Houston Defender: May 16, 2019

STUDENTS, DEFENDER PARTNER ON COVERING TX STATE POLITICS P8

FEATURE

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Volume 88 | Number 29

MAY 16, 2019 |FREE

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NEWSTALK MALEAH DAVIS

disappearance draws worldwide attention

P2 NATIONAL GWEN CARR seeks justice for son Eric Garner

Fixing the broken foster care system

P3 HS SPORTS ASHTON O’CONNER displays speed at Shadow Creek

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Taraji P. Henson show cancelled

The actress who plays Cookie Lyons in “Empire” will say goodbye to fans at the end of season six, which airs this fall. The cancellation comes just weeks after the controversy around Jussie Smollett saw the actor written out of the series.

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Quinton Bell

TOP EVENTS

living his NFL dream The Prairie View A&M University defensive end received the call he had been waiting a lifetime for telling him he was drafted into the NFL. The Long Beach, Calif. native was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the seventh round, 230th overall.

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Congressman Al Green and Dave Moss at the Delta Education & Charitable Foundation

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DEFENDER | MAY 16 | 2019

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newstalk

Proposition B ruled unconstitutional, void Defender News Services

A Houston judge has ruled that Prop B is “unconstitutional and void in its entirety because it violates” the Texas Constitution. That means the city won’t have to lay off employees, said Mayor Sylvester Turner.

“The immediate effect of that ruling is that the City will rescind the layoff notices given to 220 firefighters and 47 municipal workers. The 67 Fire Department cadets can be re-instated.

And as the Fire Chief proceeds with his realignment of the Fire Department, no demotions will be required,” Turner said.

The Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association said the court’s ruling on Prop B is a “disappointment,” but they will

continue to fight for what’s right.

“Two courts have ruled on the constitutionality of Prop B – one for, one against. We certainly will appeal this ruling. We will continue to strive to force Sylvester Turner to respect the will of 298,000 Prop B voters who sent a strong message that Houston should equally value its police and fire personnel,” the union tweeted.

“The mayor’s vindictive, taxpayer-funded campaign against Houston firefighter families continues. While this fight goes on, we will continue to deliver excellent service, be good stewards of city resources, and give back to the communities we serve.”

In November 2018, the police union filed a lawsuit against

Prop B, saying that it was unconstitutional because it conflicts with the state’s government code, and is beyond what the Legislature intended when it enacted the Fire and Police Employment Relations Act (FPERA).

Turner had said since Prop B did not come with a funding source, the city would’ve been forced to lay off employees. He does want to give firefighters raises and says he is committed to working to find an increase that the City can afford while balancing its budget.

“This ruling is positive for the City of Houston and an opportunity to re-set the conversation. We will be able to move forward keeping the City on a solid financial footing while giving firefighters a pay raise,” Turner said.

Maleah Davis disappearance raises questions Defender News Service

The mother of Houston 4-year-old Maleah Davis, who has been missing for more than a week now, is facing tough criticism.

Brittany Bowens was recently in the courtroom waiting for her ex-fiance, Derion Vence, to make another appearance before a judge.

However, the hearing was reset.

Vence has been charged with tampering with evidence, namely a corpse, in Maleah’s disappearance, according to jail records.

Bowens’ family and relatives of Maleah’s biological dad, Craig Davis, were also in the courtroom.

“She didn’t deserve this,” said Davis’ cousin Tamisha Mendoza, who is asking Bowens for answers.

“You said you had suspicions that he was molesting her, why did you stay?” said Mendoza.

“Why didn’t you remove yourself from the situation? Furthermore, why didn’t you remove her, even if you didn’t want to leave that situation?

You could have sent her to her dad. You could have sent her to her grandparents. You could have sent her anywhere except for leaving her there.”

All eyes were on Bowens, as protesters shouted accusations at her, in what they say, was a failure to protect Maleah.

“Justice for Maleah! Justice for Maleah!”

the group chanted. People also held signs with the same message.

Bowens did not speak as she stood behind community activist Quanell X, who spoke for her and continues to claim Vence killed her daughter.

“We have a great idea what he did with Maleah’s body after he killed her in their apartment,” he said.

As Bowens stepped onto the elevator and the doors closed, someone yelled, “Murderer,” and, referring to Maleah, asked, “Where is she?”

The case all began on May 3, when police say Vence told them three Hispanic men ambushed him and kidnapped Maleah. Authorities continue their search for the little girl.

Maleah Davis

UH Black Studies celebrates 50 years Luthuli, then known as Dwight Allen, along with the late Lynn Eusan and Gene Locke, led UH The University of Houston’s student protests in the ‘60s. One of African American Studies Program, their demands was that UH estabthe oldest in the state, annually hosts lish an AAS program. a scholarship banquet. What sets this Today, the program offers a year’s festivities apart is the celebration multitude of class initiatives of the program’s 50th anniversary and including the Ankh Maat Weda new development opening doors for a jau Honor Society, Model African brighter future.

Union Conference participation and “In our 50th year, an annual Study Abroad to Ghana. the AAS Program has The program also offers been officially approved nationally-recognized faculty, 50th Anniversary to offer the Bachelor of including Dr. Gerald Horne, Dr. Scholarship Banquet African American Studies Program leadership awards scholarships to students.

Arts degree in African Rheeda Walker and visiting scholar Saturday, May 18, 6 p.m.

American Studies,” said Dr. Crystal Edwards.

Sciences.

UH Conrad Hilton Hotel program director Dr. AAS graduates like Ja-Nessia Prince remain conHeld on May 18 at the UH Hilton, the 50th www.uh.edu/class/aas James Conyers. nected to the program.

