal Negro Improvement Association in the 1920s.
Police & riots
In the early 1920s, Race Riots broke out across the country, with whites violently attacking and killing thousands of Blacks. Countless news sources reported that police often turned a blind eye to those inflicting harm on Blacks or participated in the actions. The riots of the 1960s, which spread from Watts to Newark, were each said to have been ignited by community members’ responses to reports of police brutality. (Sources: “A Brief History of Slavery and the Origins of American Policing;” “The Fire This Time: The Watts Uprising and the 1960s” by Dr. Gerald Horne; “Riot and Remembrance” by James Hirsch)
7
8
DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 2 | 2017 defendernetwork.com
PBS programs celebrate Black history To honor Black History Month, and as part of its commitment to celebrate the diversity of America year-round, PBS presents documentaries and specials that highlight the African-American experience. New offerings reflect on the contributions of icons like the late Maya Angelou, applaud beloved artists like Smokey Robinson and showcase independent documentaries about the valiant efforts of those pushHenry Louis ing for change. Programs include: Gates “Austin City Limits: CeCe Winans/ St. Paul & The Broken Bones,” Saturday, day, Feb. 13, 9 p.m. – AfricanFeb. 4, 8 p.m. – Gospel star CeCe Winans and breakout American musician Daryl Davis sensations St. Paul & the Broken Bones perform. befriends members of the Ku Klux “Mercy Street,” Season 2, Sundays, Feb. 5-19, 7 p.m. Klan in an attempt to change their – Follows the story of doctors, nurses, laborers and Southern minds and forge racial conciliation. loyalists in Union-occupied Alexandria, Va., during the Civil “The Talk: Race in War. Maya Angelou America,” Monday, Feb. 20, 8 “Independent Lens: “Birth of a Movement,” Monp.m. – Black and Hispanic families day, Feb. 6, 9 p.m. ET – D.W. Griffith’s 1915 film “The Birth counsel their kids on staying safe if of a Nation” unleashed a battle still being waged today over they are stopped by the police. race relations. Features Spike Lee, Reginald Hudlin, Henry “American Masters: Maya Angelou – And Still I Louis Gates Jr. and others. Rise,” Tuesday, Feb. 21, 7 p.m. – The author, poet, enter“Smokey Robinson: The Library of Congress tainer and activist is profiled, with interviews with Oprah Gershwin Prize for Popular Song,” Friday, Feb. 10, 8 p.m. Winfrey, Common and the Clintons. – Samuel L. Jackson hosts an all-star tribute to singer/song“Austin City Limits: Kendrick Lamar,” Saturday, writer Robinson, with an appearance by Motown founder Feb. 25, 8 p.m. – Experience an hour of contemporary hipBerry Gordy. hop from Grammy-nominated Lamar. “Independent Lens: Accidental Courtesy,” Mon“Africa’s Great Civilizations,” Monday-Wednesday, T:9.75”
Smokey Robinsons
Feb. 27-March 1, 8 p.m. – The documentary series with Henry Louis Gates features epic stories of African kingdoms and cultures. In addition to scheduled programming, PBS will air shows in February with the times and dates to be announced. They include profiles of the Black Panthers, writer/activist Alice Walker, blues great B.B. King and the late Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley. Visit pbs.org for more information.
T:6.5”
IT’S A WINNING IDEA! The Texas Lottery Commission is committed to including Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs) in its procurement opportunities.Your minority or woman-owned company may qualify to be certified as a Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) with the State of Texas.
To learn more about the State of Texas HUB Program, visit the Texas Procurement and Support Services web page at: http://www.window.state.tx.us/procurement/prog/hub/
© 2017 Texas Lottery Commission. All Rights Reserved.
