September 28, 2023

Exit Interview: Accomplishments, challenges, and more.

Sylvester Turner HOUSTON MAYOR

NEWS

SPORTS

ERIC JOHNSON

VERNON MAXWELL

The Dallas mayor has shocked constituents by switching political parties.

Volume 92, issue 46 September 28, 2023

The former Houston Rockets star tackles mental health.

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DN To the POINT

Beyoncé and Megan Thee Stallion accept the Best Rap Performance award for ‘Savage’ onstage during the 63rd Annual GRAMMY Awards at Los Angeles Convention Center on March 14, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

Reporter’s Message Megan Thee Stallion “Mutes” Hater on Renaissance Tour

the sparks are flying as the show delves into the lives and love stories of these Houstonians.

As we all know, the Bayou City is a melting pot of cultures, and this season promises to showcase the unique blend of romance and resilience that makes Houston such a dynamic and passionate city. Grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to witness the action. I know Black folks are the first ones to see if Black love will prevail on this series.

It was a night to remember as Megan Thee Stallion, the “Savage” herself, took her place alongside Queen Bey during the highly anticipated Houston leg of the “Renaissance World Tour” on Sept. 23 and 24.

Beyoncé had a thrilling surprise in store for her fans – a live performance of the iconic “Sav- Laura Onyeneho age Remix” featuring none other than Megan Thee Stallion herself. The electric atmosphere in their shared hometown reached unprecedented heights as Usher to headline NFL Super Bowl in 2024 these two powerhouses shared the stage for the very first Usher has another “Confession.” The Grammy-winning time. She graced the stage in an eye-catching camouflage music sensation is all set to dazzle fans as the headliner for ensemble, delivering her verses with trademark swagger. the Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show in Las Vegas.

Megan took to her Instagram, where she has over 31 million In a statement, the 44-year-old music legend said, “It’s followers, to share glimpses of her show-stopping look. an honor of a lifetime to finally check a Super Bowl perHer journey to this extraordinary collaboration has not formance off my bucket list. I can’t wait to bring the world been without its challenges. She temporarily stepped out of a show unlike anything else they’ve seen from me before.” the limelight in the aftermath of the Tory Lanez trial, where Usher is currently in the middle of his hugely successful Lanez was found guilty of three felony counts for his role in “Usher: My Way” residency in Las Vegas. The residency injuring Megan. Despite facing unwarranted backlash and has had sold-out shows and rave reviews showcasing his hate, Megan’s resilience and undeniable talent have contin- unmatched talent and showmanship. The Las Vegas stint is ued to shine through. expected to culminate in early December, paving the way Plus, when you have Beyoncé telling the world that she for his highly anticipated Super Bowl halftime appearance loves and supports you in front of millions, that pretty must just a few months later. cancels out all the negative comments, don’t you think?

Since the 90s, Usher has consistently delivered hit after hit, solidifying his status as a true music icon. His upcomLove is Blind Season 5 comes to Houston ing Super Bowl performance is not only a testament to his Love is in the air as Netflix’s hit reality dating show, “Love enduring popularity but also a well-deserved recognition of Is Blind,” returns with Season 5. This time, the spotlight is his immense talent and contribution to the music industry. on the diverse and hopeful singles of Space City, where the This is another win for the OGs this year! intrigue lies in making heartfelt connections without laying eyes on their potential soulmates.

On the Web This season, Houston is the backdrop for a fresh batch of • All the fashions from Beyonce’s Renaissance tour singles from all walks of life, bringing together an exciting • Survey: Has racism impacted your health? mix of personalities, backgrounds, and, of course, chemistry.

• Sports Reporter Jimmie Aggison highlights Love, drama and suspense are in the air as our local stars two volleyball players who went from navigate their way through the thrilling experiment. Already, friends to staunch competitors.

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DN News

Author and producer Attica Locke returns to her hometown to serve as the new Writer-In-Residence at PVAMU.

Emergency Education Summit addresses HISD crisis

By Laura Onyeneho

In a rallying cry for education reform, State Representative Jolanda “Jo” Jones, has taken the reins in confronting the pressing education crisis gripping the Houston Independent School District (HISD). Amidst growing concerns and escalating challenges, an emergency education summit took place at the Historic St. John’s Missionary Baptist Church Fellowship Hall.

This gathering served as an immediate response to the recent intervention by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) in the management of HISD, a move that has sent shockwaves through the community.

Jones says the time is ripe for teachers, students, parents, and HISD employees to unite in candid discourse. The summit sought to dissect the current educational landscape and shed light on the barriers that TEA has imposed within the largest school district in Texas.

