Issuu

COVID concerns What parents need to know about returning to school

NEWS

MASTER P

The rap mogul is the guest speaker for the Chase Community Economic Summit in Fifth Ward on August 26.

Volume 90, issue 42 August 19, 2021

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MILLARD HOUSE II

The HISD Supt. shares his perspective on issues confronting the school district.

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DN On Point

FIT & FINE Brei Richardson Age: 35 Occupation: CEO of Savvy B Boutique, LLC. Education: Columbia Southern University Major: Occupational Safety and Health Motto: “Always get up more times than you fall”

People carry away a body recovered from the rubble of a earthquake destroyed home in Les Cayes, Haiti, Sunday, August 15, 2021. (Joseph Odelyn / AP Photo)

Message from the Associate Editor merely acting in ways that will gain them The island nation of Haiti is going through entrance into their master’s (Trump’s) house. it. Again. A presidential assassination. A devastating earthquake. Tropical Storm Grace BE ENCOURAGED dumping more misery upon an already Still, there’s reason to be encouraged. When hurting people. Yet, Haiti rarely, if ever, I see school superintendents and ISDs and receives any international sympathy. And county leaders willing to face the wrath of the economic “support” they receive is the governor to keep the children and prooften given out of an attitude of disdain, fessionals in their care as safe as possible, I’m with some erroneously demeaning Haitians encouraged. When I see judges blocking these as lazy, trifling, criminal and deserving of nonsensical and idiotic moves by Trump puptheir misery. Sound familiar? Quick history pets to place our babies in even more harm’s Aswad Walker lesson: from the moment Haitians had the way in an already dangerous COVID Delta audacity to end their enslavement and take their freedom, the variant situation, I’m encouraged. When I see Texas state US and its euro-allies have been punishing Haiti economi- Dems doing everything in their power to rally the country cally and otherwise ever since. Without rehashing those details and the White House to protect our votes, I’m encouraged. here, I’m simply going to request your prayers and support And speaking of being encouraged, the entire Defender famof any kind for our Haitian family. And shoutout to Naomi ily sends its love and support to Lizzo who is out here doing Osaka for pledging to donate any earnings received from the nothing but sharing her incredible gifts and talents with the Western & Southern Open towards Haiti relief efforts. world, boldly and bodaciously, yet receiving hate for her latest video “Rumors,” being labeled too much of this or not enough CRUELTY IS THE POINT of that. Hey #Lizzo, holla if you hear me, Black woman. Be Staff writer for The Atlantic, Adam Serwer, wrote an article encouraged. Because when I see you, I’m encouraged. and later a book entitled “The Cruelty Is the Point” describing how most Trump administration policies existed simply to IN THIS WEEK’S DEFENDER inflict cruel and unusual pain on their targets (usually Blacks • HISD Superintendent Millard House II shares his views on and other folk of color). No economic, healthcare or public local pressing issues and distric goals. safety benefits necessary. Just unapologetic, racist mistreat- • B-baller Bryce Griggs forgoes senior year at Hightower HS ment. Trump and crew knew, that was exactly what his base for the Pros. wanted, and still want. Even if a policy would benefit everyone • The Defender has answers for parents’ COVID back-toin MAGA-land, they’d all vote it to hell if it meant its defeat school concerns. would bring pain to the Blacks and the Browns. To them, cruelty equals strength. So, applying logic to the mask mandate bans ON THE WEB of governors “Abbutt” and “DeSatan” is a waste of time. Citing • Go to DefenderNetwork.com for the latest news, sports and stats about the insane number of children—CHILDREN—conentertainment stories impacting our people locally, nationtracting and dying of COVID as examples of why they should ally and abroad, and the best opinion pieces anywhere from welcome mask-wearing in school is a fool’s errand. They’re a Black perspective. SAFETY FIRST

@imsavvyb-personal and @savvyboﬃcial

Read more on Friday about Brei at defendernetwork.com If you are Fit & Fine email: ﬁtnﬁne@defendernetwork.com

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DN News

Harris County Public Health unveils new vaccine incentive initiative Defender News Service

In an effort to improve vaccination rates and better protect the residents of Harris County from COVID-19, Harris County Public Health (HCPH) will provide $100 cash cards to residents receiving their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at an HCPH vaccination site. In order to receive the $100 cash card, residents will have to sign a waiver prior to the vaccination and remain in the post-vaccination waiting area at an HCPH vaccination site for the 15-to-30 minutes recommended. Vaccinations at HCPH sites are free and no appointment is required. To find one near you, click here. If you prefer to make an appointment, go to vacstrac.hctx.net or call 832-927-8787. Face coverings will be required for individuals seeking a vaccination and we urge residents to take additional COVID-19 prevention measures such as maintain social distancing, staying at home as much as possible and continue regularly washing their hands. Parents must accompany their children, ages 12-17, to be vaccinated or children must bring a consent form signed by their parent or guardian. Consent forms can be found via vacstrac.hctx.net and 12 to 17-year-olds are eligible for the Pfizer vaccine. Adults over the age of 17 can choose

Lina Hidalgo speaks about the vaccine initiative as Congressman Al Green looks on. Houston Public Media

from three vaccines: the one-dose Johnson & Johnson and the multi-dose Pﬁzer or Moderna vaccines. Fully vaccinated people have the greatest protection against the Delta Variant. So far, 63% percent of Harris County residents have had one vaccine dose, however the current positivity rate for

HCPH is more than 20% and hospitals across Harris County are overwhelmed with COVID-19 cases. The vaccine is the best tool we have in mitigating both the spread and impact of COVID-19 and we urge residents to do their part by getting vaccinated and encouraging others to do the same.

