Houston Defender: June 16, 2022

JUNETEENTH 2022

HOW HOUSTONIANS CAN COMMEMORATE THE 157 YEAR CELEBRATION.

FEATURE

ROSHUNDA JONES-KOUMBA The Acres Homes drama teacher took home top honors with a Tony Award for excellence in theater education.

Volume 91, issue 31 June 16, 2022

facebook.com/defendernetwork twitter.com/defendernetwork

SPORTS

DESHAUN WATSON

The former Texans quarterback is breaking his silence about the controversial sex charges. instagram.com/defendernetwork defendernetwork.com

FREE

2 | June 16, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN To The Point

U.S. Capitol Police Sgt. Harry Dunn, left, and U.S. Capitol Police Sgt. Aquilino Gonell, and others, listen as the House select committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol holds its first public hearing to reveal the findings of a year-long investigation, at the Capitol in Washington. AP

Message from the Associate Editor JAN. 6 HEARINGS: TIME WILL REVEAL

The roughly 30 Proud Boy types in that U-Haul minutes away from inflicting mayhem on that Idaho Pride parade was just a preview. And as the Jan. 6 hearings have revealed, membership in these criminal white domestic terrorist groups sky-rocketed leading up to the insurrection, and have continued to grow. So, we can either spend our time focusing on Rihanna’s new baby and the Johnny Depp/Amber Heard decision, or we can begin having serious conversations about how we can protect our families and communities.

For many, the Jan. 6 insurrection/coup hearings haven’t revealed anything we didn’t already know. Sure, there’s new video and testimonies from Trumpites calling their boss a criminal. But we already knew that. And we may not have known Trump’s “Stop the Steal” org took in $250 million the week after the 2020 election, but it didn’t surprise anyone that none of that quarter billion went to “stop” the non-existent Aswad Walker “steal.” And, I’m certain these hearings will reveal the insurrection money trail, uncovering the billionaire CEOs who funded the overthrow of U.S. democracy; JUNETEENTH IS… and the Republican lawmakers who had roles in the crime.

Here in Texas, we’re very familiar with the histories of But, it’s not like we didn’t know white supremacy existed Juneteenth, both 1) the white-washed version that proin “high” places. However, what we don’t know is whether motes the myth that word of Emancipation simply didn’t these hearings will reveal to the world “what is” or “what reach Texas until June 1865, and when it did, Gen. Gordon can be.” What is: A two-tier justice system where Tamir Granger opened the doors to freedom for us; and 2) the Rice, Rekia Boyd, Philando Castile, Breonna Taylor, etc. reality that our ancestors were purposefully kept enslaved for experienced the justice system as judge, jury and execu- 2 ½ additional years to exploit them to the Nth degree, and tioner all in a matter of minutes, though guilty of no crime; when freedom did come, it came in the form of Granger’s while powerful whitefolk, funded by wealthy whitefolk, used mostly Black troops who went from plantation to plantation working class whitefolk to violently and illegally attempt making sure we were freed. to overthrow a democratic election, and went home that And we’ve seen how this state observance has grown to evening with no worry of arrest. What can be: All those become a national holiday and international phenomenon. thugs, rich and poor, actually being held accountable for But hey, Defender CEO Sonceria Messiah Jiles is challenging their crimes of murder, assault and sedition…all to de-le- us to not stop there. Check out her powerful ideas on how gitimize legitimate Black votes. we can use Juneteenth more strategically in her editorial which can be found at www.WordInBlack.com.

WHITE BOY SUMMER

Last year, Chet Hanks, artist and son of legendary actor Tom Hanks, called for a “White Boy Summer,” i.e. young, white males who were comfortable with Black people and Black culture to kick back and enjoy life. This year, however, white nationalists have adopted that phrase as a rallying cry to ratchet up the violence against any folk not in their group.

ON THE WEB

• GM Motors, 713 Motoring launch program for at-risk youth.

• Experts speak on how to heal Black generational trauma.

• TSU student honored as White House Initiative HBCU Scholar.

June 16, 2022 |

| 3

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN News

Environmental racism State Senator Miles sponsors bus to Austin for hearing on June 22

Defender News Service

State Senator Borris Miles is sponsoring a bus to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Sunset Advisory Committee Meeting on June 22 to charge them with environmental racism in hopes they will not only clean up their act, but clean up the pollution in multiple Black and Latinx communities.

The meeting will be at the Texas Capitol in Austin at 9 a.m.

Every 12 years, the State of Texas conducts a top-to-bottom review of each state agency, which can result in operational changes in the way an agency works. The TCEQ will have to defend if they are fulfilling its mission, to reduce and prevent pollution and protect the state’s public health.

In a recent press release, Miles stated, “Communities of color have been plagued by environmental racism for decades.

From concrete batch plants to contaminated creosote sites, these facilities have caused irreparable harm to the residents’

State Senator Borris Miles says sign up for the bus trip by Fri., June 17, 2022.

health and well-being. The TCEQ is responsible for approving permits for these industries, and time and again, the people speak out against these facilities and rarely is an action taken. On June 22, the Sunset Advisory Commission will hold a hearing for Texans to speak on their experiences with TCEQ and what changes are needed to improve the agency and protect the community.”

The bus is currently scheduled to depart on June 22 from Miles’ Northeast Office (3300 Lyons Avenue, Houston, TX 77020) at 6a.m., though that time is subject to change.

Secure parking will be made available across the street from the office at Mickey Leland College Preparatory Academy for Young Men (1700 Gregg St., Houston, TX 77020).

Those interested in going, or getting any related questions answered are encouraged to email Borris.Miles@senate. texas.gov or call 713-665-8322. The deadline for signing up is Friday, June 17, 2022.

Hire Houston Youth 2022 interns hit ground running Defender News Service

This week marked the first days of work for interns enrolled in Mayor Sylvester Turner’s signature Hire Houston Youth (HHY) employment program. Thousands of young people reported for duty in various jobs throughout the public, private and philanthropic sectors where they will spend the summer “earning and learning.”

Hire Houston Youth is designed to serve as a facilitator to connect young people ages 16 – 24 to eight-week paid local jobs and internships where they will gain valuable work experience, develop leadership skills and build social capital to prepare them for a future filled with opportunity and success in Houston’s dynamic economy.

In 2016, HHY launched with 450 City of Houston jobs and internships. That number has increased its reach to over 30,000 in 2022.

“This year, Hire Houston Youth kickedoff with the hope that it would play a major part in the city’s resiliency and recovery and help Houston’s youth get back to work,” said Turner. “Hire Houston Youth works to maximize the economic potential of youth and young adults by connecting them to opportunities and resources that are necessary to thrive in today’s globalized economy.”

Turner included HHY in the One Safe

Houston crime reduction initiative to effectively reduce crime among young participants. According to the Brookings Institute, summer youth employment programs are a proven tool in preventing crime and improving school outcomes.

“ConocoPhillips is pleased to partner with Mayor Turner’s Hire Houston Youth.

Programs like this strengthen our community and equip our youth for future career success,” said Kyla Gonzales, manager, Talent Management, ConocoPhillips. “We look forward to welcoming six students to our Finance Co-Op program this summer and providing them meaningful, hands-on experiences and learning opportunities.”

Turner set an ambitious goal for Hire Houston Youth to offer 12,000 available opportunities. The HHY program has now achieved this goal, offering more than 13,500 opportunities on its Job Board located at https://hirehoustonyouth.force. com/s/job-board. According to the Mayor’s Office, this goal could not have been achieved without dedicated employers in the Houston community.

Employers interested in joining Hire Houston Youth can visit https://hirehoustonyouth.org/employers/, and young adults wanting to register can visit: https://hirehoustonyouth.org/youth/.

Mayor Sylvester Turner (front right) greets Hire Houston Youth 2022 interns. Photo courtesy the Mayor’s Office.

4 | June 16, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN News

Supreme Court Black voters urged not to sit out 2022 midterms allows death sentence for Black TX man Defender News Service

NNPA

The failure of Congress to pass legislation like the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act have frustrated African Americans. With new voter suppression laws, the leaked Roe V. Wade opinion, and the assault on many other rights, some question whether the voting bloc that allowed Democrats to take the White House and control both houses of Congress will abandon the polls during the midterm election.

“Black voters are understandably frustrated with the lack of reform around voter rights, but the lack of success with this is due to actions by Republicans, not Democrats,” insisted Dr. Michal Strahilevitz, the director of the Elfenworks Center for Responsible Business and marketing professor at Saint Mary’s College of California.

“Black voters are far more pragmatic than most segments of the Democratic voter base. I expect them to show up not so much to reward Democrats for their lackluster success, as to limit the power Republicans have to stop the necessary reforms,” Strahilevitz continued.

“In short, Black voters are not just a loyal part of the Democratic base, and they are a very practical one too.”

Daniel Chan, chief technology officer at Marketplace Fairness, added that Black voters have several concerns that Democrats haven’t adequately addressed.

“These include police reform, voting rights, and economic inequality.

If they do not turn out to vote in the

Voters came out in record numbers in 2020.

We’re going to have to do it again in 2022 if we want to keep America moving away from (the) destruction of the Trump years.

-Karen Finney midterms, the Democrats could lose control of Congress,” Chan said. “The party has plans to address some of these concerns, but more needs to be done.

Black voters are an essential part of the Democratic coalition, and it is important that the party does more to address their concerns,” he concluded.

The Black Lives Matter co-founder who now leads Black Futures Lab, Alicia Garza, observed the strict voter requirements that include restrictions for returning mail-in ballots. Noting the unique challenges faced by Black voters, Black Futures Lab partnered with other groups to look closer at vote-bymail in three states: Alabama, Nevada and Texas.

DN ONLINE

“The first solution and probably the only solution to turn the tide of the ongoing and multiple assaults on our rights is to build independent progressive Black political power,” Garza said. “We must equip Black voters with the tools necessary to be powerful.