Dialogue began with open statements from HISD’s elected board of trustees, Dr. Patricia K Allen, District IV, Myrna Guidry Esq., District IX, Kathy Blueford-Daniels, District II, and Jackie Anderson, president of the Houston Federation of Teachers.

“The purpose of this summit is to find out what the problems are directly from the people who are affected and to provide a safe space to do so,” said Jones. “We can’t start off with an action plan without understanding the issues and do the information gathering.”

While the state-appointed Board of

(L-R) HISD’s elected board of trustees, Dr. Patricia K Allen, District IV, Myrna Guidry Esq., District IX, and Jackie Anderson, President of Houston Federation of Teachers speaks at the summit. Credit: Laura Onyeneho

Managers hosted multiple community meetings this month, some residents found these interactions to be unproductive, citing a lack of influence in the face of massive changes being implemented by HISD superintendent Mike Miles.

“It is my responsibility to my constituents, to the people in my community, to be on the battlefield,” said Blueford-Daniels. “We are not just rolling over.”

Allen echoed this sentiment.

“If you have a need for us and you want us to do something and you know the Board of Managers is not listening, we [elected officials] are still listening,” Allen added. “We

do communicate with some of the board of managers, and the superintendent. Even though he doesn’t really listen to anybody, he does try to reach out to us.”

A wide array of issues were addressed during the summit, ranging from the “pay-for-performance” model that ties teacher compensation to student test scores to concerns about charter school vouchers, school funding, and the expanded powers granted to Miles, which include the ability to spend significant sums of money without board approval.

“As you can see, they are getting rid of all the board policies. They [Board of

Managers] are rubberstamping whatever Miles is requesting from them and not asking the proper questions and certainly not coming to the community and getting your feedback,” said Guidry. “That’s the role of a board member. Miles has an agenda, and he has made it abundantly clear that you don’t follow that agenda then you can go.”

In August, The Houston Federation of Teachers took legal action against Miles, aiming to halt the implementation of his initial teacher evaluation system. The union contended that these evaluations were being enforced in violation of the law, as they had been formulated without the necessary input from Shared Decision Making Committees, a legal requirement in the state. Recently, the union decided to withdraw its lawsuit against Miles and the Board of Managers.

This move came after the board’s decision to return to the state’s standard teacher evaluations for the remainder of the school year.

“This takeover is about power and money,” said Anderson. “I have my members calling me in agony and despair, afraid and being tormented and harassed. Basically, Miles is making their lives a living hell. The only time he’s backed up was when we filed the lawsuit.”

As the summit concluded, community members left with a call to action: - Write the Department of Justice and Department of Education - Be present at rallies - Go vote in your local and state elections

NAACP condemns ‘strange fruit’ display in 3rd Ward

By Aswad Walker

Recently, a block away from the Houston NAACP Branch Headquarters, images of “strange fruit” were hanging from trees. More specifically, what appeared to be Black bodies, were seen hanging from the tree of a Third Ward resident.

The display was supposedly Halloween decorations.

“Strange fruit” is the term used to describe Blacks who were tortured, beaten, castrated, mutilated and eventually murdered/lynched. Most, though not all lynchings, ended with a Black person being hung from a tree, light pole, bridge, etc.

The late Billie Holiday ran afoul of U.S. officials because she refused to stop singing her song “Strange Fruit” in her bold attempt to raise awareness of the heinous crime of rampant U.S. lynchings of Black people; a crime that was mostly ignored by local, state and federal authorities from the 1870s to the 1960s. In fact, in most cases, local, state and/or federal authorities, especially law enforcement, were leading members of the lynch mobs guilty of inflicting this particular brand of white domestic terrorism upon Black people and Black communities.

According to a statement released by the NAACP Houston Branch, “This would be immeasurably insensitive and racist

on anyone’s private property; but the fact that these residents hung the offensive display on city property was illegal and unacceptable. Thankfully, with the influence of city officials and activists, the nooses have been taken down.”

“Every Houstonian, Texan and American should be outraged by the ‘strange fruit’ displayed in Houston,” added Houston NAACP Branch President Dr. James Dixon.

According to a report issued by the Equal Justice Initiative, between 1877 to 1950, 4,440 lynchings were recorded in the United States. Most historians agree that those numbers grossly underestimate the number of persons murdered during that period by white domestic terrorists.

The same day the NAACP was made aware of the “decorations,” so too was District D City Councilmember Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz, who spoke with the homeowner who put up the “decorations.”

According to Evans-Shabazz, after she explained to the homeowner that those decorations were viewed by most Blacks as offensive, she said he didn’t seem to care, and was abrasive during their conversation.