For information about state certification and Texas Lottery opportunities, contact our HUB Coordinator, Eric Williams at (512) 344-5241 or eric.williams@lottery.state.tx.us
defendernetwork.com
FEBRUARY 2 | 2017 | DEFENDER
9
Former Black Panther
Elaine Brown comes to Houston
Brown views recent national protests of kind of signal to me that a mass resistance Brown is still bothered by the misconcepPresident Trump’s election and early policies will come out of the mix. I’m hoping some tions about BPP members being thugs, gangsters as a positive omen. “In the’ 60s we had the Black people will arise and again talk about and drug dealers. She argues, they were benefit of multiple movements; a movement the liberation of Black people. The moment Elaine Brown, one-time chairperson of the revolutionaries – and well-read, with members T:4.79” culture. The recent Women’s March was a has arrived; the time has come.” Black Panther Party for Self Defense (BPP), is coming from local universities as well as the coming to Houston’s Shrine Cultural and Events streets. Center (5309 MLK Blvd.) on Saturday, Feb. 11 “Our primary goal was the liberation of These Texas Lottery Commission at 5 p.m. to share stories about her past, but foBlack people in America; to raise consciousscratch ticket games will be closing soon: cus mainly on creating a new movement today. ness and create conditions for our people to Official End Though Brown’s life is well-chronicled in move from an oppressive state to a free state,” Game # Game Name / Odds $ Close of Validations her best-selling book, “A Taste of Power,” she Game Date she said. patiently fields questions about In so doing, the BPP 2/11/17 8/10/17 1814 Holiday Loteria - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.96 $3 how she came to become a confronted misogyny, as Black Panther. well. 1781 Casino Cash - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.69 $10 2/13/17 8/12/17 Living in Los Angeles “The brothers of the amid the Watts riots of the BPP didn’t come down from mid-1960s, Brown said, “It was revolutionary heaven, and 1753 100X The Cash - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.48 $20 2/23/17 8/22/17 almost impossible to be unconneither did the sisters. The scious then, yet I managed to same chauvinism that existed 1805 Pitbull - Overall Odds are 1 in 4.42 $2 4/5/17 10/2/17 do so.” That is, until she started in society existed in us.” teaching piano lessons to Black Brown added. “But sisters 1769 $250,000 Extreme Green - Overall Odds are 1 in 3.19 $10 4/5/17 10/2/17 girls in a Watts housing project. in the party weren’t about to The experience drew her out of Elaine Brown in 1960s take any [stuff]. We had guns For detailed odds and game information, visit txlottery.org or call 800-375-6886. Must be 18 or older to purchase a ticket. The Texas Lottery supports Texas education and her Beverly Hills bubble, and too.” veterans. PLAY RESPONSIBLY. For help with a gambling problem, ncpgambling.org. slowly into the movement. Brown said the BPP © 2017 Texas Lottery Commission. All rights reserved. “I became consciously was ahead on many issues, Black, but still not revolutionsymbolized by Newton’s Auary,” she said about her life gust 1970 declaration that the before meeting one of the cause of women’s liberation BPP’s most dynamic leaders – and gay liberation were Bunche Carter. part of our struggle; and “We were at a meeting by the words he reiterated 1 W63838_HNDF_EOG_AFAM_0202.indd sitting around being Black often: “I’m not a man, I’m Non printed at 11:03 AM 396-MB15 and reading our poems, and from by Tommy Salazar / Eddie Jacobson saved not a woman; I’mat just 1-20-2017 a Elaine Brown Bunche burst in and announced plain born child.” approvals fonts & images job info that the Black Panther Party Still, Brown’s main creative dir None job # W63838 Fonts had arrived. They came in 20 brothers deep, all focus is on the present, andclient the lack ofTEXAS a LOTTERY art director None Helvetica Neue LT Std (95 Black, 57 Condensed copywriter None headline/tag FEB EOG AD Condensed, 87 Heavy Condensed, 77 Bold Cond strapped with guns. Then, he read some poems.” Black plan of action. account mgr MEGAN TRUMETER trim 4.79” x 3.25” (Regular) proofreader None bleed None For Brown, that moment was a game“When I’m asked about the movement live None Images changer. today, I can’t see it. There’s nocolor mass movesetup BW None notes HOUSTON DEFENDER “You couldn’t pretend anymore. The ment; no focus,” she said. vendor/pub media type NEWSPAPER Inks DUE: 01/26 gauntlet had been thrown down. Bunche showed Black cut country None These days Brown travelsdiethe PUB: 02/02 how you could commit your life to a movement seeking to inspire young people to “push past beyond poetry readings and attending protests. fear and comfort with injustice” in order to You had to make a choice.” organize a movement to change the entire sys2500 bee caves rd • suite 300 • austin, tx 78746 In 1968, after the assassinations of Dr. 512.479.6200 f 512.479.6024 tem. The 72-year-old remains toptimistic about Martin Luther King Jr. and U.S. Sen. Bobby getting young people to realize they “can’t live Kennedy, Brown chose the Black Panthers. solely through hashtags and Twitter.” By ASWAD WALKER Defender
LEGAL NOTICE
T:3.25”
Prepared by LatinWorks Marketing, Inc. 2012. All rights reserved.