Anniversary Scholarship Banquet will honor Dr. “At UH, [the pro“Not only while in my undergraduate career did I Rhea Brown Lawson, Dr. Terence Fontaine and gram] has experienced have the constant support of the program, that support Omowale Luthuli, who was one of the program’s foundprolific growth, with enrollment in AAS courses rising system has still held strong today,” she said. “To be able to ers. The keynote speaker is Dr. Molefi Kete Asante, by 45 percent over the last 10 years,” added Dr. Antonio professor and chair of the AAS Department at Temple call myself an alumnus of the UH African American StudTillis, dean of UH’s College of Liberal Arts and Social ies Program is an honor.”

University.

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

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MAY 16 | 2019 | DEFENDER

national

U.S.briefs TOP REPUBLICANS ARE HUNTING DISTRICT-BY-DISTRICT for just the right candidates – women and minorities in many cases – to help them recapture the House six months after a political tidal wave swept Democrats into control of the most diverse majority in history. Among the recruits are a Republican woman in the Oklahoma state Senate and a Black political novice from Houston with Iraq combat experience and three Ivy League degrees on his resume. They are part of the GOP drive to gain at least 18 seats in the 2020 elections to win the majority, historically a tall order for the party out of power in presidential election years……..

AN OKLAHOMA CITY TEEN IS STILL REELING after the police officer who shot him was cleared of wrongdoing. Sgt. Kyle Holcomb responded to a call on March 10 claiming several people – including two who were allegedly armed – were breaking into an abandoned home. He and other officers arrived on the scene and reported they heard what sounded like gunshots. When the officers got to the backyard, they found the alleged suspect, 14-year-old Lorenzo Clerkley, who they claimed was armed. Bodycam footage shows the officer issuing a warning then immediately firing four shots at the teen, hitting him twice. Police said Lorenzo had a replica pistol that resembled a Beretta and he did not drop it when ordered to do so.

Lorenzo said he and his friends were playing with unloaded BB guns. The district attorney decided not to file charges against Holcomb… …..U.S. SEN. KAMALA HARRIS IS REPORTEDLY LEADING THE pack in wealthy nonwhite donations. The Democratic presidential hopeful has turned to Black and minority communities in cities like Atlanta, Los Angeles, Cleveland and Houston in order to obtain over twice the amount of donations from wealthy contributors, according to an analysis by NBC News.

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Officer faces reckoning for Garner chokehold death Associated Press

The deadly confrontation five summers ago flickers in Gwen Carr’s mind, competing for attention with warm, happy memories of her late son Eric Garner’s life.

For all the smiles and laughter they shared, there are flashes of Garner being grabbed by a New York City police officer and crying out: “I can’t breathe.”

Carr said she has been reliving what she pointedly calls “my son’s murder” every day since his July 2014 death – her first born succumbing to cardiac arrest after Gwen Carr, the mother of Eric Garner, still seeks justice in her son’s death. a white officer wearing plainclothes, Pantaleo was placed on desk duty. Investigations Daniel Pantaleo, restrained her 34-year-old son with were launched. The medical examiner ruled Garner’s what she contends is an illegal chokehold and what Pan- death a homicide caused by a police chokehold. taleo’s lawyer argues is an approved technique.

And then nothing happened.

A long-delayed internal disciplinary trial that could A grand jury declined to indict Pantaleo on criminal lead to Pantaleo’s firing is underway. The police watchcharges. Facing a July deadline, federal prosecutors dog agency bringing the case must prove not only that don’t appear inclined to file civil rights charges, either.

Pantaleo violated department rules, but that his actions Pantaleo has remained on the city payroll, stripped fit the criteria for criminal charges. Pantaleo does not of his gun and badge but pulling in a hefty salary – peakactually face criminal charges. ing at more than $120,000 in 2017, according to city “It has been five long years,” Carr said. “Pantaleo payroll records. and all those other officers who actually murdered my The NYPD argued the federal investigation was son that day, they are still collecting their salaries…” holding up Pantaleo’s disciplinary case. Last summer, Video of the struggle on a Staten Island street however, the department decided to move forward corner quickly went viral, amplifying Garner’s plainanyway. tive pleas of “I can’t breathe” into a rallying cry in the The city paid Garner’s family $5.9 million in 2015 face of police brutality against unarmed Black men and to settle a wrongful death claim. Carr said that money women. went to Garner’s wife, not her.

Administration mixed up on health care law VOLUME 88 • NUMBER 29 MAY 16, 2019 Publisher Sonceria Messiah-Jiles Ad/Client Relations Selma Dodson Tyler

Strategic Alliance Manager

Clyde Jiles Art Director Tony Fernandez-Davila Photographers

Ray Carrington III Jimmie Aggison

Editors ReShonda Tate Billingsley Marilyn Marshall Contributing Writer Aswad Walker Sports Max Edison Jodie B. Jiles Engagement Manager Margo Williams Hubbard

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Inc. Company (713-663-6996.. The Defender is audited by Certified Audited Circulation. (CAC). For digital subscriptions, visit www.DefenderNetwork.com/ subscribe. No paper subscriptions are available. All material covered by 2019 copyright. (No material herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher).

Associated Press

The Trump administration is arguing in court that the entire Affordable Care Act – also known as Obamacare – should be struck down as unconstitutional. But at the same time, Justice Department lawyers recently suggested that federal judges could salvage its anti-fraud provisions, raising questions about keeping other parts as well.

Serving up more mixed messages, President Donald Trump floated to a Democratic lawmaker that he’d like to revive her legislation shoring up the health law’s insurance markets. “I was kind of stunned, but I said, look, I am willing to work with anyone,” recalled the lawmaker, Sen. Patty Murray of

Washington.

