Vol 28 Issue 6

African-American News&Issues

“Addressing Current & Historical Realities Affecting Our Community”

A House DiviDeD

By: Roy Douglas Malonson

The Republican Party was created in 1854 and was in support of African American equality for the first two decades. Abraham Lincoln, who was known as the 16th president of America, and other “radicalized republicans,” worked hard to eliminate slavery and grant Black men citizenship. As time moved on, GOP leaders began to forget about Black Americans.

No matter what the conversation is, race seems to be a factor. Today, we have seen the circus of politics and how it impacts everyone. We have seen it bring people together, and we have seen it rip people apart. When it comes to Black men and women, there is a house divided. Black men are now more likely to

vote Republican than Black women, who are more likely to vote Democratic. According to Pew Research, about one-in-ten Black adults identify with or lean toward the Republican party.

It has been noted that the Black male vote for democratic party has decreased since 2012. In the Obama reelection, 87% voted to reelect Obama, which was a drop down from 95% in 2008. For ages 18-30, only 30% vote for Obama. Whereas 96% of Black women voted for Obama in 2012, which is up from 92% in 2008. When it came to the Trump election in 2016, Black male voters grew to 10% in 2016, and Black women at only 6%. Black women are the House Divided cont. on pg. 3

By: Chelsea Davis-Bibb, Ed.D.

In the words of Brad Henry, a good teacher can inspire hope, ignite the imagination, and instill a love of learning. That is what Harold Reed did for over 30 years in education. He started out as an elementary science teacher at Carver Elementary School (now known as Carver High School), and taught many students, including Roy Douglas Malonson, publisher of the African American News and Issues Newspaper and Loretta Devine, who is a well-known actress from Acres Homes. He started teaching in 1956 during a time where segregation was in full effect.

Mr. Reed recalled his experience and how Blacks were treated during that time. He said, “It was bad for everybody. It was bad for the Black folks and the White folks.” He mentioned how things were strict for Black teachers and how their jobs were always threatened, especially if they were a part of organizations like the NAACP (The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People). This didn’t stop Mr. Reed as he joined the organization and was proud to be a member of it.

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BLACK HISTORY IS 24/7/365, NOT 28–29 dAYS

Harold Reed

News: Office: (713) 692-1892

The Overflow

EDITORIAL A Revival of God Consciousness

gling because of how much instruction they lost during that time, and if they are now using AI, they aren’t going through the process of learning, which is very important. As a former high school teacher and now a college English professor, I am still trying to figure out how to not view AI as a threat but more so as a tool to enhance the learning experience for students. I have also been strategic with assignments and doing more in class assignments. I also require students to write an in-class essay within the first two weeks of school to get a feel for their writing style.

Bobby Mills, Phd

Black Lives Matter

Students can use this AI to write their assignments, their essays, and many other things. Educators like myself are already faced with some students plagiarizing assignments, but this takes things to a whole different level. This AI thinks for them and writes for them. What are the students learning then? This has sent educators in panic mode in how teachers can embrace AI and still have students learn. Because of the pandemic, some students are strug-

I understand why teachers are concerned about AI; I have a list of concerns too. However, the chatbot is here and more companies like Google are creating their own chatbot to compete with ChatGPT. I encourage teachers everywhere to continue what you’re doing. This will not be the last hurdle we experience in education, and I believe that if we can make it through a pandemic, we can make it through anything. I also encourage parents to be involved in their child’s education and be informed and aware of what they’re doing, what they have access to, and how they are learning. I know its easier said than done, but the benefits in the long run are worth it.

In the struggle for human dignity and human rights the phrase “Black Lives Matter” has been popularized. The question of questions is does Black lives really matter to Black people? In asking this question, we must take into consideration the reality of what is occurring in the Black community. In 2016, (90.1%) of Black murder victims were murdered by Blacks, and young Black men (15-19) were the leading victims. Public schools should teach our children how to

think, not just read, write, and compute. Unfortunately, public schools are not doing a good job of teaching the 3 R’s. Of course, any Black individual’s response to the question would be an emphatic and resounding yes, Black Lives Matter! However, let’s examine the empirical facts by first referencing an African Proverb, “If there is no enemy within, the enemy outside cannot hurt you”. Thus, the enemy within is far more dangerous that the enemy without. Blacks talk about the inhumanity of Blacks against one another, but very little is done to correct the devasting problem of Blackon-Black crime.