10
DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 2 | 2017
defendernetwork.com
sports
Gridiron Glory comes to TSU
I
By MAX EDISON Defender
t’s being hailed as the greatest testament to pro football this side of Canton, Ohio. It’s called Gridiron Glory and it’s on display at Texas Southern University through April 30 at the University Museum. Displayed for the first time on an HBCU campus, Gridiron Glory is a 6,000 squarefoot traveling exhibit. Organized by the Pro Football Hall of Fame in association with NFL Films, the exhibit gives viewers a panoramic view of the story of professional football, from its humble beginnings in the early 20th century to its status today as a cultural phenomenon. Inspirational stories of the game’s pioneers, top athletes, coaches and unique plays will unfold for patrons. The exhibit includes more than 200 artifacts from the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s collection, rare documents, awardwinning photography and a 500 square-foot area reserved for the venue’s home team, the Houston Texans, as well as the team formerly known as the Houston Oilers, now the Tennessee Titans. In addition, the Gridiron The Lombardi Glory exhibit will be suppleTrophy mented with the new Black College Football Hall of Fame display and Tigers in the NFL, a tribute to TSU players who made their mark in the league. The interactive multimedia experience includes original artifacts, rare documents, immersive fan experiences, educational programming and remarkable footage from NFL Films showcasing the American legacy of the game of football and its historical significance. Many of the items on display in Houston will be available for the first time. The exhibit includes the Vince Lombardi Trophy, an authentic interactive instant-replay booth, Knute Rockne’s 1919 Massillon Tigers helmet, Jim Brown’s jersey worn in an actual game, and Emmitt Smith’s rushing-record game mementos, among other highlights. Tony Wyllie, Washington Redskins senior vice president of communications and a proud TSU alum, reflected on the TSU/NFL relationship. “So much of this relationship was fostered a few years ago when Michael Strahan was inducted into the Hall of Fame” Wyllie said. “The world will have
Ken Houston
Michael Strahan
Aeneas Williams
an opportunity to see the beauty of the Texas Southern campus while enjoying an outstanding, history-making exhibit.” Three HBCU SWAC legends featured in the display are Strahan (Hall of Fame 2014), Prairie View A&M University’s Ken Houston (HOF 1986) and Southern University’s Aeneas Williams (HOF 2014). “Even as an inductee into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, I am still amazed when I view all of the football memorabilia that’s in this spectacular exhibit,” said Houston, a former Oiler and Redskin. “I always wanted all of my family, fans and friends to see this…and now that the Canton ex-
hibit is traveling to Houston they will be able to see it.” “I am thrilled to be associated with Gridiron Glory,” sawid Williams, who played with the Arizona Cardinals and St. Louis Rams. “This exhibit highlights all of the key moments in the history of the game and is a must visit for all football fans.” Tickets for the exhibit are $20. Visit www.ticketmaster.com or call 713-313-7933.