Following questions from the Associated Press, the White House released a statement: “Obamacare remains unconstitutional but people deserve relief from all of its empty promises, so the Trump Administration is working within current law to reduce fraud and lower cost for all Americans.”

But analyst Timothy Jost says the administration may be undercutting its own legal argument that the nine-year-old statute, President Barack Obama’s health care law, is so flawed it must be overturned entirely.

“Somehow they want their cake and to eat it, too,” said Jost, a retired law professor who supports the health law’s goal of expanding coverage.

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DEFENDER | MAY 16 | 2019

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MAY 16 | 2019 | DEFENDER

entertainment

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TV shows with Black stars get the boot Defender News Services

The 2018-2019 TV season won’t be ending until this August, but the major broadcast networks have already decided on the future of many of their comedies and shows.

Some of your favorite shows with Black leads are getting the boot. We’ve rounded up some of the shows that are ending this year, as stars such as Taraji P. Henson, Terrence Howard, Omari Hardwick, 50 Cent, Damon Wayans, Marlon Wayans and Essence Atkins make their exits.

Here is a list of shows, the networks and number of seasons on the air.

• “Power,” (Starz), six seasons • “Empire,” (Fox), five seasons • “Lethal Weapon,” (Fox), three seasons • “Happy Together,” (CBS), one season • “Star,” (Fox), three seasons • “Fam,” (CBS), one season • “The Fix,” (ABC), two seasons • “Detroiters,” (Comedy Central), two seasons • “Marlon,” (NBC), two seasons

“Power”

“Lethal Weapon” “Empire”

“The Fix”

“Happy Together” “Marlon”

what’sup STEVE HARVEY’s popular daytime talk show “Steve” is coming to an end in June. This comes after KELLY CLARKSON’s upcoming daytime show, set to launch this fall, was moved into the daytime slots occupied by Harvey’s show. There is speculation that Harvey might repurpose popular aspects of the show for a digital platform like Facebook. “Steve” has taped its final episode. Originals will air through June and the show will remain on the air in reruns through September…….CARDI B. continues to make money moves with Fashion Nova. Her second collection with the clothing line raked in $1 million in one

day. Since her first Fashion Nova collection sold out within minutes, the line made sure to have five times the inventory it had for the debut. For the second time around, Cardi debuted more pieces, upping it to 107 pieces from 82. The spring/summer collection is described as being “inspired by ’80s and ’90s influences, balanced with themes of empowerment and rebellion.” The Bronx native also hinted at stepping into the beauty world and debuting a cosmetic line. She didn’t give details but from the way she reacted it seems to be in the works……..WENDY WILLIAMS may be ready to dish on her own life. The talk show host

might write a book about her estranged husband KEVIN HUNTER. A source reportedly said, “Wendy may absolutely write a book about her relationship with Kevin, their rise together and the ultimate betrayal which ended their marriage. But not anytime soon.” Williams is divorcing her husband after being married for nearly two decades. Hunter was also fired as the executive producer of his wife’s talk show. Hunter’s attorney has denied all allegations. Hunter and Williams allegedly did not have a prenup. Celebrity Net Worth reported that the talk show host is worth $40 million.

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DEFENDER | MAY 16 | 2019

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Advocates shine light on

BROKEN FOSTER CARE SYSTEM

s t n e d u t s s t s i s s a m a r g UH pro s ews Service

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mmunity at d learning co an g in v li a in live together e. g usband ask la il V . es ar Coug suppli she and her h er id th f o sa o d d t n u an o o s m g k o agin it forward in Andrea Dia as well as bo Scholars pay hope for those y il te ea am cr F m d u to n t rc o m ive another heir ci “We wan only that Dia n the road, g ond said. “T w m o d ia e D , y im er d et n ev m A o , how she said. foster care,” the future. “S control. Now pportunity,” r o ei d th an d e n an p o o e h ey d ill hav self-identify stances are b person in nee UH students themselves w t, 0 p if 0 el g 1 h a d to y an t b 0 t an 6 o ery year and ned n Between those who w re system ev ca uccess is defi S er . st so fo o e d th .” f to o of 37 peration opportunity as graduates and determin raduation rate g rk r o ea s w y es d ru ar cc h fo su t ion rate of ving but rather by have a curren eted a graduat cus on impro rg – ta fo l n il as io h w at m u ct d ra je g d gra h a long-term The pro cent. The pro ur years, wit to retention an foster care fo t g rs in fi it u e cr th r re te e rates – from 60 percent af viously in th for the r who were pre cent. er ea ts p y en 0 d ch 8 u f ea st o r fo goal selected e to b l y il it n w u p rt u o ro p op system. A g includes the gram, which ro p rs la o ch S

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Solutions for fixing the system

By ASWAD WALKER Defender

hough the criminal justice system gets the headlines for the damage it continues to inflict upon Black children, teens and adults, one of its biggest feeder systems – the foster care system – has remained under the radar. However, according to those intimate with it, the foster care system screams for the same level of critique and reform.

“The state does not make a good parent,” said Sarah Guidry, director of the Earl Carl Institute, a research and policy-focused center at Texas Southern University that coordinates several initiatives including the Juvenile Justice Project.

“The system has for years operated in a manner that undermines cultural differences, fails to recognize the trauma of [youth] entering the system and of frequently changing placements… [This system] often fails to recognize the needs of the child or hear their voices,” Guidry said.

Foster care is a temporary service provided by states for children unable to live with their families. Children in foster care may live with relatives or unrelated foster parents. Foster care can also refer to settings such as group homes, residential care facilities or supervised independent living.