When a city official determined the “decorations” were in fact on city property, they were cut down.

After a public outcry, community activists removed what they described as “racist Halloween decorations” last Saturday in Third Ward.

Photo courtesy of NAACP Houston.

“Thankfully, with the influence of city officials, including HPD, Councilmember Dr. Carolyn Evans-Shabazz and activists, including leadership of the New Black Panther Party, led

by Candice Matthews and Quanell X, and calls made by the Houston NAACP, this issue was addressed and the nooses were removed,” said Dixon.

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DN News Dallas mayor switches political parties Associated Press

REPORT

Extremists turn Texas into a hotbed for hate Defender News Service

Texas continues to be a hotbed for extremism and antisemitism, driven by the heavy presence of white supremacist and anti-LGBTQ+ groups that are headquartered or active in the state.

That’s according to a recent report by the Anti-Defamation League that examined nearly three years of “alarming levels of extremist ideology and activity” in Texas, and suggested a handful of policies to combat the growing problem.

Texas also led the nation in white supremacist propaganda last year; had the most residents charged in relation to the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection; and, in March, saw a neo-Nazi and extreme misogynist gunman kill 8 people at an Allen shopping mall.

Other findings: *Antisemitic incidents in the state jumped by 89%, *Six “terrorist plots,” 28 “extremist events” such as training and rallies *Patriot Front, founded by Texan Thomas Rousseau was responsible for roughly 80% of all white supremacist propaganda incidents nationwide.

The ADL report also notes the uptick in neo-Nazi activity in the state, specifically at anti-LGBTQ+ demonstrations. Experts have for years warned that extremist groups are using “groomer” panic as a way to recruit, and neo-Nazis have been a fixture at anti-drag rallies that have been organized by groups with close ties to Texas lawmakers.

Also driving the surge in extremism, the report found, is the heavy presence of anti-immigrant and “vigilante”

groups that have been active on the U.S.-Mexico border.

The report follows years of warnings that extremist groups have been emboldened by the Republican Party and its amplification of things such as “great replacement theory,” a white supremacist conspiracy theory that claims there is an intentional, Jewish-driven effort to destroy white people through immigration, interracial marriage and the LGBTQ+ community.

That conspiracy theory — and corresponding violence — has been bolstered by frequent depictions of immigrants as “invaders” by major figures such as Tucker Carlson and Gov. Greg Abbott.

The ADL also noted that Texas has hosted numerous conferences on QAnon. Pillars of the conspiracy theory — including the belief in a secret globalist cabal that sacrifices and rapes children — borrow heavily from centuries-old antisemitic tropes that have historically led to bloodshed, including by the Nazis.

Despite the myriad warnings about the conspiracy theory’s dangers, prominent Republicans — including Sen. Ted Cruz, Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller and former Texas GOP chairman Allen West — have appeared with major QAnon figures.

The ADL also suggested “nonpartisan” policies that they said would help stem the growing extremism and violence. They include: a commission to study domestic violent extremism, create annual assessments; and provide clear statistics on hate crimes; mandate that law enforcement agencies report hate crimes to the FBI; and “hold social media platforms accountable” by creating a task force to study and address online extremism.

Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson is drawing ire after announcing that he is switching to the Republican Party, making the city the largest in the U.S. to be led by a GOP mayor.

Although mayoral offices in Texas are nonpartisan, the switch is a boost for Texas Republicans who have been losing ground around the state’s major cities for more than a decade. Johnson was elected mayor in 2019 after serving more than a decade as a Democrat in the Texas House of Representatives.

Making the announcement in an editorial in the Wall Street Journal, Johnson Johnson said he was never a favorite of Democrats in the Capitol and called on mayors to champion “law and order” and fiscal conservatism.

“This is hardly a red wave. But it is clear that the nation and its cities have reached a time for choosing,” Johnson wrote. “And the overwhelming majority of Americans who call our cities home deserve to have real choices—not ‘progressive’ echo chambers—at city hall.”

Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott quickly welcomed Johnson into the party. The mayor of neighboring Fort Worth, Mattie Parker, is also a Republican, giving Texas two of the nation’s largest cities with GOP leaders.

“Texas is getting more Red every day,” Abbott posted on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

Johnson is in his second and final term as mayor, which runs through 2027. As a state lawmaker, Johnson made headlines over his successful efforts to remove a plaque in the Texas Capitol that rejected slavery as an underlying cause of the Civil War. His push at the time occasionally put Johnson and Abbott in conflict over discussions to remove the marker.

Texas Democratic Party expressed a lack of surprise in the switch.

