October 17, 2024 by Defender Media Group |DefenderNetwork

To the POINT DN

Pastor Keion Henderson is under fire for comments about the poor made during a recent sermon.

Managing Editor Message

Pastor Keion sparks more backlash

Houston Pastor Keion Henderson from Te Lighthouse Church is catching backlash once again, this time over a sermon recently regarding spreading wealth to the poor. Henderson claimed there is “no blessing connected” to giving to the less fortunate, like the “multiplier” blessings you receive from “tithing” in church. “Anytime a person is in need y’all go to running and dropping money. But let me tell you something, the poor will be with you always and there is no blessing connected to blessing the poor, other than getting back what you gave to them — but no multiplication,” he said. Te controversial comments were met with gasps and grunts from the audience and a whole lot of commentary on social media. In August, Henderson came under fre for asking for $4.4 million from his 20,000 members, afer the church sufered damage in the July storm. Before that, he caught backlash for telling a loudly-praising woman to “hush” during his sermon. But back to the poor people…. Maybe I missed something. We’re really out here telling folks to give to the church, and not the poor so they can be better blessed??? Chile…what would Jesus do?

her, slammed her head against a pool table and ignored her screams and cries for help, the lawsuit alleges. Sherman claims he never met Graves and wasn’t working for the rapper at the time. Whether she’s telling the truth or not, Diddy has a whole slew of other sexual assault allegations to contend with, including six more that were fled this week.

Barack blasts the brothers

Diddy drama as one accuser accused of lying Te ex-partner of one of Diddy’s accusers claims he was ofered a $3 million bribe to support the rapper’s rape story. Talia Graves’ ex-husband claims in a recent report that she ofered him a $3 million bribe to support her accusations against Sean Diddy Combs. Te Houston woman said when she was 25 and dating an executive who worked for Combs in the summer of 2001, Combs and his security, Joseph Sherman, lured her to a meeting at Bad Boy Recording Studios. She said they picked her up in an SUV and during the ride gave her a drink “likely laced with a drug.” She lost consciousness and awoke to fnd herself bound inside Combs’ ofce and lounge at the studio. Te two men raped her, slapped

Former President Barack Obama called BS on some Black men refusing to back Vice President Kamala Harris for reasons that aren’t rooted in sexism. And boy, did he catch it. But look, Barack is blackity-black. And he’s the only one in that camp that can call it like it is - there are Black men who don’t embrace the notion of a Black woman as president any more readily than they embrace the notion that a Black woman can preach in the pulpit. I’m sorry, but there is a creeping sexism among more Black men than Black people want to acknowledge. And no one but Obama could – and did – call that out. Trump appeals to a sliver of the Black electorate that embraces uber-machismo and conspiracy theories. It’s not a big sliver, but it could be just enough to keep Harris from winning. Which is why Obama has determined that the stakes in this election are too high to let casual sexism sail on by. If enough Black men decide to stay home on Nov. 5, Harris will lose. But to the brothers mad about what Obama said, if your reasons for not supporting Kamala are truly political and issue-driven, then cool, keep moving, don’t be ofended. But trust and believe he was talking to some Black men. I’ve interviewed them…I’ve talked to them….Tey exist. And many of them are the hit dogs who are now hollering.

On the Web

• Fear the Strong Black Woman OpEd

• How to get your Black card revoked

• Houston artists receive cultural grants, encouraged to take more risks

ReShonda Tate

News DN

Harris County to open over 80 early voting locations

By ReShonda Tate

The Nov. 5 presidential election is right around the corner and Harris County is preparing to offer up to 700 polling locations for Election Day, along with more than 80 early voting sites to accommodate the county’s nearly 2.7 million registered voters.

The Harris County Clerk’s Office Election Department has released an updated polling location map on the Harris Votes (www.HarrisVotes.com). As of now, the map shows 87 early voting locations and 679 polling centers for Election Day, though these numbers could still change slightly.

“The number of locations is subject to change, as sometimes vote centers become unavailable or we add additional locations,” officials said. “The map will be updated with any changes through Election Day, but we’re expecting to have over 80 early voting sites and close to 700 Election Day centers.”

These figures are lower than in 2020, when 122 early voting locations and 806 Election Day sites were available—numbers that the election department attributed to adjustments made during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Most of the centers in use for this election have historically been used during both early voting and on Election Day,” the department added. “However, some locations from 2020 were not available for use this year.”

Despite over 1.65 million ballots being cast in Harris County during the November 2020 election, only about 68% of registered voters participated. Voter registration for the upcoming election is open until Oct. 7. The county currently has around 2.67 million registered voters, according to data from Sept. 3, 2024. Officials are encouraging all eligible voters to verify their registration status ahead of the deadline.

In line with a Texas Supreme Court order from 2020, only one ballot drop-off location will be available in Harris County, located at the Harris County Administration Building on Preston Street in Houston. Voters may only drop off their own ballot in person on Election Day.

Early voting runs from Oct. 21 to Nov. 1, with varying hours each day:

• Mon., Oct. 21 - Sat., Oct. 26: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• Sun., Oct. 27: 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.

• Mon., Oct. 28 - Wed., Oct. 30: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Thurs., Oct. 31: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

• Fri., Nov. 1: 7 a.m. to 7p.m.

Election Day voting hours on Nov. 5 are from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with voters allowed to cast their ballot as long as they are in line before closing time. For more information, visit www. Harrisvotes.com.

OTHER IMPORTANT DATES

Last day to apply for ballot by mail: Fri., Oct. 25

Last day to receive ballot by mail: Tues., Nov. 5

Students at a Houston Community College location in southeast Houston walk near signs directing people to an early voting location in December 2023.

County launches first public probate office

By Amaka Watson

Harris County has taken a significant step toward protecting its most vulnerable residents with the launch of the Office of the Public Probate Administrator. This new office is designed to assist individuals who lack the financial resources or family support to manage their estates, particularly those who are elderly, incapacitated, or who pass away without a will. Led by Public Probate Administrator Brandon Cofield, the office will serve as a crucial safety net to ensure that the assets of these individuals are properly managed and transferred to rightful heirs.

