Megan Thee Stallion Rapper receives degree and humanitarian award.
SPORTS
NEWS
DEION SANDERS
The Jackson State coach is having an effect on the search for a new coach at Prairie View.
Volume 91, issue 7 December 16, 2021
facebook.com/defendernetwork twitter.com/defendernetwork
CARLA BRAILEY
The former vice-president for the Texas Democratic Party has filed to run for Lt. Governor.
instagram.com/defendernetwork defendernetwork.com
FREE
2 | December 16, 2021 |
DEFENDER NETWORK
DN To The POINT Defender
INSTAGRAM! Join Us...
Lizzo, Nikole Hannah Jones and Simone Biles as they appear on the Nov/Dec 2021 edition of Essence. Photos by Ramona Rosales, Itaysha Jordan and Chrisean Rose.
Message from the Associate Editor GOP is purging Black people from election Have y’all been keeping up with the recent boards. But as economist Claud Anderson round of Essence covers? If not, please take says, for real political power we need ecotime to check out all three Nov/Dec covers. nomic power. #BuyBlack. They are stunning pieces of art, worthy of celebration for a couple of reasons. First, the BIDEN’S DEMOCRACY SUMMIT three covers I’m referring to feature Lizzo, Of the 100-plus countries invited to PresiNikole Hannah-Jones and Simone Biles, each dent Joe Biden’s Summit for Democracy, one unique for a different reason. Even in 2021 participant recently found its name on a list it’s still rare that women who live outside the none of them want to be on—the Backsliding pencil-thin, Eurocentric body type, like Lizzo, Democracies List. That attendee? The United receive a national spotlight. The same could be States! Yet, the summit host nation didn’t even Aswad Walker said for game-changers outside the world of address its own threats to democracy. Howentertainment like college professor and media member extraor- ever, the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral dinaire Nikole Hannah-Jones. And because we Blackfolk still Assistance (IDEA) said the U.S., despite being “the bastion have “colorism” issues, to see Simone Biles featured on an Essence of global democracy,” is undergoing a democratic backslide, cover in all her Dark & Loveliness is both refreshing and needed. falling “victim to authoritarian tendencies,” for the first time Additionally, these covers are monuments to Black Love. They since the group began collecting such data more than 20 years show a love for Blackness that shouldn’t be downplayed. The ago. IDEA spotlighted Trump’s unfounded yet non-stop allephotographers, designers, etc. took the time to put these sisters gations of voter fraud leading to lost trust in the system and in their best, boldest and most beautiful lighting, attire, etc. I’m instigating violent rioting. Not to mention the nationwide feeling the love, Essence. Much appreciated. voter suppression and Jim Crow-style redistricting maps. If Biden and crew either don’t see or don’t want to see America’s THE EMERGING MAJORITY in-house terrorist threat (the GOP), then they are just as big Recently, super producer Pharrell Williams told the grad- a problem as the Jan. 6 insurrectionists. uating class of HBCU Norfolk State University during his commencement speech to stop referring to themselves as IN THIS WEEK’S DEFENDER minorities and to act with a power reflective of our numbers. • Read about the move urging Black women to flex their “We are the emerging majority,” Pharrell said as he challenged political muscle. graduates to spend their dollars with those who respect us. • Defender Network recognized as one of nation’s fastestLet’s invest in Blackfolk-loving institutions like Samuel L. Jackgrowing companies. son and LaTonya Richardson Jackson who made the largest • Deion effect impacts PVAMU’s coaching search. alumni donation in Spelman College history. Let’s start our own businesses like those sisters and brothers leading the ON THE WEB cannabis/CBD boom, opening wineries, and leading in other • Kashmere’s Samyra Thomas has her bball game on lock. industries. We need Black-owned everything, including banks, • Local playwright presents “An Urban Christmas Tale.” so we don’t experience the “Banking While Black” treatment • Edison Center offers Mo. City community “Revitalization Joe Morrow experienced in Columbia Heights, MN. Yes, the without Gentrification.”
@defendernetwork
ESSENCE LOVE
December 16, 2021 |
| 3
DEFENDER NETWORK
DN News READ MORE ABOUT THE PROJECT AND FILL OUT A SURVEY WITH YOUR INPUT
Metro plans 25-mile bus lane across Houston Defender News Service
The Metropolitan Transit Authority is planning to build a cross-city dedicated bus lane on some of Houston’s busiest streets. Riders won’t see the completion of the massive project, however, until 2028. The METRORapid University Corridor project calls for a bus lane from the Westchase Park and Ride in far west Houston to Tidwell Transit Center in the city’s northeast side. From the Westchase location, the initial route runs along Westpark Drive to Greenway, where it then heads north along Edloe Street to Richmond Avenue. The route stays on Richmond/Wheeler Avenue into Third Ward, where it will snake through Emancipation Avenue, Alabama Street, Scott Street and Elgin Street
until it ends up on Lockwood Drive near the University of Houston. From there the transit line heads north along Lockwood Drive to Tidwell Road before turning east to its terminus at the Tidwell Transit Center. The system will simply be called the University Line when implemented. The 25-mile line will provide a “one-seat” ride across town with several connections along the way, including several transit centers, neighborhoods and all three light rail lines in the city center. The project is the second to feature METRORapid buses in dedicated lanes. In 2020, Metro opened the Silver Line in Uptown, which runs a dedicated bus lane between the Westpark Transit Center and Northwest Transit Center.