“But the voters of Dallas deserved to know where he stood before he ran for reelection as Mayor,” the party said in a statement. “He wasn’t honest with his constituents, and knew he would lose to a Democrat if he flipped before the election.”

VOLUME 92, NUMBER 46 - SEPTEMBER 28, 2023 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Education Reporter Laura Onyeneho

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

Sports Terrance Harris Jimmie Aggison

Digital Content Manager Get Current Studios Managing Editor ReShonda Tate Associate Editor Aswad Walker

Social Media Jordan Hockett Ad Executive 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 2023 copyright.

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DN InFocus herself. She had the ability to take a dollar and make it work. And I watched her manage a large portion of my life. And the whole thing was for her, ‘I know what I don’t have, but I know what I got, and we gonna make it work.’ So I came to City Hall and applied the same principles, but I’m proud of the fact that we balanced eight budgets.

DEFENDER: Is there anything that you were unable to accomplish during your tenure, that you wish you had been able to?

TURNER: There are many things. I wish

SYLVESTER TURNER The Houston mayor talks accomplishments, challenges, legacy and more in Exit Interview

S

By ReShonda Tate

ince taking office in 2016, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner has managed significant challenges facing the nation’s fourth-largest city, including budget deficits, homelessness, police reform and natural disasters such as Hurricane Harvey and the COVID-19 global pandemic.

As the city’s 62nd mayor, Turner is in the final months of his second term. He sat down with the Defender to talk about everything from his biggest challenges, accomplishments, legacy and more .

DEFENDER: What would you say are your three biggest accomplishments during your tenure?

SYLVESTER TURNER: That’s kind of

tough. When I first came in from a financial

point of view, pension reform had been George Floyd. And in 2023, extreme hot plaguing the city for 20-plus years. An weather and water main leaks. But we’ve unfunded pension liability of $8.2 bil was managed through all of those events and the going in the wrong direction. We tackled city is still standing and moving forward. that in the first two years, brought all the I’m proud of that. And then, complete unions and business groups together. Now communities, where we identified 10 the funding liability is under $2.2 bil, and communities that have been underserved it’s going down. Also, balancing the eight and under-resourced for decades. And we’re budgets. I’ll turn over to the investing in and transforming next mayor a fund balance that those communities.

That is significantly greater than the includes housing, affordable $160 million deficit I inherited. housing parks, green space, and So from a financial point of economic job opportunities. view, I’m proud of that. During my term, we have faced seven DEFENDER: What are federally declared disasters, Turner’s some of the biggest more than any mayor in the challenges you faced? advice city of Houston. And that’s not TURNER: Climate change to his counting COVID and social is one. The reality is storms are successor. civil unrest like the murder of coming with greater frequency,

greater intensity, and costing us more. And no one city can adequately address climate change. Four months into my first term was the tax day flood, 2017 was Harvey, 2019 was a tropical storm, February 2021 was a winter storm, the list goes on and on.

So those are the challenges because those are things that you don’t just sit down and plan when you’re creating your priorities.

Those are things that come in addition to all the priorities that you have named, but you can’t just ignore your priorities. So you have to deal with the storms and you have to advance your priorities. That’s a major challenge. And then when I walked in day one, $160 mil was saying, find me. But I will tell you, in eight years, we never laid off one single city employee. We managed the budget. And I credit my mama, this maid who was the CEO of nine kids, who she raised by

In 2024, we are building the largest urban solar farm in that neighborhood.

It will be a game changer. Taking a school in Acres Homes and turning it into what we called financial empowerment, focused on innovation. I’m very proud of that, seeing what’s happening in those neighborhoods. So, for me, the legacy that should make people’s lives better. And instead of being an incrementalist, you are transformational in your leadership, if that’s the tagline, you know, I’m good.

DEFENDER: How do you feel about

I had more time for complete communities. how you’re leaving the city for your You don’t reverse decades of disinvestment successor? in eight years. You can start the process of TURNER: I feel pretty good about that. investing and transforming, but that’s not We are leaving the city in much better something that will be completed in eight shape than we inherited. I say we because years. So I wish I had more time. From a it’s been a team. I have people who have public safety point of view, we’ve dealt with been with me for that full eight years. The those issues, but it’s never one and done. next mayor will come in with a budget I’m looking at 16 to surplus of more than 24 years, primarily $400 million. Hell, I brothers of color, that wish I had. The next are throwing their lives mayor’s not gonna away. And I don’t want have to deal with the I’ve given 35 to give up on them, and pension crisis. We will we shouldn’t, and you hand the baton to the years of my life gotta fight for them. next mayor and his or to public service.

