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The National Pan-Hellenic Council, comprised of four sororities and fve fraternities, is a driving force for transformation across college campuses and beyond, with nearly 2 million collective members and a long history of impacting society with its members.
Managing Editor’s Message
Black women unite to save the day...Again
In times of crisis and pivotal moments in history, Black women have always been the backbone, the driving force, and the saviors of democracy. Once again, we are witnessing this power and resilience as Black women rally behind Vice President Kamala Harris with unwavering support. From grassroots organizing to signifcant fnancial contributions, Black women are demonstrating their formidable infuence and commitment to shaping the future of our nation.
Te recent surge in support for Kamala Harris is a testament to the strength and unity of Black women across the country. Organizations like Win With Black Women have mobilized thousands, showing that when Black women come together, they create an unstoppable force. In a remarkable show of solidarity, over 44,000 Black women joined a call, raising over a million dollars in a spur-of-themoment efort (another 50,000 women joined through other avenues). Tis is not just a display of fnancial might; it is a declaration of unwavering faith in Kamala Harris and her vision for America.
Tis massive infux of support is reminiscent of the crucial role that Black women played in the 2020 election, where the Divine Nine – the nine historically Black Greek-letter organizations – were instrumental in catapulting the Biden-Harris ticket to victory. Tese sororities and fraternities, with their deep-rooted networks and commitment to community service, are a powerful testament to the organizational prowess and dedication of Black unity.
Te Divine Nine’s support for Kamala Harris is unlike anything we have ever seen (Harris is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated). Teir ability to mobilize, educate, and empower communities has proven time and again to be a game-changer in electoral politics. In Houston, we witnessed the transformative power of Black women when they fipped the Harris County judicial system on its head in 2018. Teir strategic organizing and tireless eforts were crucial in the election of Barack Obama, and now, they are poised to make history once more.
At the heart of this movement is a profound sense of duty and love for community. Black women are not just fghting for Kamala Harris; they are fghting for a future where justice, equality, and opportunity are not just ideals but realities. Tey are carrying the torch for trailblazers like Sheila Jackson Lee, whose unwavering commitment to justice and equality inspires them to push forward.
Kamala Harris is ready. Black women are ready. Together, we are ready to do this. We are ready to show the world, once again, that when Black women step up to the
plate, they do not just play the game; they change the game. Tis is our moment, and we will seize it with the strength, resilience, and determination that have always defned us.
Let’s do this.
And ignore the haters while we’re at it...
I debated even mentioning the derogatoryattacks on Kamala Harris. But I believe in keeping our eyes wide open so we can keep our eyes on the prize. Te attacks are intensifying, and the vitriol is as predictable as it is despicable. From derogatory comments to baseless allegations, her critics are pulling no punches in their attempt to discredit her. Recently, Donald Trump, a man notorious for his lack of decorum and respect, referred to Kamala Harris, an experienced prosecutor, as “dumb as a box of rocks.” Tis insult is not only factually incorrect but also a transparent attempt to undermine her signifcant achievements and intellect. GOP ofcials have stooped to calling Harris a “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) hire,” reducing her impressive career to a mere token gesture. Tis narrative conveniently ignores her extensive legal background, her tenure as California’s Attorney General, and her role as a U.S. Senator. But perhaps the most egregious attacks are the sexist and misogynistic slurs suggesting she “slept her way to the top.” Tis baseless smear campaign is not only ofensive but also blatantly hypocritical, given their own candidate’s history of scandal, including multiple afairs, lawsuits from a porn star, and a wife with nude photos readily available online.
Lauren Loomer, a GOP political activist, has made it her mission to spew hate, previously calling Sheila Jackson Lee a “ghetto b**ch” and now directing her vitriol at Kamala Harris. Loomer’s behavior exemplifes the intersectional hatred Black women face, combining racism, sexism, and classism in her vile rhetoric. Te GOP’s embrace of such fgures shows their desperation and moral bankruptcy. Despite these relentless attacks, Black women remain undeterred. We are used to the hate. We have faced it for generations, and yet, we continue to rise. Together, we will rise above the noise and show the world the true meaning of strength, resilience, and leadership. And as we do, we will continue to inspire and uplif each other, proving that no amount of hate can dim our light or halt our progress.
On the Web
• OpEd: No one loved and fought for Houston like Sheila Jackson Lee
• Complete coverage on Sheila Jackson Lee
• EA Sports college football 25 resurrects a classic.
ReShonda Tate
Examining local energy infrastructure
By Cole Gee
Hurricane Beryl caused an estimated 52 deaths worldwide, and lef 2.7 million Houston businesses, schools, and homes without power. In the wake of Beryl’s destruction, many residents are lef with more questions than answers and a dire outlook to the future. Major steps need to be taken immediately for Houston to see a better tomorrow and avoid more environmental disasters, such as updating critical energy infrastructure city wide, and fixing the vast communication issues they have had with their citizens.
As the dubbed “energy capital of the world,” residents have expected their infrastructure to live up to its namesake and withstand these powerful storms. Unfortunately, over the last several years, residents have continually lost their power due to rising cases of extreme weather.
A CHANGING CLIMATE
Hurricane season lasts in the United States from June 1 to Nov. 30. Due to record-high ocean warming temperatures and the recent La Niña effect, hurricanes will be more frequent and intense this year. As it stands today, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Weather Service forecasters are estimating an 85% chance of an above-normal hurricane season this year.