For many in the African American community, where resources may be scarce and family support networks are sometimes strained, this initiative could offer muchneeded protection and guidance. Without proper legal assistance or financial management, estates often fall prey to fraud, exploitation or are simply lost because of inaction. The establishment of this office ensures that vulnerable populations in Harris County, including those without next of kin or legal representation, are no longer at risk of having their estates misappropriated.

Probate Administrator to assist residents who lack the resources or family support to manage their estates.

According to Harris County Attorney Christian Menefee, this initiative aims to fill a gap that has long existed in the county’s safety net. “For too long, people without resources or legal support have fallen through the cracks, leaving their estates open to fraud or exploitation,” Menefee said. “This is about ensuring that every resident—no matter their circumstances—is treated with dignity and fairness.”

Estate planning and probate can be confusing, especially for individuals without legal guidance or financial knowledge. The Public Probate Administrator’s Office will help guide these families through the process, ensuring that assets are protected and transferred to rightful heirs rather than lost due to a lack of resources or understanding.

Cofield, who heads the office, emphasized the importance of bridging this information

gap. “My goal is to ensure that no person loses or receives a lesser inheritance because of a lack of resources or guidance,” Cofield said. By actively working to prevent fraud, abuse, and financial exploitation, the office offers hope to those who might otherwise have nowhere to turn.

The Office of the Public Probate Administrator is authorized to act as a universal heir when necessary. This means that it will determine whether a person has any heirs, a will, or a trust in place, and if none exist, the office will manage the estate. This authority helps to prevent third-party exploitation or the loss of assets. The office’s role is not just administrative—it is protective, ensuring that estates are managed responsibly and that the vulnerable are shielded from financial harm. The office will also collaborate with the Harris County Attorney’s Office, providing residents with additional resources. Every Wednesday at 1:30 p.m., the Public Probate Administrator will be available at the Harris County Robert W. Hainsworth Law Library, 201 Caroline Street Suite 607 Houston, TX 77002, to answer questions and offer guidance.

Harris County has launched the new Office of the Public

Education DN

Key issues in Texas schools ahead of the 2024 election

By Laura Onyeneho

Texas schools face many critical issues that will impact students and educators in the coming years. From funding debates to questions over school safety and academic freedom, decisions made by voters in November will shape the future of education across the state. Whether it’s local school board races or state-level decisions on public education policy, this election season holds significant implications for Texas schools, students, and families. Here’s what Defender Network readers need to know about Texas’s state of education before the election.

Who Makes Decisions

About Texas Schools?

Locally elected school board members make most decisions about public schools. These officials oversee district budgets, hire or fire superintendents, and set policies on everything from cellphone usage to library book selections. School board elections are typically held in May.

However, important policies are also set at the state level. Members of the Texas Senate, House of Representatives, and the State Board of Education (SBOE) make decisions that directly impact school funding, graduation requirements, and curriculum standards. This November, voters will have the chance to elect representatives who will influence these critical issues.

Education Savings Accounts

One hotly contested issue is the push for education savings accounts (ESAs). Governor Greg Abbott and other supporters of ESAs argue that they give families more choice by allowing them to use public funds for private schooling. This voucher-like system is seen as a way to provide options for students in underperforming public schools.

Critics worry that ESAs will drain money from public schools, especially in rural areas with limited alternatives. They argue that private schools are not held to the same accountability standards and often do not serve students with disabilities. This debate will likely

continue during the next legislative session and potentially reshape the education landscape in Texas.

Learning Gaps and Teacher Shortages

Texas kids struggle to make up lost academic ground four years after the COVID-19 pandemic. The epidemic and distant learning caused substantial learning deficits for many students. School districts are attempting to reduce these disparities, but the task is still very difficult, and progress has been sluggish.

The state is dealing with an increasing teacher shortage at the same time. Schools are increasingly employing teachers who are not certified or have not received extensive training. Roughly one in three newly hired teachers in Texas, according to data, do not have their entire qualification before they start. Concerns over the caliber of education that pupils receive are raised by this trend, particularly in districts with lower incomes and a greater teacher shortage.

School Safety

Robb Elementary School in Uvalde brought renewed attention to the issue of school safety. In response, Texas lawmakers mandated that every public school campus have armed personnel, whether a school resource officer or a staff member trained to carry a gun.

The state offers $10 per student and a $15,000 grant per site for security measures to assist schools in meeting these standards. Many school districts contend that this financing is far insufficient to guarantee the safety of their students, because of this, administrators throughout Texas continue to have serious security concerns.

Curriculum and Textbook Controversies

When it comes to establishing curricular standards and authorizing textbooks for Texas children, the State Board of Education is essential. Proposed revisions that include adding religious stories to state-created learning materials have generated controversy recently. Proponents contend that this aids pupils in comprehending historical events and literary allusions, but others point out that

religion is becoming more and more prevalent in public education. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs have faced criticism in addition to curriculum issues. The Texas Legislature recently outlawed DEI offices and operations in public colleges and universities. Schools that disregard this law might lose millions of dollars in state funding.

What to Expect in the 2024 Election

Several unresolved issues from the last legislative session will likely take center stage during the 2024 election. Education savings accounts, school funding, and the role of religion in public schools will be key topics for debate.

In particular, the basic allotment—the amount of money schools receive for each student— has not increased since 2019 despite rising costs due to inflation. Efforts to raise this funding stalled during the last legislative session, partly due to the ongoing battle over school choice. Many education leaders are frustrated that public schools aren’t receiving the resources to support students effectively.

At the same time, the quality of teacher training, school safety measures, and free speech on college campuses will likely remain hot-button issues as voters head to the polls.

While state-level decisions are critical, local school board elections should not be overlooked. These boards shape students’ day-to-day experiences, from approving new programs to setting districtwide policies. Diverse representation on school boards can ensure that all voices are heard, especially when it comes to addressing inequities and promoting inclusive policies.

The tragic 2022 shooting at

Candidates for the State Board of Education and district races have the potential to establish policies regarding free speech, education savings accounts, school safety, and DEI bans.

Railroads disrespect Blacks

By Aswad Walker

If you’ve ever driven through a Houston Black community, then through River Oaks or the Galleria area, you know personally that trains aren’t colorblind.