But when you look at her team better than our crime stats, that age the city that I inherMaybe it’s about group between 16 and ited. And we wish time now for me 24, primarily brothers, them well. males of color, they’re to reclaim a little driving those numbers.

DEFENDER: bit for me.”

There are about 20,000 What’s next for gangs. So what I said to you?

SYLVESTER TURNER the people in my city, TURNER: To be Mayor of Houston on my team, for every candid, I’m not ready gang member when it to leave. I told my comes to hiring and team we’re working summer internship, we need to be able to up to Dec. 31. I don’t know what’s next. provide meaningful summer jobs. When I’m not running for office. I’ve ruled that I came in as mayor, the summer intern- out. Some people are trying to get me to ship program was for 450, all working for do something in 2024. I say, no. I need my the city of Houston. This summer we got own break. I am trying to finish up this that up to 20,080 paid internships. I’m very book that I’m working on. I do think that proud of that. there comes a point in time in which you just have to say the seasons are changing.

DEFENDER: As you wind down your Take a break. So my season is changing, term, what do you want your legacy and sometimes, and I’ve come to the realto be? ity that sometimes the best time to move TURNER: Impactful. I grew up in away is when people want you to stay. the hood. If some kids in communities of And when you want to stay, that’s the best color, for example, have been inspired to time to wave goodbye. So, on Dec. 31, I’m go beyond what they were thinking, I’m waving goodbye. And even now, what I’ve good. Prenatal care for every employee said, God, wherever you want me to be, now in City Hall that didn’t have it before. I’m available. But I do think there comes I’m good with that. Every employee, every a point in time when sometimes you just subcontractor at the city making at least need to sit and just be reflective and then 15 dollars an hour, those are the things say, what’s next? Life has a way of causing that are important. When I came in, what you to be more reflective and put things in was critically important was investing in their perspective. I’ve given 35 years of my communities that have been underserved life to public service. Maybe it’s about time and under-resourced for decades. And now now for me to reclaim a little bit for me.” when you look at the landfill that we are building in See the Mayor’s photo Sunnyside, taking a landgallery through the years fill that had shut down that community for 50 years.

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Feature Effort to foster racial healing flourishes on college campuses

according to the foundation’s web page.

Think of the phrase “racial healing,” and Setting aside blame and castigation, parstudents sharing plates of tandoori or tikka ticipants are encouraged to share personal masala in a college dorm room probably experiences, embrace history and practice don’t come to mind. Perhaps as unlikely: empathy through “deep listening,” with an That repairing centuries of trauma involves eye on achievable, real-world goals. cadets at a once-segregated Southern mili“The THRT effort is not about blaming tary academy or a circle of people discussing one identity group as being the reason as to their great-grandparents’ birthplaces. why another group is experiencing harm,” Yet those scenarios, others like them, and McNair says. “TRHT is about focusing and the conversations around them, are elements helping. It’s about healing and listening to of events happening in Truth, Racial Healing one another, and engaging in deep listening and Transformation Campus Centers, a net- and empathy and understanding our interwork of facilitators and programs designed connectedness and our common humanity.” to help undo harmful stereotypes, rewrite According to the Kellogg Foundation, damaging narratives, and train people to at the heart of TRHT is “community-led dismantle toxic racial hierarchies at the collaboration that is cross-racial, intergengrassroots level. erational, and cross-sector.” And although Sponsored in part by the American Asso- the Kellogg Foundation initially deployed ciation of Colleges & Universities, Truth, the TRHT framework to civic leaders from Racial Healing and Transformation Cam- Buffalo to Los Angeles, the AAC&U signed pus Centers host a broad range of programs, on as a partner in 2017 after hearing that workshops, and “healing circles” that tackle campus conversations around racial conflict racism and the disparities that stem from it, had taken a disturbing, us-vs-them turn. says Dr. Tia Brown McNair, AAC&U vice Seeing an opportunity amid the cripresident for diversity, sis, McNair and equity and student an AAC&U team, success equity and along with Dr. Gail inclusion and TRHT Christopher, an Campus Centers execesteemed facilitaIt’s necessary work utive director. tor, helped design because the false belief a college-level ver“It’s necessary work in a hierarchy of human because the false belief sion of the TRHT in a hierarchy of human f r am e w or k . It values still exists values still exists within was an important within our country and our country and within decision: for most within our systems, our systems, structures, students, post-secpolicies and practices,” structures, policies and ondary education is McNair says. “As long a transitional period practices. as that still exists, there in life in which they As long as that still is a need for us to conare often more open tinue to do the work.” to new ideas and exists, there is a need Adapted from a fiveperspectives. for us to continue to do point framework the With grant the work.”