When children can’t live safely at home and no appropriate non-custodial parent, relative, or close family friend is willing or able to care for them, the court can give temporary egal possession to Child Protective Services (CPS).

Texas Department of Family and Protective Services statistics show that more than 4,400 African-American children were legally removed by CPS during the last fiscal year. They accounted for more than 25 percent of all children removed, even hough African-American children account for only 12 percent of all children in the state.

African-American children also tend to stay in foster care onger and have more placements while in care.

According to Guidry and others, the foster care system sufers from a lack of resources, misdirected priorities and a mindset hat treats foster children as money-generating commodities.

Guidry asserts the system is plagued by high caseworker turnover nd large caseloads. She also contends preventing the removal of children from families often takes a back seat to foster care placements since those placements generate funding.

Guidry argues the placements also devalue family.

“For far too long, the system has put up roadblocks to relaive/kinship placements despite the fact these placements have beter outcomes for children, particularly children of color,” she said. “[Thus], many young people age out of the system without needed supports or biological family connections and thus requently age out into the streets becoming involved in sex trafficking and homelessness.”

Other negative impacts associated with foster children nclude increased school disciplinary referrals and high school drop-out rates and instability. On average, foster youth change placements once every six months.

According to childrensrights.org, on any given day in 2017 nationwide, there were approximately 443,000 children in the U.S. foster care system, with over half being children of color. In 2015, more than 20,000 foster children of color aged out of the oster care system without reuniting with their families or finding permanent homes.

Dr. James Dixon, pastor of Community of Faith Church, ecently hosted a gathering of organizations focused on bringing he plight of foster kids to light.

“Too many of our children and youth are victims of failed policies, unjust sentencing, lack of oversight, under resourced

defendernetwork.com

Advocates for foster children and support organizations said there are solutions to the problem: Sarah Guidry

Dr. James Dixon

1 2 3 4 5

Address low pay and high turnover rates among CPS caseworkers.

Create a protocol and data system to track youth.

Provide transparency and accountability on behalf of group facilities.

Margarita “Maggie” Luna

Katya Dow

facilities, public unawareness and lack of proper nurturing and love,” Dixon said.

“The foster care system usually begins in juvenile court, and goes on to foster care, to human trafficking and resulting in cemeteries after unnecessary deaths.”

Margarita “Maggie” Luna knows the system personally.

Luna, an ex-offender, said all three of her children were removed from her care and her parental rights were terminated. Her two daughters were adopted while her son, who is 9, has been in foster care since 2015.

“The system has negatively impacted not only me but also my entire family,” said Luna. “My three children were immediately separated from each other and my son, who was 5 years old when entering the system, has been labeled a criminal and is being prepped for the prison pipeline.”

Since becoming a foster child Luna’s son has been diagnosed as suffering from schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder, depression and ADHD. “Before entering foster care, he didn’t exhibit any of the symptoms described. Each diagnosis my son receives raises his level of care, which increases the stipend the foster parent gets,” said Luna, about the fact foster parents receive additional money for each medication the foster child is prescribed. “My son is a lab rat and a paycheck to the system.”

Though Luna sees the current system as one that rips apart families and traumatizes some children, she still sees the need for it.

“Of course, there are families that should be separated for the safety of the child. I do believe some children need the foster system, but a better system.”

The desire to make the positive more the norm drives Luna and others like Katya Dow to advocate for change.

Dow, a professor of Practice at the University of Houston Law Center, is also the legal program director of the Juvenile and Capital Advocacy Project. She contends the system is set up for failure. She says it rarely allows parents to be reunified with children taken out of the home, even after following the plan agreed to by the state to seek reunification.

Appoint a properly trained court appointed special advocate for each youth in permanent care.

Ensure foster placements are paid enough to care for foster children, while more closely supervising these placements.

6

Appoint appropriately trained and periodically evaluated counsel to parents and youth involved in foster care cases.

7 8 9 10

Increase resources for low-income families.

Provide more oversight on the medications prescribed to youth.

Secure legal representation.

Speak with representatives about changing policies and holding foster agencies and foster parents accountable.

11

Provide supports for parents battling with substance abuse in their efforts to get their children returned.

12

Remove barriers, such as prior criminal history which is not related to a parent’s ability to care for a child.

13 14

Enact policies that favor child removal prevention and family supports over removal.

Prioritize kinship placements, especially for children of color who often face identity crises and loss of culture.

15

Allow relatives of foster children the ability to secure the same financial support as foster parents.

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DEFENDER | MAY 16 | 2019

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Students, Defender partner on covering TX state politics Defender Exclusive

Five Austin journalism students received an opportunity to cover Texas state politics up-close through a unique partnership with the Houston Defender Media Group, an 88-year-old Black Press institution.

The Defender, which covers the Houston area and beyond through its print and digital editions, reached out to the Communications departments at the University of Texas at Austin and Huston-Tillotson University to recruit interns to cover the 9 8 recent bi-annual Pregnancy-related deaths summit of the Black maternal Texas Legislative mortality rate Black Caucus.

The summit addressed is hosted by Maternal mortality African-Amerrates Wellness tips for wom en ican lawmakers during the Texas Legislature’s session.

It is rare for African-American newspapers to form alliances with universities An article on maternal mortality was written by Chase Karacostas. in other markets to better inform lege of Communication, explained why such their audiences, but partnerships are important. the unique opportunity to secure interns from “Working with professional outlets like two Austin universities provided a win-win for the Defender [gives students] real-world exboth the students and Defender readers. perience,” McElroy said. “I believe because The five students included three interns they were reporting for the Defender, they from UT, Chase Karacostas, Alexis Tatum and took the assignment even more seriously.