Unfortunately, Black voters are targeted by misinformation and disinformation every day,” she said.

“In 2020, Black voters were getting messages online telling them not to go to the polls, so we must make sure that our people can get to the polls and challenge the laws and policies that keep us from making important decisions.

Black voters are kept from being powerful on purpose, policies the conservative movement has designed.”

Krystal Leaphart of Black Girls Vote said her organization begins engaging young girls as early as middle school with the mantra that “our vote is our voice.” “We target all age groups and communities of Black girls, and we seek to educate and empower Black girls. However, we must make sure that those on the margins are fully engaged,” Leaphart stated.

“Many young people are shocked at the amount of power that we collectively have,” Leaphart said. “When we engage young Black girls, they are excited to vote, and the earlier we get to people and get them excited about the process and get them civically engaged, the better we will be.”

How the voting issues are affecting young people.

The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that the death sentence of a Houston man will stand, reversing a 2020 decision that sent the case back to a lower court.

Terence Andrus was convicted of capital murder in 2008 at the age of 20. His lawyers argued that Texas courts didn’t follow an earlier Supreme Court ruling concerning his legal repreTerence Andrus sentation at trial and at sentencing, including whether or not Andrus was a danger to the community.

The case was returned to the high court after it reversed the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals’ affirmance of Andrus’ death sentence and sent the case back to it to further review claims of ineffective counsel in 2020.

The Texas court ruled against Andrus without hearing oral arguments, prompting his case’s final return to the Supreme Court.

Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Stephen Breyer and Elena Kagan dissented.

Sotomayor noted that the lower court’s “defiance” of orders from the Supreme Court to reconsider Andrus’ background of mental health and a childhood that included a teenage mother who engaged in drug use and prostitution “substantially erodes confidence in the functioning of the legal system.” She maintained that the Texas court “erred in its analysis of prejudice as to both unpresented mitigating evidence and unexplored evidence rebutting the State’s case in aggravation.”

Andrus was convicted of shooting and killing Avelino Diaz and a bystander, Kim-Phuong Vu Bui, in an attempted carjacking in 2008 while under the influence of PCP-laced marijuana. He was sentenced to death for capital murder, but during his 2012 sentencing, the jury had questions about whether he was a danger to society.

VOLUME 91 - NUMBER 31 - JUNE 16, 2022 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Managing Editor ReShonda Tate

Chief Development Officer Emelda Douglas

Associate Editor Aswad Walker

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

Education Reporter Laura Onyeneho

Creative Director Michael Grant

Sports Terrance Harris Jodie B. Jiles

Administrative Asst.

Stacey Palmer

Photographers Jimmie Aggison

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Newspaper Inc. and audited by Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). Only digital subscriptions are available at: www.defendernetwork.com/subscribe No paper subscriptions available. All materials covered by 2020 copyright.

No materials herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. 713-663-6996 | P.O. Box 8005, Houston, Tx 77288

June 16, 2022 |

| 5

DEFENDER NETWORK

Big news and bigger savings!

Introducing super awesome savings on Internet, streaming, and Mobile!

Now, connect to more of what you love for less with the all-new Xfinity 3-for-1 Bundle! That’s Unlimited Internet, one line of Unlimited Mobile with 5G, and a free Flex 4K streaming box — for about the same price you could pay another provider for just one Unlimited mobile line with 5G. Get Xfinity Internet, with WiFi equipment included and a 2-year rate guarantee with no term contract required.

Xfinity Internet required. Reduced speeds after 20 GB of usage/line.

Xfinity Internet with

Unlimited data 1-800-Xfinity

Free 4K streaming box

xfinity.com/3for1

One line of

Unlimited Xfinity Mobile with 5G

Visit a store today

Limited-time offer. Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. For new Xfinity Internet and Xfinity Mobile residential customers only. xFi Gateway and Unlimited data included for 24 mos. Additional devices extra. After 24 mos. regular rates apply to all services and devices. All devices must be returned when service ends. Actual speeds vary and not guaranteed. For factors affecting speed, visit www.xfinity.com/networkmanagement. Xfinity Mobile requires residential post-pay Xfinity Internet. Line limitations may apply. In times of congestion, your data may be temporarily slower than other traffic. After 20 GB monthly data use, speed, reduced to a maximum of 1.5 Mbps download/750 Kbps upload. For Xfinity Mobile Broadband Disclosures, visit www.xfinity.com/mobile/policies/broadband-disclosures. Streaming subscriptions not included. Separate subscriptions required to access Peacock, Apple TV+, Disney+, and Hulu. Fees apply. © 2022 Comcast. All rights reserved. NPA241596

NPA241596 3for1 NoOffer ad 9.75x13 HoustonDefender.indd 1

5/19/22 5:49 PM

6 | June 16, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN News

Black, Latino student loan debt soars NNPA

The student loan debt crisis has crippled nearly 43.4 million borrowers across the country. According to the Education Data Initiative, the average public university student borrows $30,030 to obtain a bachelor’s degree. Meanwhile, those who attend private universities borrow $43,900 on average.

Over the last two years, American students have been given a reprieve from paying off their exorbitant debt thanks to the pandemic-induced student loan moratorium that was enacted in March, 2020. However, that could come to an end on Aug. 31 if no federal action is taken, leaving Americans with student loan debt struggling to make ends meet as inflation continues to soar amid looming fears of a potential recession.

Data shows that Black and Latino student loan borrowers will be hit hardest if the Biden Administration fails to pass legislation that would provide immediate debt relief for individuals drowning in student loans.

Before the moratorium was implemented, some borrowers of color saw their loan balances continue to climb despite years of making monthly payments faithfully. New data published by the Center for Responsible

Lending notes that “nearly 75% of Black borrowers and 63% of Latino borrowers have seen their student loan balances grow rather than shrink, compared to 51% of white borrowers.”

Black, Latino borrowers graduate owing more Four years after graduation, 48% of Black students owe an average of 12.5% more than they borrowed, and 29% face monthly student loan payments of $350 or more, making it hard to save for a home or future investments.

Consumer financial services company Bankrate notes that Latino borrowers often owe nearly $38,000 post-graduation. Black college students can graduate owing an average of $52,726 compared to white college graduates, who owe closer to $28,006 on average, according to the Brookings Institution.

Democratic lawmakers like Sens. Chuck Schumer and Elizabeth Warren have urged the president to wipe out nearly $50,000 worth of debt for Black and Latino borrowers, who make up nearly 22% and 28% of student loan debt, respectively. Canceling that amount provides more than 70% of relief for both groups.

On May 27, a coalition of 529 organizations

Student debt borrowers Credit: Getty

wrote a letter to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris demanding the administration authorize student loan forgiveness through executive order.

“Black borrowers report that their student loan debt often feels like a life sentence, even if they use relief programs like

Income-Driven Repayment because they watch the amount owed balloon over time,” the letter read.

“Student debt cancellation has the potential to increase the net wealth of Black households and could even help reduce the racial wealth gap.

Notice of Proposed Goal for the Participation of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises in Federal Transit Administration Assisted Contracts As required by Section 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 26, the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County has determined a proposed overall goal of 16% for the participation of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) in its FY23 – FY25 contracts which are funded by U.S. Department of Transportation.

The proposed goal and its rationale are available for inspection during normal business hours at the Metropolitan Transit Authority’s Headquarters, 1900 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002; in Room 2021 and at https://www.ridemetro.org/Pages/SB-FormsTemplates.aspx. The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County and the Federal Transit Administration will accept written comments on the proposed goal through July 29, 2022.

Written comments may be directed to Metropolitan Transit Authority Office of Small Business, Attention: Karen Hudson, P.O. Box 61429, Houston, Texas 77208-1429 or Federal Transit Administration: Attention: Gail Lyssy, Regional Administrator, Region VI, Federal Transit Administration, 819 Taylor Street, Room 14A02, Fort Worth, TX 76102.

The Ryan Whi te Planni ng Council i nvites you to an impor tant virtual pr esentation about…

Recommended Ryan White Part A, Part B & State Services Priority Rankings & Allocations for 2023 Also learn about… Making your Voice Heard in the HIV Community

Monday, June 27, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.

This televised Public Hearing can be viewed online at ww w . houston tx. gov/ h tv or within the Houston city limits on the following TV provider channels:  Comcast (Ch. 16)  Phonoscope (Ch. 73 & 99)  Suddenlink (Ch. 14)  U-Verse (Ch. 99) You can also view it on YouTube -- go to our website for the link: rwpcHouston.org Information packets for the presentations are available to view/download on our website

ORIGIN CAN HELP YOU ACHIEVE YOUR HOMEOWNERSHIP DREAMS. DO YOU QUALIFY? Visit www.Origin.bank/WelcomeHome

Ryan White Planning Council Office of Support

2223 West Loop South, Suite 240; Houston, TX 77027 Ph: 832 927-7926  Fax: 713 572-3740  Web: rwpcHouston.org

MEMBER FDIC. BANK NMLS# 455990.

*Subject to credit approval, property eligibility and program guidelines

22ORIGIN080_WelcomeHome_Print_Final.indd 2

5/19/22 5:02 PM

June 16, 2022 |

| 7

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Education Ft. Bend teachers unveil RESPECT US campaign

By Laura Onyeneho

R-E-S-P-E-C-T. This is the theme for Fort Bend educators, community leaders and school personnel who demand more for teachers and frontline workers in the public education school system through the RESPECT US campaign.

“This is a statewide [campaign] from Texas American Federation of Teachers (AFT) to increase teacher’s pay, staff pay, and to talk about issues related to the classroom,” said Glenda Macal, president of Fort Bend AFT. “Teachers are leaving the district and leaving education all together because of low salaries, compensation and benefits, [an exorbitant] workload in the classroom especially in Texas, absenteeism from both teachers and students which disrupts instruction, and the rigorous expectations from the state and its toll on teachers.”