W.K. Kellogg Foundamoney from the tion developed in 2016 Newman’s O wn DR. TIA BROWN MCNAIR with civic leaders and Foundation, the academics, the proprogram currently gram aims to establish a basis for lasting has 70 host institutions serving as partners, change that pivots from conflict and division each operating off a general framework towards healing through facilitated dialogue, made unique to each community. workshops and exercises.

At Rutgers University, broader campus disBased on five main concepts — narra- cussions began after three students involved tive change, separation, economy, racial in TRHT work — one white, one Muslim, healing, and law — campus groups discuss and one Hindu — shared impromptu meals everything from generational trauma to eco- in their dorm rooms, sampling each other’s nomic disparities and mass incarceration, traditional foods.

By Joseph Williams

Read the entire article at DefenderNetwork.com

The Citadel, a military academy in South Carolina, is rewriting its history to include stories of enslaved people working at the school.

At the University of Maryland-Baltimore campus, TRHT meetings include prompts

that encourage participants to speak about their family ancestry to promote empathy and shared experiences.

This story was produced in partnership with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and originally published by Word in Black.

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DN Obits IN MEMORIAM

Demetria ‘Dee’ Shabazz

| 9

NOTICE OF PUBLIC COMMENT

Defender News Service

Former Houstonian Dr. Demetria “Dee” Shabazz, Ph.D. of Amherst, Mass., died Sept.

11 at age 56. A funeral mass will be held Saturday, Sept. 30 at Most Holy Redeemer in Hadley, Mass. A public celebration of life is planned for Oct. 26.

She is remembered as an educator, community volunteer, social justice advocate, oral historian and videographer who touched countless lives.

The Galveston native and University of Houston graduate was a student journalist with the Houston Defender. She worked to help preserve the Freedmen’s Town historic district in Fourth Ward and was one of the co-founders of the Rutherford B.H. Yates Museum. She was also actively involved with SHAPE Community Center.

She received a master’s degree and doctorate from the University of Alabama. In 2005 she and her husband Dr. Amilcar Shabazz accepted positions at Oklahoma State University. In 2007 she became an assistant professor in the University of Massachusetts Department of Communication.

She was a member of the National

Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO)

Demetria Shabazz

Council for Black Studies and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, co-chair of Amherst’s Community Safety and Social Justice Committee and founder/CEO of Seven Generations Movement Collective, LLC. Survivors include her husband, mother, two children and a brother and sister. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to: Sankofa Gumbo, 330 New Africa House, 180 Infirmary Way Amherst, Mass., 01003.

Zoleka Mandela

Cancer and road safety advocate, dies at 43 Defender News Service

Zoleka Mandela, the granddaughter of South Africa’s inaugural democratically elected President and global icon Nelson Mandela, recently succumbed to cancer at the age of 43.

The younger Mandela had garnered recognition for her candid accounts of her battle with cancer, offering a poignant insight into her treatment journey. She was equally forthright about her history of drug addiction, shedding light on issues many faces in silence.

The Nelson Mandela Foundation expressed deep reverence for her work, stating that she inspired cancer awareness and played a pivotal role in dismantling the stigma associated with the disease. Mandela was a champion for cancer awareness, bravely shared her struggles with depression, and disclosed that she had endured childhood sexual abuse. Additionally, she proved at the forefront of the cause of improved road safety after a tragic car accident claimed the life of her 13-year-old daughter in 2010. Tragically, she also lost a prematurely born son. Mandela leaves behind four children. ]Hailing from the lineage of Nelson Mandela’s second wife, Winnie, Mandela penned her remarkable journey in her autobiography,

When Hope Whispers. Diagnosed with breast cancer at 32, she initially went into remission, only to face a recurrence of the illness.

Last year, she revealed the disheartening news of cancer’s presence in her liver and lungs, subsequently spreading to other vital organs. Though she received outpatient care, Mandela checked into a hospital over a week ago.

In a poignant Instagram post from August 2022, she reflected, “What do I tell my children? How do I tell them that this time around I may not get to live my life as a survivor? How do I tell them everything will be OK when it’s not? I’m dying… I don’t want to die.” During an interview with Kaya FM in April, Mandela shared, “I’m learning to be okay with my eventuality.” Her unvarnished revelations garnered her a substantial following on social media platforms, where heartfelt tributes continue to pour in.

“Utterly tragic loss of a human being in her grandfather’s footsteps. A decent, honest human being in a dishonest, hypocritical world,” lamented one individual on social media. Another wrote on Instagram beneath the Mandela family’s announcement, “You were one of the bravest people I know, and you inspired many people on your life’s journey of hope.”