HISTORY MADE
Genora Boykins leads South Texas College of Law Houston board
Defender News Service
ture lawyers and leaders that values, celebrates and Genora K. Boykins took the helm as chair of the supports the diversity of our global community.” South Texas College of Law Houston board of diAt the board meeting, J. Ken Johnson, board rectors at the December board meeting, chair from 2014-2021, passed the mace becoming the first woman and first Afto Boykins in a traditional signaling of rican American to win election to this the transfer of leadership. key leadership position at Houston’s “We have been truly blessed by Ken’s oldest law school. wise leadership for the past seven years, “I am excited to take on the leaderand we are delighted to have another ship role as chair of the STCL Houston esteemed South Texas graduate become board as we continue to excel in prochair of our collaborative, exceptional viding an exceptional legal education board,” said Michael F. Barry, president to our diverse student body,” Boykins and dean of the law school. “Genora is said. “I look forwarding to working with a true trailblazer and an inspiration for Genora Boykins the board, Dean Michael Barry, faculty, South Texas’ diverse and forward-thinkstaff, alumni and students as we provide ing community, and I look forward to an innovative and transformative legal education. working closely with her as we near our centennial South Texas produces an inclusive community of fu- in 2023.”
Carla Brailey announces run for Lt Gov. of Texas Defender News Service
The former Vice Chair of the Texas Democratic Party is launching her campaign to unseat current Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick. Dr. Carla Brailey announced her intention to run for Lieutenant Governor of Texas. Brailey, a native Texan, civic activist, college professor, and mother says they plan to engage voters across the state. “Texans are crying out for change and for leaders that will build a state that cares for all Texans. We intend to build the largest, most inclusive grassroots campaign that the state has ever seen. We’re not just trying to win an election. We’re building a movement. We will unite Texans Carla Brailey to bring change, build equity, and protect the rights of everyone in our great state,” Brailey said. Brailey said she was inspired to run after watching the current leadership’s failure. “I couldn’t sit on the sidelines anymore and watch as Dan Patrick tried to drag our state backwards. As Lieutenant Governor, Patrick hasn’t delivered for Texans. He’s more interested in hateful rhetoric, attacks on our rights, and conspiracy theories. Texans deserve a leader that will put their interests first by building good-paying jobs, high quality education, affordable housing, and high-quality, affordable healthcare.” For more information on Carla Brailey, please visit www.braileyfortexas.com/about
VOLUME 91 - NUMBER 7 - DECEMBER 16, 2021 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles
Managing Editor ReShonda Tate
Chief Development Officer Emelda Douglas
Associate Editor Aswad Walker
Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles
Education Reporter Laura Onyeneho
Creative Director Michael Grant
Sports Terrance Harris Jodie B. Jiles
Engagement Manager Alexandria Williams
Photographers Jimmie Aggison
The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Newspaper Inc. and audited by Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). Only digital subscriptions are available at: www.defendernetwork.com/subscribe No paper subscriptions available. All materials covered by 2020 copyright. No materials herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. 713-663-6996 | P.O. Box 8005, Houston, Tx 77288
4 | December 16, 2021 |
DEFENDER NETWORK
DN News
Harris County DA supports partnership to prevent sex assault and support survivors at area colleges and universities -Adobe Stock Images
Initiative helps collegiate sexual assault survivors By Laura Onyeneho
The Harris County District Attorney’s Office is funding a program providing a $165,829 grant to help students access trauma-informed care to survivors of sexual assault at local colleges and universities. The initiative is in collaboration with the Texas Forensic Nurse Examiners and seven universities including Rice University, the University of Houston, Prairie View A&M University, Houston Community College, Texas Southern University, Lee College and the South Texas College of Law. “We’ve taken asset forfeiture dollars and re-invested them in victims and victims’ services by helping Texas Forensic Nurse Examiners (TXFNE) hire, train and use more forensic interviewers,” said District Attorney Kim Ogg. “Combine that with seminars on preventing sexual assault, a dedicated hotline and access to support groups and students have more help in preventing and dealing with sexual assault.”
Two UH students proposed the partnership, and one of them is Jack Jordan, Ogg’s son. The universities’ partnership with TXFNE is the first of its kind in the state. According to statistics from the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network, at least a quarter of undergraduate females and one in 15 undergraduate males in the U.S experience sexual assault. “What the District Attorney’s office is actually paying for is to keep our forensic interviewing program moving forward. We launched that in the summer of 2020,” said Khara Breeden, founder and CEO of Texas Forensic Nurse Examiners. “Another part of our role is to create a relationship with colleges to ensure students have a safe place to take a medical forensics exam after physical or sexual violence occurs.” 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
T:9.75"
December 16, 2021 |
DEFENDER NETWORK
S:9.25"
iamBrandon takes his game to the next level with Xfinity Internet. He gets WiFi speed faster than a gig to game and stream for his legion of fans. And, when he’s not runnin’ it online, he kicks back with the ultimate in Black storytelling with the Black Experience on Xfinity. Plus, he enjoys his favorite streaming apps all in one place with his Xfinity Flex 4K streaming TV box, free with Xfinity Internet. Can your Internet do that? Visit xfinity.com/xFi to learn more.
Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Internet: Gig speed requires Gigabit Internet and compatible xFi. Many factors affect speed, including equipment performance, interference, congestion, and speeds of visited websites. WiFi speeds are affected by additional factors, including distance from Gateway, home configuration, personal device capabilities, and others. For factors affecting speed visit xfinity.com/networkmanagement. Flex: Requires post-paid subscription to Xfinity Internet, excluding Internet Essentials. Not available to current Xfinity TV customers. Pricing subject to change. Taxes, fees and other applicable charges extra, and subject to change. Limited to up to 3 devices. 1 device included. Call for restrictions and complete details. ©2021 Comcast.
T:13"
Everyday player to award-winning streamer
S:12.5"
iamBrandon Award-Winning Streamer and Twitch Partner
| 5
6 | December 16, 2021 |
DEFENDER NETWORK
DN News
POLL Support of BLM
82% Blacks
60% Hispanic/Latinos
49% Whites
3% Republicans
86% Democrats
Blacks, Dems still support BLM NNPA News Service
Following a recent poll that showed support for the Black Lives Matter Movement waning, conversations have commenced over the continued relevancy of the campaign. Research conducted by the national polling site Civiqs revealed that 44% of Americans support the Black Lives Matter Movement, while 43% said they oppose the campaign. Approximately 11% of respondents reported that they neither support nor oppose the campaign, which began in 2012 in response to a jury’s decision to acquit George Zimmerman in the shooting death of Trayvon Martin. However, hidden in the details of the poll are subgroups that show the movement still enjoys the overall support of African Americans and Democrats. The movement’s support appeared to peak in the wake of the police murder of George Floyd as global protests joined in the cry of Black Lives Matter. Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation co-founder Patrisse Cullors resigned earlier this year following allegations she parlayed her part in the movement into a multi-million-dollar lifestyle that included purchasing several properties in various locations. Shortly before Cullors’ resignation, the foundation released a 2020 Impact Report that claimed it had raised more than $90 million. Reportedly, 10 Black Lives Matter chapter leaders called for financial transparency and an independent investigation into spending funds. In addition, Ebony reported that the claims of “financial impropriety were a source of constant concern for several parents whose children had been killed by police in controversial shootings.” Ebony cited Tamika Palmer, whose daughter Breonna Taylor was killed by Louisville police as she slept in her home and Samaria Rice, whose 12-year-old son Tamir, was killed on a playground by a Cleveland police officer. Each has come out publicly and denounced the Black Lives Matter Foundation and accused the organization of raising money off the blood of their children. Michael Brown Sr., whose son Michael was walking home from a store unarmed
The movement’s support appeared to peak in the wake of the police murder of George Floyd as global protests joined in the cry of Black Lives Matter. -AP The movement’s supand killed port appeared to peak by a police in the wake of the poofficer in lice murder of George Ferguson, Floyd as global proMo., called tests joined in the cry of Black Lives Matter. for Bl ack Lives Matter to donate $20 million to non-profit organizations in Ferguson that are working to empower residents in exchange for the millions of dollars they raised in using his son’s name and image. Cullors has countered that all the financial purchases she has made have come from her income, including a multi-year television deal with Warner Brothers, a book deal, speaking engagements, and consulting services.
December 16, 2021 |
| 7
DEFENDER NETWORK
DN News
Megan Thee Stallion gets Humanitarian Award Defender News Service
Rapper Megan Thee Stallion had a very big week. First, the superstar “Hot Girl,” graduated from Texas Southern University, then she was awarded the 18th Congressional Humanitarian Award. Just one day after receiving her college degree, Megan Thee Stallion, real name Megan Pete, received the Humanitarian Award from U.S. Rep Sheila Jackson Lee. Megan received the award in recognition of her humanitarian work in her native city. The award certificate cited her local philanthropic works, reading, “She maintained a passion for philanthropy with a specific focus on education, elder care, mental health, and women’s empowerment. As her career blossomed, Megan began to identify different ways to leverage her public platform to uplift overlooked communities in her hometown.” It went on to detail how Megan donated proceeds from her breakout single “Savage” to Bread of Life, a Houston-based non-profit organization, providing food, water and other relief to families in the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. “This award has not been given out often, or to many,” Lee said. “That is why it remains a special part in our congressional district. The district has almost one million people. When this award is given, it has that special
Megan Thee Stallion and TSU president Dr. Lesia L. Crumpton-Young during TSU’s recent Fall Commencement ceremony.
promise and special history.” “I’m so honored,” the “Savage” rapper said. “It’s my responsibility to take care of the city that took care of me. My grandma always taught me to be kind and giving. I learned that from her.” She went on to dedicate the award to both her grandmother and her mother. “I was raised by very giving women,” Megan continued. “So I want to dedicate this award to my grandma because she taught me to be the woman I am today.” The three-time Grammy winner also ac-
knowledged her honor for her fans on her Instagram page. Among the photo collage of the day’s events was her holding the honor. In the caption, she indicated that her ability to help others superseded the award itself, writing, “although I appreciate the recognition I’m just happy that I am able to give back to and put smiles on the faces of the people in my city.” The honor came just a day after Megan received her Bachelor of Science in Health Administration from TSU. She was originally enrolled at Prairie View A&M Uni-
versity (where she was on the dance team) before taking time off in 2013 to focus on her music career. She was able to complete her degree after she transferred to TSU and took online classes part-time. Jackson Lee said that the rapper and savvy businesswoman’s devotion to juggling education and her flourishing career was inspiring. “Not only did she get a degree, but she was calling her professors regularly to let them know how committed she was,” Jackson Lee told the Grio. “She was online in the midst of all of these various music awards shows, traveling around the world and being a businesswoman. She was calling professors as Megan Pete to ensure that she would be able to graduate, and I was keeping up with this. She’s a product of South Park, Texas, which is in my congressional district, and she’s a product of her mother, her grandmother and her great grandmother. They helped raise her, and she is a human being crafted by their instruction and their love and what people need to know that in her heart, she is a servant.” While accepting the award, Megan gave honor to her grandmother and mother, who passed away in 2019 of brain cancer. “I’m doing it for me, but I’m also doing it for the women in my family who made me who I am today,” she said.