Macal said the RESPECT US campaign is an acronym that stands for seven key issues impacting public school educators and staff.

RAISES: “We need reasonable salaries to

keep up with inflation”

EXPECTATIONS: “Setting reasonable expectations when it comes to teacher perfor-

Now, if they want to pay them and it’s a voluntary thing that’s fine. I don’t want to imply that teachers don’t want to do this extra stuff. The issue comes when they are required to do this.”

RESPECT US Campaign. Adobe Stock Images

mances in the classroom. Teachers should not be expected to perform miracles when students are returning to school two and three grade levels behind. Then, they are being penalized for those gaps. They are being asked without compensation to fill those gaps.”

SAFETY and SECURITY: “After the Uvalde mass shootings, it’s been overwhelming emotionally. When you are in the middle of doing drills, you understand what it feels like.

This is where we address gun safety laws. We understand the Second Amendment and… everyone is entitled to have arms as long as they are responsible and not meaning to harm anyone. I think teachers want to see reasonable laws. The last thing they want is to be held ac-

countable for operating firearms in the classroom in order to protect students.”

PLANNING TIME: “Teachers’ planning

time is continuously being hijacked which takes away from their ability to perform their jobs. It takes away from their family time because they are performing duties outside of their contracted time. Respect their time, their paycheck, safety and professionalism.”

ELIMINATING DUTIES: “In most cases,

principals require teachers to sponsor extracurricular activities, do before-school and after-school tutoring. All of that is not compensated which cuts into their planning time. We want them to eliminate unpaid extra duties.

CLASS SIZE: “We need to make sure that the student ratios are low. In order to differentiate instruction, the class sizes need to be reasonable. This needs to be addressed especially in light of the great exodus everywhere.”

TRUST: “Trust teachers with their professionalism. Quit micromanaging them so that they end up teaching to the test. Teachers didn’t get into teaching for that. They got in to make an impact on student’s lives.”

Fort Bend ISD trustees will vote to approve the districts 2022-2023 budget this year. There is a public hearing on June 13 and a vote will take place on Monday, June 20. The budget stands at nearly $1 billion.

“We are calling for everyone to come to the board meeting and speak up. Teachers and staff members deserve more than 2.3% salary raise,” she said. “HISD is at 11%. It’s hard to compete with that and our district needs to do what’s right.”

Do not leave kids or pets in a

CLOSED VEHICLE

for any amount of time! Cars can become an oven in just 10 minutes.

ALWAYS • Park safely • Look in your back seat • Lock up

To report kids or pets in hot cars, CALL 911

8 | June 16, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Feature LOCAL TEACHER

Roshunda Jones-Koumba RECEIVES TONY AWARD

By ReShonda Tate

When drama teacher Roshunda JonesKoumba was summoned to the principal’s office at G.W. Carver Magnet High School, she had no idea what was in store.

“My principal told me that she had some important people on the phone. I was thinking we had to do some big performance or there was something that needed fixing. When they said they were with the American Theater and I was being honored with a Tony Award for excellence in theater education, I was completely surprised,” Jones-Koumba said.

Jones-Koumba, who received her award at the Tony Awards on June 12 at Radio City Music Hall, was selected from a nationwide call for entries by a panel of theatre experts from The American Theatre Wing, The Broadway League, and Carnegie Mellon University.

“I have been in awe of her vision; her tireless work ethic; the countless hours; blood, sweat, tears, money, food that she’s given to her students in the community around her,” reads one submitted student endorsement. “And

Roshunda Jones-Koumba accepts the Excellence in Theatre Education Award onstage at the 75th Annual Tony Awards at Radio City Music Hall on June 12, 2022. Getty Images

she taught us, usually Black and brown kids from inner city communities, that we could do anything.”

That can-do mentality is what drives JonesKoumba as she works for the Acres Home school.

“Theater teachers in general work so hard and they pour a lot into the students. But what

Your Choice.

I think made me stand out is bringing arts to the community,” she said. “Before I got to Carver, the theater program wasn’t as big. And so it was my mission to have a pride in the arts, not only for the school but the community as well. I wanted to show no matter where we’re from, we can provide great experiences everywhere. We’re a Title One school and our

funding is not as big as some, but we can still create that theater magic.”

Along with teaching drama classes, JonesKoumba directs productions at Carver, whose Thespian troupe (#6753) has earned multiple regional and national awards for competition pieces and one-act plays. Jones-Koumba is a past recipient of the Stephen Schwartz Musical Theatre Teacher of the Year Award and the International Thespian Society Inspirational Theatre Educator Award, and was inducted into the Texas Thespians Hall of Fame.

“Our students are doing amazing things,” shares Jones-Koumba. “Many are working actors on stage and on television; some are continuing their education; some are pursuing careers outside of performing. In theatre we accept all, so you’re not afraid to be yourself.

And that gives you confidence to do anything you want, enables you to work with different people, and to be a better all-around person,” Jones-Koumba said. “Theatre is Life. I’m very grateful to The Tony Awards and Carnegie Mellon University for this honor.”

Their Future.

LEARN THE BENEFITS AND RISKS OF COVID-19 IMMUNIZATION FOR CHILDREN.

MAKE AN INFORMED DECISION.

June 16, 2022 |

| 9

DEFENDER NETWORK

REPRODUCTIVE JUSTICE is the HUMAN RIGHT to control our bodies, our sexuality, our gender, our work and our reproduction. That RIGHT can only be achieved when ALL women and girls have the complete economic, social and political POWER and resources to make healthy DECISIONS about our BODIES, our FAMILIES and our COMMUNITIES in all areas of our lives.

Right now, we are faced with an attack on our HUMAN RIGHTS as global CITIZENS by a conservative, activist U.S. Supreme Court.

Our FREEDOM depends on DISMANTLING systemic racism, misogyny, anti-blackness and white supremacy.

Historically, we have WON battles for our human and civil rights when we LISTEN TO AND TRUST BLACK WOMEN:

71

85

%

91

%

%

of Black women support ABORTION

believe whether she has “private or government-

believe a woman's ability to CONTROL

services.

funded health coverage, EVERY woman should have

whether or when she has children is an

HEALTH COVERAGE for the full range of

important part of FINANCIAL STABILITY

pregnancy-related care, including ABORTION.

for herself and her FAMILY.

To do everything in our POWER to ensure all Black women and birthing people have the freedom, resources and power they need to assert AGENCY over their BODIES and to ensure that their FAMILIES can THRIVE. Bernard Center for Women, Politics & Public Policy, Black Feminist Future, Black Voters Matter Fund, Black Women in STEM 2.0, Black Women Meet Up, Black Women's Health Imperative, Black Women’s Democratic Club, BWHI, Cafe Mocha Broadcast Network, California Black Women's Collective, California Commission on the Status of Women & Girls, Cedar River Creative Productions, Chanda Robinson Consulting, LLCv, Collective Grant Writing & Consulting, Community Hero Impact Alliance, Crowned Glory Yoga, Delta for Women in Action, DirtyGirlsAg, EMILY’s List, Feminist Women's Health Center, Georgia Coalition for the Peoples Agenda, Gods Natural Wonder, Hala For State Senate, Harlem Network News, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda, Kinnamon Holdings, KWH Law Center for Social Justice and Change, Los Angeles African American Women’s Public Policy Institute, Mercedes Medina, Esq., Middleton4u, MS Black Women’s Roundtable, NAACP, Washington DC Branch, National Action Network Orange County, National Birth Equity Collaborative, National Coalition on Black Civic Participation/Black Women's Roundtable, National Organization for Women, New York City Chapter, New Voices for Reproductive Justice, NJ Perinatal Quality Collaborative, Paths to Peace, She the People, SHERo Mississippi, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Sisterlove Inc, SisterReach, Skyline Advocacy, SoulStirring, LLC, South Alabama Black Women’s Roundtable, SPARK Reproductive Justice NOW!, Inc., SYE Strategies & PR, The Afiya Center, The Brown Girls Guide to Politics, The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), The Spectrum Circle, WIN, Win With Black Women, Women's Equity Center and Action Network (WE CAN), Women of Color Coalition, Women with a Vision. Inc. Nyree Wright Michelle D Bernard Selena McLaurin LaTosha Brown Deena Pierott Taisha Brown Pamela Sparrow Linda Goler Blount Sheila Eldridge Kellie Todd Griffin Lauren Babb Lora-Ellen McKinney Chanda Robinson Jordan Brown Nicole McGruder Linda White Shavon L Arline-Bradleyt Dr. Sonja Brookins Laphonza Butler Kwajelyn Jackson Helen Butler Roslyn M. Ogburn Hon. Hala Ayala Terri Wisdom Marcela Howell Giovanteey Bishop Karen A. Robinson Pamelya Herndon Patrice Marshall McKenzie Millicent Traeye Middleton

Cassandra Welchlin Akosua Ali Darlene Futrel Krystal Leaphart Melanie L. Campbell Abby Dobson Kelly Davis Linda Locke Robyn Donaldson, J.D. Alexia Frisbey Sandi Cook Aimee Allison Michelle Colon Rasheeda Liberty Dazon Dixon Diallo Cherisse Scott Tamara Rasberry Harris Jewel Love Letetia Jackson Dr. Krystal Redman Soni EdeWilliams Cerita Burrell A'shanti F. Gholar Dr. Benjamin Chavis Karen Maria Alston Gaybriel Gibson Octavia Kraft-Drayton Jotaka Eaddy Rachel Green, MPA Monica Hutchinson

Deon Haywood Dr. Stephanie McGencey Jotaka Eaddy Yonelle Moore Lee, Esq. Julie Collins Armani J. Eady Senator Raumesh Akbari Kimberly Egonmwan, Esq. Porsha White Valerie D. Bouldin Amira Barger Monica R. Cloud Honorable Karen Camper Kiaira Nixon Karen Carter Peterson Jaide Brown Eleina Raines Laura W. Murphy Jessica Knight Henry Stephanie Owens Monique Nash Senator Mattie Hunter Michele L. Jawando Susan J. Ross Meredith Lawson-Rowe Kassandra Timothe Dana Allmond Ebony M Baylor Janaye Ingram Awoyunla Smith

Amanda Green-Hawkins Mary Hanns Felicia D. Henderson Angela Angel Gayle C Rutherford Dr. Michele C. Reed Commissioner Tami Sawyer Sharron Howard Audrey Sullivan Moore Sherron Ann Rouzan Adwoa Antwi-Barfi Amiko Glasford Pamela Merritt Nadia Brown Robyn Lawrence Karen DuBois Walton Melissa Fox, MHA Denise M. Gray, JD Michele Barnwell Sabrina Clark, Ph.D. Kandie D. Smith R. Lucia Riddle Arjenae Jones Williams Nkeshi Free Terrel Kent Lisa Brown Ingrid Palmer Anna Alexander Rev. Melinda Weekes-Laidlow.