Avantika Gori is an Assistant Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Rice University. Her main areas of focus are coastal food risks and climate change’s impact
on cyclone climatology. In her expert opinion, the city’s response and preparation for the hurricane have been less than ideal.
“The number one goal in the wake of Beryl is to really reassess the power system in Houston. Te city, CenterPoint and the state really need to fgure out how they can strategically invest in hardening the power system infrastructure to be able to resist hurricane winds… Tat level of wind speed should not
be causing 85% of the city to lose power. So in my opinion, that’s unacceptable,” says Gori. Houston has been trying to fnd the funding to update their infrastructure. Te grants needed to fund the projects though are hard to come by. Recently, the Department of Energy rejected CenterPoint Energy’s $100 million proposal to update their energy centers. Tis forced the company to revise their proposal entirely and submit it for review later this year.
Houston’s infrastructure issues have been a hot-button issue for the city ever since Hurricane Harvey. However, like many other hot-button political issues, it tends to be cast to the side afer a long period of time, and citizens lose interest.
Ed Emmett, Harris County Judge is not one of those people. Emmett served as Houston’s Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Management during Hurricane Ike and received national acclaim for his work during Hurricane Harvey in 2017. He believes that the frst mistake CenterPoint made during Hurricane Beryl was the lack of communication between the company and citizens, and the poor infrastructure that Houston currently maintains.
“I think everybody agrees. I think even CenterPoint agrees. Teir communication has been a mess. But long-term, communication doesn’t kill you. Not having the right infrastructure can cause serious problems,” says Emmett.
Houston could implement multiple solutions to modernize its energy infrastructure now. Tese potential solutions include managing trees near transmission lines, making transmission poles more wind-retardant, and burying the transmission lines themselves, which is the most expensive option.
The city does have options; the only real roadblock is generating the money needed to complete this endeavor.
Sonya Massey family demands answers
By Raquel Rogers
Family members are demanding answers afer Illinois State Police released bodycam footage that captured the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey by a sherif’s deputy in her home. Te incident unfolded during a tense exchange over a pot of water, leading to Massey being shot in the face.
Deputy Sean Grayson has pleaded not guilty to charges of frst-degree murder, aggravated battery with a firearm, and ofcial misconduct. He is currently jailed awaiting trial.
“(Te video) is going to shock the conscience of America. It is that senseless, that unnecessary, that unjustifable, that unconstitutional,” said civil rights attorney Ben Crump. “Tis sherif’s deputy was twice as large as Sonya. Why would you have to use a gun to shoot her in the head?”
Authorities reported that Massey, a Black woman, called 911 early on Saturday, July 6, to report a suspected prowler outside her Springfeld, Illinois home. Afer ofering to provide paperwork and searching for her ID, Grayson (who is white) asks Massey to move a pot on the stove, citing fre concerns. Grayson backs up, telling
Massey he’s moving away from the water.
“Away from my hot steaming water?” Massey questions, then says, “I rebuke you in the name of Jesus.”
“What?” Grayson responds.
“I rebuke you in the name of Jesus,” Massey repeats. Grayson then warns her, “You’d better f-ing not. I swear to God, I’ll f-ing shoot you right in your f-ing face.” Grayson raises his gun, a 9mm pistol, and orders Massey to “drop the f-ing pot!” Massey apologizes and ducks for cover, but Grayson fres three shots, according to prosecutors.
The footage shows Massey possibly holding the pot above her head before the shots are fred. Afer the shooting, Grayson allegedly advised his partner against providing medical aid due to the severity of Massey’s injuries. When the other deputy suggests getting his med kit, Grayson says, “She’s done. You can go get it, but that’s a headshot.” Despite this, the other deputy attempts to stop Massey’s bleeding until medical professionals arrive.
Massey’s father, James Wilburn, expressed his grief and disbelief afer watching the footage. “I kind of feel watching, it’s a dream; I’m going to wake up. But I just don’t know. I don’t know what to say,” he said. Wilburn, a former law enforcement ofcer, found the incident especially appalling and suggested Grayson might have believed he could act without consequence due to his white privilege.
Utility crews work to restore electricity in Houston, Thursday, July 11, 2024. (AP
Photo/Lekan Oyekanmi)
AFTER HURRICANE BERYL
Massey
In this image taken from body camera video released by Illinois State Police on Monday, July 22, 2024, former Sangamon County Sherif’ss Deputy Sean Grayson, lef, points his gun at Sonya Massey, who called 911 for help, before shooting and killing her inside her home in Springfeld, Ill., July 6, 2024. (Illinois State Police via AP)
News DN
‘We were built
for this moment’ Black women rally around Kamala Harris
Defender News Service
Four years ago, a Zoom meeting to build support for Kamala Harris as the Democratic vice presidential nominee attracted just 90 participants. When the possibility arose that Kamala Harris could actually be president, an estimated 90,000 Black women and allies logged on at the same time to support her brand-new presidential campaign.
Teir normal Zoom maxed out at 1,000 participants but a female executive at the video conferencing company stepped in to increase the capacity to 40,000, said Aimee Allison, who has attended many of the weekly calls organized by the #WinWithBlackWomen network over the years. And organizers said the meeting was streamed to another 50,000 women on other platforms.