While they seem to zip through upscale and predominantly white areas at speeds that barely hold up traffic, and with all manner of traffic crossing arms and lights, countless tracks in Black and Brown areas not only lack those safety measures, the trains seem to lack that same sense of urgency and often choose to take extended breaks, seemingly parking in Black areas, blocking traffic for 30 minutes or more.

And this Black reality can have deadly consequences.

The Defender recently spoke with State Rep. Harold Dutton, who has made changing this reality one of his top priorities.

DEFENDER: What have you done recently regarding this issue of trains going through Black communitiesandthelackofsafety?

Dutton: I had a town hall meeting, where a bunch of the residents from Fifth Ward came. We also had the railroad people

be a crisis because what happens is the train stays on this track for such a long period of time. People do all kinds of crazy things.

DEFENDER: Crazy things like what?

Dutton: Recently, an elderly gentleman who had stood there for a while decided that he had had enough, and he crawled under the train. Well, I don't have to tell you the rest of the story. He tried to crawl under the train, and the train started moving and basically ended his life. I told the [railroad] people that the blood of this man is on their hands because we told them this was going to happen. Somehow or another, we didn't get the right people to listen to us. But, they’ve got to do something different, not only at that intersection, but also at all of these crossings where they have trains in Black neighborhoods.

is going probably 25 to 30 miles an hour. It never stops. It never blocks Westheimer for longer than 10 or 15 minutes.” Well, we need the same thing to happen in our neighborhood, and the railroad has to come forward and start doing something differently. In the meantime, I'm trying to get city council and everybody that will listen to say, “Let's put grade separations in areas, particularly those areas where they have high traffic volume and high volumes of people actually walking down that particular street."

DEFENDER: Has anyone given you a viable explanation for why trains will just sit there and park in Black communitiesforseeminghours,yet zoom through white communities?

and the state people there. We had all the residents there, and they were talking about how unsafe the trains were, particularly those trains that pass over Lyons Avenue at about Lyons at St. Elmo. We told them that somehow or another, that was going to

DEFENDER: Whatdoyousaytothose whodisbelievethisunequalrailroad crossing reality?

Dutton: A gentleman who saw me talking about the trains said to me “When the train passes over Westheimer, it only takes about 15 minutes because that train

Dutton: No. In fact, they tried to pretend that it didn't happen. Because what they said to me is they have a rule. Trains can only block intersections for 20 minutes at the most. I said, “Excuse me, but that’s bull****.”

DEFENDER: What’s the solution? Dutton: We're still working on that.

Vote 2024 DN Plan for Black men

By Keith Boykin, Word In Black

“Black Vote, Black Power,” a collaboration between Keith Boykin and Word In Black, examines the issues, the candidates,andwhat’satstakeforBlackAmericainthe2024presidentialelection.

On Monday Kamala Harris unveiled a new agenda for Black men. Te plan is extensive, but I want to highlight 10 specific steps she would take as president that would empower Black men with the tools we need to build wealth, provide for our families, and lead our communities.

Number 1. Business Loans.

Black Americans are twice as likely to be denied credit by banks, so Harris would provide 1 million fully forgivable loans of up to $20,000 to Black entrepreneurs and others who have historically faced barriers to starting a new business or growing an existing one.

Number 2. More Jobs Without College Degrees.

Harris would eliminate unnecessary degree requirements and promote pathways for those without college degrees for 500,000 federal jobs.

BLACK

Number 3. More Black Male Teachers.

As a former high school English and social studies teacher, I know it’s important for young Black males to see Black men in front of the classroom as role models and mentors. Only 1% of public school teachers are Black men, so Harris would create pathways for more Black men to become teachers, including apprenticeship programs and loan forgiveness.

Number 4. Health Care.

My uncle, who had sickle cell disease, died last year, and I know several Black men my age who have been recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. And don’t get me started on the mental health needs of the Black men in my family and community. I see it every day. We’ve been traumatized by an unfair criminal justice system and a world that demonizes us instead of understanding us. Fortunately, Harris would launch a National Health Equity Initiative focused on Black men that addresses sickle cell disease, diabetes, mental health, and prostate cancer.

Number 5. Weed Equity.

Black men have been disproportionately arrested and incarcerated for marijuana-related charges. Now that cannabis is becoming more socially acceptable and proftable, it’s only fair that we beneft from the changing system that hurt us. Vice President Harris not only wants to legalize recreational marijuana but also create

KAMALA HARRIS

opportunities for Black Americans to succeed in this new industry.

Number 6. Ban the Box.

I have a law degree, and yet when I lived in Harlem, I was still stopped on the street, arrested, and locked up in jail. I know Black men have been targeted by a racist criminal justice system. Harris would work with Congress to require businesses to limit the unnecessary use of criminal arrest histories, convictions, and credit scores in employment decisions.

Number 7. Mentorship Programs.

Harris would expand funding for community mentorship programs with a proven track record of helping young Black men succeed. She will also support programs like My Brother’s Keeper.

Number 8. Support Black Farmers.

Harris would continue to support Black farmers and ranchers who have been denied access to capital. As vice president, she already distributed funding to thousands of Black farmers and ranchers in a $2 billion relief package.

Number 9. Relieve Medical Debt.

My stepfather passed away in April 2020, with a mountain of medical debt. Vice President Harris plans to work with states to relieve medical debt, which is the leading cause of bankruptcy in America, and disproportionately hurts Black Americans.

And Number 10. Crypto Protection.

More than 20% of Black Americans, including me, have owned cryptocurrency assets. I lost money in crypto, but the high-risk, high-reward crypto markets provide opportunities outside of the existing stock market for many Black men. A Harris administration would support a regulatory framework for cryptocurrency and other digital assets to protect Black men who invest in these assets.

So, let me answer a few questions I’ve already seen from critics.

Question 1. Whydidn’tshedothisin thelastfouryears?

Because she’s not the president. She’s the vice president. Trump was actually a president, and he did none of these things in his four years in ofce.

Question 2. Butwhydosomeof thesepoliciessayBlackmen“and others”?

Why aren’t they all Black-specific? Well, because Trump’s Supreme Court Justices and federal judges keep striking down programs that focus on Black people? Trump’s Supreme Court ended race-specifc afrmative action in college admissions. A Trump-appointed federal judge forced the Minority Business Development Agency to help white people. Another Trump-appointed federal judge blocked a disaster relief program for Black farmers. And two Trump-appointed federal judges in Georgia blocked a private program by the Fearless Fund to help Black women in business.