Residents in need of their second dose of the Moderna or Pﬁzer vaccine can also receive one at an HCPH vaccination site. Proof of their 1st dose to verify the type of vaccine will be required. For residents who feel they need to be tested for COVID-19, we encourage residents to sign up for a COVID-19 test by calling 832-927-7575.

Chase Bank hosts community economic summit Fifth Ward Event focuses on building Black wealth Defender News Service

Master P

Chase Bank is hoping to further break down the racial wealth gap and drive an inclusive economic recovery, with a Community Economic Summit featuring rapper/ entrepreneur, Master P, at the Deluxe Theater in Houston on Thursday August 26. The full day of events will include panel discussions about advancing racial equity, breaking structural barriers to wealth and building generational wealth. Smaller breakout sessions throughout the day will provide business coaching, strategies for access to capital and assistance to firsttime homebuyers, including programs that may offer up to $5,000 in housing assistance from Chase. The Houston event is part of Chase’s recently announced $30 billion commitment to advance racial equity and bring more economic opportunity to diverse and underserved communities. “We know that financial education is a key driver in closing the racial wealth gap,”

said Kimberly Evans, vice president and community manager for Chase in Houston. “We want to help people build a strong ﬁnancial foundation so they can thrive and build wealth.” “We are asking the underserved community to come to the table so we can commune and plan together to empower the culture,” said Percy “Master P” Miller. “Now is the time to focus on the creation, maintenance, and passage of Black and Brown wealth. Giving our culture the information and education is how we build economic empowerment.” Chase is working with partners from the community to give shape and greater substance to the discussions. “Our vision is a community where all Black people and other marginalized communities are clearly at parity with America’s promise of opportunity, equality, and justice,” said Eric M. Goodie, area vice president for the Houston Area Urban League. “Partnering in Chase’s Advancing Black

Pathways and Advancing Black Entrepreneurs initiatives provides resources that allow us to help advance career pathways through educational services and skills training, improve ﬁnancial health and help build generational wealth, and help Black business owners grow and scale their businesses by providing technical assistance and access to capital.” Panel Oﬀerings

These discussions are open to the public and will take a deep dive into the issues and structural barriers in the U.S. that have created profound racial inequalities. Panelists will discuss solutions proposed through public and private efforts to: 1. promote and expand affordable housing and homeownership 2. grow Black and LatinX businesses 3. improve financial health and access to banking in Black and LatinX communities 4. accelerate investment into workforce development. The program will kick off at 10 a.m. and conclude at 3 p.m.

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DN News

Biden administration increases SNAP benefits NNPA

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser listens as President Joe Biden speaks during a meeting on reducing gun violence, in the Roosevelt Room of the White House. AP Photo/Evan Vucci

BIDEN ADMINISTRATION

Prioritizing Black outreach in push for Build Back Better agenda Defender News Service

In his latest push, President Joe Biden wants people to believe in the promise of his Build Back Better Agenda. The president recently promoted the plan highlighting benefits like free community college, reduced prescription costs and the child tax credit. A mix of programs, Biden’s Build Back Better Agenda covers a wide range of investments thought to uplift everyone across the board. According to the president, his plan is more expansive than the bipartisan infrastructure agreement making its way through Congress, with something for everyone. The administration released a new explainer, breaking down the direct benefit for Black communities. White House Senior Advisor for Public Engagement Trey Baker says his job is making sure Black people understand how the proposal could improve their lives. The basic premise seems to be that if the current system negatively impacts many Black people, the investments will directly impact and hopefully change for the better. “We’re going to have to make sure that whether it’s housing or health care, that we put a focus on our outreach on this and make sure that our community understands what’s in it for them,” Baker told NewsOne. While few provisions are specifically targeted to support Black communities, Baker says the benefit is undeniable. Baker pointed to the Child Tax Credit as an example of a provision that proves a game-changer for Black families. The second month of payments began hitting people’s accounts on Friday just in time for back to school in many places. The Biden administration estimates the monthly payments would cut the Black poverty rate

by at least 34%. Workers without children who are otherwise eligible for the earned income tax credit are expected to see an increase in the benefit. Other benefits include making way for an estimated 360,000 Black people to save on health insurance premiums. A new provision that would expand Medicaid could allow 328,000 uninsured Black people to get insurance. But systems riddled with racial inequities will inevitably reproduce those issues without direct intervention. Baker said an important part of his work is ensuring Black communities reap the benefits of the proposals and connecting people with the resources. “Many times, we don’t get the benefit because we don’t have the information,” said Baker. “And so that’s part of my job, making sure that people have the information.” Baker explained that getting out the information of new programs and funding opportunities is building relationships with service providers, community organizations, and local governments. This becomes particularly important in new funds aimed at creating more affordable housing and expanding employment opportunities. “Whether it’s partnerships with the National Urban League, NAACP, or others, we try to make sure that the widest swath of our folks knows about it,” shared Baker. He estimated up to 300 people join his weekly stakeholder calls. Baker also highlighted the historic investments made in HBCUs, but noted the potential impact for Black students at predominantly white institutions through investments in STEM programs and other initiatives along with increases in Pell grant awards.