“It was thrilling,” Allison said. “It wasn’t chaos. Te infrastructure was there amongst Black women to be able to scale and meet the moment. And I think this is the diference-maker Kamala Harris is injecting into the race.”
Te discussion just hours afer President Joe Biden announced the end of his reelection campaign and endorsement of Harris had the feel of a revival meeting, said Allison, who founded “She the People” to advocate for women of color in politics in 2018. Woman afer woman described in detail what needs to be done before Election Day while also celebrating one of their own.
“We’re together. We’re beautiful, we’re strong, we’re capable. We’re ready. We have incredible power in this group,” she said. “People just were so hungry for that community and for that feeling of hope.”
Te next night, a “Black Men for Harris” online streaming event co-hosted by #WinWithBlackMen, a similar networking group for Black men, drew tens of thousands who pledged to support Harris, and featured speeches from Black male leaders from elected ofces, in the civil rights community and business. More than 53,000 people had registered for the call, according to Roland Martin, a Black media leader who moderated the virtual event.
THE POWER OF BLACK VOTERS
Black voters in general, and women in particular, were key to Biden’s victories in both the 2020 primaries and general election. While Donald Trump had a modest advantage among white women, Biden won overwhelmingly among Black women, 93% to Trump’s 6%, according to AP VoteCast, a survey of more than 110,000 voters.
Just last week, more than 1,300 Black female leaders and allies published a letter supporting Biden and Harris. But if the recent calls are any indication, they’re now all-in for Harris, who is of Black and Indian descent.
President Kamala Harris speaks at the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. annual convention during the 71st biennial Boule in Dallas, Wednesday, July 10, 2024. The #WinWithBlackWomen network says more than 40,000 Black women joined a Zoom call to support Harris on Sunday, July 21, hours afer Biden ended his reelection campaign and endorsed Harris, and that the meeting was streamed to another 50,000 via other platforms. (AP Photo/LM Otero, File)
“Tis wasn’t just policy people or legislative people or elected ofcials. Tis was across the board. Everybody came with their toolbox and was like, okay, so how do we pitch in?” said Angelique Roche, a writer and consultant who described the call as powerful and galvanizing.
“Tese were diferent generations with diferent education levels, diferent jobs, diferent backgrounds, diferent industries, all coming to the table and saying, we’re ready, we’re in,” she said.
Earlier this month, Harris herself extolled “the power of sisterhood and service” when she addressed the annual gathering of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, which she joined as a student at Howard University, one of the nation’s most storied historically Black colleges.
“Our nation is counting on the leaders in this room to guide us forward,” she told the crowd of Black women, some shaking pompoms to cheer her on. “When we mobilize, nations change. And when we vote, we make history.”
Gemeem Davis, a Democratic convention delegate from Bridgeport, Connecticut, echoed that sentiment.
impressed. But she remains nervous.
“I don’t see America actually accepting the fact that a Black woman is running for president,” she said.
Many Black women are already pivoting to help Harris, said Glynda Car, president of Higher Heights, an organization that bills itself as a “political home for Black women.”
“We were built for this moment,” she said.
Allison, the “She the People” founder, agreed.
“We didn’t have to get ready, because we stay ready,” she said.
When we mobilize, nations change. And when we vote, we make history.”
KAMALA HARRIS
“Black women have really been the backbone of the Democratic Party. We show up. We vote. We volunteer. We register people to vote, there’s lots of organizing on the ground,” she said. “Along with working class folks and progressives, we are the base of this party, and our voices have to be heard.”
Harris, Davis said, is qualifed and ready to be president. But other Black female voters expressed concerns about her ability to win should she become the nominee. Brianna Smith, a 24-year-old school counselor from Decatur, Georgia, said she’s been reading more about Harris since Biden’s announcement and has been
Vice
News DN Kamala Harris for President
By Keith Boykin Word in Black
“Tere are decades when nothing happens, and there are weeks when decades happen.”
That’s what it felt like this week when President Joe Biden dropped out of the race for re-election and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to be the Democratic Party’s new nominee.
Now the party must unite behind Kamala Harris, allow her to pick a new running mate, and move on to defeat Donald Trump.
After weeks of Democratic in-fighting, Biden’s historic withdrawal shifs the momentum away from the Republican Party and back toward the Democrats heading into their convention in Chicago next month.
“Now is the time for the Democratic Party to step up.”
The great stunt queen, Donald Trump, thought he won the publicity wars last week when he dramatically announced his new running mate, the inexperienced freshman Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, and told the world the story of surviving an assassination attempt
Vice President Kamala Harris. Credit: AP/John Raoux.
in his rambling 90-minute convention speech.
Now that’s old news, and we have a fundamentally different race. Instead of a contest between two unpopular, old white guys, the new race pits a 59-year-old Black woman against a 78-year-old convicted felon.
It’s the past versus the future. An all-whitemale Republican ticket or a Democratic ticket led by an accomplished Black woman. A party that carries the heavy baggage of scandals,
impeachments, indictments, and 34 felony convictions from Donald Trump or a party that has an opportunity to reinvent itself with Kamala Harris.
I’ve said all along that I will support the Democratic nominee for president, but I’ve publicly worried about the donor class and wondered if they would accept Harris as the new nominee.