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
defendernetwork.com
FEBRUARY 2 | 2017 | DEFENDER
h.s.zone
sportsbriefs
Malon Garner ‘drives the bus’ for Yates
M
By DARRELL K. ARDISON Defender
alon Garner has a ticket to drive and a green light to get from one destination to another. The Yates High School freshman point guard has her team on the road to the playoffs after making the transition from middle school star to high school stalwart. “Malon normally drives the bus for us,” said Yates head coach Jun DeHorney. “She takes care of the ball, always plays great defense and can be depended on to make the right decision with the ball. She does very well for a freshman.” In a recent 47-28 victory over North Forest that nailed down second place in District 11-4A, Garner scored six consecutive points in the second quarter to give the Lions some breathing room (21-9). To begin the third quarter she drilled a 3-pointer as Yates began to pull away (34-12) for good. “Malon loves to shoot and she has not met a shot that she doesn’t like to take,” DeHorney said. “That’s just fine because she won’t hesitate to take a pressure shot. “She’s one of those rare players who comes along every six or seven years,” DeHorney said. “We’re glad to have her at Yates High School.” Garner and fellow freshman Annette Clark combine with juniors Chade Gladney, Brianna Cloud and Miya Crump along with senior Mya Banks to form the nucleus of the 2017 Yates’ varsity squad. Crump scored a teamhigh 13 points against North Forest while Banks and Garner added 12 and 11, respectively. “This was one of those wins that you just have to gut out,” DeHorney said. “The other team knows what you’re doing and you just have to do it better than them. This was one of those times that we decided to play good defense.” Garner said the desire to succeed was instilled in her at an early age by family members
11
defendernetwork.com Former player and current coach is excited about her freshman class
and two well-known basketball icons. “My whole family played basketball and while I was growing up I wanted to be one of those family members that go and travel and make it somewhere in life,” she said. “I was always motivated by LeBron James and Brittney Griner of Baylor University as well,” Garner said. “That’s what got me started.” DeHorney wasn’t sure if Garner would attend Yates following a stellar career at Cullen Middle School. “I knew a lot of people were interested in her. She was well sought-after coming out of middle school,” he said. “When she did sign in at Yates I was very happy and that was the start of positive things for us.” Garner said there was never any doubt in her mind where she would attend high school. “A lot of different people talked to me, but I thought that Jack Yates would be the right place for me,” Garner said. “It was kind of rough at first,” she said. “I had to get used to playing against bigger and stronger girls. “Now when my team shuts down I know how to move the ball around and get us back on track,” Garner said.
About Malon Garner Birth date – April 11, 2002 Birth sign – Aries Favorite subject– Math Favorite meal – Seafood How she relaxes – Dancing, singing Problem she’d like to solve – World peace
Check out Gimme A Minute: HS Sports at www.DefenderNetwork.com
Serena, Venus dominate “Age ain’t nothing but a number” wasn’t coined by Venus and Serena Williams but they gave a clear indication that it’s an axiom they live by. Serena bested Venus in the recent finals of the Australian Open. At age 35, Serena captured her 23rd Grand Slam victory, a record in the modern Open era. At age 36, big sister Venus was able to rebound from the many physical ailments she has endured over the years to serve notice that she could still hold her own with the best in the world. “I felt like it was more just a celebration for everything we’ve done in sports, everything we’ve done for women, everything we’ve tried to do to inspire people,” Serena said. “[Australia] was my first slam. My first big match against Venus was right here on this stadium court…I felt like everything had really come full circle.” Venus reflected on their place in sports. “I don’t think we’re going for the greatest story in sports; we’re just going for some dreams,” she said. “In case we are [among the greatest in sports], what an honor, what an honor.”
More trouble for Baylor Like a Tyler Perry saga on OWN, the Baylor University football program keeps turning out dramatic storylines. A lawsuit filed recently by a former female student alleges that the program fostered a culture in which alcohol and illegal drugs were provided to recruits, and that coaches encouraged female students in the Baylor Bruins hostess program to have sex with recruits and players.
Milestone for Patterson
North Shore all-state point guard Chasity Patterson exploded on the scene as a freshman and continues to set off fireworks as a senior. As a freshman Patterson averaged 17.6 points per game and the University of Texas signee is currently scoring just under 29 ppg as a senior. In a recent 72-49 win over Atascocita, Patterson tallied 26 points to surpass the 3,000-point plateau for her illustrious career. She scored 12 points in the first quarter, and hit 3,000 with her first field goal of the second stanza. She finished the game with 3,012 career points. Patterson’s season high was 49 points in a 78-68 victory over Cypress Woods. She’s had five games with 40 or more points. North Shore is 24-4 on the season and 10-0 in District 21-6A. Patterson is currently ranked the No. 4 girls’ high school basketball recruit in the U.S. by ESPN’s HoopGurlz 2017 rankings.