Seventeen percent of Black families in America still report not having enough food to eat – surpassing the 10% of all U.S. citizens with the same problem. But that dire circumstance could change starting in October when the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program receives its most significant increase in history. The Biden-Harris administration has approved an average 25% increase in benefits that should allow families more resources to purchase food. It marks the first time the benefit – commonly known as SNAP – increased since the program began in 1975. “Ensuring low-income families have access to a healthy diet helps prevent disease, supports children in the classroom, reduces health-care costs and more,” U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in a statement. “And the additional money families will spend on groceries helps grow the food economy, creating thousands of new jobs along the way.” A U.S. Department of Agriculture study revealed that 88 percent of SNAP recipients struggled to obtain a healthy diet. Officials said recipients would receive an average of $147, or $36 more per month than they previously received. Vilsack said the department based the updated benefits formula on current food prices, dietary guidance, and nutrients found in food items. “Today is a day of great progress for struggling families across the nation, who will soon see a permanent and substantial increase to their monthly SNAP benefits for the first time ever,” noted House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.). “Thanks to the Biden Administration strengthening this important lifeline, parents will be able to afford healthy food for their families, and children will not have to go to bed hungry.”

VOLUME 90 - NUMBER 42 - AUGUST 19, 2021 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Managing Editor ReShonda Tate

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

Associate Editor Aswad Walker

Creative Director Michael Grant

Education Reporter Laura Onyeneho

Photographers Ray Carrington III Jimmie Aggison

Sports Terrance Harris Jodie B. Jiles

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

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DN Health

A DEFENDER AND KELSEY-SEYBOLD CLINIC ALLIANCE

Foot woes? Tell it to a podiatrist

BY SARITA DILLARD, D.P.M.

You know it’s important to watch your diet, keep cholesterol in check, exercise, and get your yearly physical. While you’re keeping track of the health screenings you need to stay on top of, don’t forget about your feet. Research has found that certain disorders are higher in African Americans. The two most common of these are hammertoe and hallux valgus (commonly known as bunions). HAMMERTOE Hammertoe is a general term for what happens when a toe muscle weakens and causes it to contract, which ultimately results in deformity. To be categorized as a hammertoe, the toe is bent at the middle joint only. While hammertoes sometimes result from genetics, there are other

FROM THE DOC “A podiatrist can help treat existing foot problems and prevent future ones.” Dr. Dillard specializes in Podiatry at KelseySeybold. For an appointment, call 713-442-0000.

contributing factors that can cause the condition. Narrow high heels or shoes that don’t fit properly are the biggest non-genetic causes. To help prevent hammertoes, wear comfortable, sensible shoes with enough room in the toe area for movement. You can also talk to your physician about foot exercises that help strengthen the toes and prevent the weakening of the muscles that ultimately leads to the condition. HALLUX VALGUS DEFORMITIES (OR BUNIONS) Hallux valgus (HAV) deformities, or bunions, are characterized by a bony deformity that appears as a bump on the side of the big toe. It isn’t a bony growth as many believe, but bone

or tissue at the big toe joint that has moved out of place. Depending on how large the bunion is, it can cause the big toe to lean in toward the second toe. When pressure is applied, tissue surrounding that joint can become inflamed, resulting in swelling and pain. Because a bunion is a deformity of the bone, correcting the problem involves surgery. That doesn’t mean, however, that you can’t treat bunion pain if it’s not already too advanced. If you have an HAV deformity, switch to comfortable footwear that doesn’t apply pressure on that bony prominence. Wearing bunion pads may help minimize the friction in that area, too.

Now Scheduling VIRTUAL and IN-PERSON Appointments! 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

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS and more than 50 HEALTH PLANS, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, and UnitedHealthcare. Also accepting two Medicare Advantage plans, KelseyCare Advantage and WellCare TexanPlus.

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DN InFocus FOCUS SOCIAL HISD SUPT. SPEAKS ON PRESSING SCHOOL ISSUES By Laura Onyeneho

HISD is preparing for the safe return to in-person learning for all its students. Superintendent House discussed his plans and thoughts around major COVID-19 and educational related topics that have impacted the school district. HISD will release specifics around their back-to-school safety protocol called “Ready, Set, Go,” to ensure student growth and success in school, addressing the pandemic-related learning losses. “We had the opportunity to see our students that were doing so much better academically than our students that were [learning] virtual, he said. Our goal is to ensure a safe environment, and to make sure that their experience is a quality experience,” House said. Superintendent House revealed Superintendent his 90-day plan to introduce sev- Millard House II eral key priorities that HISD will be working on for the upcoming school year. The goals include ensuring the safe and orderly opening to re-engage students back into the public education experience, and developing a plan that cements a path of innovation and excellence for all students. Here are some of his responses to the community’s most pressing issues:

MASK MANDATE:

The board of trustees will be looking to share the support of what that mask mandate looks like…they’re just essentially going to show support for my decision to institute a mask mandate. We should be moving forward on the [August] 23rd with a mask mandate for all employees, all students, whether it’s in the classroom or on school buses. We have the highest opportunity in HISD to spread simply because we’re the largest school district in the state. If there is a situation where it’s a refusal, we’ll have to handle it from a disciplinary standpoint. CRITICAL RACE THEORY (CRT):

I think everyone needs to know their history. To be honest, I didn’t know what CTR was, so I had to do my research and figure out what it was. History is history. The last thing I want to happen is for you [an educator] to walk away in handcuffs. We are making sure that our teachers have the ability to do what is necessary to be successful in the classroom. TEACHER SHORTAGE:

It’s not just teachers, it’s also bus drivers. Bus drivers for the last four years have been a struggle across the country. It has been exacerbated because of COVID. We’re seeing probably double the issue that we’ve

typically seen. Two to three weeks ago we were looking at 600 teachers. Right now, we are looking for over 400 teachers, but we do have a plan in place to ensure that we have as many vacancies filled with a highly qualified teacher. We’re still hiring. We’re bringing in and processing teachers on a daily basis. We will also be deploying many individuals that work for the district that don’t sit in actual teaching positions. VACCINATIONS IN THE WORKPLACE:

What I can tell you personally is that I’m not in favor of the idea of pushing individuals to vaccinate and making it mandatory. I think that’s the job of the government and state. On the flip side, I think it’s the responsibility of everyone in the classroom to be vaccinated if you can. The data shows that it’s working. VIRTUAL LEARNING:

We’re actually one of the very few school systems in the state of Texas that was grandfathered into being allowed to serve students virtually so we have a virtual school. It’s a charter [school] partner that has been in place for years and currently that school has about 8,000 students and we’re exploring the possibility, some expansion of about 1,500 to 2,000 more students. We want our students in person, but we respect where people are.”

TACKLING THE TEACHER SHORTAGE By Laura Onyeneho

H.I.S.D. has been working overtime to prepare for its new school year starting August 23. At the same time it’s also tackling a concerning problem. A shortage of teachers in the nation’s 7th largest school system. In a letter to the community, HISD Superintendent Millard House II further explains how HISD will deal with the teacher shortage for the first days of school. He says he has developed a “bold plan to ensure that every student begins the school year with a certified teacher in all core content areas.” Currently, there are 386 vacancies. “With instability of who’s going to be teaching them, there’s just no way we can expect these students to perform,” said Andrew Dewey from the Houston Federation of Teachers. The plan is expected to accomplish the following: • Working with principals to ensure that campus-based staff that hold teacher certifications are placed in classrooms until a high quality teacher is hired. • Deploying about 250 central office staff members with teacher certifications to all campuses that have teacher vacancies that they cannot fill. These employees will also remain in the classroom until a high quality teacher is hired. Superintendent House stated that HISD will launch a virtual academy for students who need to quaran-

First graders masked up. Brittany Murray

tine to ensure they don’t miss out on instruction. This academy will be taught by about 80 additional teachers-certified instructors and will cover all content across grades Pre-K though 12.

He believes that with these measures, “the district will begin the school year more fully staffed with certified teachers than perhaps ever in its history, including pre-COVID.”

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DN InFocus FOCUS SOCIAL

Back to School COVID-19 CONCERNS

LET THE PEOPLE BE HEARD Parents weigh in over their concerns about their children heading back to school.

What parents need to know about COVID and their kids

“I am concerned & also frustrated. Our county does not have a mask mandate only because so many parents are ﬁghting against it. It is frustrating that a year later, people are still willfully ignorant about the usefulness of masks. I send my kids with masks and tell them to wear them in small groups, the carpool line or whenever they were not socially distanced. But they are kids. If the teachers don’t back up the parents who want to take precautions it is not going to help. Sadly, I predict we will all be virtual again by cold & ﬂu season, not because we don’t know any better but because we are intentionally choosing not to do better. And by ‘we’ I mean ‘them’...the anti-vaccers and anti-maskers.” - Stephanie Bullock Ferguson

By ReShonda Tate

s schools across Texas begin, many parents are faced with a pressing questions – how do I safely send my child back to school with the Delta variant raging out of control? Already, there are more than 1,700 total cases in our area schools and the largest district, Houston ISD, starts Aug. 23. Health experts have expressed their concern about how contagious the Delta variant is as students return to the classroom. That’s leaving many parents frustrated at the lack of advice for families, particularly those with children under 12 years old, who are not yet eligible for a COVID vaccine. At least 21 Texas school districts, including some of the state’s biggest, have instituted mask mandates, which are in violation of Abbott’s executive order banning such measures. Many parents say they face an impossible choice: send kids to school and risk a COVID-19 infection, or keep kids home and jeopardize their mental health and educational development. Here are answers to common questions parents have about sending kids back to school.

Is it safe for children to go back to classrooms?

Surprisingly, schools have not been a major cause of COVID-spreading events, particularly when a number of prevention measures are in place. A combination of precautions — masking indoors, keeping students at least three feet apart in classrooms, keeping students in separate cohorts or “pods,” encouraging hand washing and regular testing, and quarantining — have been effective. The American Rescue Plan also allocated $122 billion to help school districts pay for health and safety measures, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has allocated $10 billion for screening testing for teachers, staff and students.