Some floated ideas of an open primary or a “blitz primary” with candidate forums
moderated by Republicans like Condoleezza Rice. And TV producer Aaron Sorkin even suggested the ridiculous idea that Democrats should nominate Republican Mitt Romney for president.
No, no, and no.
All those Democratic donors and party insiders who spent the past few weeks pushing Biden out of the race better pony up their money, time, and energy and start contributing to Kamala Harris’s campaign and the Democratic Party. Tis is the new Plan B.
We’ve heard a lot of Democratic names floated for president in the past few weeks: Gavin Newsom, Gretchen Whitmer, Josh Shapiro, Pete Buttigieg, Wes Moore, Andy Beshear, and Mark Kelly. But now that President Biden has endorsed Vice President Harris, I hope and expect those leaders will stand down and support her, if for no other reason than loyalty to President Biden.
But also because there are fnancial obstacles if Democrats nominate someone other than Harris. Harris was Biden’s running mate, so she can tap into the $96 million Biden has in the bank. Any new candidate may have to start from scratch. Let’s not make this any more complicated than it needs to be.
InFocus DN
Sheila Jackson Lee
By Aswad Walker
By now, you have probably read several articles that spotlight the incredible bio of an impactful life lived by U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee. No doubt you are well-versed on the fact that she proudly represented the legendary and historic 18th Congressional District of Texas in the United States House of Representatives from her election in 1994 until her last day.
Bio
You are probably aware that Jackson Lee, a Queens, New York native, was one of the most influential voices in Washington, and was named by ‘Congressional Quarterly’ as one of the 50 most effective Members of Congress.
But as controversial as she was, at least to individuals and organizations in conservative (Republican) circles, with many spewing their disrespectful vitriol toward her even after her passing, two of her last public acts speak to the essence of Jackson Lee.
With millions of Harris County residents groping in the dark without electricity, she rallied organizations to provide those impacted by Hurricane Beryl with muchneeded resources.
And just days before Beryl delivered its wrath to the Gulf Coast, and while consumed by her own battle against the monster known as pancreatic cancer, Jackson Lee evidenced the character that defined her tenure as a public servant – her willingness to see and honor the humanity in all, including those across the political isle from her who regularly attacked her.
The life and legacy of a community champion
She posted this message to Donald Trump after the shooting at his Butler, PA rally: “My thoughts and well-wishes are with former President Trump and his family – I wish him a speedy recovery.”
This is a great loss to people across the globe suffering injustice. Although we’ve lost her physical presence, her spiritual presence will continue to reside in all who knew her.”
CONGRESSMAN AL GREEN
There are so many Congressional committees she led or was part of (House Committee on the Judiciary, Homeland Security, Crucial Budget Committee, etc.), entities she founded and/or supported (i.e. the Congressional Children’s Caucus, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, etc.) and bills championed, with many becoming law, that no one Jackson Lee bio contains them all. For some, her educational accolades would be enough for a life’s resume – earning a B.A. in Political Science from Yale University with honors in the first graduating class including women, followed by a J.D. from the University of Virginia Law School. But the one called “Warrior Queen,” “fighter” and “omnipresent one” (everywhere at all times), did not stop there.
Legislative Legacy
The litany of legislative accomplishments is astounding.
WHO’S GOT NEXT? THE RACE
Legacy of the Heart
But Jackson Lee’s legacy stretches far beyond legislative accomplishments and courageous stances made. The real essence of her impact can be found in the overwhelming number of personal and organizational testimonies from her constituents.
Whether from individuals and/or organizations with mammoth reputations or saltof-the-earth individuals considered by the “powers that be” too “small” and “unimportant” to treat respectfully, Jackson Lee constantly answered the call to go to battle on behalf of her people.
The following few examples symbolize but cannot fully encapsulate this deep, heart-toheart aspect of Jackson Lee’s work.
Nakia Cooper, publisher of Bayou Beat News and president of the Houston Association of Black Journalists, recalled when the state’s General Land Office attempted to take possession of her mother’s home. In Cooper’s mind, there wasn’t a second thought regarding who she was going to call for help to bring resolution to her dire family situation.
TO FILL SHEILA JACKSON LEE’S SEAT
By ReShonda Tate
Since 1995, U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee had been synonymous with Texas’ 18th Congressional District, winning 15 terms in the U.S. House. Her death has triggered a process to fill her vacant seat, sparking discussions about potential successors.
Jackson Lee was slated to be on the November general election ballot, having defeated Amanda Edwards — a former intern for Jackson Lee — in the March Democratic primary. Democrats now need to select a new candidate.
Texas law outlines the procedures for Democrats to nominate a new candidate to run against Lana Centonze, the Republican candidate, in the general election.
The process for filling the vacant seat
During the selection process, potential candidates will present their positions and priorities to the precinct chairs.
Dunn noted that while the decision is made by the precinct chairs, it remains a “very democratic process” as the meetings are public and precinct chairs are “the smallest unit of representative government we have.”
The committee can nominate anyone, even if they don’t reside in the district. If the Texas Democratic Party fails to nominate a new candidate on time, Jackson Lee would remain on the ballot. If she is then elected, the seat would be vacant, necessitating a new election.