If Trump’s judges won’t allow a private group of Black women to help each other, do you think they’re going to let a government program that only helps Black men and excludes others? No. But this is what happens when we don’t vote. So we have to create clever ways to get around the Trump MAGA Republican bans on helping Black people.

Question 3. Yeah,butwhydoesit feellikeDemocratsonlycare about Blackwomen?

Yes, Joe Biden elevated two very prominent Black women in the past four years:VP Kamala Harris and Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson. But the Democratic Party is flled with Black men in positions of power and leadership. Te highest-ranking Democrat in the U.S. House of Representatives is Minority Leader Hakeem Jefries, who will become the frst Black Speaker if Democrats win the House

in November. Te highest ranking leader in the military is Lloyd Austin, the frst Black Secretary of Defense. Two of the three Democratic Black U.S. senators — Raphael Warnock and Cory Booker — are Black men. Te Democratic governor of Maryland, Wes Moore, is a Black man. Te mayors of New York City, Chicago, and Atlanta are all Black men in the Democratic Party. And the only Black person ever elected president, Barack Obama, is also a Black man.

And Question 4: Butisn’tTrump betterforBlackmen?

Was he better for Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, Yusef Salaam, Raymond Santana, and Korey Wise — the Exonerated Five teenagers who went to prison when Trump led a lynch mob against them for a rape they did not commit, and then refused to apologize afer they were exonerated by DNA evidence? Was he better for the Black casino workers who sued him for racial discrimination? Was he better for Colin Kapernick and the NFL players he attacked for taking a knee? Was he better for Eugene Goodman, the Capitol Police Ofcer who had to fend of a mob of angry white Trump supporters who tried to take over the Capitol on January 6? Was he better for the Haitian American Black men in Springfeld, Ohio, who were subjected to death threats because of Trump’s lies about them eating dogs and cats? Was he better for Marcellus Williams, the Black man who was executed by the State of Missouri last month because Donald Trump’s three Supreme Court Justices refused to agree with the Democratic Justices to stop the execution? Was he better for the Black farmers denied relief by his judges? Was he better for the Black men who died while he mismanaged the COVID pandemic? And will he be better for the Black youth who will be harassed by the police when he brings back stop and frisk?

Kamala Harris wants to help Black men build wealth, provide for our families, and lead our communities. Trump wants to use us as political pawns in his angry MAGA campaign. Tose are the choices. Choose wisely.

Keith Boykin is a New York Times–bestselling author, TV and flm producer, and former CNN political commentator. A graduate of Dartmouth College and Harvard Law School, Keith served in the White House, cofounded the National Black Justice Coalition, cohosted the BET talk show My Two Cents, and taught at the Institute for Research in African-American Studies at Columbia University in New York. He’s a Lambda Literary Award-winning author and editor of seven books. He lives in Los Angeles.

Te post Kamala Harris Has a Plan for Black Men. Trump Never Did appeared frst on Word In Black.

Vice President Kamala Harris campaigns in Raleigh, N.C., on Oct. 12. Credit: KamalaHarris.com.

VOTE

POWER

Keith Boykin

Vote 2024 DN

What is Gen X’s role in Election 2024?

By Aswad Walker

With a 2024 Presidential Election victory, Vice President Kamala Harris will become the first member of Generation X to serve as this country’s Commander-in-Chief.

Gen X, on those rare occasions when it has been acknowledged, has been labeled the “Forgotten Generation,” “Latchkey Generation,” “Lost Generation” and “Invisible Generation.” However, even with an entire existence being overlooked by researchers, media, and society in general, a Gen X president might shine a much-deserved light on what one reported ranked as the “Greatest Generation.”

Sandwiched between Baby Boomers and Millennials, the 65 million members of Gen X were born between 1965 and 1980, making them anywhere from 44 to 59 years old in 2024. This demographic has been viewed as a bridge for their experiences with Baby Boomer parents and Millennial and Gen Z children.

Gen Xers are said to have been the first group of bonafide latchkey kids, who walked to and from school, were home alone while both parents were at work, and

experienced the fallout of rising divorce rates. Gen Xers were the last children to live and play without the guardrails of “helicopter parents,” baby seats and seat belt laws, “stranger danger” warnings and parents who automatically sided with their children over their children’s teachers.

That said, the Defender asked members of multiple generations, their take on the significance of a Gen X president, and the role Gen Xers might play in November’s election.

As Generation X approaches the 2024 election, their role is crucial, particularly with Kamala Harris potentially becoming the first Gen X president. Credit: Win McNamee/Getty Images.

Bridgett Holden Mshinda Nyofu

Chris Hollins Susan Bynam

By Aswad Walker

Beyond the stress and angst people are feeling about the presidential election, there is serious nervousness in some corners about one Texas “down-ballot” race in particular—the District 18 race.

Why?

Because there are two elections regarding that one seat, the seat most recently filled by the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee. The fear is, because many voters aren’t clear on the two races, they will vote in one of them and ignore the other.

THE TWO DISTRICT 18 RACES

Unexpired Term

When Jackson Lee passed away, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott called a Special Election to choose the person who will complete Jackson Lee’s term. On the ballot, that race is listed as “United States Representative, District 18, Unexpired Term.” That election will take place on Nov. 5.

The candidates for the “Unexpired Term” include Jackson Lee’s daughter, Erica Lee Carter (Democrat), Maria Dunn (Republican) and Kevin O. Dural (Republican).

Think of it this way: a marathon race that’s already in progress has a runner who goes down with the finish line in sight but can no longer compete. But the race is still going on, and in need of a runner to finish the last 40 yards. That’s what the winner of the “Unexpired Term” will do—that person will run to finish the race already in progress, which is now just a short sprint, that could impact the number of Democrats in Congress.

Full Term

On that same day, (Election Day, Nov. 5), voters will also choose who will represent District 18 on a full-term basis beginning Jan. 2, 2025; a race listed on the ballot as “United States Representative, District 18.”