Esq.

Barbara Anne Washington The Honorable Dr. Yvonne M. Spicer Paris Andrew Mary Frankie Forte Jacqueline Gordon Patrice Willoughby Tracie Apatira Rosalie Buggs LaQuanda Jackson Kinna Perry Angela brown Fatimah Gifford Dawn Epps Neneh Diallo Mariah Lichtenstern Racine Tucker-Hamilton Adjoa Sankofia Tetteh Shawn Ashworth Fatima Goss Graves Tiffany Crawford Jocelyn C. Frye Dr. Jamila Perritt Dr. Toni M. Bond Miranda Badgett Bettye Brentley Kristenn Fortson

Camille Kidd Donna Morris Lexi White

Join the movement, sign our pledge. www.blackrj.org/blackrjpledge

Paid for by In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda www.blackrj.org

10 | June 16, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Feature PRIDE MONTH:

SPOTLIGHT ON BLACK- LED LGBTQ+ ORGANIZATIONS June officially marks the beginning of Pride Month nationwide. Houston will offer a wide range of events that uplift and celebrate LGBTQ+ activism and contributions to society.

It calls for people to understand the damage resulting from homophobia and to re-examine what allyship looks like while addressing discrimination, especially against Black and Brown LGBTQ+ people.

Black people who i d e nt i f y a s L G B T Q + risk harsher realities of oppression in terms of housing, education, political representation, healthcare, income, employment and other services.

The fight for equality and liberation is far from over. That shouldn’t stop you from showing support for the local organizations that create a safe space and advocate for rights.

1. Normal Anomaly Initiative

A non-profit organization that centers Black, queer-plus persons to overcome barriers and end stigma and problematic narratives to actualize a new normal.

2. Loud Inc.

A non-profit dedicated to improving the cultural, medical and social health of gay men, lesbian and transgender people of African descent through a variety of programs and services.

3. Save Our Sisters United (S.O.S.U.)

The mission of S.O.S.U is to develop a safe space for individuals of transgender experience and connect, empower and mobilize women working to bridge the gaps of sisterhood between cis and women of trans-experience.

4. The Mahogany Project

The sister organization to Save Our Sisters United striving to increase the quality of life of women of trans-experience in the South. The program is designed to be a healing space that prioritizes the lives of Blacks of the transgender experience and individuals living intersectional lives.

5. Truth Project Houston

Truth (Telling Real Unapologetic Through Healing) Project Inc. educates and mobilizes LGBTQ communities of color and their allies through social arts that promote mental, emotional and sexual health.

Here are some Pride events in the coming weeks: Rock the Runway Pride Fashion Thursday, June 23 RISE Rooftop https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ rock-the-runway-2022-officialpride-fashion-show-tickets312114251127?aff=ebdsoporgprofile Rainbow on the Green Friday, June 24 Discovery Green https://www.discoverygreen.com/ rainbowonthegreen 44th annual Houston LGBT+ Pride Celebration Saturday, June 25 Houston City Hall https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ houston-pride-lgbt-celebration-2022-tickets-official-tickets-258672304827

June 16, 2022 |

| 11

DEFENDER NETWORK

SATURDAY, JUNE 18TH SUNDAY, JUNE 19TH 4:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

EMANCIPATION PARK FREE ADMISSION • TICKET REQUIRED

KEESHEA SOULTRE FT. PRATT KOLETTE

MAZE

FT. FRANKIE

BEVERLY

ISLEY BROTHERS

JEWEL BROWN

SHEILA E. JAMES BOOGALOO BOLDDEN

GOSPEL ARTISTS

EARNEST PUGH

MONICA LISA STEVENSON

ZACARDI CORTEZ

PASTOR MIKE, JR.

www.epconservancy.org #wearejuneteenth

12 | June 16, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 13

DN InFocus FOCUS SOCIAL

6

WAYS TO CELEBRATE JUNETEENTH 2022

Attend a celebration or festivity

Among the most common ways to recognize Juneteenth are celebrations and festivities, said Ramon Manning, who is heading up the Emancipation Park celebration, which spans the entire month and includes ongoing conversations. Manning says the event honors Juneteenth and the four formerly enslaved men who pulled together to buy the 10-acre piece of land in 1872 that became Emancipation Park. “They did it to celebrate their freedom but not just out of being enslaved, they were sophisticated enough to understand that they needed a place to call their home, to celebrate, to come together.”

Juneteenth celebrations offer a moment to reflect and acknowledge some of the major gains and accomplishments in the Black community.

2

Get involved in the community

Find out how to show up and support local Black organizations, which can have a more direct impact in the community. See who’s doing what in your city and ask how you can contribute. If there’s no organization doing it, then think about creating an event. Juneteenth.com offers ideas for getting initiatives started in local communities. As well as in the workplace.

3

Visit a museum

Museums can serve as a valuable source to understand history in your community. Local history museums are extremely important because it makes the history more personal,” Austion said, because “one thing we have learned with this history is it’s very nuanced.”

For those who can’t visit a museum in person this year, a handful of Black museums and historical institutions from across the country will have virtual programming.

showcasing the cultural assets that exist.

Emancipation Park Juneteenth celebration Location: 3018 Emancipation Avenue Date: Saturday, June 18 and Sunday, June 19 Time: 4 p.m.-10 p.m. both days

Texas Southern University hosts Juneteenth: The Journey to Freedom Location: Miller Outdoor Theatre Date: Sunday, June 19 Time: 8:30 to 11 p.m.

FOR MORE WAYS TO RECOGNIZE THE HOLIDAY VISIT:

4

Mayor Turner’s Annual Acres Homes Juneteenth Parade Location: Acres Homes Multi-Service Center, 6719 W. Montgomery Date: Saturday, June 18 Time: 10 a.m.-noon

It

1

There are plenty of ways to celebrate Juneteeth in Houston.

This year mark’s the 150th anniversary of Houston’s Juneteenth celebration in Emancipation Park. The two-day event will take place on Saturday, June 18, and Sunday, June 19.

It will feature concerts with The Isley Brothers, Sheila E, Kool & The Gang and Maze Featuring Frankie Beverly, along with several gospel stars.

Along with the musical lineup, they will have a kids zone, food and more.

By ReShonda Tate

has been 157 years since U.S. Army General Gordon Granger announced to the people of Galveston, Texas, that slavery was over. Granger’s announcement came on June 19, 1865, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation.

Last year, President Joe Biden signed legislation establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday.

While millions of Black Americans have long marked the day commemorating their freedom, other people in the United States still grapple with how to meaningfully observe the newest national holiday.

But activists say this recognition is important for everyone. “It’s not just a Black holiday,” said Alicia Austion, executive director of the Juneteenth Foundation. “It’s a national holiday, an American holiday that we all should lean in and really acknowledge and support.”

We asked activists and organizers to share different ways Americans can honor Juneteenth.

Here are six ways you can commemorate Juneteenth 2022.

Juneteenth around town

Juneteenthhouston.org

Explore selected readings and documentaries

“Learn what Juneteenth is all about — that’s where you start,” said Cliff Robinson, who created the website Juneteenth.com about 25 years ago to offer information about national events.

“It’s just like Veterans Day and Memorial Day,” he said.

“It’s a time to stop and think about the history, your own history or the history of a friend.”

Check out works from authors like James Baldwin, Medgar Evers, Bell Hooks, Malcolm X and Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

5

Buy from Black-owned businesses

What better time to show your solidarity and support of Black businesses, than using this time to support – both financially and verbally – Black businesses. Black-owned businesses have the power to reshape the U.S. economy. According to the Brookings Institution, if the number of Black-owned businesses matched the population size and revenue of non-Black-owned businesses, the total revenue for Black-owned businesses would increase by $5.9 trillion.

6

Celebrate at work

This year, 2022, is likely the first time many companies will observe Juneteenth, after it became a federal holiday in 2021. Beyond giving employees the day off, companies should think about how to celebrate Juneteenth at work to demonstrate their commitment to the holiday’s history, traditions and impact. Ask your company’s leaders to talk about Juneteenth, its history and why your workplace has chosen to celebrate it. These reasons will vary from one company to another, but it’s important to voice them so that employees understand their company’s commitment to supporting the holiday.

The parade will begin at the Acres Homes Multi-Service Center and travel north on W. Montgomery the west on Dolly Wright before ending at Greater Zion Missionary Baptist Church.

Juneteenth Celebration at Children’s Museum Houston Location: Children’s Museum of Houston, 1500 Binz Street Date: Saturday, June 18 Time: 10 a.m.

Children’s Museum of Houston will be celebrating and honoring this historic day with drumming, storytelling, dramatization, interactive activities and much more.