What are the risks of COVID-19 and the Delta variant to children?

New research suggests the Delta variant may cause more serious illness in adults, but it’s not known if the variant puts children at greater risk of more serious illness. A sick person can infect as many as eight people in close proximity vs. infecting as many as two people under the original strain of SARS-CoV-2. Compared to adults, children diagnosed with COVID-19 are more likely to have mild symptoms or none at all. Children are also far less likely to develop severe illness, be hospitalized or die from the disease. Children with underlying medical conditions are the most likely to be hospitalized. Black and Hispanic children also had higher rates of hospitalization, although overall risk remained low.

“I am worried. Thankfully, our school board made it mandatory for kids to wear masks whether vaccinated or not in the classroom.” -Cynthia Morgan Medley

“I just hope the A/C is working properly because masks get hot and I can see children removing their masks. That’s a recipe for disaster.” -Marvette Watson

“I’ll make sure my kids’ clothes come oﬀ in the mud room and immediately go into the laundry when they get home from school.” -William Ewings

“I get it (politics, optics), but I really don’t understand who would subject people to illness and death so unnecessarily. Our best defense - vaccine, masks AND social distancing. So why not at least mandate masks and social distancing? So many factors at play and possibilities of transmission (teachers, administration, students, support staﬀ, and the ppl in their worlds, etc)...it is nothing to take lightly.” -Clemelia Humphrey Richardson

Should concerned parents keep kids at home?

Public health experts say that, in most cases, the risk of educational and mental health setbacks associated with keeping kids home appears to be far higher than the risk of complications from COVID-19 among young people. A number of studies show the pandemic has taken a toll on childhood mental health. And recent ﬁndings show that students fell four to seven months behind in math and reading compared to similar students in 2019.

“We loosened up brieﬂy to allow them to go to summer camp. We were reassured that they were taking every precaution. My kids were exposed and caught Covid week 2. So with school I’m so nervous but staying prayerful.” -Nicole Bird-Faulkner

What precautions can we take at home to lower a child’s risk?

The most important step is to vaccinate everyone in the family as soon as they are eligible. This will lower the risk of a child getting infected at home and protect family members if a child brings coronavirus home from school. Parents of school age children should remember that risk is cumulative. Lowering your risk at home by avoiding crowds and enclosed public indoor spaces where you don’t know the vaccination status of others can help reduce the whole family’s risk. Paying attention to the community transmission and vaccination rates and wearing masks in risky settings can also help.

“Much too relaxed environment in the schools! Pray for them ALL.” -Misty Metoyer

“I am very concerned especially with these variants and people passing bad information to their kids, which they will pass on to mine.” -Desiree Dalton

“My son will get his 2nd vaccine dose just prior to school starting. He’ll still wear a mask, eat lunch at his desk and social distance when possible.” -Kimberly Taylor

“I live in Texas ..so I am very concerned about the no mask mandate ..hoping the school board will do the right thing for the children!” -Artina WycheColeman

“My father is currently battling cancer. With masks being optional for students and teachers, we made the decision for my son to be a virtual student. As an educator, I have to go to pay the bills. I will be wearing my mask.” -Kendra Streeter Galloway

“As much as I wanted to send my kids to traditional school, my son’s asthma is just too severe to risk it. They will be homeschooled this year.” -Gina Johnson

“I am absolutely concerned! My 10-year-old cannot be vaccinated yet. He also has severe asthma. Fall allergies, colds, etc are already a big trigger. I am stocking up on sanitizer and pumping him full of vitamins. He will deﬁnitely be wearing a mask too!” -Adela Mercedes

“My child is 2 and home everyday, but my husband is a teacher and his school has had several positives this week. Our children’s hospitals have lots of kids. I’m concerned. My niece was notiﬁed today that she’s been exposed since Wednesday as a student…” - Brittany Boulware Bruton

“Not worried at all, let the world go back to normal.” -Yuli Azzi

“I’m scared for my grandkids and because their simpleminded father won’t get vaccinated. He should have been the ﬁrst in line due to he has Sickle Cell.” -Gwen Cannon-Jenkins

“My boys have been home since the lockdown began so I had them practice saying “don’t talk to me without a mask,” “move, you’re too close,” etc.” -Mitchell Zekila

“As a grandparent, I am very concerned. I feel in my gut that after Labor Day shut downs will take place again.” -Mel Q. Bates

10 | August 19, 2021 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN InFocus FOCUS SOCIAL

COLLEGE PROTOCOLS COVID-19 Safety Guidelines for Fall

Lone Star College

• Masks are no longer required on LSC facilities or grounds. • All entrances will be open and there is no requirement for temperature checks. • You no longer need to report exposure unless you have tested positive.

Prairie View A&M University

If and individual tests positive for COVID-19 or comes in contact with a person who has tested positive, the individuals should self-report and call the school’s COVID-19 hotline. • The individual must not attend class, work or attend university-sponsored activities if the person is sick. • Complete a Self-Reporting Form. • Individuals should notify professors and/or supervisors of absences. • Continue isolation/quarantine until Health Services clears you to return to campus.

University of Houston Central Campus

The University of Houston will continue to encourage the wearing of face coverings, especially for individuals who are not fully vaccinated, but consistent with Governor Abbott’s May 18, 2021 and July 29, 2021 Executive Orders, face coverings are no longer required on campus.