The candidates for the “Full Term” are former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner (Democrat) and Lana Centonze (Republican). Turner and Centonze are competing for the right to be District 18’s runner (representative) in another race that won’t start until Jan. 2025. That race needs a marathon runner who is willing to go the distance— from Jan. 2025 to Jan. 2027 at the very least.

WHY VOTERS NEED TO KNOW THE DIFFERENCE

Though both seats, the “Unexpired Term” and the “Full Term,” are important, many voters have misconceptions about them. Some people think Lee Carter was appointed to the “Unexpired Term” and is already in office finishing out her late mother’s term. That is not true. No one is currently in that seat, which is why there is an election to choose who will represent historic District 18 for that “Unexpired Term.”

“I am running to fill the unexpired term of my mother, the late great Sheila Jackson

TWO CONGRESSIONAL RACES FOR TX Dist. 18

Don't be confused

Lee,” said Lee Carter. “Congressional House District terms are two years, and so we are still within that two-year period. She was elected by the voters of the 18th, and she began service in 2022. The term expires Jan. 1, 2025. So, Governor Abbott put this election on the same ballot, the Nov. 5 election day, as the District 18 race for the next twoyear term (the “Full Term”) that will begin around Jan. 2, 2025.”

Another misconception is that there is only one race and that Lee Carter is running against Turner. That, too, is not true.

Lee Carter and Turner are running in separate races. The confusion comes in because

they both seek to represent District 18—Lee Carter from Nov. 5, 2024 to Jan. 1, 2025 (the “Unexpired Term”) and Turner from Jan. 2, 2025 to Jan. 2, 2027 (the “Full Term”).

THE FEAR

One fear is that voters will vote in one District 18 race and ignore the other. To that, Lee Carter offered clarifying words: “You are allowed to vote in both because it is not the same term. It’s the same constituent voter base, but not the same term.”

“My fear is that votes that should go to Erica won’t take place either because people

think she’s already elected and therefore isn’t on the ballot, and therefore, might not win,” said University of Houston administrator Dr. Elwyn Lee, the widow of Jackson Lee and father of Lee Carter. “Or they might not vote for her in the ‘Unexpired Term’ race because they will vote for Sylvester Turner thinking that they’re running against each other. And then she might not win the seat for the unexpired term of Sheila Jackson Lee.”

CLEARING UP CONFUSION

Lee believes the state’s Democratic Party has dropped the ball, not investing enough in messaging that will inform voters about

what has already proven to be a confusing set of races involving District 18.

“What the candidates need to do, and particularly what the Democratic Party needs to do, is to find out the exact location on the ballot where their candidate for the ‘Unexpired Term’ is, and publicize that there is a race for the last 12 weeks of Sheila Jackson Lee’s term and it’s on page so-and-so of the ballot. I think if people aren’t going in there

with the mindset that they have to look for Erica Lee Carter specifically when they go in, it’s very easy for them to miss it,” said Lee.

IMPORTANCE OF THE UNEXPIRED TERM

One reason clarity on these two races is critical is that serious business needs to be

addressed and handled during the “Unexpired Term.” This business includes securing much-needed disaster relief funds and extending the Federal budget.

“Congressional colleagues from Texas just sent another letter asking President Biden to expand the resources and recovery for the derecho and Hurricane Beryl. I will join in that effort if those funds have not been extended and received. We have so many in our community still needing that support,” said Lee Carter.

Recognizing that whenever there’s a

budget bill, lawmakers can add in unique items. Lee Carter looks to do that in order to bring more resources to District 18, while also helping the U.S. avoid another government shutdown.

She has her eye on something else, as well.

“Something important to my mother and hopefully the African American community is her HR 40 reparations commission. It will be too late to do a full bill through the House, but I have spoken to many and we will at least submit a letter to request Biden to do a commission by executive order.”

Texas District 18 voter confusion over two simultaneous elections (an ‘Unexpired” and “full’ term) could spell trouble. Thus, clarity and a voting plan are needed. Credit: City of Houston and Erica Lee Carter.

Breast Cancer Awareness: Know the Facts and Take Action.

By JAMISE CROOMS, MD

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancer diagnoses for women, but advancements in screening and treatment have dramatically improved outcomes. Today’s screenings are more effective, more comfortable, and designed to detect cancer early when it’s most treatable.

At Kelsey-Seybold, patients benefit from the latest in breast cancer care, including 3D mammography for early detection and advanced radiation therapies designed to minimize side effects.

In the instances of a cancer diagnosis, our team-based, coordinated-care approach ensures that specialists — oncologists, surgeons, radiologists and more — work together to create a treatment plan tailored specifically to the patient.

Jamise Crooms, MD is a board-certified Internal Medicine physician who cares for patients at KelseySeybold’s Tanglewood Clinic.

Scan to view Dr. Croom’s online profile.

New Mammogram Guidelines

Earlier this year, the United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) issued new recommendations that all women have mammogram screenings every two years starting at age 40 and continuing through age 74.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women and can affect anyone. However, some groups face higher risks. For example, African American women are more likely to develop aggressive forms of breast cancer, often at younger ages, making early detection crucial. Women at higher risk may need to begin screenings earlier and more frequently.

• Age: While breast cancer is more common in women over 40, it can also affect younger women. Talk

to your doctor about whether you might be at higher risk.

• Family History and Genetics: Not everyone who is diagnosed with breast cancer has a family history, but a family history does increase the risk of being diagnosed. If breast cancer runs in your family, staying proactive can make all the difference.

Don’t Wait for Symptoms

Many women with breast cancer do not feel a lump or notice anything unusual. Regular mammograms can detect cancer early, even before you do.

You can schedule a mammogram by calling 713-442-7025 or visiting Kelsey-Seybold.com

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Black women underrepresented

By Laura Onyeneho

Black women remain significantly underrepresented in traditional high-paying occupations, despite their qualifications, according to a recent study conducted by the Urban Institute. The research reveals that Black women, including disabled and immigrant groups, are often crowded into low-paying, unstable jobs without benefits, even when their educational attainment qualifies them for higher-paying roles.

Ofronama Biu, a principal research associate in the Income and Benefits Policy Center at the Urban Institute, aims to shed light on occupational segregation and its impact on Black women’s economic well-being. Biu expressed her passion for exploring this issue, explaining, “We know that there have been so many findings around how Black workers are underrepresented in higher-paying jobs. I wanted to look at other dimensions of work—such as being a temp agency worker or having access to health insurance and retirement benefits.”