Markers, Murals and Mains Location: The African-American Library at the Gregory School Date: Saturday, June 18 and Monday, June 20

This event will take you on a tour across the Third, Fourth and Fifth Ward neighborhoods

A performance filled with dramatic visuals, live music, narrations and dance that tells the story of African Americans from 1865 to today and their journey to the celebration of freedom.

Black is Primary Juneteenth Festival Location: POST Houston, 401 Franklin Street Date: Saturday, June 18 Time: 10 a.m.

Black is Primary Juneteenth Festival will be an all-day, allages event that honors Black heritage through storytelling, cultural performances, art, lectures and food.

The Fairytale Project Location: Discovery Green - Anheuser-Busch Stage Date: Sunday, June 26 Time: 5 p.m.-7 p.m.

The “Fairytale Project” is a historically inspired tale of a young African American family re-connecting with their East Texas roots. With peculiar encounters with the pastthe family cherishes the things that matter the most- family, faith, love and legacy. For more info on the free event visit https://www.discoverygreen. com/4457758

GALVESTON EVENTS Juneteenth Freedom Tours Location: 2217 Strand Street Date: Saturday, June 18 and Sunday, June 19 Time: Varies

“Memory Keepers” or Tour

Guides will lead Freedom Walk tours that offer an immersive experience that takes visitors on the march of freedom to the sites of emancipation where Major Gen. Gordon Granger read the historic General Order No. 3.

43rd Annual Juneteenth Proclamation Reading Location: 2328 Broadway Date: Saturday, June 18 Time: 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

Juneteenth Parade and Picnic Location: 2601 Avenue H Date: Saturday, June 18 Time: 1 p.m.-5 p.m.

This annual historic parade celebrates the legacy of Juneteenth followed by a picnic at Wright Cuney Park.

Parade Route: Starts at 26th and Avenue H and Ends at 41st and Avenue H Picnic will immediately follow.

Emancipation Celebration at The Grand 1894 Opera House Location: 2020 Post Office Street Date: Saturday, June 18 Time: 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

The event will honor pioneers on the national and local level who have made their mark by fighting for freedom, equality, and justice for African Americans. This recognition will be highlighted with awards, and gospel performances from local, regional, and national talent.

Juneteenth Festival Location: 2222 28th Street Date: Saturday, June 18 Time: Noon-8 p.m.

The event will feature food vendors, entrepreneur showcases, the Black Artist Artwalk Exhibition, the 1st Juneteenth “Making Moves” Youth Basketball Tournament, and live entertainment.

See more events at

DefenderNetwork.com

14 | June 16, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN InFocus 5TH ANNUAL

Pearland Juneteenth Celebration seeks to galvanize community

By Aswad Walker

There is an effort to not only celebrate Juneteenth, but to galvanize Black residents of one of the Houston-area’s outer communities.

Robert Williams, founder of the Pearland Martin Luther King Celebration Committee (Pearland MLKCC), is leading that charge to bring more empowerment and investment in Pearland and Brazoria County.

“When I founded the Pearland Martin Luther King Celebration Committee back in 2017, we had an ulterior motive of creating an interconnect, if you will, with our Black people in Pearland,” said Williams. “We have a large demographic of our people that are there. But one of the issues in Pearland is that a lot of our people that live there simply sleep there and all of their resources, time, money and everything goes back up in Harris County.”

Williams and the group he founded seek to change that dynamic.

“We are trying to get them involved in Brazoria County and creating this interconnect through the Pearland MLKCC, through our Brazoria County NAACP. It is one way to bring our people together. When you bring our people together, you’re bringing power together, as well,” said Williams.

This year, Williams’ organization won’t be going at it alone in organizing the Juneteenth celebration, which will take place on Saturday, June 18 from 10a.m. – 4p.m., and will be held at the Pearland Town Center.

They will be teaming up with the Brazoria County NAACP. Before the actual celebration, the day will kick off at 8:15a.m. with a one-mile Unity Walk, and then move into the festivities.

“We’re going start there at the Town

Center, go down to the end of the road, come back around and end back up at the Town Center’s Pavilion. We’ll have breakfast there.

There’s going to be music. There’s going to be bands with the Unity Walk. It’s going to a be a very festive event,” shared Williams.

Williams said Congressman Al Green will be an attendance, along with several performers, Black art galore and a Juneteenth display that will make the event “not just fun, but also very informative.”

He also noted that artists who simply want to display their art during the celebration can do so, while those who want to sell their merchandise, can go to www. pearlandmlkcc.org and sign up to become a vendor, with a vending fee of $50. For more information, visit the website or call Williams at (979) 239-8071.

June 16, 2022 |

| 15

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN InFocus HOUSTON ARTIST

Ted Ellis Showcases talents with Juneteenth exhibit

By Laura Onyeneho

For the last 30 years, New Orleans-born and Houston-based artist Ted Ellis has had an exemplary career documenting Black history and culture.

He is one of the most celebrated artists of the 21st century. In just a decade, his art has sold over 1.5 million prints and posters nationwide. As an art advocate and educator, he produces work that has earned him recognition from several organizations and city officials.

Ellis is the only African American artist appointed by the U.S Department of Interior to serve on the federal 400 Years of African American History Commission. He is also the new museum director for Southern University at New Orleans.

Ellis is part of a new art exhibition in Galveston called the “Juneteenth Freedom Project” that features more than 60 pieces by local and regional artists that highlight Black experiences in America from the 1500s to present day.

The Defender spoke with Ellis about his career uplifting the Black community through art.

Defender: You are originally from New Orleans. Is that where your love of art began?

Ted Ellis: It began at an early age. My

cousin was an illustrator for his high school newspaper and my other cousin Albert collected a bunch of DC and Marvel comic books.

I would sketch and doodle and I was fascinated with images as a kid. I thought it was so clever how comics could be animated like this and the art bug stuck with me ever since.

Being from a city like New Orleans, you are surrounded by culture and artists. I took public transit to the French Quarter. I asked so many questions of the artists around the square. I went to the public library to immerse myself in books on art and culture. I was limited on my history and I wanted to educate myself.

I have a responsibility to speak through my passion purposefully.

Defender: Describe your style of art work.

Ellis: My work is quiet advocacy. I don’t

have to speak. I let it do the talking. My work is described as Tedism. It’s a part of impressionism and folk. I paint with a lot of emotion.

Defender: Not only are you an artist, you are a scientist.

Was art something you transitioned into or did you become

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE JUNETEENTH ART EXHIBITION a scientist as means to sustain your love for the art?

Ellis: I worked as an environmental

Defender: What was one of your most memorable pieces of art work?

What is the story behind it?

Ellis: The Tuskegee Airman. Those

chemist prior to doing my art full time for eight years. You think guys were brilliant. They became about critical and creative these extraordinary pilots who thinking. I understand comnever lost a bomber. They plexities, I pay attention were the best pilots in to detail, and I’m soluWorld War II. When tion oriented. The they finally received study of science, their Congressional you’re looking at Medal of Honor models in front of someone had the you and you’re trypresence of mind ing to identify how to take my print to it works. I was the Washington D.C. first generation to that all the living airgo to college. At some man members signed. point I had to decide I got a copy of it. That what was going to provide shows the value and intenTed Ellis for my livelihood. tion behind my art. That wasn’t T. Ellis Fine Art I earned my degree and planned. It spoke volumes about entered into my career field but my pas- who they are and what they’ve accomplished. sion for the arts kept calling. Prior to my generation, the only way you could be a Defender: Why is the value successful artist was if you had a patron. of African American fine Artists had to have other jobs, isolate them- art trending upward? selves in academia and teach to do the art.

Ellis: Mainstream sets the value of art.

My generation could do art full time and Number one, its been undervalued for not have to go to Europe to be established so long. Number two, going to museums because the support for the arts was higher wasn’t the same as other folks. I didn’t see there than in the United States. I’m blessed constructive images of my community, to be able to have my art sustain me and culture and heritage at these places. There provide for my family. was only one driven narrative. I told myself

that I have to do the good work. I have one of the most comprehensive bodies of work as it relates to telling that story of African American history.

Defender: You have two new Juneteenth art exhibitions in Galveston and in Houston.

What can we expect to see?

Ellis: I have three exhibitions that will

be seen during my Juneteenth journey to equity excellence at the Leidos corporation in Reston, Virginia. That’s going to be up for the entire month of June. That collection has 17 paintings that speaks to diversity, equity, accessibility and inclusion. It also speaks to what plagues African American people for so long…policies, laws and systemic racism.

My Juneteenth Freedom Project is located at the Juneteenth Legacy Headquarters in Galveston at Nia Cultural Arts Center. That’s 10-plus paintings. It’s a powerful exhibition. The new exhibition I just launched is my Juneteenth Champions. I recognize dynamic historical individuals that decided to stand up for freedom and equality and fight against oppressive forces that have held us down for so long.

These are the champions that have birthed the opportunity for Juneteenth to become a federal holiday. There is nothing like it in this country that speaks specifically to Juneteenth.

16 | June 16, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Spotlight FOCUS SOCIAL

Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson and Vice President Kamala Harris listen as U.S. President Joe Biden speaks at an event celebrating Judge Jackson’s confirmation to the U.S. Supreme Court. Getty Images

BLACK WOMEN POLITICAL POWER Organizations work to push voting, candidates

By ReShonda Tate

When Houston native Grace Smith cast her vote in the March 2022 midterm elections, it was the first time she’d voted since casting her ballot for President Barack Obama. It’s a fact she’s ashamed of now, but the oil and gas administrator just didn’t believe her vote really mattered. She credits the Black Women’s PAC (Political Action Committee) with changing that mentality. And now, not only is she committed to voting, she’s vowing to help the political organization further its mission.

“I’m just not really into politics. Of course, the election of Barack Obama was historical, so I made it a point to vote there. But those small elections –- city council, school boards, etc., just didn’t seem important –- until I attended an event from the Black Women’s PAC that opened my eyes to why it’s so important for us to not only vote in elections, but run in those elections, and come together collectively as Black women to support qualified candidates as well,” Smith said.