Texas Southern University (TSU)

• Per Texas guidelines, masks will not be required on campus or in campus buildings, but they are recommended. • Unvaccinated students are allowed on campus but masks are recommended. • TSU has established the TSU COVID-19 Hotline to gather information that will be used to keep the TSU community healthy. Faculty, staﬀ and students should report lab-conﬁrmed positive COVID-19 cases, physician-diagnosed positive COVID-19 cases and exposures to the self-reporting COVID-19.

Rice University

Indoors: Masks are required indoors at all times for faculty, staﬀ, students and visitors, with the following exceptions: • When actively eating or drinking. • When students are inside their own rooms in a residential college. • When faculty, staﬀ and students are alone

By Laura Onyeneho

Students are gearing up for their return to on-campus learning. Several colleges and universities continue to update their safety guidelines ahead of the fall school semester. Here is a list of local colleges and university with diﬀerent COVID-19-protocols and updates that students should keep in mind before coming back to school. Laura Onyeneho covers the city’s education system as it relates to Black children for the Defender Network as a Report For America Corps member. Email her at laura@defendernetwork.com

University of Houston Clearlake

• COVID testing is being oﬀered at no cost on the UHCL campus and is open to the public. • An appointment is recommended but not required. • COVID-19 PCR testing is available. • Self-collected swab test with 1-2 days turnaround. No cost to individuals (will bill to insurance if one provided). No insurance required.

University of Houston-Downtown (UHD)

• UHD is oﬀering COVID-19 testing on campus through a kiosk located outside the Student Life Center. • UHD’s testing will be free of charge and available to the university community and the public from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. • Presentation of a photo identiﬁcation and insurance card is suggested when arriving for testing, but not required. • Face coverings and/or masks are no longer required at UHD per Governor Abbott’s Executive Order #36. • For those who prefer to wear face coverings and/or masks, they may certainly continue to do so. UHD encourages unvaccinated people to wear face coverings.

inside a private oﬃce. • Faculty lecturing in a classroom are advised, but not required, to wear a mask. If they’re not masked, instructors must maintain a distance of at least 10 feet between themselves and their students. Unvaccinated instructors must wear a mask at all times. Outdoors: Masks are not required outdoors.

St. Thomas University

• Individuals should continue to perform a self-evaluation before visiting campus. • Temperature checks and wristbands are no longer required when arriving on campus. • The wearing of masks is no longer required for people who are fully vaccinated. • Classes should continue to follow distancing guidelines, maintaining six feet of space.

Houston Community College

• All in-person academic courses will be conducted remotely as “Online on a Schedule” until September 20, before transitioning back to inperson learning. Workforce, Health Sciences, and ESL courses will continue with in-person instruction starting August 23. • Everyone is asked to take the HCC Soar Safe Pledge, or ﬁve actions to protect students staﬀ and the community. Wear a mask. Wash your hands. Watch your distance. Stay home if you are sick. Get vaccinated. • All students, employees and visitors will be required to complete HCC’s screening process before accessing HCC’s buildings.

• Fully vaccinated people coming to campus coming into routine contact with others must schedule a test at least once every two weeks. • Unvaccinated people coming to campus must test twice per week, regardless of whether they come into contact with other people.

August 19, 2021 |

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DEFENDER NETWORK

AVAILABLE NOW: Houston Methodist Virtual Urgent Care

Our providers are available 24/7 following your COVID-19 diagnosis. Whether you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or want to avoid spreading or catching germs, you can connect with a board-certified provider via video visit wherever you are — no appointment needed. The provider will be able to advise you about your diagnosis and can guide you on appropriate treatments to help you in your journey to recovery. Virtual Urgent Care is available through the MyMethodist app. Download it today. If you are unable to cover the $20 cost of your visit, please contact 281.524.4687 for financial assistance.

houstonmethodist.org/virtual-care

12 | August 19, 2021 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Feature FOCUS SOCIAL

Houston marks March on Washington anniversary with local ‘March On for Voting Rights’ By Defender News Service

On Saturday, August 28, the 58th anniversary of the historic March on Washington featuring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Texans committed to saving democracy and free elections are called to unite for a rally and concert as part of the March On for Voting Rights. The march will take place at Discovery Green Park (1500 McKinney St., 77010) and begin at 10am. The march is part of a nationwide demonstration demanding that legislatures across the country end voter suppression laws and that Congress pass the For the People Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Restoration Act. Proponents of those two pieces of legislation believe they will ensure free, fair access to the ballot for every American voter. The Houston demonstration will include a rally and concert featuring Bun B and Trae tha Truth. Additional participants will include local elected oﬃcials, community activists, faith leaders and artists.