At its May 25, 2023 meeting, the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County, Texas (METRO) Board of Directors approved the FY2021 and FY2022 Urbanized Area Formula, the FY2021 and FY2022 State of Good Repair, and the FY2021 and FY2022 Bus and Bus Facilities Programs of Projects. These Programs of Projects will be funded with grant support from the United States Department of Transportation (DOT) Section 5307, Section 5337 and Section 5339 of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). Visit https://metro.resourcespace.com/pages/ search.php?search=%21collection328418# for a complete listing.

Members of the public may submit comments in writing to METRO Strategy Department, 1900 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002; or requests for a public hearing will be accepted until 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 18, 2023.

Further information may be obtained by contacting GrantApplications@RideMETRO.org or 713-739-4697.

The approved FY2021 and FY2022 Programs of Projects outlined above will become the final Programs of Projects unless amended by the Board of Directors. This input opportunity meets the federal requirement for public participation in the programs of projects.

RideMETRO.org Call or text 713-635-4000

10 | September 28, 2023 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports Alabama redshirt freshman quarterback Jalen Milroe, a product of Katy Tompkins, passed for 225 yards and one touchdown and one interception during the Crimson Tide’s 24-10 win over Ole Miss.

Sports Briefs PVAMU sitting alone atop SWAC West Division

Don’t look now, but the two-time defending SWAC West Division champions Prairie View Panthers are sitting at the top of the division with Guillermo a 2-0 record after Rodriguez narrowly escaping Alcorn State with a 23-20 win last week. The Panthers won on a 46-yard field goal

by Guillermo Rodriguez as time expired at Spinks-Casem Stadium. This start is significant because preseason voters predicted Prairie View would finish fifth in the division this season, but so far they appear to be wrong.

TSU struggles as Andrew Body remains out

TSU star quarterback Andrew Body did not play for a third straight game as the Tigers fell to 0-4 on the season after a 35-23 loss at Grambling Jace State. Sophomore Wilson quarterback Jace Wilson made his third straight start and showed improvement after completing 14 of 24 passes for 153 yards and three touchdowns in the loss.

The Tigers were picked in the preseason poll to finish third in the SWAC’s West Division, but have started 0-2 in conference play and 0-4 overall.

Astros late-season struggles continue

It’s looking like the Astros American League West and playoff hopes could come down to the wire.

The defending World Series chamDusty pions have continued Baker to lose critical late season games. As of last Friday, the Astros had lost 11 of 19 games in September. As of late last week, ESPN Analytics gave the Astros a 92% percent chance to make the postseason, but they held just a 56% chance to clinch the division and only a 36% chance of getting a wild card spot.

Prairie View women’s soccer goalkeeper Medinat Lawal, a former standout at George Ranch, recorded eight saves on 13 shots on goal during the Panthers’ 3-2 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

EX-ROCKET

VERNON MAXWELL

Wants athletes to confront mental health

By Terrance Harris

Vernon Maxwell knew during his NBA playing days something wasn’t right with his mental health, and privately he was having those issues addressed.

But on the floor and in the Rockets locker room, the man known as Mad Max put up a front as if everything was okay. But it wasn’t.

Maxwell already knew his teammates thought something was a little off about him because of his sometimes erratic behavior, but he was “scared” to confirm it.

“They already thought that so they were going to really think I was crazy,” said Maxwell, who played for the Rockets from 199095 and was a key member of their two NBA championship teams. “I thought if I go to them and I tell them, `Man, I’m talking to somebody about my problems on my mental side;’ I was just too nervous to tell my teammates or tell anybody that.

“I was too scared to go do it. And like I said, I lost a lot. And I just want to try to break that narrative and say it’s okay.”

Today, Maxwell is determined to help break down those barriers and change the narrative by taking on athletes and mental health awareness as a cause. He has started the Vernon Maxwell Initiative and recently hosted the non-profit’s inaugural Mental Health Symposium here in Houston.

The symposium included a panel discussion with several speakers, including former NBA star Metta World Peace, aka Ron Artest, as one of the panelists. The two-day event also included a golf tournament.

After initially being reluctant to step out there, Maxwell decided that lending his voice and energy to the important discussions around mental health was necessary and could be helpful to many.

“It’s a blessing to be able to do this,” Maxwell said to The Defender. “When my man was telling me to do this and get involved, at first I was like, I don’t know if I want to be talking about how crazy I am.

“But then I broke down the wall and I thought I could help out. If I can help out one or two people, it will be a blessing to me. So to be able to show awareness and let people know it’s okay. If a guy like me, Big Bad Max, can say he needs help then you can, too.”