For more visit aframnews.com That can produce stories that address current and historical realities affecting our community. Please send your inquiries to prod@aframnews.com

demographic group that are least likely to vote for a Republican candidate.

So why the shift and gaps between the genders? In particular, why did we see this increase surrounding the Trump administration despite the racial comments and behavior the former president has shown? Trump has done more for White nationalist than he has for any Blacks. However, some Black men have overlooked this notion and still identify as Republican. This can be due to his individualism, the freedom he had to express his thoughts, and his pro-capitalist rhetoric. Trump was able to say what he wanted, and it was acceptable by most in society, and some Black men may gravitate towards this ideology.

In addition, some of the Black males that identify as Republican may feel as though they have

“made it.” If they are able to get the approval of the White man, who has been controlling society since slavery times, then they feel “accepted.” We have seen this with Clarence Thomas, Ye (also known as Kanye West), and Herchel Walker. It was noted that in the 2022 primaries, it was a record-setting year for the Republican party, which fielded “81 Black candidates,” according to the National Republican Congressional Committee. Little do they know that they are just puppets in this game of control. They hold no real power and will never be able to get away with half of what Trump has done. Some Black men believe in a system that wasn’t designed to include them or look out for their best interest. For Black women, The Atlantic mentioned how Black women decide their political beliefs and decision making “in policies that benefit public interest.” They

are more concerned about the community as a whole rather than individualism. They consider all factors, and these decisions can be made based on their class, socioeconomic status and region. It was noted that 93% of Black women voted for the BidenHarris ticket that far exceeds the parameters of any one presidential election cycle.

The main difference between Black men and Black women when it comes to the two parties is that Black men are willing to leave the democratic party to satisfy their political needs. Whereas Black women are willing to stay within the democratic party and work on improving it through reforms, building relationships and connections, and so much more. The Atlantic gave an example of what Black women accomplished that have made differences in the Democratic party. Despite little support

from the Democratic National Committee, Black women helmed grassroots organizations such as Fair Fight Action, the New Georgia Project, and Black Voters Matter that were ultimately responsible for the Biden-Harris victories in swing states.”

Regardless of how one may vote, we are seeing political and mental shifts in Black male voters. They care more about the individual of a candidate than Black women, who care about the community. Much of this is due to identity, race, and culture. In the words of Monica Crowley, “Voting is as much an emotional act as it is an intellectual one.” No one can tell you who to vote for, but you should vote for someone who has a platform that will better our communities and our future.

NAACP HoustoN BrANCH Freedom FuNd AdvoCACy & AwArds GAlA

By: Crystal LaShan

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Houston Branch Freedom Fund Advocacy and Awards Gala was full of joyous Mardi Gras spirit. Festive in the traditional Mardi Gras colors, there was a lot to celebrate. Texas Congresswoman Shelia Jackson-Lee gave a heartwarming and beautiful tribute to our Mayor Sylvester Turner as he approaches his final months of service.  Mayor Turner gave an inspiring speech that thanked everyone for allowing him to serve his beloved hometown. Songstress Kathy Taylor brought down the house with her inspirational vocals. The President’s Awards were awarded to Dr. Joseph Gathe Jr. ( Healthcare Advocate of the Year), Courtney Johnson Rose (Housing Advocate of the Year), and Argentina James (Economic Empowerment Advocate of the Year). The Legend Awards Honorees were Dusty Baker, Ricky Anderson, Carol Mims Galloway, Tina Knowles Lawson, and Pastors Juanita and Dr. Rudy Rasmus. The 2023 Mickey Leland Humanitarian Award Honoree was The Honorable Senfronia Thompson. It was a great night to celebrate the great works of multiple awardees who have truly made a difference in countless Houstonian’s lives. Congratulations to the individuals who won awards!

Dr. De De & Gilbert Garcia having fun with the Mardi Gras theme.

Ricky and wife Toi Anderson were enjoying his Legends Award Honoree moment.

The band entertained the audience throughout the entire evening.

Texas Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee gave a beautiful tribute to Mayor Sylvester Turner.

Bishop James Dixon, Mayor Sylvester Turner, and Congresswoman Shelia Jackson-Lee were enjoying a celebratory moment.

Gospel songstress Kathy Taylor brought down the house with her powerful vocals.