Potential candidates
Lee’s major legislative initiatives include the Sentencing Reform Act, the George Floyd Law Enforcement Trust and Integrity Act, The RAISE Act, The Fair Chance for Youth Act, the Kimberly Vaughan Firearm Safe Storage Act, Kaleif’s Law, the American RISING Act. She also introduced the Juvenile Accountability Block Grant Reauthorization and Bullying Prevention and Intervention Act, the Federal Prison Bureau
U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee presents an award to Nakia Cooper. Courtesy Nakia Cooper.
Nonviolent Offender Relief Act, Paycheck Fairness Act, Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Research and Education Act, the Stop Human Trafficking in School Zones Act, and hundreds more.
For a more comprehensive picture, visit her legislative website. But for context, Jackson Lee secured for her district over $38 million in funding in one year alone.
Multiply that out by a nearly 30-year career, and it is not a stretch to say that she was one of the most successful lawmakers in history in terms of delivering resources to her constituents.
“I speed-dialed the Congresswoman and she fixed the issues within days,” said Cooper. “She sent me a text saying, ‘I called George P. Bush already.’ And everyone from the GLO was calling to apologize for the mishap. There was no mishap. They just knew they couldn’t mess with our Congresswoman.”
Cooper’s affection for Jackson Lee grew not only from the personal help Jackson Lee provided but also from the Congresswoman’s willingness to help anyone in need who was brought to her attention.
“Anytime I had a situation I learned of in the newsroom about a citizen who needed her help, I called and she fixed it before the end of the day,” said Cooper who continues to describe Jackson Lee as a “fierce, fabulous force to be reckoned with.”
When the question was posed recently to several individuals from Houston’s vast Black spiritual community, in what church did Jackson Lee claim membership, nearly a dozen different answers were given, with one person offering, “Whether she was a member or not, she was regularly present seemingly everywhere, and every Black faith leader in the region has their own personal litany of ‘Sheila Jackson Lee helped us, her favorite congregation’ stories.”
One of those stories comes from the Fountain of Praise, Co-Pastor Dr. Mia Wright.
When a congressional seat becomes vacant, the process for filling it typically involves a special election.
“The history of Texas is to call a special election and fill the unexpired term. So that’s what we expect Governor Abbott to do,” said Chad Dunn, a Texas Democratic Party lawyer.
Abbott has not announced a date for this special election, which must be held within a specific timeframe according to state law. This election allows voters from the 18th Congressional District to choose who will complete Jackson Lee’s term.
The county will hold a meeting with the Harris County Democratic Party’s executive committee, which, by Texas law, has until 5 p.m. on Aug. 26 to nominate someone. The committee consists of Harris County precinct chairs — elected officials representing districts within the county. Currently, there are around 130 precinct chairs in Harris County.
“In 2006, as a relatively new leader in the city, I had a casual conversation with Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee,” recalled Wright. “She barely knew me but listened attentively to what I had to say. It centered on our desire to lead a mission team of 10 African American women to Tanzania. For most of these women, it was their first international trip; for others, it was their first trip to Africa. It was a significant mission to train the women of the villages with life
Although no one has officially declared their candidacy (Sylvester Turner reportedly told a local TV station that he was throwing his hat in the ring but has not officially entered the race), seveeral names are being floated as possible contenders for the seat:
1 Former Mayor Sylvester Turner Turner, who recently completed his term as Mayor of Houston, is a well-known figure with significant political experience and a strong connection to the community.
3 Jarvis Johnson Currently serving in the Texas House of Representatives, Johnson has a track record of legislative work and advocacy that could appeal to voters looking for continuity in leadership.
4 James Dixon Bishop James Dixon is a community leader and activist with deep roots in the district. His involvement in social justice initiatives positions him as a candidate who could bring a strong community focus to Congress.
2 Amanda Edwards Edwards, a former Houston City Council member, ran against Jackson Lee in the March primary. Her campaign experience and familiarity with the district’s issues make her a notable potential candidate.
5 Carroll Robinson Robinson, a former Houston City Council member and current chairman of the Texas Coalition of Black Democrats, has extensive political experience and a network that could support a run for Congress.
6 Jolanda Jones
The State Rep. and former HISD Board member, has been a public servant for years.
and leadership skills and biblical history to equip them to share with other women in other villages.
“Our team was ambitious, without experience, and unaware of governmental processes, including regulations for this type of travel. From a mere desire shared with our Congresswoman, she walked our team through every necessary step.”
Former Houston City Councilman and current Texas Southern University professor
Carroll Robinson has a Jackson Lee story that hundreds, if not thousands, share in common.
“When my brother passed, the Congresswoman personally came to my house to check on me and my family,” said Robinson, who also serves as a Houston Community College trustee and heads the Texas Black Democrats. “I am sure she has done it thousands of times for other people all across the city, state and country.”
Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee. Credit: Paul Morigi/Getty Images for Care Can’t Wait Action.
Dr. Mia Wright, co-pastor Fountain of Praise. Courtesy Dr. Wright.
InFocus DN
In the words of Sheila Jackson Lee
By Marilyn Marshall
For the 29 years that she represented Texas’ 18th Congressional District, Sheila Jackson Lee was an outspoken political leader in Washington and beyond. She tackled some of the nation’s toughest issues and sponsored and supported legislation of importance to her constituents. Here are some of her views in her own words.