That event –- the Policy, Politics & Do-

This article is the last of several 2022 Defender Network articles that are part of Solutions Journalism Network’s Advancing Democracy initiative. Solutions Journalism is about reporting on not just problems but providing readers with research on solutions to those problems, where they are being enacted, the challenges and opportunities those solutions provide and things readers can do to be part of those solutions.

The Advancing Democracy initiative calls on participating media outlets to produce articles focused on issues that are threats to U.S.democracy, and provide readers with initiatives aimed at saving, or “advancing” democracy. nor Summit -– took place in December 2021, and is just one of many events that the Black Women’s PAC hosts in its efforts to provide insight and knowledge for voters, candidates, political insiders and novices.

“Attendees at the donor summit heard from the state’s foremost policy and political leaders as we discussed current laws and what to expect as a result of re-

districting, voting rights limitations, and community activism with policy experts,” said Black Women’s PAC President Tracy Scott.

A huge void

Black women are underrepresented in government, especially as it relates to growth. Black women represent 7.8% of the population, yet only represent 5% of

the elected population.

Black women have long been staples in the Democratic Party. But they have not been as institutionally supported in their efforts to run for office — until recently.

The Black Women’s PAC is a political organization dedicated to electing more Black women to state and national offices.

They are gaining momentum, thanks to an influx in cash since last summer’s protests and the ascendance of Black women in U.S. politics, from Vice President Kamala Harris to Georgia organizer and gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams.

Organizations like the Black Women’s PAC hope events like the summit and rallies will not only increase voter engagement and awareness, but prompt Black women to put their names on the ballot.

“We do something called the Kitchen Table Talk, where we gathered elected officials, campaign strategists, and political insiders to discuss the journey and presence of Black women in politics. We also Continued on page 17

June 16, 2022 |

| 17

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Spotlight FOCUS SOCIAL

Tracy Scott

heavily discuss fundraising, which is a key component of political action and power,” Scott said.

While Black women typically lag behind when it comes to fundraising, six of the 10 congressional candidates who raised the most money during the final quarter of 2021 were Black or Latino, a result of diversity in pivotal races and a shift in the focus and strategy of political fundraising overall, according to a CQ Roll Call analysis.

“I have been on political campaigns in the past and very much aware of how important raising money is and knowing the inequities between women and men, and Black women and white women,” Scott said. “I felt the need to build political infrastructure and encourage and support Black women who want to run for office and already in office.”

Scott said in addition to events and rallies, the group has created a website to allow people to register to vote and check their registration status; held fundraisers; and hosted an event to honor incoming Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, where they brought in celebrities to help shine a light on disparities in voting.

Work in progress

Though their efforts are still a work in progress and hard to measure the success, Scott is confident such efforts are paying off. Traffic to their website and attendance at their voter awareness and engagement events has increased since the PAC started in 2018.

“When we talk about advancing democracy and we talk about the government as it exists, well, now we have a Black woman on the Supreme Court,” Scott said.

“That was one of the pillar points for the Black Women’s PAC from the start. We were committed to having a Black woman as president or vice president, and now Kamala Harris is in office.”

Scott isn’t taking complete credit for Jackson or VP Harris, but she knows efforts like those of her organization and other political action organizations, play a role.

Groups like Scott’s, along with Higher Heights, the Collective PAC, #BlackWomenVote and American Mosaic PAC see 2022 as a prime opportunity to elect more Black women to leadership at the highest

Defender Publisher/CEO Sonny Messiah Jiles (c) is joined by Tenishia Hudspeth, Martha Castex-Tatum, Rhona Rose Akama-Makia and Tracy Scott.

levels, especially since there’s more attention than ever on the key role that cohort plays as the Democratic Party’s most engaged voting bloc.

“This moment has been more than 10 years in the making,” said Glynda Carr, CEO of Higher Heights for America, which supports Black progressive women at the state and national levels.

Most political operatives think in two and four-year increments; Carr is just the opposite. She said in order to elect Black women to top political offices, groups like hers spend years organizing to clear the way for candidates. They establish a solid ground game and reliable donor base and — perhaps most challenging — get top donors and party brass to invest in their candidates.

Higher heights and other organizations also run training camps both for prospective Black woman candidates and their top staffers. And now, they’re declaring their support for Black women running much earlier than they did in the past — sometimes within hours of their campaign launches.

The work continues

Scott would like to see Black women advance outside of predominantly Black districts.

“If Black women can work anywhere, live anywhere, why can’t we represent anywhere?” Scott said. “That’s one area where we aren’t advancing democracy and where we need to really target and focus on. Going forward, our focus is on having those

tough conversations, about advancing the Democratic platform, and opening additional doors for Black women.”

Scott said as long as Black women don’t have a seat at ALL tables, their work is not done.

“We’re still struggling in the Texas House, and our voices are desperately needed there,” Scott said. “I’m seeing policy that’s being drafted from the Black Women’s PAC. Now, we want to see more Black women running, who are invested in the community.”

Scott said they also have to work tirelessly to convince the Democratic Party to remain focused and committed to the Black community.

“I can recall being on the 2020 Democratic Party forum and having to make it very clear that if the party is not speaking to the smallest of us, if we’re not meeting Democrats where they are, then we are not going to win and we’re going to continue to have the same problem,” Scott said.

“One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned while doing this work is to release expectations. Black women are not a monolithic. We span this spectrum and there are so many spaces in which we, need to either voice what our issues are and where we are in life and be more vocal and active.

“We know what the problem is. So we regularly ask ourselves, are we doing enough to have those conversations and engage people in society? So we always step back and reevaluate how we’re operating, who we’re engaging, who our target is,” Scott said. “We’ve made progress. I’m

The Black Women’s PAC is committed to help develop, build, train, fund and grow the political and intellectual infrastructure necessary to help Black women win elections and successfully govern once elected and to empowering Black women as political donors in support of electing more Black women to public office across the state of Texas. www.blackwomenspactx.org

#BLACK WOMEN VOTE

The nonpartisan voteractivism campaign offers Black women the tools and information they need to engage their communities regardless of political party.

excited, but not pleased. I won’t be that until there’s an African American woman on the ballot in all 254 counties.”

ai165221362633_2022_CTW-30455_ROY_Print_Houston_The Defender_ENG_4.812x13_05-19-22_F.pdf

18 | June 16, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Business Choose a physician who really listens

Better health begins with caring doctors

Avoiding summer financial constraints C

By Laura Onyeneho

Summertime is near and that means you might be preparing a laundry list of fun beach days, hot temperatures, vacations, road trips and other adventurous activities. But it’s the second most expensive season after the winter holidays.

For some families, especially during the last two years, the impact of COVID-19 in addition to the skyrocketing costs of inflation have put a serious stress on mental health and finances.

Children slowly transitioned back into in-person learning and into a somewhat “normal” educational environment and now they are returning home f o r t h e s u m m e r, which could trigger Monee Cheney mental health problems and other behavior issues previously experience during the lockdown period.

Parents and guardians are pivoting once again to figure out childcare and meal costs that are usually provided through schools.

No need to worry. With some preparation you can enjoy a peaceful summer without the financial constraints. Houston family financial stability coach Monee Cheney has five tips to help you get ahead.

REVIEW YOUR BUDGET AND PLAN

Having a budget is key. Sit down and look at your spending. Make adjustments. Create a plan for the month that incorporates higher costs. If you get a tax refund, plan ahead and cover those expenses during the summer months.

CREATE A ROUTINE AT HOME

M

Now that the kids are back, parents still need to work and provide for the home.

Encourage the kids to help out with things to make it a lot easier for you. Make home routines fun.

Y

CM

MY

CY

FIND LOW-COST SUMMER PROGRAMS/MEALS

CMY

K

Depending on the income ranges of families there are a lot of summer programs that are free or low-cost like the YMCA. There is usually a scholarship option for families. That helps to cut down childcare costs. Some schools offer free lunches during the summer.

Dr. Karen Millender, CenterWell Emancipation • She is board certified with more than 16 years of experience • Completed her residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center • She listens to her senior patients and addresses their concerns

Call now to schedule a tour

832-365-4615

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FINANCIAL EDUCATION SERVICES

In the Black community especially, there are certain financial myths that set us back.

A lot of families don’t believe they have the ability to save money. Or there is the mindset where credit has become an extension of their income versus using it as a benefit and spending above their means. We need to do better to educate ourselves. Upper middle-class and rich white families, for example, teach their children the proper way to use credit to get ahead.

GET A FINANCIAL COACH

I’ve worked with Family Houston for the last 12 years. We provide financial coaching services. We have case management programs as well to help parents get in touch with basic needs services and counseling services to help reduce the stress along this journey to financial stability.

The financial coaching services are free to everyone regardless of your income. If you are struggling with doing your budget, we can help.

SeniorFocusedHouston.com Monday - Friday, 8am - 5pm

Visit our Emancipation center located at 3131 Emancipation Ave., Suite 103 plus, 15 other locations throughout Greater Houston & the Golden Triangle.

Plans accepted

We accept Aetna, Cigna, Humana, Memorial Hermann and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans.

Follow us @CenterWellPrimaryCare to learn about activities and events CenterWellTM does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex. ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-877-320-2188 (TTY: 711). 注意：如果您使用繁體中 文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-877-320-2188 (TTY: 711).

GCHKU9REN

1

5

June 16, 2022 |

| 19

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Health

A DEFENDER AND KELSEY-SEYBOLD CLINIC ALLIANCE

Obesity is an expanding health concern among African Americans Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases.

By MADELINE HUNT, M.D.

Obesity is the most common nutritional disorder among Americans. Women with more than 30 percent body fat and men with more than 25 percent body fat are usually considered to be obese. And what’s alarming is nearly 48 percent of AfricanAmerican adults are considered clinically obese.