8 | December 16, 2021 |
DEFENDER NETWORK
| 9
DN ON SOCIAL THE WEB PollyTick
Black Women & Voting Strength ADVANCING DEMOCRACY
Women of color urged to flex their political muscle
Black Women & Elections The Brookings Institution and the organization Higher Heights collaborated to create a database comprised of elected officials at the federal, state, and municipal levels, as well as aspirant candidates. Information regarding their districts was also collected and analyzed to pinpoint predictors of electoral success. Based on the preliminary analysis, three major findings emerged: • The concentration of Black residents in a district is positively correlated with Black women’s electoral success. Roughly two-thirds of Black women have been elected in majority-Black districts (>50 percent). • Recent mayoral victories among 100 of the
This story is part of the Solutions Journalism Network’s Advancing Democracy project. The Defender is one of 10 newsrooms across the United States that have been tasked with deep reporting projects that consider how to make our democracy better. The reality is democracy is not infallible; it is only as strong as the people who uphold it. Through hard-hitting, solution-oriented stories, the Defender hopes to inspire, educate and enlighten voters in Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.
Black Women by the numbers
By ReShonda Tate
B
lack women have long been known as one of the most loyal voting blocs. Their nationwide voter mobilization efforts led to the historic turnout that secured Joe Biden’s victory and that of the first Black, female vice president in the nation’s history. In fact, about 90% of Black women voted for President-elect Joe Biden over Donald Trump. For the past five presidential cycles, they have shown up to the polls at higher rates than any other group, despite the fact that they only make up about seven percent of the nation’s population. And now, some local Black women in politics are urging Black women to flex that same power in the upcoming midterm elections. “2022 is going to be a major turning point,” said Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth. “Everybody showed up in 2020. We saw millions of folks turn out. And the truth of the matter is communities of color sit at home and we don’t activate in a midterm election. If we don’t step up and do something about it next year, we will suffer and we will suffer greatly for years to come.” In the Houston area, voters will decide everything from Governor to school board in 2022. In order to advance democracy, Tracey Yvette Scott, president of the Black Women’s PAC, says it’s imperative Black women have a seat at the table. “From statewide offices to locally elected officials, Black women are taking the lead here in cities all around Texas. It is important to have representation at all levels of public office,” said Scott. “That’s why we use our collective power to put more Black women in office. And we say to Black women in general, if you’re mad, get educated, if you’re tired, get educated. Educate yourself on who is on the ballot, what role role they play and how it connects with your life specifically. If your cousin was arrested, who is the judge? Is that person on the ballot? How does that police chief come in play? The mayor, the city council member, take some time and ask, how does this affect my life? Who are these people? And are they on my ballot and then decide how you’re gonna vote.”
most populated cities and unsuspecting wins throughout various primaries this cycle show Black women are viable in districts in which Blacks are not the majority. Although a third of all Black congresswomen and female state legislators were elected in minority-Black districts, recent and past successes suggest Black women are creating more and different routes to elected office. • States with the highest percentages of Black residents offer viable opportunities for Black women to be elected statewide and in minority-Black districts as over 500 majority-Black constituencies picked a representative, yet only one-third of those seats were contested by Black women.
25 U.S. Representatives 0 U.S. Senator 276 state representatives 82 state senators 1 lieutenant governor 0 governors 0 attorneys general 0 secretaries of state 8 mayors of top 100 cities *Source: Rutgers
Defender Publisher/CEO Sonny Messiah Jiles (c) is joined by Tenishia Hudspeth, Martha CastexTatum, Rhona Rose Akama-Makia and Tracy Yvette Scott.
Regardless of who is on the ballot, City Council member and Vice Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex Tatum says we need to make voting a priority. “Elections have consequences and we have to be very vigilant about making sure we vote in all elections,” said CastexTatum. “I know for so many people, they see the presidential election as the mecca of voting (‘I voted in the presidential election. I did my civic duty.’) But we really need to make sure people understand that local elections play a big part in their everyday quality of life. And we need to encourage people in every single election and not only go out to vote, but get to know who you’re voting for because every person that looks like you may not be for you and every person that
does not look like you may not be against you. It is our civic responsibility to get to know the candidates, what they stand for and to vote in every single election.” COLLECTIVE POWER
While some elections haven’t been finalized Castex-Tatum is hoping more Black women will choose to run for office. Organizations like The Black Women’s PAC is committed to help develop, build, train, fund and grow political and intellectual infrastructure necessary to help Black Women win elections and successfully govern once elected. BWPAC also seeks to empower Black Women as political donors in support of electing more Black Women to public office
SEE THE BWPAC KITCHEN TALK CONVERSATION ON ADVANCING DEMOCRACY.