POLICE REFORM
“As a member of Congress, I have long advocated for equal justice for all that encounter law enforcement in the United States. This is why I have introduced H.R. 8525 — the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act. This bill will finally hold law enforcement accountable for misconduct and separate them from the majority of those endowed with the ethic of just and equitable public safety. It will also improve training, practices, and transparency to rebuild the broken trust of the communities they serve. While no single policy prescription will erase decades of systemic racism and excessive policing, the time has come for the federal government to create structural change with meaningful reforms.”
VOTING RIGHTS
“The need to protect the right to vote is critical, especially in the face of recurring threats to the principle of ‘one man, one vote.’ Whether it concerns plans to disenfranchise up to 53,000 voters in Georgia; concerted efforts to reject Florida’s Amendment 4 which, if passed, would reinstate the vote to over a million formerly incarcerated persons who have repaid their debt to society; or in my home state of Texas, where the specific provisions of Subchapter D of Chapter 16 of the Texas Election Code have been used to cancel voter registrations in Harris County, the
threat to voting rights is real and substantial.”
EDUCATION
“As the State of Texas continues its onslaught of attacks on public school institutions throughout the entire state, I am particularly outraged by the actions taken by the Texas Education Agency to take over the Houston Independent School District. With the recent Texas Supreme Court ruling to lift the temporary injunction, that kept the TEA Commissioner, Governor Abbott, and other state officials from taking over the HISD, the plight of schools and the educational future in Houston, as well as throughout the entire state of Texas, is particularly dire and in need of federal oversight and intervention. That is why I have called upon President Biden along with the Department of Education to take immediate action to investigate the alarming and apparent systemic and discriminatory
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Invitation for Bids
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state takeovers of public and private programs receiving federal funds from the U.S. Department of Education throughout the State of Texas.”
HEALTH CARE
“As founder and co-chair of the Congressional Children’s Caucus, and a member of the Democratic Women’s Caucus and the Black Maternal Health Caucus, I am pleased to announce a grant in the amount of $991,581 awarded to Harris County for eliminating disparities in perinatal health in the 18th Congressional District and State of Texas joined by the Health Resources and Services Administration…This funding will support the health care, social and community needs of mothers and babies in communities with high maternal mortality rates. Through this support, the goal is to improve community health and tackle unacceptable disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes.”
IMMIGRATION
“In actuality, the events transpiring at the border are a symptom of a larger ailment — a broken immigration system. This series of
events has created a situation that demands a comprehensive immigration system which includes border security, and guidelines for the conduct of these border agents who, it should be reminded, work for the American people. The situation also calls for a comprehensive process for dealing with an international human right — the right to seek asylum to escape persecution.”
VETERANS
“Veterans Day is a time to honor and remember the millions of veterans in this generation and generations past who have made countless sacrifices in service of our country…A grateful nation cares for its soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen, not only when they are abroad, but also upon their return home. In order to improve the [lives] of veterans in our country I have introduced H.R. 232, the “Real Justice for Our Veterans Act” of 2023 and H.R. 236, the “Battle Buddy Week” Act… Increasing access to these programs and improving the way these programs work would assist veterans who are experiencing drug and mental health conditions and would have a positive impact on those returning to society.”
SATURDAY AUGUST 3, 2024
Amplifier and Subwoofer Upgrades ITB Houston First Corporation requests bids from
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee fought alongside residents from all walks of life. Credit: AP
B-BALLER
MYA HOLLINGSHED
Represents Puerto Rico, Houston in Paris Olympics
By Aswad Walker
Mya Hollingshed might not be a household name – yet – but this Houstonian who will be playing for Puerto Rico’s Women’s Olympic Basketball Team in Paris over these next few days is someone who absolutely can make Houston proud.
In fact, she already has.
This former Bellaire High School hoops star also made a name for herself on the local AAU circuit before taking her game to the next level while becoming a basketball legend at the University of Colorado. From there, Hollingshed was drafted number eight overall in the first round of the 2022 WNBA Draft by the Las Vegas Aces.
Since then, Hollingshed has laced them up for various teams overseas, growing her game and becoming a pivotal player at every stop. Most recently, Hollingshed scored 20 points, grabbed 14 rebounds, and had four blocks during Puerto Rico’s 69-67 win over New Zealand in Xian, China, to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. For her effort, she was named Player of the Game.
The Defender caught up with Hollingshed between practices for the Paris Olympics to learn more about her past, present, and future journeys.
DEFENDER: Whatwasyourinitialreactionwhenyougotthenewsthatyouwere ontheOlympicteam?
HOLLINGSHED: So, being that I was nationalized, it seemed inevitable, but again, you never know on any team. Also, being part of the reason we (the Puerto Rican women’s basketball team) qualified, having a big game in China, it seemed a for sure, and I was all for it.
DEFENDER: Wherewereyouwhenyou gotthenews?
HOLLINGSHED: I was in Houston when they called me to training camp in Puerto Rico. The coach sent me my flight information and I immediately was ready and locked in to go prepare for the Olympics.
DEFENDER: WhatabouttheOlympicexperienceareyoumostlookingforwardto?
HOLLINGSHED: I’m honestly most looking forward to experiencing everything on the court. And seeing other teams, especially the men’s and women’s USA teams, and being around world class international athletes.
DEFENDER: What first attracted you to basketball?
HOLLINGSHED: Basketball was actually the last sport I came across, although my dad and grandfather played. I first started out with soccer, tennis, volleyball and track, and found basketball later. I first got into organized basketball around 8th grade when I started to play AAU. Ever since then I gradually worked on my game and continued to excel in different areas to be a more versatile player.