What determines obesity?

1. Body mass index (BMI) Probably the most accurate way to determine if you are obese is by calculating your BMI. It measures body fat based on weight and height. A person is usually considered obese with a BMI of 30 or greater. Someone with a BMI of 40 is, sadly, twice as likely to die prematurely as an average-weight person.

2. Tale of the tape Men with waists measuring 40 inches or more and women measuring 35 inches or more are at increased risk for developing

Unfavorable obesity-related effects include: • Raised blood pressure leading to hypertension.

• High serum cholesterol.

FROM THE DOC “Obesity increases the risks for an array of adverse health concerns, including a shortened life expectancy.”

Dr. Hunt is a boardcertified Family Medicine physician at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic.

concentration

of

• Increased risk for heart attack, kidney disease, and stroke.

• Excessive pressure on hips and knees can lead to arthritis.

• For expectant mothers, increased risk for hypertension and Type 2 diabetes may lead to birth defects.

• Shortened life expectancy if left unmanaged Sidestep obesity The best way to avoid excess weight gain is by practicing a healthier lifestyle with better eating and regular exercise.

• Eat fresh fruit and vegetables, green salads, and high-fiber, whole-grain cereals. Drink eight glasses of water daily.

• Avoid buffet lines – they can be diet killers.

• Exercise. It doesn’t have to be strenuous. Walking just 30 minutes a day will help. To lose weight, you may need to walk longer and more briskly.

• Get support from family and friends.

• Ask your family doctor for assistance with appropriate dieting, exercise regimens, and lifestyle strategies to support your weight-management goals for a healthier future.

Dr. Hunt welcomes new patients at Kelsey-Seybold’s Summer Creek Clinic, 8233 N. Sam Houston Parkway E. in Humble.

For appointments, call 713-442-0000.

Now Scheduling VIRTUAL and IN-PERSON Appointments!

Summer Creek Clinic

Whether you’re new to the Kelsey-Seybold family or a longtime patient, you have a choice of where you can safely get care. Call our 24/7 Contact Center at 713-442-0000 to schedule a same-day or next-day virtual Video Visit or, for non-respiratory illnesses, an in-person appointment at a Kelsey-Seybold Clinic near you.

WE’RE HERE FOR YOU 24/7/365

Your health and safety are our top priority. We‘re screening patients upon arrival for COVID-19 symptoms, checking temperatures, and following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Please remember to wear a mask or cloth face protection while visiting our clinics.

After-Hours Nurse Hotline 713-442-0000

24/7 Contact Center 713-442-0000

Learn More About Virtual Visits kelsey-seybold.com/virtual

Kelsey-Seybold welcomes new patients and accepts more than 50 health insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, UnitedHealthcare, and these Medicare Advantage plans: KelseyCare Advantage, WellCare Texan Plus, Aetna Medicare Advantage, and Humana Gold Plus.

20 | June 16, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Community Black dads share secret blessings of

FATHERHOOD

By Aswad Walker

When assessing the energy children put into Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, we all know, there’s no comparison.

Mother’s Day is not only a holiday, it’s one of the busiest travel days and largest revenue generators, as we engage in actions to show our mothers how much we love them. Father’s Day, on the other hand, which this year is Sunday, June 19, is pretty much just another day.

Don’t believe me. Just check the songs.

For mothers: “Dear Mama” (Tupac), “I’ll Always Love My Mama” (The Spinners), “A Song for Mama” (Boyz II Men), etc.

For fathers: “Papa Was a Rolling Stone” (The Temptations). Wow.

And on top of that, Black fathers, in particular, have been so demonized by society that we (Blackfolk) regularly repeat all the negative tropes others use to label Black dads, even though a 2015 study by the CDC showed that Black fathers are involved in the lives of their children just as much, and in many cases, more so, than white, Latinx and Asian dads.

For generations, there have been Black fathers showing up and showing out for their families. And in so doing, dads say there are blessings that come with fatherhood —realities that are unable for a person who is not a father to comprehend until that day comes.

Here are some of those blessings shared

by Defender dads.

Let your children be their own person. No matter what you teach them, you won’t be able to dictate who they will be. If you can dictate who they will be, then you have robbed them of becoming great in their own right.

Sen Olushola

Hugs from the little ones are the best! Also, when they are showing signs of learning, especially when you are the teacher, is heartwarming.

Knowing that they will ultimately (even if they don’t want to in the moment) be looking to you as the earthly example, makes your job that much harder, but worth it. It also makes you always think big picture and less about yourself and more about them.

Jeffery Oribhabor

There’s a fearlessness you gain from fatherhood.

Fear is no longer a factor because you must protect and provide for your offspring by any (legal) means necessary.

Gee Joyner

Growing up in Galveston, my dad wasn’t around much, but my two uncles Marvin and David Scurry gave me many life teachings on being a man. The simple act of playing catch with a baseball and a football...I not only learned how to catch and throw, it gave us time to talk about expectations of a Black man in America. I also pass those times to my two sons in the same manner.

Ronald Scurry

Being a father and grandfather, and being able to witness births! I cried like a baby.

Steven Foster

Protect. Provide. Repeat. I’ve learned that being a girl dad is a balance between teaching them that they can do almost anything without pushing them so hard that we break something.

Hugs are more powerful than hollering.

And daughters have the unique ability to see when fathers are afraid. And that’s when they grasp and hold your hand.

Kamau Mason

You learn how to love without the need to control. It also gives me confidence in my decisions because anything that rocks the family boat unnecessarily is something I know I can do without.

Kambui Moore

June 16, 2022 |

| 21

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports

DESHAUN WATSON

SPEAKS

Addresses sexual misconduct allegations at minicamp Defender News Service

Deshaun Watson took questions from the media to address the mounting sexual misconduct lawsuits against him.

The former Houston Texans quarterback spoke during a mandatory minicamp with his new team the Cleveland Browns.

One day after a report out of Houston indicated two more civil complaints would be filed against Watson, the 26-year-old reiterated his stance that he has “never assaulted, disrespected, or harassed anyone,” and also took the time to thank the organization and the fans for “the support and just the welcoming of being a Cleveland Brown and what it really means.”

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson answers a question at the NFL football team’s practice facility Tuesday, June 14, 2022, in Berea, Ohio.

“Everything’s been pretty good,” Watson said of his experience in Northeast Ohio so far.

“I know that there’s still legal proceedings still going on...I have to respect the process that is still going on, and I may [or] may not be able to answer [all of your] questions.”

From there, reporters at mandatory minicamp in Berea did indeed pepper Watson with questions about the two dozen women who have formally accused him of various forms of sexual harassment or assault during massage appointments.

The three-time Pro Bowler at times declined to get into specifics, but claimed he had “answered every question truthfully” during the sworn

deposition, as well as the NFL’s investigation into his behavior.

“I’ve been honest and I’ve been truthful about my stance,” Watson said of his denial of any wrongdoing, later adding, “I never forced anyone to do anything.”

Watson’s attorneys have admitted he engaged in what they believe to be “consensual” sexual activity with three of the known plaintiffs, but others allege the QB crossed several boundaries during scores of massage sessions during his time with the Houston Texans.

Watson was also asked about a report from The New York Times claiming he received massages from at least 66 different women over a period of more than a year (not all of which resulted in misconduct allegations), and said he did not believe that number was accurate.

“I don’t think so, from what me and my attorneys went through,” Watson said of that figure. “At the same time, that’s more of a legal question that I can’t really get into details about.”

When asked about his March press conference when he said he had “no regrets” about his past, Watson conceded he had remorse about “the impact [the situation] has had on the community.”

Despite the perceived blow the investigation has had on his reputation, he still expressed a desire to be

a “role model” and “leader” both in Cleveland and elsewhere.

“I know these allegations [are] very serious,” he admitted. “My biggest thing is just wanting to clear my name so I can get back [to] being in the environment I’m most comfortable in, and that’s being in the community and helping people.”

As for football, Watson stressed the need to “be myself ” around his new teammates, who seemed to have taken a liking to him early on.

“I come in here with my head held high,” he said. “If any one of those guys need to ask questions or they have any concerns, they know they can come to my locker and ask me. But ever since I’ve come in here, from day one, these guys have rallied around me and supported me.”

Grand juries in Harris and Brazoria counties declined to file criminal charges against Watson in relation to these cases, and not long afterward the Browns traded for him and inked him to a new contract worth an NFL record $230 million guaranteed.

Despite this, the league is still conducting its own investigation, which could potentially end with a suspension from play.

Watson declined to answer questions about an alleged settlement offer his team made to the plaintiffs that later fell through. When asked if he would be willing to settle now, he again pointed to his desire to “clear my name.”

“I know who I really am,” he told the press. “My focus is really just focusing on Deshaun Watson and being the best person I can be.”

LET THE PEOPLE BE HEARD: See what people are saying about the latest allegations.

BRITTNEY GRINER Russia detention extended Defender News Service

WNBA star and Houston native Brittney Griner will remain in Russian custody through at least July 2 after a Russian court extended her detention.

Griner, who has been held in Russia since February after being accused of smuggling drugs, was classified as wrongfully detained in May, and the United States has reportedly aggressively worked to secure her release even as the legal case against her plays out, the State Department said.

State Department officials met June 13 with members of Griner’s teammates about the Phoenix Mercury star’s monthslong detention and the Biden administration’s efforts to secure her release.

The State Department confirmed the meeting, which involved officials from its specialized office that advocates for hostages and wrongfully detained Americans.

22 | June 16, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports Astros outfielder Jordan Alvarez was named AL Player of the Week after he led the majors in hits (13), batting average (5.65), slugging percentage (1.217) and OPS (1.847) as the Astros went 5-1 during road games against the A’s and Royals.

Sugar Land Space Cowboys outfielder Lewis Brinson is batting .268 with 27 runs, 40 hits and 26 RBI on the season.