across the state of Texas. “Advancing democracy is our next step as Black Americans,” said Scott. “It is our turn, it is our space, it is our time to step up and create a space for future generations. It is an opportunity to support Black women in political spaces. We want to advocate for more Black women in C-suites, on boards, and particularly, elected officials. From the bottom of the ballot to the top. This is a step in civic engagement that we need to really fulfill.” Hudspeth, who says she spent years ‘preparing’ to run, believes organizations like BWPAC can help more Black women throw their names in the political ring. “I think Tracy’s on to something because there should be Black Women PACs in every major city so when we go to the table and we’re ready to run, we are ready for prime time,” said Hudspeth. “You will be, you will be criticized, your speech, your look, everything you do will be watched and criticized. And so we as a Black Women’s PAC need to make sure that the Black women that we put forward as our candidates are correct,
Resources
Black women are the most powerful when they move together. These organizations are mobilizing Black women all across the country to activate their networks and giving them the tools to raise their voice, cast their vote and flex their collective voting power. www.BlackWomensPacTX.org www.BlackWomenVote.com
prepared and ready for prime time,” added Castex Tatum. CHALLENGES
In 2018, Black women made record strides but for every Black woman that ran for office, there was another sidelined, primarily because of finances. “Statistically, Black women raise less money than other candidates and it is important for us to get this message out to our community and to our supporters. Campaigns cost money. You have to be able to get your name and your message out to people that will vote for you and unfortunately, it takes a lot of money. We have to be better stewards of our finances so we can get the best candidates at the tables representing us,” Castex-Tatum said.
10 | December 16, 2021 |
DEFENDER NETWORK
DN Education
HIGH SCHOOL-TO-COLLEGE TRANSITION AMID COVID
UH freshmen share experiences By ASWAD WALKER
Emari Williams
Anana Walker
Marshall Reynolds
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every facet of life, including the high school-to-college transition. This year’s college freshman graduated high school at the pandemic’s height and transitioned to campuses with the coronavirus still infecting thousands. Because no other class of students in recent U.S. history has made such a major rites-of-passagelike transition during a global health crisis, the Defender sought the unique perspective of three University of Houston students whose entire collegiate experience has been within the confines of COVID-19: Emari Williams, Anana Walker and Marshall Reynolds. DEFENDER: Were there things you couldn’t do in preparation for college due to the pandemic? EMARI WILLIAMS (Lamar HS grad): I wished I could have toured some other colleges and had the pandemic not been going on, I would’ve felt more comfortable leaving out of state. I also wish that I could’ve gone to the college corner at my high school so I could be helped in the application process. Being able to be there instead of attending virtual meetings would have really aided me. DEFENDER: How has the pandemic impacted your living arrangements (dorm life)? EMARI: There was a concert on campus a few weeks ago that I didn’t feel too comfortable attending because of the pandemic. Even though I’m vaccinated, I don’t feel comfortable going maskless. ANANA WALKER (Lamar HS grad): I’m personally living on campus despite the pandemic because I feel safe enough to do so. All three of my suitemates and myself included are all vaccinated, pro-mask, and taking various precautions to ensure that we don’t get COVID. In addition to this, the University
of Houston has taken precautions to quarantine students who test positive for COVID-19, such as removing those students from their dorm and providing them a room to themselves for a two-week period DEFENDER: Have your classes been impacted by the pandemic? ANANA: Yes. Three of them are online, with two asynchronous and one synchronous while the other two are in-person. However, next semester all of my classes will be in-person DEFENDER: How has your overall transition from high school to college gone? MARSHALL REYNOLDS (Willowridge HS grad): The amount of stress that college puts on me is crazy. Not to mention, there’s so much to keep up with. EMARI: The hardest thing to adjust to is having as much free time as I do now. In high school, it felt like there was always an assignment that was due. In college, the free time I
have now is astounding. ANANA: I’ve always been adamant about getting good grades and attending my classes, so while I could skip a few classes with my newfound freedom, I don’t. Thus, I’ve had no issue adjusting to classes. For me, college is essentially high school with a lot more freedom and flexibility. DEFENDER: What about COVID protocols? ANANA: None of the COVID protocols bother me. They were put in place for a reason, and I have no problem abiding by them. If I have to take a wellness survey before attending a campus event to ensure my safety and the safety of the people that I encounter, then I will happily do so. EMARI: I appreciate the mask recommendations. They’ve given me some peace of mind with going to crowded classes. Even one of my professors separates unmasked students and masked students for overall safety. DEFENDER: Are students still “pandemic aware” or is campus back to “business -as-usual”? EMARI: For the most part campus life is back to normal, some students wear masks but more often than not, they’re worn incorrectly or not at all, there’s also the lack of social distancing and how quickly spaces can get crowded.
READ FULL INTERVIEW AT DEFENDERNETWORK.COM
T:9.75"
December 16, 2021 |
| 11
DEFENDER NETWORK
T:13"
We’re supporting small businesses to help hope thrive Small businesses make neighborhoods. At Wells Fargo, we’re championing these mainstays of the community and helping beautify local business districts this holiday season. With our Open For Business Fund, we’re helping businesses invest in resources and build equity, to propel them to a brighter and more secure future. In cities across America, Wells Fargo's Open for Business Fund is providing nonprofits with roughly $420MM to support small businesses. Learn more at wellsfargo.com/impact ©2021 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved.