DEFENDER: Whatdoyouremembermost aboutyourhighschoolandcollegehoopingexperiences?
HOLLINGSHED: What I remember most about high school was always being the tallest. During that time I was only a true post player, playing in the paint. It wasn’t until college that I started to add the 3-point game and mid-range game. College was an experience I will never forget, especially my coaching staff at Colorado who recruited me, and me taking my one and only official visit and committing on my visit. The rest is history. But they are an essential part of my development to where I am today.
DEFENDER: Howdidyouenjoyyour WNBAdraftandplayingexperience?
HOLLINGSHED: The WNBA draft experience was unforgettable, with my agent telling me beforehand that he believed I would possibly get picked up late second round or early third, to then be picked number eight overall in the first round, I will never forget. To be surrounded by the very people who were there since the beginning meant the world to me. My mother, grandmother and grandfather had seen everything from a child and always had this continuous belief in me; to then see it for myself only adds to my motivation to be successful.
DEFENDER: Doyouforeseeareturnto theWNBA?
HOLLINGSHED: I do see a return to the WNBA. I know I have the talent and am willing to help any team. It’s just about what that team needs and if the timing is right. Being in the WNBA also allows my family to travel to different states and enjoy the experience of seeing me play professionally, instead of having to travel across the ocean to physically see me play.
Mya’s overseas experience, favorite things about H-town and advice for young hoopers.
Former UH forward Devin Davis had 20 points and six rebounds to help lift the Forever Coogs’ to a 79-76 win against
Once A Bronco during The Basketball Tournament action.
Sports Briefs
Texans sign veteran RB Cam Akers
Apparently, the Texans may not be as set at running back as first thought. The team worked out veteran and former second-round pick Cam Akers and then signed him to a contract over the weekend. Akers, who was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams, spent last season with the Minnesota Vikings where he suffered a torn Achilles tendon in Week 9. It’s the second such injury during the 25-year-old’s NFL career. Akers, a fifth-year pro out of Florida State, joins a running back room that already includes Pro Bowler Joe Mixon and Texans two-year starter Dameon Pierce.
and
TSU Sports Hall of Fame
THOMASINA GARZA
Makes history as first softball player inductee
By Terrance Harris
Thomasina Garza could have been modest when the conversation turned to whether she ever thought about putting together a Hall of Fame career as a softball player for the Texas Southern Tigers from 2012-2015.
Prairie View tabbed to finish second in SWAC West
Defending SWAC West champ Prairie View has been picked to finish second behind Alcorn State in the division in the SWAC Preseason Poll. Texas Southern is picked to finish last in the division. Prairie View and Texas Southern both had one player make the Preseason SWAC First Team Defense squad. Panthers defensive lineman CJ Pressley and Tigers linebacker Jacob Williams both made the first team.
Brittney Griner, wife welcomes new son WNBA star and Houston native Brittney Griner and her wife, Cherelle, gave birth to their first child together over the weekend. The couple now has a son. ‘I’m super excited,’ Griner said during an interview with CBS.
The former standout at Sam Rayburn and Blinn College could have easily said she was just playing in the moment or focused on stacking wins for the program.
But instead, Garza met the question of her Hall of Fame aspirations with boldness and confidence, much the way she played the game.
‘Well, I mean, I guess I’ll just drop it... he’s here. Seven pounds eight ounces. Yeah, that’s my man!’” Griner also has twins with ex-wife Glory Johnson.
SWAC moving basketball tournaments to Atlanta
The SWAC men’s and women’s basketball tournaments are shifting from Birmingham to Atlanta. The tournaments will be played March 11-15 at the Gateway Center Arena.
“Of course. What else are you playing for?” Garza says as she lets loose a big laugh inside a downtown coffee shop. “I knew when I transferred to TSU that I had goals in mind because when I was at Blinn, I was already an All-American and the National Defensive Player of the Year, all-region, all-conference. I already had a bunch of accolades coming out of Blinn, which was one of the top programs in the entire nation.
“So, I already had high standards coming into TSU about what I wanted to do for a program. And I knew TSU hadn’t had a winning program like they wanted and I wanted to come in and help build it out.”
Garza, a 5-foot-3 dynamo as a mid-infielder, did exactly that and then some during her three years starting for the Tigers. The Pasadena native finished as the most decorated softball player in TSU history while leading the Tigers to back-toback SWAC Championships and NCAA Regional appearances.
As a result of her accomplishments, Garza is one of 24 former student-athletes being inducted into the Texas Southern Sports Hall of Fame this fall. She is the first TSU softball player to be inducted into the school’s Sports Hall of Fame.
“It’s everything,” Garza said of what it means to be inducted into her alma mater’s Sports Hall of Fame. “Being the first softball player to be inducted is meaningful.
Being the first Hispanic is very meaningful. The fact that this program is just coming back again, that’s meaningful to hopefully establish why it’s needed and to continue. It’s truly an honor.”
It’s also an honor well-deserved.
Not only was Garza the most dominant softball player to star for TSU, putting up a .447 career batting average, coming through with 187 hits, 21 home runs, 55 doubles and 162 RBI while also earning an NCAA Statistical Championship, she also influenced winning.
Along the way, Garza was also the SWAC Newcomer of Year, two-time SWAC Player of the Year and SWAC Hitter of the Year.