Katie Balevic, along with two interns from HT, They wanted to do well.”

Samaiya Kirven and McKayla Ellison.

At Huston-Tillotson, a Historically Summit workshops covered by the stuBlack College and University, communicadents were: Criminal Justice Reform; Pipeline: tions instructor Cate Malek, echoed McElJuvenile Justice Reform; The Silent Killer: roy’s thoughts.

Mental Health and Maternal Mortality Rate in “Both of my students were enthusiastic the Black Community; The State of Texas HBabout getting out of the classroom and trying CUs and Public Education, and 2020 Census/ out their skills in a real-world setting,” Malek Redistricting. said.

“Some of the things we talked about in During a picnic lunch break, students class that seemed vague to them took on a discussed their goals and concerns regarding new urgency.

This included concepts like the the world of journalism. importance of the press as the fourth estate Kathleen McElroy, Ph.D., director of the and questioning those in government or other UT School of Journalism in the Moody ColDEFENDER | MARCH 21 | 2019

general practice, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology physicians.

The bias training, Thierry said, hen Jaymie is crucial to correct inaccurate beliefs Rivera-Clemente among the medical community that reflects on her Black women have “thicker skin” or four pregnancies, can tolerate more pain than their white there’s a comcounterparts, which can lead to mismon thread running through them – her takes being made when these women healthcare providers failed to properly are receiving any kind of treatment, not communicate with her each time. just maternal healthcare.

“I ended up crowning my first “I've heard people say that child on the toilet simply because the African-Americans’ blood coagulates nurse didn't feel the need to make the faster,” Thierry said. “This is systemdifference in the type of pressure that I atic decades and decades of misinforState Rep. Shawn Thierry was feeling,” Rivera-Clemente said. mation and misinformation. That's how That was just one of Rivera-Cleit's affecting people. I want when you mente’s poor experiences with doctors say implicit bias, say racism.” and nurses while giving birth, and she’s Despite knowing otherwise, some not alone. Black women often struggle Black women may end up being afraid to be heard in those crucial settings, to speak up, Thierry said.

Rivera-Clemente said, and it can have “There's a fear because of stedisastrous consequences. reotypes as a Black woman that if you In Texas, where maternal mortalwere to actually speak and advocate ity is already high, Black women are for yourself, even when you're in crisis, more than twice as likely to die as the that you may be retaliated against,” result of their pregnancy than white Thierry said. women, according to a 2018 report Implicit bias, as well as the diffrom the Department of State Health ficulties in getting healthcare profesServices. The report also said that of sionals to listen in times of need, can Dr. Michele Rountree, Ph.D. the 118 deaths studied, all of which destroy faith in doctors, said Riverahappened in 2012, eight out of every 10 were reasonably Clemente, who also now works as a doula – a person preventable. trained to provide information, emotional support, and Overall in Texas, approximately 14 Black women physical comfort to a mother before, during and just after die for every 100,000 live births. For white women, the childbirth – helping women get through their pregnancy rate is less than half that. as smoothly as possible.

Rivera-Clemente, who now works for the advocacy (Doulas are often paid for out of pocket and are not group the Black Mamas Community Collective, Houston covered under Medicaid, making them inaccessible to State Rep. Shawn Thierry and experts met recently during many low-income women). the Texas Black Legislative Caucus Summit to discuss “You're not listening to us [during childbirth], and how to address the high Black maternal mortality rate. then we come into the office after we have a baby…I Thierry, D-Houston, has filed several bills this don't trust you, and I don't trust you to listen to me now,” legislative session to expand Medicaid coverage for Rivera-Clemente said. maternal health and to mandate implicit bias and cultural Thierry is also working on bills to establish August competency training for medical students and current as Maternal Health Awareness Month and create an online

By CHASE KARACOSTAS Defender

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This story was produced by a partnership with the University of Texas at Austin and HustonTillotson University.

Chase is a student at UT, who covered maternal mortality at the Texas Legislative Black Caucus Summit.

IN TEXAS

Pending legislation

House Bill 411 – Would expand Medicaid coverage for eligible pregnant women to 12 months postpartum compared to just 60 days.

House Bill 606 – Would allow for automatic enrollment in the Healthy Texas Women program for anyone previously covered under CHIP or Children’s Medicaid as soon as they reach 18.

database to track maternal mortality and morbidity across the state.

Beyond legislative action, Dr. Michele Rountree, Ph.D., an associate professor at the Steve Hicks School of Social Work at the University of Texas at Austin, said there also needs to be a focus on diversifying medical schools and the medical field as a whole.

Rountree said this would go a long way toward improving trust between the Black community and the healthcare field, where just 7 percent are Black, though Blacks comprise nearly 12 percent of the state’s overall population.

“There is a grave underrepresentation in health care in Texas,” Rountree said.

Rountree said the implicit bias and cultural competency training has the chance to improve how the medical community understands Black women, who often face some of the hardest discrimination throughout their lives, which can affect their mental and physical well-being.

“African-American women are disproportionately affected by multiple sexual and reproductive health conditions compared with other races and ethnicities, and research suggests that racism is an underlying determinant of social condition,” Rountree said.