12 | December 16, 2021 |
DEFENDER NETWORK
DN Business
Defender Network recognized Defender among six Houston businesses named fastest-growing companies The Defender Network has joined five other Houston area businesses as a winner of the 2021 Inner City 100 (IC100). Every year, the Initiative for a Competitive Inner City identifies, ranks, and spotlights the 100 fastest growing businesses located in America’s inner cities. These companies are experiencing rapid growth—and making a meaningful impact on their cities and communities. The 2021 IC100 winners were evaluated based on revenue growth during the four-year period from 2016 to 2020. The Defender, led by publisher and CEO Sonny Messiah Jiles was ranked #76 on the list based on its four-year revenue growth rate. “This is a monumental honor, especially in light of the hardships we experienced at the onset of COVID-19. Like so many companies, we were hit hard and I was concerned about our future. But we turned to readers and they stepped up to the plate to keep us afloat and our team went to work searching for grants and other funding to not only survive but thrive. I’m proud of
ICIC 100 Local Award Winners • Houston Defender Network • Ambassador Services LLC • Green Light Safety • Spectrum Uniforms • Classy Art LLC • UYL Color Supply
Defender Publisher/CEO Sonny Messiah Jiles speaking at an event. Aswad Walker
our efforts and all of the support that has enabled us to receive this award,” said Messiah Jiles. This year’s IC100 list was unveiled during an awards ceremony at ICIC’s 2021 Annual Conference held virtually on December 9. In light of the economic and financial
impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, small businesses are more vital now than ever to local economies and small business ecosystems. It is thus important to recognize and celebrate them for their growth and resilience. “Recording financial growth year over
year is a significant accomplishment,” said ICIC CEO Steve Grossman. “The Inner City 100 class of 2021 sustained their momentum amid the unprecedented challenges faced during the pandemic to greatly expand their respective businesses’ revenue – a tremendous accolade to be celebrated.” Grossman added, “These firms have been engines of job growth and a healthy, inclusive economy in these incredibly challenging times. They have also been actively engaged in strengthening their communities by donating their time and resources to local organizations and charities. We are truly inspired by our IC100 winners.” From 2016 to 2020, the 2021 Inner City 100 companies averaged 216% revenue growth and created 3,899 total jobs. Of these 100 winners, 32 are woman-owned/ led, and 60 are BIPOC-owned/led, the latter of which is a record high-number in the program’s 23-year history. To view the full list of 2021 IC100 award winners by ranking and learn more about each company, visit: https://bit.ly/ InnerCity100_2021_award_winners.
Study: Black influencers earn less than white counterparts Defender News Service
A new study shows that though they have a huge impact on consumers and followers globally, Black influencers make 35% less in pay than their white counterparts. The reportedly first-of-its-kind study called the Time to Face the Influencer Pay Gap by communications firm and educational organization The Influencer League showed that earning levels also were higher than the 29% pay disparity between white influencers and those who are Black, Indigenous, and people of color. The new analysis reported by Insider included views of 400 content creators nationwide. Partakers were asked how many followers they had, their annual income, and how much they were offered for brand deals. “The gap this study uncovered in influencer marketing vastly overshadows the gaps in any other industry,” D’Anthony Jackson, a digital and influencer strategist
at MSL, stated. Based on the U.S. Department of Labor’s 2020 Current Population Survey, the education industry has an 8% gap; the business
and financial sector has a 16% gap; in construction, it’s 19%; and in media, sports, and entertainment, it’s 16%. The study found, too, that 77% of Black
content creators were considered nano- and micro-influencers with under 50,000 followers. The average pay from brands in this level was $27,000 per year. Contrarily, macro-influencers—43% of white respondents and 23% of Black respondents—averaged over $100,000 per year. Some 49% of the Black influencers in the study reported they felt their race played a part in being low-balled. And 59% of them said that posting about race negatively impacted them financially. The report disclosed that only 14% of white influencers responded they felt this impact. Asked what one action could help eliminate the influencer pay gap between white creators and people of color, 92% of respondents responded: industrywide pay transparency. Over the last two years, Black creators have reported experiencing racist jokes, microaggressions, and tokenism from others in the industry.
December 16, 2021 |
| 13
DEFENDER NETWORK
DN Health
A DEFENDER AND KELSEY-SEYBOLD CLINIC ALLIANCE
Don’t let seasonal stressors hijack your holiday spirit HELP AVOID A SEASONAL SWOON WITH THESE FIVE TIPS
By CHERICE CONLEY-HARVEY, M.D.
Just as COVID-19 restrictions seem to be winding down, the holiday season arrives. Holidays offer us a festive time for those long-delayed gatherings with family and friends. Ironically, the season can also bring about hard-to-achieve, higher expectations that can take a toll on you physically and emotionally with unexpected stress and feelings of sadness. STRESS AND SADNESS AREN’T UNUSUAL Common stressors for this seasonal depression include fatigue from crowds and traffic, financial burdens of gift giving, disappointment about unrealized expectations, nostalgia for childhood memories, reduced daylight hours, and a heightened sense of loss regarding deceased loved ones.
FROM THE DOC “Making healthy lifestyle choices improves your chances for an increased quality of life.” Dr. Conley-Harvey is an Internal Medicine physician at KelseySeybold. For an appointment, call 713-442-0000.