During the panel discussions, the six panelists discussed the need for more

Vernon Maxwell (11) was known for his passion and some unpredictability when he played for the Rockets, and now he is working to help athletes deal with mental health illness. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

mental health awareness not just among athletes but the Black community as whole.

There have been strides made in recent years to provide people a safe space to discuss mental health.

Both Maxwell and Metta World Peace are glad for the gains but would like to see even more.

“It’s very important that we bring it to life and let people know we are here,” said Metta World Peace, who was one of the first athletes to bring his psychiatrist on national television to discuss his mental issues. “We are going to get back to this game, but we are not going to focus on this game right now.

“Years later, I’m getting an overwhelming amount of requests to talk about mental health which is cool. It’s a little much but it’s cool.”

Maxwell’s biggest message that he wants out there is that it’s okay to not be okay, and to seek help. He wants athletes to understand this, too.

“We sometimes think we don’t need to be worrying about what people think about us if we do go and try to get help,” Maxwell said.

“I just want people to know if I’m doing it, so can you. And the Black community itself, we kind of sweep it under the rug and never talk about it. But I think it’s better for us to talk about it and get it out.”

Maxwell and Metta World Peace opened up about their bouts with mental health during their days. It was, of course, taboo back then. The climate, however, has changed considerably with some players now openly discussing their bouts with mental health without fear of reprisal.

September 28, 2023 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports

CAMBEN EMANUEL MADISON HS

Proves to be new offensive weapon

By Jimmie Aggison

The Madison Marlins sit in the middle of the pack in 5A-1 Region III District 9 behind Wisdom, Waltrip and Galveston Ball. However, don’t be fooled by early wins and losses. The Marlins have been given a boost at the quarterback position that is sure to lead this year’s team to more wins and bring out the best in their pivotal players.

Not since Vince Young has Madison had a true quarterback that drew such attention. This year Camben Emanuel is that kind of player.

“He’s an all-around quarterback, a guy that can make all the throws,” said Madison head coach Jason Davis. “He sees the field, he has a connection with all of his receivers. This kid is going to be an outstanding player not only in this district but in this state. He makes our offense more explosive.”

Emanuel began playing football when he was seven years old for the Pearland Patriots in the Bay Area Youth Football League (BAFL).

“I started off as a linebacker, but once my coach saw me throw the ball after practice, I’ve been playing quarterback ever since,” said Emanuel.

Emanuel played for the Patriots until he enrolled at Pearland Junior High South. After middle school, he then attended Pearland for both his freshman and sophomore years.

“At the end of my sophomore year with about a month left in the school year, we moved to Houston so I began attending James Madison,” said Emanuel.

While at Pearland High School, during his freshman year he played on the freshman team.

In his sophomore year, Emanuel played on the JV team and halfway through the season was moved to varsity.

“Playing varsity as an underclassman felt good.

The game was a lot faster, so I had to get used to the speed, but I adapted quickly,” said Emanuel.

With Emanuel starting at Madison and getting more minutes he is the new guy with a lot to prove. Most teams haven’t heard of him and don’t know what to expect until they see him at quarterback. In the game vs. Austin, he passed for four touchdowns and ran for two.

“It feels great. Every day I have to prove myself

at practice because I’m still the new guy, so they don’t fully know what I’m capable of, but every day I’m working hard,” said Emanuel.

He’s a pocket passer who has scrambling abilities. During the off-season, he worked with Coach Payne to improve his technique.

“We worked on throwing on the run. I’m a pocket passer but I keep my eyes downfield and when someone is open it’s important for me to deliver an accurate throw on the run,” said Emanuel.

Emanuel is a student of the game and has found the benefits of studying those on the next level to help his game.

“I watch Caleb Williams at USC. I love the way he moves in the pocket while keeping his eyes downfield,” said Emanuel. “I also like Spencer Rattler at South Carolina. I feel he has the best arm talent in college football. I like the way he throws the ball.”

As Emanuel continues to improve his game, his advice to others is to never stop working hard.

“Just keep working,” said Emanuel. “Don’t let anybody tell you what you can and cannot do. Every day I’ve been doubted and I have to prove myself every single day. You just have to prove why you’re the guy and why you should be number one.”

ABOUT CAMBEN EMANUEL Class: 2025 IG: @Camben_Emanuel Twitter: @Camben_Emanuel Position: Quarterback Height & weight: 6-feet-3, 195 pounds Players he studies: Caleb Williams (USC), Spencer Rattler (South Carolina) Status: Uncommitted Favorite artist: NBA YoungBoy, Lil Baby, Gunna Favorite subject: Physics Shout-outs: Dad

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12 | September 28, 2023 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

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Hong Ogle President, Bank of America Houston

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