The research methodology used by Biu and her team was inspired by the occupational crowding theory developed by Barbara Bergman in the 1970s. This approach takes into account educational requirements for jobs and the actual educational attainment of workers. It enables researchers to identify whether groups, such as Black women, are overrepresented or underrepresented in certain occupations based on their qualifications. According to the findings, Black women earn a median income of $31,785 annually in occupations where they are

overrepresented, while they earn $40,499 in jobs where they are underrepresented compared to white men.

Biu noted that the educational attainment of Black women is not the root cause of their underrepresentation in high-paying jobs. Instead, she suggests that “discrimination is happening,” as Black women who are qualified for higher-paying roles are frequently passed over for less qualified individuals from other demographic groups. This not only limits their access to stable employment with benefits but also amplifies the wage gap. For example, disabled Black women earn a median wage income of about $20,000 less than white men, and this gap widens to $28,000 in occupations where Black women are overrepresented.

Black women are also more likely than white men to be crowded into occupations without benefits. In fact, they are six times more likely to work in roles that employ part-time workers and often find themselves overrepresented in temporary agency jobs. Nearly one in five Black women work in occupations with a high concentration of temporary workers, highlighting the precarious nature of the jobs they hold.

The implications of these findings are profound, both for policymakers and employers. Biu said that policymakers need to address employment discrimination more proactively. She referenced researchers who propose conducting audits of employers to identify where discrimination is occurring, rather than waiting for reports from workers. “When occupational

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crowding is happening, and people are underrepresented in higher-paying roles, that has other effects,” Biu said. These effects include reduced savings, difficulties paying off debt, and negative impacts on mental health.

For employers, the report suggests taking steps to ensure that hiring and promotion practices are free from bias. Biu advised employers to examine how screening processes—whether handled by humans or artificial intelligence—may be contributing to discriminatory outcomes. Additionally, employers can play a role in improving worker power by supporting collective bargaining rights, especially for those in non-traditional, unstable jobs.

Some of these recommendations include expanding healthcare and retirement benefits for all workers, strengthening the social safety net, and addressing employment discrimination through stronger enforcement and auditing processes.

LOCAL BLACK GIRLS DO ENGINEERING CORP

Black Girls Dream Fund Winner

By Laura Onyeneho

Houston’s Black Girls Do Engineering Corporation, founded by Kara Branch, has been named one of the 2024 Black Girls Dream Fund recipients, presented by the Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium.

As the only organization from Texas to receive this honor this year, Branch’s nonproft continues to make signifcant strides in exposing Black girls to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and careers.

“We’ve always had a strong national demand since we started in 2019, but to receive this grant, especially for the second year in a row, is incredibly humbling,” says Branch. “It’s a testament to the importance of the work we do and the impact we’re having.”

Founded in 2019, the Black Girls Do Engineering Corporation was born out of Branch’s personal experiences as a Black woman in STEM. As a chemical engineer and mother of three daughters, Branch saw frsthand the need for representation in the STEM felds.

“My daughter said she wanted to become a sofware engineer at nine. I knew from my experiences that she would likely face the same obstacles I did—being the only Black woman in the room,” says Branch. “Tat’s why I created this organization, to build a space for girls who look like her to feel empowered and prepared to take on the STEM world.”

Today, Black Girls Do Engineering serves girls ages six to 21, ofering membership programs, hands-on STEM activities, mentorship, and college prep. Te organization operates under three core pillars: membership, community engagement, and educator support. Trough these pillars, girls are exposed to cutting-edge projects and receive enrichment through fnancial literacy, certifcation programs, and mentorship opportunities.

The Impact of the Black Girls Dream Fund Grant

Winning the Black Girls Dream Fund grant for the second consecutive year is more than just a fnancial boost for Branch’s organization. Te grant, which supports Black women-led initiatives across the South, allows her to expand the organization’s reach and infrastructure.

“The funding has been crucial for us, especially because it supports our operations side,” says Branch. “Many grants fund the programs we do, but not many fund operational needs. Tis grant allowed us to hire 10 new team members, which has been a gamechanger in terms of running the organization more smoothly and reaching more girls.”

The Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium is working to address the massive funding gap that exists for Black women and girls. Research shows that Black women and girls receive less than 1% of the $4.8 billion in philanthropic investments made annually in the southern United States. Credit: Black Girls Do Engineering

With the additional resources, Black Girls Do Engineering has hosted over 30 events this year alone, expanding its footprint beyond Houston to cities like New York and New Orleans. Tis broader reach has allowed the organization to expose more girls nationwide to the possibilities within STEM felds.

“Last year, we impacted 2,000 girls thanks to this funding,” Branch shares. “Tat’s the power of support—when people back you, you can expand your team and, in turn, expand your reach.”

Despite the successes, Branch acknowledges that operating a Black-owned, Blackled nonproft in the STEM feld comes with its share of challenges, particularly when it comes to securing funding.

“Many organizations don’t see the ROI (return on investment) in DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) initiatives anymore. But we’ve been fortunate that companies have stuck with us because they see the quality of talent we’re producing,” Branch explains. “Our girls go to Ivy League schools, get job ofers right out of high school, and companies are coming to us because they know we’re building a strong pipeline of Black women in STEM.”

Te Black Girls Dream Fund, however, has remained a crucial partner. “In today’s climate, where DEI is under fre, this grant gives us the momentum to keep going. It shows us that someone still cares about the work we’re doing for Black girls in this space,” Branch says.

Te Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium is working to address the massive funding gap for Black women and girls. Research shows that Black women and girls

Credit: Black Girls Do Engineering

receive less than 1% of the $4.8 billion in philanthropic investments made annually in the southern United States. Te Southern Black Girls are determined to change that, with an ambitious goal to raise $100 million over the next decade. To date, they have awarded $5 million to 250 Black women-led organizations, supporting over 800 girls across the southern U.S.