1. Pace yourself. It’s easy to get rundown and feel overwhelmed during the holidays. This can leave you susceptible to feeling inadequate. So, carve out some quiet time and recharge your inner batteries. Doing things in moderation and getting adequate rest will help you enjoy holiday activities even more. 2. Reduce holiday spending. Don’t get carried away with gift buying. Set a spending cap and stick to it. January’s credit card debts can haunt like unwelcomed ghosts from A Christmas Carol. 3. Don’t over imbibe. If you must, drink in moderation. Alcohol is a
proven depressant and a DUI or DWI citation will resonate badly far beyond the holidays. 4. Don’t over-romanticize the past. Marinated in memories of mistletoe, past holidays often seem preferable to present ones. Try to embrace today’s holidays. New memories are evolving right now; don’t miss them by fixating on the irretrievable past. 5. Schedule an exam with a primary care physician. Make sure there aren’t undiagnosed health conditions waiting to put the brakes on your holidays and quality of life. On behalf of Kelsey-Seybold, I wish all of you a happy and healthy holiday season.
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.
14 | December 16, 2021 |
DEFENDER NETWORK
DN Sports University of Houston junior guard Britney Onyeje led all scorers with 16 points to go with three steals and three rebounds in a win over the Louisiana Ragin Cajuns.
Texas Southern women’s basketball junior guard Jala Buster led the Tigers with 13 points during a recent 96-55 loss to LSU.
SportsBriefs TSU players picked as SWAC Players of Week The accolades are continuing to come for the Texas Southern men’s basketball team after the Tigers’ historic upset of No. 20 FloriJohn Walker III/ da. John Joirdon Karl Walker III Nicholas and Joirdon Karl Nicholas have been recognized as SWAC Players of the Week largely because of their efforts against the Gators. Tyrod Taylor gets benched It is no surprise that Texans coach David Culley has decided to go with rookie quarterback David Mills over veteran Tyrod Taylor for the remainder of Tyrod Taylor the season. It makes total sense. No knock against Taylor but the Texans aren’t playing for much outside of last place so the Texans might as well give the rookie some playing time to evaluate his abilities. Rockets’ streak ends The Rockets’ incredible turnaround winning streak of seven straight games ended when they fell to the defending NBA champion Milwaukee Bucks 123114. Prior to their winning streak, the Rockets had lost 15 straight and had the worst record in the NBA with just one win. Stephen Silas’ quickly got back on track with a victory over Atlanta to make it 8 wins in the Rockers last 9 games.
Jackson State football coach Deion Sanders calls out to his players during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Edward Waters in Jackson, Miss., Sunday, Feb. 21, 2021. The game marked Sanders’s collegiate head coaching debut. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
DEION EFFECT IMPACTING PVAMU COACHING SEARCH
By Terrance Harris
The names associated with the Prairie View A&M Panthers football opening read more like a who’s who list of football royalty. Former University of Houston and Texas A&M head coach Kevin Sumlin, along with Pro Football Hall of Famers Ray Lewis and Rod Woodson and ex-NFL greats Ed Reed and Bubba McDowell have been the most prominent names associated with the job that was vacated last week by Eric Dooley. Just a couple of years ago, it would have seemed like a long reach for any of these names – aside from McDowell, who is a longtime assistant coach on the Panthers’ staff – to consider Prairie View. But the present-day narrative on HBCU football, particularly in the SWAC, has started to shift. Some will call it the Deion Sanders effect. Ever since Jackson State had the vision to hire the flamboyant and outspoken Pro Football Hall of Fame cornerback to take over its struggling football program in 2020, HBCU football has experienced a re-awakening of sorts. Sanders and his huge personality have brought the attention of ESPN, not to mention a caliber of recruits that once exclusively took their talents to Power 5 programs.
Sanders’ immediate success with the Tigers has sparked the interest of other big-name former NFL players who have been interested in breaking into coaching. Eddie George was hired as the head coach at Tennessee State with no coaching experience and most recently Grambling State was able to lure former Raiders and Browns coach Hue Jackson as its new head coach. PVAMU athletic director Dr. Donald Reed can feel the Deion Sanders effect as he sets out to make his first coaching hire for the athletic department. Reed equates it to boys and girls standing on either side of the room at the middle school dance awaiting someone to break the ice or that aunt or uncle setting off the party at the family reunion. “That’s the Deion effect in this,” Reed said. “He stepped out there and he was the most high-profile person to do it. “There have been others but nobody as high profile as Coach Sanders. He does it and it almost validates what other people have done prior to him because his stage and platform are so high. That’s definitely a part of it.” TSU athletic director Kevin Granger agrees Sanders has been a game changer for the SWAC. “Anytime you bring legends to the conference
it only means that the conference is doing better,” Granger said. “And obviously, Coach Sanders is a living legend, one of the greatest players to play the football game. And his personality, think about his personality and things of that nature, that brings a lot of attention. “Anytime you bring positive attention to your conference it only helps your conference.” While Reed would not confirm or deny any of the rumored candidates, he does admit the PVAMU opening has attracted the attention of some impressive candidates. The Panthers, of course, are coming off their first SWAC West title and conference championship game appearance since 2009. “I would say it is, it’s extremely attractive,” said Reed, who hopes to have a hire made by the end of the year. “There is a lot of interest and it speaks to the university and all of the folks who have come before me, that what they have put in place is allowing us to build on a really solid foundation that is attractive to a lot of people. It’s very exciting about what the future holds for us as we move forward. “I feel quite a few people feel the same way and want to be a part of what we are doing here at Prairie View as a university and as a football program.”