Buffalo Bills defensive end Jerry Hughes (55) walks off the field an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Oct. 1, 2017, in Atlanta. The Buffalo Bills won 23-17. The Buffalo Bills won 23-17. AP Photo/John Bazemore

Jerry Hughes

Houston native a big part of Texans defensive rebuild

By Terrance Harris

In many respects, it’s been a trip down memory lane for veteran defensive end Jerry Hughes since he was signed by the Texans as a free agent this offseason.

The Sugar Land native and product of Stephen F. Austin High School without failure is hit with memories while driving through the city or even rolling up to the team facility. The 12-year NFL veteran signed with the Texans after starring for the Buffalo Bills the last nine seasons.

“Oh, man, it feels great, honestly,” said Hughes, who began his first minicamp with the Texans this week. “I was telling my wife this. I feel like I’m back in high school, just to be back in the city driving around.

We used to play high school games at the Astrodome. Very familiar with coming out this way and things like that.

“Just being part of this warm environment, football city, where everyone is looking for the Texans, even though it’s baseball season, everybody still wants to know what we are going to do and how the team is looking,” he said.

The Texans definitely seem to have different energy and excitement and it has everything to do with new coach Lovie

Smith and his emphasis on the defensive.

General manager Nick Caserio and Smith have clearly put a priority on improving the pass rush and this offseason they not only added Hughes but also brought in his former Buffalo Bills teammate Mario Addison and Rasheem Green to give the defensive front some veteran leadership.

Hughes believes their experience can help the younger players improve faster, especially when it comes to how to handle the season, the nuances on the field and how to take coaching.

“This organization has so many people that are going to give us information,” said Hughes, who also played at TCU before being drafted by Indianapolis in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft. “I think how to use it and play fast. I think that would be a real key point for the young guys. We have so much talent in that room. It’s just getting them to understand how great they are.”

So far through OTAs and now minicamp, Smith has been impressed with what he is seeing from Hughes. He has watched Hughes develop from college on through his years in Buffalo where he developed into a Pro Bowl-caliber defensive end who plays fast and gets after the opposing

quarterback.

“To play at a high level, you have to take care of your body. You have to be a pro,” Smith said. “You can’t tell that he’s not a rookie trying to make his first team, and we need that in our program, veteran leadership like that.”

Hughes, who had a couple of double-digit sack seasons early in his career but saw his production drop significantly last season, is excited to be reunited with Addison and their former position coach Jacques Cesaire, who was hired in February to coach the defensive line. But Hughes is even more pumped about playing in Smith’s Tampa 2 scheme where he again will get to do what he does best.

“I’m a big football guy,” said Hughes. “I love to hear the scheme and as far as what Lovie was talking about, about how we get to play fast, we are not thinking, we’re reading keys, getting off the ball, that’s something that I wanted to be a part of.

“Then being home, being able to do that from home and still be a part of my kids’ lives where I can take them to the swim team practice and things like that, that’s just like icing on the cake right now. So, I’m just having a great time.”

Sports Briefs PVAMU’s Crawford-Wallis takes eighth at nationals

Track and field jump specialist Nathan Crawford-Wallis made Prairie View history on June 10 when he finished in the Top 10 (No. 8) in the triple jump with a personal-best leap of 52-feet and 10 inches at the NCAA Championships in Eugene, Ore. It’s the first time in school history that a triple jumper made it to the NCAA podium as one of the best in the nation. “Although just a sophomore Nathan has Nathan Crawford- shown true leadership Wallis on and off the field,” said head men’s track and field coach Chris Clay. “He has won some big meets and set a couple of school records this year. Nathan has committed himself to being the best jumper possible, and he put in the work to achieve that goal. He is a pleasure to work with and he is well deserving of this honor.”

UH headed to Big 12

The University of Houston received the invitation to join the Big 12 a year ago, but last week it was confirmed that the Cougars will begin league play in 2023. The Cougs will be joined by new members BYU, Cincinnati and UCF. UH will have to pay the American Athletic Conference $18 million over 14 years as part of the departure deal.

William J. “Billy” Nicks named to Black College Football Hall of Fame

The late legendary PVAMU football coach William J. “Billy” Nicks has been selected for the 13th Black College Football Hall of Fame (BCFHOF) in the 2022 class. Nicks, who did two stints as head coach of the PanWilliam J. “Billy” Nicks thers, was 111-27-5 and won eight SWAC championships and five Black College National Championships during his second run. Nicks compiled a record of 193-61-21 over 28 years of coaching.

June 16, 2022 |

| 23

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports NORTH CAROLINA A&T TRACK

ON THE RISE WITH HOUSTON TALENT

By Jodie B. Jiles

Over the past decade HBCU North Carolina A&T has consistently been on the main stage of collegiate track competition in the championship rounds. And after the university signed arguably two of the best track stars in the greater Houston area, I’m excited to see what A&T will do with this duo on the next level.

Clocking a silver medal 10.31-second time in the 100meter dash, Shadow Creek sprinter Isaac Henderson is a pure speed guy who can also be a threat in the 4x100-meter relay and on the football field as a wide receiver and return specialist.

Ft. Bend Marshall golden girl Tairah Johnson won her second consecutive gold medal with relative ease in the 100-meter hurdles.

The Defender spoke with Henderson and Johnson after their podium pics to discuss their keys to success, college commitments and more.

KEYS TO SUCCESS HENDERSON: “Get out good and finish the race because it is a short race and I just try to finish quick. It takes a lot of practice.”

ABOUT ISAAC HENDERSON

100-METER HURDLES WIN JOHNSON: “I made sure I got my hips up so I could go over the hurdles and I chopped my arms as fast as I could so I could go faster through the hurdles.”

BACK-TO-BACK GOLD MEDALS JOHNSON: “I just executed and did what I do in practice.”

SILVER MEDAL LESSONS LEARNED HENDERSON: “Just prepare more. I feel like right between regionals and state I started slacking off a little more and you have to stay locked in all the time.”

NORTH CAROLINA A&T COMMITMENT HENDERSON: “They produce a lot of fast people. And they don’t just come in fast.

They get faster consistently.”

ABOUT TAIRAH JOHNSON

TWITTER: @issac_4x TRACK STARS HE STUDIES: “Runners I run against.”

FAVORITE ARTISTS: It really just depends on my mood SHOUT-OUTS: Coach Glen and my mother

TWITTER: @hurdlequeentt INSTAGRAM: @hurdlequeentt TRACK STAR SHE WATCHES: Allyson Felix SHOUT-OUTS: “My dad and coaches.”

HUMBLE SUMMER CREEK TRIPLE JUMPER

JADE JOHNSON GOT HOPS

By Jodie B. Jiles

Humble Summer Creek triple jumper Jade Johnson, a Sam Houston State commit, took home a Class 6A triple jump gold medal at the state track meet with a 42-06.00 jump that was unmatched across the state.

The Defender spoke with Johnson to discuss her keys to success, the winning culture at Summer Creek, her advice to others and more.

KEYS TO SUCCESS “Really just execute and hit the marks that I need to hit to win and that is what I did today. I honestly try to have fun each time I step out on the track.”

SUMMER CREEK WINNING CULTURE “We really are a family. No one is just in one clique. We are all together and communicate well in like a sisterhood and brotherhood with the boys.”

good you are when you start off. It is just how hard you work and how much work you put into what you want to do.”

SAM HOUSTON COMMITMENT “It just seemed like home to me with the coaches and the athletes there. It seemed like somewhere I could be myself for the next four years and really execute what I’ve tried to with the triple jump, long jump or whatever I do.”

TWITTER: @jump_jade10

ADVICE TO OTHERS “It really doesn’t matter how

ABOUT JADE JOHNSON INSTAGRAM: @_jadee.ee TRACK STARS SHE STUDIES: Jasmine Moore and Gabby Thomas FAVORITE ARTIST: 21 Savage SHOUT-OUTS: “...My mom, dad, sister, grandma, my nephew, my coaches, my teammates, and everyone that has supported me along the way.”

ai165421386253_Reynolds_NNPA_June2022 9.5x12.5.pdf 2 6/2/2022 7:51:05 PM

24 | June 16, 2022 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has proposed banning menthol cigarettes. This rule would remove all menthol cigarettes, like Newport, from the store shelves if the rule goes into effect.

BANNING MENTHOL IS BAD PUBLIC POLICY AND WOULD CREATE UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES Great progress has been made reducing smoking rates in this country. Adult and youth smoking are at historic lows; menthol smoking by youth is rare (0.6% smoked even a puff in past 30 days) per recent government data.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

We do not believe the science justifies regulating menthol and non-menthol cigarettes differently. A ban would cause widespread negative unintended consequences including increases in illicit cigarette trade, crime, smuggling, lost tax revenues, strain on law enforcement and the risk of making it easier for youth to access cigarettes through illicit channels.

YOUTH PREVALENCE 99.4% of youth

have not even taken a puff of a menthol cigarette in the last 30 days.

National Youth Tobacco Survey, United States, 2021, MMWR 71(5):1-29 (Mar. 11, 2022), at Table 5

CY

CMY

K

THE PATH FORWARD: TOBACCO HARM REDUCTION There is a larger public health issue at stake: reducing the harm from smoking cigarettes (menthol and non-menthol) and how to accomplish that. Public health policy should encourage innovative and acceptable alternatives to cigarettes – and provide accurate information about them – for those adult smokers who choose not to quit. The pathway to real progress is reducing the harms from smoking in this country by ensuring access for adults to consumer-acceptable alternatives to the cigarette that may present less risk.

Learn more about Reynolds’ scientific work: ReynoldsScience.com Learn more about tobacco harm reduction: ReynoldsHarmReduction.com Submit a comment on the proposed rule to the FDA: OwnItVoiceIt.com

© RAISC (2022)