“For Black women, it's as though we are living our lives with our foot on the accelerator constantly with the experience of discrimination or anticipation.”

die per • 13.9 Black women compared to six 100,000 live births, for white women. studied • Eight out of 10 deaths y preventwere considered reasonabl healthcare to able with minor changes treatment. s of • Black women, regardles and marital status, income, education compared to are at the greatest risk any other race. nt of State Source: Texas Departme Health Services

IN THE U.S.

the preg• During 2011-2014, ratios were 40 nancy-related mortality live biths for Black deaths per 100,000 to 12.4 deaths for women, compared for women of white women and 17.8 other races. causes of common • The most were: Cardiovasdeath by percentage percent; non-carcular diseases, 15.2 14.7; infection diovascular diseases, ge, 11.5; or sepsis, 12.8; hemorrha ic thrombot cardiomyopathy, 10.3; , 9.1; cerebropulmonary embolism 7.4; hypertensive vascular accidents, y, 6.8; unknown, disorders of pregnanc embolism, 5.5; 6.5; amniotic fluid tions, 0.3. anesthesia complica Disease Control Source: Centers for

Getting regular health care can help cause pregnancy-related identify conditions that death. can cause • Protect yourself from problems for pregnant women. serious infections. Talk to your provider about vaccination If you’re planning pregnancy, s (like get a the flu shot) that can help preconception checkup, protect you from tell your provider certain diseases. Wash your about any medicines you hands with take, protect soap and water after using yourself from infections the bathroom and get to a or blowing your nose. Stay healthy weight by eating away from healthy foods and people who have infections. Don’t being active. eat raw meat, fish or eggs. Use Also, make sure your pregnancy a condom to health protect yourself from STIs. provider, such as an obstetrician If you have a /gynecolo- cat, do not gist, is right for you. Ask clean its litter box. Contact friends, family with infected cat feces can cause members, neighbors or toxoplasmosis, coworkers if they a parasite infection. have a doctor they like.

Use your first visit • Eat healthy foods and as a litmus test. Your provider do something should: active every day.

• Treat you with respect.

• Don’t smoke, drink alcohol • Listen to your opinions or use and concerns. harmful drugs. Tell your provider • Show an interest in getting if you to know need help quitting. you.

• Welcome your questions and answer them in ways that you can understand AFTER PREGNANCY • Tell your provider right away if you have you have any signs DURING PREGNANCY or symptoms of conditions that can cause • Go for your first prenatal pregnancycare visit as related death. soon as you think you’re These can include chest pregnant. pain, trouble breathing, dizziness • Go to all your prenatal and swelling in care checkthe legs, hands or face. ups, even if you’re feeling fine.

• If you’re worried about • Tell your provider about anything or any medisomething doesn’t seem cines you take. right, call your provider.

• If you’re at risk for preeclamps ia, • If you’re having a medical talk to your provider about emertaking low-dose gency, call 911. aspirin to help reduce your risk. PreSource: March of Dimes, eclampsia is a serious condition Defender that can News Services

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 88 years

Defender Publisher Sonny Messiah-Jiles is joined by Chase Karacostas, Katie Balevic, Alexis Tatum, State Rep. Harold Dutton, Samaiya Kirven and McKayla Ellison.

Malek said.

Defender Publisher and CEO Sonny Messiah Jiles said the partnership was a success.

“Hands-on experience is priceless,” Messiah-Jiles said. “You can teach the classroom approach but until you get out in the real world it is not the same.

Kathleen McElroy, Ph.D Cate Malek Thinking on your feet, pressing for the answers positions of power. to questions, pushing to meet a deadline and “Also, they began to apply more advanced interviewing and verifying sources are skills aspiring journalists must learn. reporting skills, such as taking “The Defender appreciates how the meticulous notes, tracking down University of Texas and Huston-Tillotson names and contact information for everyone involved in their allowed us to work with their students and provide our audience with information about panels and conducting thorissues that impact their lives.” ough background research,”

18 -19

SOCIETY FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Bringing the World’s Best to Houston

COMPLEXIONS

CONTEMPORARY BALLET

The Ryan White Planning Council Invites You to Meet Houston Public Leaders and Give Public Comment on…

JUNE 1 7:30 PM

JONES HALL

Ryan White Part A, Part B & State Services Service Definitions for 2020 A l s o l e a r n a b o u t … Social Determinants of Health Study & 2019 Epidemiological Profile

This televised Public Hearing will be held at the Houston City Hall Annex - City Council Chambers 900 Bagby Street, Public Level - Metered Parking in Back

Watch LIVE online: www.houstontx.gov/htv; or on Comcast Ch. 16, Phonoscope Ch. 73, Suddenlink Ch. 14, U-Verse Ch. 99 Ryan White Planning Council Office of Support 2223 West Loop South, Suite 240; Houston, TX 77027 832 927-7926  713 572-3740  713 572-2813  www.rwpcHouston.org

3.25”H

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FOR TICKETS, VISIT WWW.SPAHOUSTON.ORG OR CALL 713.227.4772

Photo by Hagos Rush

Monday, May 20, 2019 at 7:00 p.m.

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MAY 16 | 2019 | DEFENDER

KCOH CREW IS BACK!

9

The talent of the station that once boasted “A Mountain of Soul” is back. KCOH 1230 AM, now called “The Source,” showcases a line-up that includes Amber Shaw at 6 a.m. with “Nu Day,” Paris Eley at 9 a.m. with the “Morning Show,” Michael Harris at 11 a.m. with “Person- to-Person,” Don Sam at 2 p.m. with “Memories and More” and Ralph Cooper at 5 p.m. with “Sports Rap.” Standing (l. to r.) are Sam, Cooper, Eley and Shaw, and seated is Harris.

TSU recognizes James Prince with honorary degree Defender News Service

Houston native and legendary entrepreneur/music mogul James Prince will receive an honorary doctorate degree from Texas Southern University during commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 18. Prince will be honored with a Doctorate of Humane Letters.