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Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the March on Washington, Aug 28, 1963. Uncredited/AP/REX/Shutterstock

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August 19, 2021 |

| 13

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Spotlight RECOGNITION

DR. WILL GUZMÁN Prairie View A&M Scholar/Activist beacons more activism

By Aswad Walker

Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) history professor Will Guzmán has been selected from hundreds of applicants worldwide to be a Fellow at the National Humanities Center (NHC). The prestigious award is the first for a professor from PVAMU. Guzmán will join 35 other Fellows from 16 states, as well as Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Nigeria, and Taiwan, in residence at the NHC in North Carolina for the 2021-22 academic year. Guzmán will use the time to prepare his manuscript on Raymond A. Brown: Black Power’s Attorney. Prior to joining PVAMU’s staff Guzman taught at six universities in a 17-year span, the most recent being New Jersey City University where he served as an associate professor in the African American Studies Program and Director of the Hagan Africana Studies Center at New Jersey City University. Guzmán’s work in New Jersey was so consequential for the Jersey City community that the local NAACP branch honored his service during its 98th Annual Freedom Fund Banquet (December 2019). Though Guzman’s academic interests are broad, he is considered a specialist in African-American history after 1865 and Afro-Puerto Rican history after 1873. The Defender was able to get Guzmán’s takes on a number of issues that impact both scholarship and society in general. DEFENDER: How has the movement fol-

lowing the death of George Floyd impacted national and state legislation?

Get Dr. Guzman’s thoughts on the redesign of public safety and learn more about his groundbreaking scholarship at DefenderNetwork.com

We have to begin to engage. And that engagement is going to require time, discipline, sacrifice and commitment. We have to look at the long game. This is not a short-term solution.” -DR. GUZMAN

DR. WILL GUZMÁN: It’s impacted the

nation on the legislative level on both positive and negative (i.e. white backlash). You see various Southern states creating legislation to, in a very draconian way, punish protesters. On the positive, more members of our communities, young African Americans in particular, are becoming more politicized and engaging in the political process in very concrete ways. DEFENDER: Any scholar/activist thoughts

on the Jan. 6 insurrection?

GUZMÁN: The January 6 insurrection

appeared to be a comical, ragtag and motley crew of misfits where G.I. Jane met Duck Dynasty, Boss Hog and Bullwinkle. Grievance politics converged with white-skin privilege to allow these violent insurrectionists to

destroy property and assault and kill police officers with impunity. The January 6 event was another reminder that we need to create an unabashed Black agenda that demands $21-trillion in reparations, build multiracial coalitions, dismantle laissez-faire capitalism, engage in political education which leads to mass mobilization that advocates for a more humane and just public policy where people are valued over profits, where corporations are not people, and where the police-military apparatus and surveillance state are eliminated.

GUZMÁN: We need to engage in research

DEFENDER: With Haiti in the news, to

DEFENDER: Beyond voting, what must

what other international issues should Black and Brown folk pay attention?

and political education that will result in a robust critique and activism against corporations such as Texaco/Chevron, Shell Oil, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Raytheon and Northrop Grumman who are profiting from wars and the destruction of the environment in Black communities in this country and throughout the African diaspora. Examples include Afro-Ecuadorians and indigenous people in the Lago Agrio field (“Amazon Chernobyl”) of Ecuador and the Ejama-Ebubu people of Ogoniland in southwest Nigeria. Black and Brown people do to improve our communities’ political outcomes?

GUZMÁN: First and foremost, hold our

current elected political leaders accountable to their promises. Second, we have to move Biden to the left and ensure that he expands Medicaid and Medicare coverage or a Medicaid for all healthcare system. What does that look like? It’s us joining nonprofits and other civic organizations to put the pressure on political leaders starting from the top, but also here at the local level. In the coming months you’re going to see hundreds and thousands of evictions all over the country. How do we mitigate that? That’s going to require at the local level us putting political pressure on alleviating the suffering of those that have been economically displaced by COVID-19.

14 | August 19, 2021 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports

Rockets rookie and ﬁrst-round draft pick Josh Christopher had 22 points, three rebounds and two assists in a Summer League game against the Orlando Magic

Texans second-year defensive end Jonathan Greenard recorded one tackle, one sack and a forced fumble all in one play that resulted in a strip-sack on Green Bay quarterback Jordan Love.

Sports Briefs Texans Coach Culley wants more out of Taylor Texans first-year coach David Culley said he thought quarterback Tyrod Taylor managed the game well during his only drive of the game against Green Bay where he went 4-for-4 for 40 yards in driving Tyrod Taylor the offense down the field. But the Texans failed to score a touchdown. “We’ve got to have touchdowns in that particular situation. Other than not being able to get us a score there with a touchdown, I thought he did exactly what we wanted him to do during that series.” PV’s Andrea Nugent receives preseason honor Panthers junior soccer player Andrea Nugent was selected as the SWAC Andrea Nugent preseason Defensive Player of the Year while also making the first preseason all-conference first team. Others Panthers making the preseason All-SWAC team include Ashley Chala, Lauren Hermosa, D’Sanye Nugent and JoJo Bernal. Texans cut ties with Coulter In a mild surprise, second-year receiver Isaiah Coulter was the first cut of the Texans this preseason. Last year’s Isaiah fifth-round Coulter draft pick out of Rhode Island, Coulter played in just one game as a rookie and didn’t record any stats and was targeted just once in Saturday’s win over Green Bay but did not record a catch.