Seraille erupts for 35 Yates’ 6-foot-7 post Mitchell Seraille pounded Wheatley for 35 points in the paint as the Lions prevailed 105-75 at Barnett Fieldhouse. Seraille had 19 points in the first half and 16 points after halftime. Yates led 26-19 after the first quarter and 48-34 at intermission. The advantage swelled to 75-54 entering the fourth period. A Rubin Jones 3-pointer gave the Lions a 100-66 edge. Jock Hughes and Joquarius Valrie added 14 points each. Yates will face league-leading North Forest on Feb. 3 at Barnett Fieldhouse with a 7:30 p.m. tipoff.
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years
12
DEFENDER | FEBRUARY 2 | 2017
defendernetwork.com
Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com
topevents
100 BLACK MEN CASINO COUTURE……..100 Black Men of Metropolitan Plummer, CEO of Maxwello Dental; Nicole West, CEO of NCA Investigations; fashion Houston hosted its Annual Holiday Social Casino Couture – The Great Gatsby Edition designer Toni Whitaker; and HPD Officer Mary Young. David Johns, executive at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. The annual holiday social serves as the director of the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African-Americans, 100’s platform for funding vital program needs for the upcoming year such as weekly was the keynote speaker. The gala is a signature fundraising event. In attendance were mentoring sessions, college tours for high school students, and leadership conferences Smahrt Girl Foundation Founder Pamela Ellis, honorary chairs Dr. Austin and Mrs. for collegiate chapters of the 100 Black Men. In attendance were Ronald Jackson, Loren Lane, committee chair Erica Rouse, Damali Keith of Fox 26, Torsha Johnson, Regina Jackson, Russell Price, Sherridan Schwartz, Ida Ford, Alonzo Ford, Ashamarah Heath and many more……..SBSB GAME CHANGERS GALA & Steven Carter, Ronald Jackson, Vanta Ward, Amanda Ward, FUNDRAISER…….. Simply But Sexy Beauty (SBSB) hosted James Stancil, Tonya Stancil, Denotra Steward, Mary King, Defender TOP EVENTS the Game Changer Black Tie Gala at the Crowne Plaza Houston Brian Wright, Monica Jaynes, Reco Caston and a host of More photos on defendernetwork.com Near Reliant. The fundraiser benefits the Houston Area Women’s others……..SMAHRT GIRL BRUNCH AND BALL GOWNS Center. The center’s mission is to help individuals affected by GALA……..The Smahrt Girl Foundation recently held its second domestic and sexual violence in their efforts to move their lives Annual Brunch & Ball Gowns Benefit Gala at the Hotel ZaZa Museum District. The forward. They provide shelter, counseling and advocacy to support them in building lives free from the effects of violence. In attendance were John Lee, Tiffany Lenard, Curtis Brunch and Ball Gowns event honored Lashanda Gary, founder of Dream.Build. Success; Mandy Kao, founder of Mandy Kao Foundation; Delesa O’Dell-Thomas, Von, B. Wallace, Denise Jackson, Sydney Pipkin, Bobbie LaBarre, Tony LaBarre, principal of HISD Young Women’s College Preparatory Academy; Dr. Leticia Anthony King, Pamela King and many more.
Ronald Jackson, Regina Jackson
Sherridan Schwartzz, Russell Price
Joseph Gathe, Pamela Ellis, Deanna Gathe
Brandon Brown, Chef Timothy Banks
Teresa Davis, Erica Davis Rouse, Gloria Davis
Tiffany Lenard, Curtis Von, B. Wallace
Alonzo Ford, Ida Ford
Jackie Adams, Mary Young, Darian Ward
Bobbie LaBarre, Tony LaBarre
defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 85 years