December 16, 2021 |
| 15
DEFENDER NETWORK
DN Sports KASHMERE HIGH SCHOOL
SAMYRA THOMAS
HAS HER GAME ON LOCK
By Jodie B. Jiles
Kashmere power forward Samyra Thomas has taken multi-sport athletics to the next level during her high school campaign. On the basketball court, wrestling mat or track, you name it and Thomas does it, and she does it well. Kashmere’s volleyball and basketball teams have gone to the playoffs with Thomas leading the way, earning MVP awards for both sports the last two years. In wrestling, Thomas has been MVP for the past three years as a three-time state qualifier, three-time district champion and two-time regional champion. This season, she is considered one of the favorites to win gold at the state wrestling tournament. Kenric Harvey, Kashmere’s girls’ basketball coach, discussed what makes Thomas special on the court. “Pure, flat-out athlete. She does it all,” Harvey said. “She runs the floor real fast and is a real four-post player (or five). She brings energy,
is a shot-blocker and is a tremendous help to the roster along with a plethora of others.” The Defender spoke with Thomas about her style of play, multi-sport success and more. STYLE OF PLAY
“Really strong, really competitive, and if you have the ball I am on you.”
POINTS OFF REBOUNDS
“When the point guards shoot the threes I always have their backs boxing them out and going for the rebound. That is my part.”
DEFENSE
“I’m lockdown. Wherever you go I am right beside you. You’re going nowhere.”
LOVE OF SPORTS
“The reason I love sports is because of the physicality and the adrenaline that goes through my body when I am doing all those sports especially with wrestling and basketball.”
KEYS TO SUCCESS MOVING FORWARD
“Come to practice, stay in the gym, working out and working on your skills.”
For full video interview visit: www.defendernetwork.com
ABOUT SAMYRA THOMAS
Thomas extends for a layup against Furr HS.
Twitter: @lil.mayraa Instagram: @myraa_.a Current offers: Paul Quinn College, Shiner College Artist listening to: Megan Thee Stallion Player she studies: Cynthia Cooper Shout-out: God
SUMMER CREEK LEFT TACKLE
Kevin Banks, one of the best lineman in the city
Jodie B. Jiles
Put simply, the greater Houston area is a football factory for high-caliber left tackles, including Summer Creek current star Kelvin Banks. It’s an impressive list. The Charger’s 2021 first-round pick Rashawn Slater from Clements High School is looking like the best lineman pick of the decade and a future Hall of Famer on many analyst boards. College football’s hottest team, the Alabama Crimson Tide, has steadily packed its O-line with Houston-area prospects in pursuit of a championship. And when
looking at the current 2022 class with the likes of Atascocita left tackle Kam Dewberry and Dickinson’s P.J. Williams moving up recruiting rankings, some tend to forget who is still the highest rated offensive tackle in Texas. At 6-feet-5, 300 pounds, Kelvin Banks, a University of Texas commit, has the look of a Tyron Smith and the attitude to make a name for himself in the trenches for years to come. Over the years, Summer Creek head coach Cornelius Harmon’s downhill “run it” coaching style has only added to Banks’
skill sets in the run-blocking and play-action game. Banks is a true brawler who has the speed and ability to get to the second level. According to 247 Sports, Banks is the 15th overall ranked player in the nation for his 2022 class. The Defender spoke with Banks after Summer Creek was eliminated in a tough 34-31 playoff loss to Katy to discuss his style of play, keys to success, advice to others and more. For full video interview visit: www. defendernetwork.com
16 | December 16, 2021 |
DEFENDER NETWORK
DN Entertainment
Houston playwright presents ‘An Urban Christmas Tale’ By Aswad Walker
Scene from An Urban Christmas Tale. -Photo courtesy of Norma Thomas
Norma J. Thomas, French Creole Productions and God’s Grace Community Church present “An Urban Christmas Tale.” Funded in part by the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, through the Houston Arts Alliance, the annual holiday treat was inspired by the 2014-2015 Ferguson, Mo. protests. “I felt the community needed the arts to speak to the heart of the community, and when the Women’s Ministry of the Shrine asked me to do something theatrical for Christmas that year, I seized the opportunity,” said Thomas. The writer, composer, producer, director crafted what she called “a message of hope for a community in crisis” from the biblical Christmas story, but in 2015 urban America. Each year the play seeks to inspire hope, but takes a different focus. This year’s focus is regentrification and political corruption and the power of unified self- determination to overcome them. “The sincere expectation is that viewers will return to a sense of commitment to community survival,” she said. Originally, Thomas’ favorite scenes from her play have been when the community business owners, representing the biblical shepherds,
confront their enemy, corrupt politicians. But her new favorite this year is the discovery of the mystical star that leads three astronomers to Acres Homes to find the child of the prophecy. “The holidays naturally engender a heightened energy, and any period of high vibration is prime time for a message such as this,” said Thomas, a former award-winning HISD educator. This year’s version of “An Urban Christmas Tale” features new, original songs, a company of young artists, and will mark the grand opening of NT Studios & Conservatory, known affectionately as Acres Homes’ premiere performing and visual arts studio and educational center, dedicated to bringing quality arts experiences to the Acres Homes community and the City of Houston at large. NT Studios’ grand opening and production of “An Urban Christmas Tale” take place on Saturday, Dec. 18 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 19 at 4 p.m. at NT Studios, 6818 Antoine Drive. General admission tickets are available on Eventbrite. There is limited seating and masks are required.
ABOVE: Scene from An Urban Christmas Tale. -Photo courtesy of Norma Thomas