LSU wide receiver Jonathan Giles (7) runs through drills during their NCAA college football practice in Baton Rouge, La., Monday, Aug. 6, 2018. -AP

TSU receiver Jonathan Giles feels back at home with Tigers By Terrance Harris

Jonathan Giles can’t help but feel a sense of comfort as he walks around Texas Southern’s campus these days. It’s a trek Giles has made since he was a seven-year-old kid turned loose on campus during the summer and winter breaks while his dad, Lonzo Giles, worked as the head video coordinator for the Tigers athletic department. So it was an easy decision in 2019 after playing wide receiver for big-time college football programs at Texas Tech and LSU, and with other top schools interested in his services, Giles wanted to play his ﬁnal year of eligibility where he grew up. “This was home,” Giles said on a recent afternoon as his eyes literally pointed from building to building around campus. “TSU was like my second home. So when I transferred from LSU, a lot of teams were calling me saying they want me. But it was time to go back home.” It was even more personal than that because with his dad being responsible for video on TSU gamedays and Giles also playing football those same days, his father rarely got to attend his games as a Red Raider or Bayou Bengal. Now, not only does his dad get to attend every game but they have that

daily interaction Giles had been missing all of those years. “Now we go from him only seeing me for two games, to I see him after every practice, after every game. So it’s wonderful,” said Giles, who is a sixth-year senior. “I get to talk to him before meetings, I get to see him every day. I get to see my parents every day, go home, so it’s wonderful.” Giles has had an incredible journey to arrive at this point. After starring at Elkins as a quarterback, Giles accepted a scholarship to play wide receiver at Texas Tech in 2015. It was with the Red Raiders he quickly became the favorite target of future Super Bowl-winning quarterback Patrick Mahomes, whom Giles simply calls Pat. In 2016, Giles and Mahomes hooked up for 69 receptions for 1,158 yard and 13 touchdowns for Giles’ best season yet as a collegian. “Me and Pat Mahomes really had a good connection,” Giles said. “I remember us working out sometimes at six in the morning and sometimes at six at night. When he called, you show up, no matter what time of the day or what you are doing, you show up.” Giles left Tech after that magical season and landed at LSU amid lofty expectations that included him being given the Tigers’ prized

No.7 jersey to start the 2018 season. Things didn’t go quite as hoped on the playing field, but the experience and life lessons learned were far more important in Giles’s growth. “Unfortunately, I didn’t have the good season that I had had (at Tech) but it made me stronger,” said Giles, who had just 10 catches for 59 yards and no touchdowns in his one season on the field with the Tigers. “I appreciate the experience I had there, because it made me a better person in the end.” His hope is to make up for what he didn’t accomplish at LSU in his final season of college eligibility this season with the Tigers. Giles, who took a medical redshirt in his first season with TSU, had just six catches for 49 yards and one touchdown in the abbreviated two-game schedule the Tigers played this past spring. His goal for the fall is to finish off his college career with 70 catches, 1, 500 yards and 20 touchdowns while also leading the Tigers to a SWAC championship and the Black College National Championship. “Those goals, we can all reach,” said Giles, who has played in 38 games, caught 101 passes for 1,421 yards and 17 touchdowns so far in his career. “It’s just about getting better day by day, and don’t take no days off.”

August 19, 2021 |

| 15

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports

BRYCE GRIGGS

FORGOES SENIOR SEASON

TO GO PRO By Jodie B. Jiles

Not only does Hightower High School senior point guard Bryce Griggs forego college to play for the NBA G-League, he pulls a LaMelo Ball boss move skipping his entire senior year of high school to ball out for Overtime Elite on a 1-year, $1.2-million contract. In Griggs’ three seasons at Fort Bend Hightower, he averaged 22.9 points, 4.2 assists, four rebounds and 1.7 steals a game. Griggs is an offensive scoring machine that uses his strength and quickness to make plays for himself and teammates. Griggs can score from every level on the court and is a beast in transitions off of turnovers. When the Defender asked Griggs about his style of play, Griggs stated, “I really look to pass first to get my teammates involved…with my skill set as a scorer I just take whatever the defense has for me, I’ll give them a move and create output.” Throughout Griggs’ amateur career he has steadily improved under the tutelage of Houston legend and Rockets’ assistant coach John Lucas. During Griggs’ sophomore season he helped carry Hightower to a final four appearance in the state tournament, but the team was unable to compete due to COVID restrictions by the UIL. During his junior year, Hightower went undefeated in their district but got eliminated in the second round of the playoffs by Crosby. According to The Athletic Griggs turned down college offers from Baylor, Houston, Kansas and LSU, among others. Hightower basketball coach Stephen Woods released the following statement: “I have not received any information about him (Griggs) leaving but I assumed

he was. The Hurricanes will continue to work hard, get after it on defense, play the game together, and play the right way. As a program we went 47-4 last year and won district on every level. As a coaching staff, we plan to continue working with the young talent we have and building from there. Bryce Griggs is a very talented player and we wish him nothing but the best. Once a Cane, always a Cane!” Look out for Griggs to make a name for himself in the G-League starting in September.

ABOUT BRYCE GRIGGS Weight: 180 lbs. Twitter: @griggs_32 Instagram: @griggsboy32 AAU Team: Houston Hoops NBA players he studies: James Harden, Lebron James, Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving Favorite activities: Gym, church and playing video games with friends before curfew Shout-outs: “Family, people that motivate me and my supporters”

Bryce Griggs. Photo by Jimmie Aggison.

16 | August 19, 2021 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

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