With a long-term goal of training two million girls in STEM by 2050, Black Girls Do Engineering is just getting started. Te

organization boasts a 100% college success rate and a 100% job placement rate for its members—statistics that speak volumes about the quality of its programming. But for Branch, the goal isn’t just about getting more Black girls into STEM—it’s about ensuring they feel comfortable and supported in those spaces. “I want my girls to be able to be themselves,” she says. “When I started in STEM, I felt like I had to change everything about myself to ft in. I don’t want that for them.”

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JILL OF ALL TRADES

Shanedria Wagner

Makes her mark as educator, comedian, entrepreneur

By ReShonda Tate

As a student at Lanier Middle School, Shanedria Wagner found herself in a French class because the Spanish class was full. Little did she know, that class would change her life. Not only is she now fluent in French, the Houston-based educator teaches others and has channeled her love of foreign language into a business and a backdrop for her comedic skills.

“I fell in love with my French teacher,” she said. This serendipitous start led her to fluency by the time she graduated from Lamar High School, thanks to dedicated French instructors.

Wagner’s linguistic talents continued to flourish at Texas A&M University, where she placed out of several French courses, even studying abroad in France. After graduation, she began her teaching career as a middle school French teacher in Houston ISD and later expanded her skill set to include Spanish.

“I really love preparing my students to master both oral and written proficiency,” she said.

Wagner is also a successful entrepreneur. She and her husband run two businesses—Comuniquemos,, which offers in-class coaching and professional development, and “Spanish Etc.,” an app that allows her to tutor students in both French and Spanish. Her clients range from high school students preparing for rigorous oral exams to adults seeking language skills for travel abroad.

Despite being a champion of multilingual education, Wagner insists French holds unique advantages.

“Spanish is definitely wonderful, and if you can learn a second language, you can learn a third,” she said. “So pick up French as your third language because it enhances your English fluency.”

PURSUING OTHER PASSIONS

I’m doing the things that make me happy – all of them and I think that’s what makes a person live their best life.”

SHANEDRIA WAGNER

She cites numerous French borrowings in English and the cultural richness it brings, arguing that learning French refines grammar and deepens historical and geographical understanding.

“People think learning French is hard, but it’s not. If you can imitate and mimic and not be afraid of making mistakes, you’ll be fine. So if you’re open to making mistakes, laughing at those mistakes and being corrected lovingly, of course you will master it. French does have five accents compared to the Spanish one accent, and the accents do determine the way the word sounds. So it’s more challenging, more, more complex, but it’s definitely beautiful and worth the trouble,” she said.

In addition to her academic and business pursuits, Wagner’s love for comedy has also bloomed into a fulfilling career. Inspired by her classroom experiences, where she used characters like “Big Mama” and “Grandmama” to engage students.

“I find that these characters entertain the children. They help me to ‘edutain’ and it teaches children that everyone has an accent no matter where you’re from. And that increases cultural sensitivity and builds bridges, and I absolutely love it.”

Wagner began performing comedy at local events. Encouraged by a venue owner, she started doing regular shows, even hosting virtual events during COVID-19. Her characters, including Lupita from Puerto Rico and Abigail from London, have become fan favorites.

“I started writing fiction and I infused a lot of comedy in the fiction, but I secretly wanted to be a comedian and never told

anyone,” she said. “So for 10 years I wrote comedy and kept it a secret. And then when my grandmother’s cancer came back, and I looked at all the sickness in my family, I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, you’re not gonna live forever so you better get to living life! So I said, what is on my bucket list that I absolutely want to do? And that was comedy.”

Wagner’s talents don’t stop there. She is also the host of “The Sha-Wag Show,” a platform she created to interview notable figures and everyday people. Guests on her show have included “Grey’s Anatomy” star Chandra Wilson and local broadcaster Sharron Melton. Wagner’s commitment to showcasing the stories of her community continues to grow, with her show becoming a beloved platform for both serious conversations and laughter.

“I’m doing the things that make me happy - all of them and I think that’s what makes a person live their best life,” she added.

Shanedria Wagner on one of her many trips to Versailles. Credit: S. Wagner

Sports

Texans’ success tied to RB Joe Mixon & Co TERRANCE’S TAKE

By Terrance Harris

Running the football is important.

Let’s say it one more time.

Running the football is important.

And if the Texans are going to go anywhere this season, they will need a hefty dose of it. That much was obvious on Sunday when Joe Mixon returned to the lineup for the first time since Week 2 from a high-ankle sprain injury. His backup, Dameon Pierce, also was back after missing four games due to injury.

The end result was an efficient offense that pretty much did what it wanted during an impressive 41-21 road win over the New England Patriots. This was all accomplished even in the absence of star receiver Nico Collins. What it shows is how important the run is to the Texans and quarterback C.J. Stroud and how critical it will be as the season moves forward.

The Texans, even with arguably the most impressive receiver trio in the NFL this season, will go as Mixon and the ground game go.

“When your backs are special, they get more than what is blocked for, and that’s what you saw (Sunday) with the explosive runs, the two big explosive runs, one by Dameon and one by Joe,” said Texans coach DeMeco Ryans, whose team takes a 5-1 record into this week’s showdown in Green Bay. “When you got backs who can do that extra, that’s what they’re capable of doing, of giving us the extra. And for both guys to get touchdowns today, that was big.”

The explosive runs Ryans referred to were Mixon’s 20-yard touchdown burst early in the fourth quarter followed by Pierce’s 54-yard strike midway through the fourth.

The Texans had been missing those types of explosive runs the last month, and as a result, we saw them struggle to put away games against clearly inferior opponents.

With Mixon and Pierce working in tandem, the Texans accumulated 192 yards on the ground, which was more than double the 82 yards the defense limited the Patriots to. For some perspective, the offense had totaled just 233 yards rushing from Week 3-6 in their absence.

Mixon finished with 132 yards from scrimmage with 102 coming on the ground and 30 receiving, while Pierce added 76 rushing and an insane 9.5 yards per carry average.

By Terrance Harris

ROCKETS

IT’S THE PLAYOFFS OR NOTHING

It’s all about the next step for the Rockets this 2024-25 season.

And for this Rockets reboot that started four years ago, that next step is the postseason. The Rockets and their young nucleus of Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun and Jabari Smith made a push for the playoffs late last season but ultimately fell short and ended up back in the NBA Draft Lottery for the fourth straight summer.

But the flight plan this season has no margin for falling short.