Worley Barker, who was the Texas Southern coach during Garza’s run, couldn’t be more proud seeing one of his players making softball history.
“It’s special,” Barker said in a recent conversation with The Defender. “She is the first softball inductee into the Hall of Fame. She is definitely worthy. Thomasina had a great career at Texas Southern.
“It was special and an honor for me when I heard it was happening.”
It was also a special honor for Garza when she received the official news in March that she was going into the Hall of
Fame. She was in a restaurant after a long day of work when the call came.
“I started jumping up and down and cheering and screaming in the middle of the restaurant,” said Garza, who now works as a project manager for Axiom Space. “It was very exciting.”
In her mind, it’s a perfect recognition for a special time in her life. She has fond memories of her time with the program and on TSU’s campus.
“It was a lot of fun,” Garza said. “Definitely different coming from Blinn because I was coming from a junior college to a university and understanding the program, and the structure.
“It was a transition for me, but it was very exciting. I liked the culture, I liked the comradery, I liked the campus environment. It was a lot of fun.”
Garza says TSU still holds a special place in her heart. She still supports the softball program and is a regular at games, and has even been a mentor to some of the graduating players as they move on to careers outside of softball.
“TSU is always going to have a special place in my heart,” Garza said. “It’s home. It’s home. It really is special to me. It’s where I grew up, it’s a lot of memories, good, bad and ugly. That’s home.”
Rockets guard
former Duke standout Keels contributed 22 points and four assists during a 105-95 victory over Portland in Summer League play.
Bubba McDowell
Cam Akers
Brittney Griner
Charles McClelland
Garza
Thomasina Garza wrapped up her softball career as one of the most decorated players in Texas Southern history, earning SWAC Player of the Year recognition in 2014 and 2015 and now she heads into the TSU Sports Hall of Fame this fall. Credit: TigerFans.com
Sports DN
FT. BEND ELKINS
BRAYLON PAYNE
Heads to 2024 MLB Draft
By Jimmie Aggison
Fort Bend Elkins High School baseball standout Braylon Payne, originally set to join the University of Houston, has seen a significant turn in his athletic journey as the Milwaukee Brewers have selected him with the No. 17 overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft.
“When I heard those words, my legs went numb and tears of joy started to come out of my eyes,” Payne said.
Payne is arguably one of Elkins’ most prolific baseball players. He finished his senior year with a .531 batting average, .613 on-base percentage, .802 slugging percentage, nine doubles, four triples, three home runs, 28 runs batted in, 39 runs scored, and 32 stolen bases. While dominating his senior year, he became the all-time hits leader at Elkins, surpassing former players Matt Carpenter, James Loney, Tristan Gray, and Steven Truitt.
“I also have the all-time singles and stolen base records at Elkins High School,” said Payne.
Braylon’s connection to baseball and the University of Houston runs deep. His aspiration to attend the university began in the fifth grade after a memorable field trip. Despite numerous offers from other colleges, Braylon was steadfast in his desire to play for the Cougars. The University of Houston extended an offer in the summer of his sophomore year, which he eagerly accepted.
“I’ve wanted to go to U of H since I was young,” said Payne. “I went on a field trip with my elementary school, and ever since then, I’ve been like, I like this baseball field, and I want to play on it someday.”
Baseball has been a lifelong passion for Braylon. Starting at the age of five with Missouri City Little
ABOUT BRAYLON
PAYNE
Class: 2024
IG: @payne_braylon
Twitter: @payne_braylon
Position: Center fielder
Height & weight: 6-feet-2, 185 pounds
Players he studies: Ken Griffey
Jr (Hall of Famer), Corbin Carroll (Arizona Diamondbacks)
Favorite artist: Lil Baby
Status: Committed to the University of Houston
Favorite subject: English Shout-outs: Family members, Mason Henry and everyone that’s been with me throughout this journey
League, he progressed to playing with the Rebels, a select team organized by Calvin Medlock, at eight years old. His father played a crucial role in devel oping his hitting skills, using both T-balls and sand balls. Payne also credits watching Ken Griffey Jr.’s swing as a source of inspiration for his consistent hitting.
“I like watching Ken Griffey Jr.’s swing because it’s so smooth and effortless. My goal at the plate is to create the most damage with the least amount of effort,” said Payne.
“The key was constant reps to improve his swinging ability,” said Braylon’s father, Maurice Payne. “He’s always had speed. His speed is what we leaned on more than anything when he was younger. But when he was eight years old, he had a natural, effortless, left-handed, smooth swing. As time went on, we continued work ing with him and with his size came the power in his swing.”
Playing with the Rebels until he was 13, Braylon honed his skills before moving to a more competitive team on the advice of Medlock. He joined Twelve, a travel team out of College Station, where he worked his way from the gold team to the maroon team.
Braylon’s high school career was dis tinguished by hard work and dedica tion. He began on the varsity team as a freshman batting .149 while playing left field. Through relentless effort, he evolved into a four-year varsity letterman. His humility and work ethic have been a testament to his character, and he lives by the advice, “It doesn’t mat ter what other people’s opinions are, just stay true to yourself.”
As Payne takes his next step, whether it be joining the University of Houston or joining the Milwaukee Brewers, the Fort Bend community will be proudly watching one of their own take the next step in his promising career.
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