Prince, also known as J. Prince, is the founder and CEO of Rap-a-Lot Records, a Houston-based hip-hop record label created in 1986. His diverse interests also include the world of boxing, where he has been a suc-

cessful manager to the likes of Andre Ward and Floyd Mayweather Jr., as well as real estate investment and ranching.

“J. Prince is a Houston icon, and his connection to Texas Southern is strong,” said TSU President Dr. Austin A. Lane. “In honoring him with this degree, we are expressing our appreciation for his ongoing support, and we are sending a message to all of the TSU community that following one’s dreams, against all odds, leads to great things.”

Last fall, Prince authored his first book, “The Art & Science of Respect,” a memoir in which he explains how he earned a reputa-

tion as one of the most respected men in hiphop by staying true to his principles of heart, loyalty and commitment, and an unwavering faith in God. TSU hosted Prince on campus upon the book’s release and he spoke to hundreds of students. That experience, as well as other connections with the university, including internships that Rap-a-Lot provides to TSU students and the fact that KTSU was one of the first stations to expose the music world to his talents, led Prince to establish a generous endowed scholarship for TSU students in need of financial support.

James Prince

Delta Education and Charitable Foundation

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

About Delta Education and Charitable Foundation

Melissa E. Atkins Waltrip H.S.

Roy Myles Angelo Davis Shadow Creek H.S.

Jade Davis-Douglas Thurgood Marshall H.S.

Mya A. Little Westbury H.S.

Established in 1992, the Delta Education and Charitable Foundation (DECF) supports hundreds of young men and women with merit and need based scholarships totaling nearly $1 million. The funding is solely based on membership and community supporters, who have developed a proud history of providing needed services from literacy programs, cultural enrichment, physical and mental health programs, to outreach program educating youth about teen pregnancy, AIDS awareness and prevention.

DECF Board Members Brice L Gambrell Shadow Creek H.S.

Cydney A Hancock Katy H.S.

Martinera Henry Stephen F. Austin H.S.

Kristopher G. Hoskin South Early College H.S.

Cleveland L. Shepard IV Booker T. Washington H.S.

Morgan Thompson Robert Turner H.S.

Ariyanna S. Young Katy H.S.

Linzi Wright Cristo Rey Jesuit

Dave Moss, President Pamela M. Cashaw, Vice President Grace Macklin, Treasurer Barbara J. Branch, Financial Secretary Jacquelyn Blossom, Secretary Johnanna Overstreet, Member Bertrand Simmons, Member Karolyn D. Williams, Member

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DEFENDER | MAY 16 | 2019

sports

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Quinton Bell living his NFL dream

By MAX EDISON Defender

The NFL draft is like Christmas time for league franchises and anxious players. Prairie View A&M University defensive end Quinton Bell received the call he had been waiting a lifetime for telling him he was drafted into the NFL. Bell, a Long Beach, Calif. native, was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the seventh round, 230th overall. He is the first Panther drafted since 1980. Ironically, Quinton’s uncle, running back Nick Bell, was a second-round pick by the Raiders in 1991.

For Quinton Bell, the weeks since the draft have been the fulfillment of a dream.

“It’s been such a long tough road to get where I am now,” Bell said. “I’m honestly just blessed. All my hard work has paid off. The last few weeks have been life-changing. It still feels like I’m dreaming.”

What makes the dream so surreal is that Bell was recruited to PVAMU as a wide receiver. At 6-feet-4, 225 pounds, Bell thought his ticket to fame would be on the offensive side of the ball. Everything changed when the PVAMU defensive coaches decided to switch Former Prairie View A&M defensive end Quinton Bell signed a contract with the him to defense.

Oakland Raiders.

“D-line coach Todd Middleton approached me first. I didn’t think he was crazy, but I definitely thought Bell received a taste of the NFL at the Raiders’ rookie camp. he saw something that I to miss this blessing. I didn’t see at the time,” Bell looked in the mirror and recalled. “I was shocked he didn’t say something like safety or challenged myself. ‘You linebacker – he said defensive end. have one year to prove “I immediately thought about battling big boys in the yourself. What you going trenches, that wasn’t real appealing. I had a meeting with to do?’” the defensive coaches and we talked about my potential and In his only season at the path that would give me a shot at possibly playing in the defensive end Bell led NFL.” the Panthers with 7.5 sacks “At a point in the meeting they asked me, ‘How many and was a second team Alltouchdowns did you catch last season?’ [The answer was] Conference performer on none. Then they asked, ‘How many your whole career?’ defense.

[The answer was] one or two. They convinced me that with Bell was not invited to my athletic ability I could be a difference maker on defense. the NFL Scouting Combine, I really had nothing to lose. Three years at receiver with no but he put on a show at his real success versus this new challenge on defense. I accepted pro day performance at the challenge.”

PVAMU. In hindsight, Bell believes the move to defense was an Now a chisled 240 Bell was a playmaker at PVAMU who also impressed NFL scouts answered prayer. pounds, Bell ran a 4.48-secceiver KhaDarel Hodge go to the Rams as an undrafted free “After three years at PV and limited success at receiver ond 40-time, which would have been tied for the 10th-fastest agent, make the team and play in the Super Bowl,” Bell said. the feeling had creeped in that I couldn’t ever reach my goal time at the combine.

He also had a vertical jump of 41.5 inch“I also saw a guy from my conference drafted in the first of playing on the next level,” Bell said. “I prayed to God for es, which would have been tied for sixth-best in Indianapolis. round [Tytus Howard, Texans]. As an HBCU player I a change, something that would wake me up and renew my Bell understands that being drafted is only the beginning and know I have what it takes to make it. My dream is at passion for the game and help me get where I wanted to be. his goal is to make the 53-man roster. hand and I’m going to work hard to make the dream “When the opportunity to switch to defense came I “Last season I watched my former PV roommate rea reality.” thought this was God answering my prayer and I didn’t want

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MAY 16 | 2019 | DEFENDER

h.s. sports

11

Ashton O’Conner

Shadow Creek sprinter displays speed at meet Defender: WWhat were your keys to success in your 10.3-second regional round victory?