“It’s got to be playoffs for us,” said veteran point guard Fred VanVleet, who was brought in prior to last season to help guide the Rockets young corp. “Our eyes have to set on that, set on advancing, not just making the playoffs, but advancing.”

That’s exactly the thought process throughout the organization after finishing last season 41-41 and missing the playoffs after a head-turning March that made the playoffs seem realistic.

The organization is so confident in this unit, which also features veterans Dillon Brooks and Jeff Green and youngsters such as Amen Thompson, Cam Whitmore, and Tari Eason, that it made minimum additions this offseason.

The only true new addition is sharp-shooting rookie Reed Sheppard, whom the Rockets drafted No.3 overall. Veteran big man Steven Adams will suit up for the Rockets for the first time but he was actually acquired during a trade last season.

That’s just how much confidence the organization has in its nucleus despite playing in a Western Conference and Southwest Division that is still stacked.

“We looked at every opportunity, but it was very conscious,” Rockets general manager Rafael Stone said to the Defender. “We felt like we saw good growth. With respect to our young players, we drafted them all, we liked them a lot when we drafted them and I think with all of them we like them better now.

“Yeah, we want to see where this group can go.”

That seems to be the sentiment around the team, as well. The feeling was that the Rockets were so close last season, a game or two here or there or even a possession or two stood in the way of the five games they came up short in their push for the postseason.

Now, the belief is in Year 2 of head coach Ime Udoka and the development of Green, Smith and Sengun into star players in the league, this season could finally signal the end of the rebuild and the beginning of the rebirth of the organization.

“I think it’s real important,” Smith said to the Defender in reference to having more continuity this season. “Some of these guys, all together I’ve been with for two years now, going into my third.

“We know what to expect out of each other. So, when we don’t see that we can hold each other accountable. I feel like that is so important,and I feel like we’ve got that. Off the court, on the court we love each other.”

The Rockets’ growth and chemistry got a kick-start this summer when Green invited the entire team to Los Angeles to not just work out together but to bond and further build that connection.

“Really just the chemistry and just building that to comradery, doing everything together, we had dinners together, we kicked it,” Green said. “We are going to go to war together, so we have to have that fellowship, too.”

ROCKETS AT A GLANCE

Head Coach: Ime Udoka

Key Returning Players: Jalen Green, Fred VanVleet, Alperen Sengun, Jabari Smith, Dillon Brooks, Amen Thompson, and Jeff Green.

New Addition: Reed Shepard (Drafted No.3 overall out of Kentucky).

Top Scorers: Alperen Sengun (21.1 points), Jalen Green (19.6), Fred VanVleet (17.4), Jabari Smith (13.7) and Dillon Brooks (12.7).

Top Rebounders: Alperen Sengun (9.3) and Jabari Smith (8.1).

Last Season’s Record (Western Conference finish): 41-41 (11th place).

2024-205 Prediction: Finish 8th in the Western Conference and make playoffs.

Terrance Harris

Sports DN

ROYCE WILSON

Journeys from unranked to college commit

By Jimmie Aggison

Willowridge High School senior linebacker

Royce Wilson’s name has begun to become increasingly recognized in recruiting circles. Once an unknown player with no rankings or interest from colleges, Wilson has now become a player to watch, showcasing a story of resilience and determination.

Standing at 6’2” and weighing 215 pounds, Wilson entered his sophomore season with undeniable physical attributes. His speed to the ball, ability to cover the field, and sure tackling hinted at his potential, yet there was no recognition and he remained under the radar.

“I believe our team as a whole has been overlooked and overshadowed through the years,” said Wilson. “Other teams in our district seem to gain attention but we seem to lack that same attention. We just have to continue working and one day, it will pay off.”

By his junior season, Wilson had grown to 6’3 230 pounds. Wilson’s name was still not on recruiters’ lists, but his on-field performance spoke for itself. He was named second-team all-district at both tight end and defensive line. He benched 250 pounds, squatted 405 pounds and ran a 4.7-second 40-yard dash. However, even with 63 tackles, 6 sacks, and 15 tackles for loss, no college offers materialized.

That changed when Wilson was invited to the U.S. Army Bowl showcase, a prestigious event where top players were given the opportunity to show their skills. Wilson made the most of the opportunity, and his standout performance put him on the radar of scouts. After the showcase, Texas Top Talent ranked him the #30 prospect in the state for the Class of 2025, marking his rise as one of the top linebackers in Texas.

“It felt great. There was a lot of love coming at me. All the hard work I put in was finally paying off. It really felt great,” said Wilson.

Shortly thereafter, college scouts began to take notice, and Wilson earned praise from recruiters, including Corey Johnson, a recruiting coordinator and linebacker coach from Jagcount Sports Recruiting.

Johnson remarked, “He was good. Utilized great technique and used his hands to redirect running backs and tight ends.”

Wilson’s performance earned him an honorable mention for the All-Combine team, further validating his abilities.

With his stock rising, Wilson started attending junior days at top programs, including the University of Texas, the University of

Arkansas, and UTEP. Soon after, he received offers from East Tennessee State, Liberty University, Sam Houston, and Texas Southern University, but it was UTEP that caught Wilson’s attention.

“UTEP talked to me like I was already a part of the team,” said Wilson. “They treated me like family ever since I got the offer from them. I stepped on campus, and UTEP felt like home, whereas other schools just felt like another day. Coach Seth McDonald and the other coaching staff stayed in contact with me. Other schools, I never heard back from them after the initial conversation. So, UTEP was an easy choice for me.”

Determined to continue his upward trajectory, Wilson spent the summer training with the renowned “Footwork King” to improve his speed and physicality. His commitment to refining his game made him an even more formidable player.

This past April, Wilson committed to UTEP, seeing it as the perfect place to continue his football journey. His official offer from UTEP came in August, and he made his official visit to the campus in October.

“It was great. It was phenomenal. I really enjoyed it. The coaches were with me the whole time, checking up, making sure I had everything. It was all around a wonderful experience,” said Wilson.

Wilson’s journey from being overlooked and unranked to becoming one of Texas’ top linebacker prospects is a testament to his grit, perseverance, and dedication. With his senior season ahead of him and a bright future at UTEP, Wilson’s story is far from over.