Melanie Coyrat, NAACP Houston President Bishop James Dixon with 2023 Mickey Leland Humanitarian Award Honoree Senfronia Thompson.

Khafilat Balogun was truly a gorgeous African Queen in her breathtaking African Gown.

Photo Credit: Robert Edwards

Astros FouNdAtioN CACtus JACk HBCu ClAssiC eveNts

By: Crystal LaShan

The Astros Foundation helped students and parents make a big decision a little easier to maneuver. This was unprecedented exposure for Houston area students who may not get an opportunity to explore career and college options. As part of the Cactus Jack HBCU Classic, the Astros Foundation hosted the Astros Youth Academy College Fair at Minute Maid Park. The college fair featured over 100 colleges, universities, and military recruiters. It was free for high school students in 9th to 12th grade and their parents. Each participating student received a ticket to attend the tournament on the day of the event.

Thank you, Paula Harris, Astros Youth Academy, and the Astros Foundation for being a World Class organization and our beloved World Champions on and off the field. This was an amazing event for all who participated, but especially for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) who are often overlooked or left out. This was a very diverse and inclusive event. We can’t wait until next year!

The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Black Heritage society enjoyed sharing information with the students. (L to R) Shala Walker, Gary Harrison, Karen Miles, Yolanda Robinson, Gina Goosby-Fowler, Nicole Robertson, Rheaa Thompson, and Maisha Harrell. Students from Young Women’s College Prep are (L to R) Kaylon Howard, Mackenzie Jackson, & Adrianna Carrier.

HBCU Love in full effect. (L to R)-Richard Harper (Paul Quinn College), Natalie Scott (Paul Quinn College), Adriane Brown (Howard University), Angelee Moody-Rhyne (Grambling State University), Vice President Crystal Henderson-(Southern University), Myron Lindley (Paul Quinn College), and Micalyn Flagg (Southern University).

Dr. Anotinesha Hollman, Dr. Yolanda Jones, and Ms. Gia Petties explained that Jarvis Christian University has a lot of money for students.

TSU Tigers representing the Tre with Warnesha Brooks & Anfernee Willcocks.

Angela Harris Smith & DeJonique Garrison were excited to represent ClarkAtlanta University.

Jonathan Torres and Clint Martinez shared the benefits that Lone Star College has to offer.

The Houston Independent School District Purchasing Services Department located at 4400 West 18th Street, Houston, TX 77092 is soliciting Request for Proposals (RFP) via the District’s electronic bidding portal. Proposers may login to view specifications and submit their responses at the following link https://houstonisd.ionwave.net/Login.aspx until 10:00 a.m. (CST) Tuesday, April 4, 2023, for the following solicitation:

• RFP 23-01-04 Storm Water Quality Management and Permit Services

Pre-proposal conferences via Microsoft Teams will be held in conjunction with this RFP. Information regarding dates, times, and instructions to receive a link to join the meeting can be located within the electronic bidding portal under the “Event Details” tab specific to this solicitation.

Champions of community

Our dedicated employees volunteer their time to deliver our Better Money Habits® financial education program — helping people in the communities we serve move ahead with financial tips, tools and resources.

We’re committed to helping people in Houston improve their lives through financial education. In the past 10 years, we’ve donated millions in national and local grants to help people learn the ins and outs of budgeting, saving and reducing debt.

Hong Ogle President, Bank of America Houston

IS ROOTED IN ACTION CHANGE Real

Helping Texans in need has been the cornerstone of H-E-B’s Spirit of Giving. We’re continuing to expand our investment in nonprofit organizations that are doing meaningful work in diversity, equity and inclusion.

Houston Museum of African American Culture –

The mission of the Houston Museum of African American Culture is to collect, conserve, explore, interpret, and exhibit the material and intellectual culture of Africans and African Americans. HMAAC is a museum for all people, and seeks to be a cultural portal through which we come together to build a common future.

UNCF –

The UNCF awards more than 10,000 scholarships annually, enabling more African American students to attend and graduate from college. Through their partnerships with historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), they have helped to more than double the number of minorities attending college.

NAACP Empowerment Programs Inc. –

The NAACP and the NAACP Empowerment Programs Inc. work to ensure a society in which all individuals have equal rights without discrimination based on race, by focusing on training, education, and advocacy that ensures the health and wellbeing of all persons.