O’Conner: Trust my training, keep my faith in God and AUSTIN – Pearland Shadow Creek High School sprinter do what I do. Finish my race no matter what.

Ashton O’Conner, a transfer from Lamar, showed off his gift Defender: How were you able to keep your win streak of speed when he ran away with a gold medal in the Class 5A going throughout the track playoffs? boys’ 100-meter dash at the UIL State Track Meet.

O’Conner: Keep grinding, keep recovering and trust in O’Conner’s 10.48 time in the state final and 10.3 time my team and my coaches. in the regional meet proves he can run with the best of them Defender: Walk us through the state championship on the track or the football race and how you were able to field. O’Conner, a multi-talcapture the gold. www.DefenderNetwork.com ented athlete, also plays wide O’Conner: I prayed. God See coverage of area teams at state receiver, kick returner and track meet led my mind to focus to do what running back on the Shadow I needed to do, I got out and Creek football team. finished.

Though O’Conner has not received a Division I football Defender: How were you able to make a successful offer, his passion for the game is evident and he has proven to transition as a transfer your senior season? be one of the fastest recruits in the state.

O’Conner: Trusting my coaches, trusting my team, “Recruit me,” he said, in a message to recruiters. “I am never doubting them and always picking them up as a team here. See my Hudl [online and mobile platform] game film if in the 4x100-meter. Without them I wouldn’t be here because you need it.” they pushed me in practice and so did my coaches and my The Defender spoke with O’Conner after his gold medal- family. performance about his running style, keys to success and why Defender: What advice do you have for a younger he reiterates the trust factor. runner who wants to achieve the type of victory you did at Defender: How do you describe your style as a runner? state?

O’Conner: Really, I just trust me. I do what I have been O’Conner: Everyone has good days just like everybody doing. I pray and I put my trust in God who leads me through has bad days. You have to put your faith in God and trust everything. your training.

By JODIE B. JILES Defender

About O’Conner Class: 2019 Twitter: @SPEEDY_XVII Instagram: @ddb.ayoo College status: Uncommitted Offers: Division II/junior college track offers Shout-outs: “My mom, team and God”

O’Conner breezes by competitors in the UIL Class 5A 100-meter dash state final. (Photos by Jimmie Aggison).

defendernetwork.com • Serving the Houston area for over 88 years

12

DEFENDER | MAY 16 | 2019

defendernetwork.com

Happening in Houston For event coverage email: events@defendermediagroup.com

topevents

DELTA EDUCATION AND CHARITABLE FOUNDATION 2019 a myriad of topics including gun violence prevention, U.S. energy market, business, SCHOLARSHIP RECEPTION……..The Delta Education and Charitable Foundation opportunity zones, future of work in cities and impact of technology, health equity, presented its honorees at the Ensemble Theatre. DECF board members Dave Moss, preparing cities for Census 2020 and more. Seen at the event were Argentina James, Pamela Cashaw, Grace Macklin, Barbara Branch, Jacquelyn Blossom, Johnanna Melinda Spaulding, Felix Chevalier, Carla Brailey, Ernest Walker, Gene Lewis, Overstreet, Bertrand Simmons and Karolyn Williams were excited to award $1,000 Larry Payne, Darryl Carter, Carlotta Brown, Michael Harris, Valerie Jarrett, scholarships to 12 students. Melissa Atkins, Roy Davis, Jade Davis-Douglas, Mya Missouri City Mayor Yolanda Ford and a host of others……..18th ANNUAL Little, Brice Gambrell, Cydney Hancock, Kristopher Hoskin, Cleveland Shepard COMCAST CARES DAY……..Making positive change in the Houston area is IV, Ariyanna Young, Linzi Wright, Martinera Henry and something Comcast strives to do daily. But once a year, they take Morgan Thompson received a special acknowledgement from it up several notches as they did recently during the 18th Annual Defender TOP EVENTS Comcast Cares Day, one of the largest corporate volunteer Congressman Al Green, who also attended……..AFRICAN More photos on defendernetwork.com AMERICAN MAYORS ASSOCIATION ANNUAL efforts in the nation. The community service event was held CONFERENCE……..Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner hosted at 11 project sites with over 3,000 volunteers actively making the African American Mayors Association Annual Conference at change happen by revitalizing community centers and shelters, the George R. Brown and Hilton Americas Hotel. The AAMA Legacy Awards Dinner assembling care packages for families in need, and taking care of our veteran was one of the highlights of the three-day event and honored several Houston area population. Volunteers included Mayor Sylvester Turner, Ray Purser, Misha recipients, including Prairie View A&M University President Dr. Ruth Simmons and McClure, Laura Mayorga, Michael Bybee, Bryce Kennard, Cyndy Garza former judge of Texas District Court 228 Marc Carter. Sessions were held dealing with Roberts and thousands more.

Cheryl Hancock, Cydney Hancock, Cary Hancock

DECF board members

Congressman Al Green, Dave Moss

Mayor Sylvester Turner, Marc Carter, Mayor Oliver Gilbert

Mayor Sylvester Turner, Comcast Houston team

Carlotta Brown, Michael Harris, Mayor Yolanda Ford, Eugene Anderson

Comcast Cares volunteer

Glenn Lewis, Larry Payne, Darryl Carter

Comcast Cares volunteers

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