Houston Defender: October 28, 2021

BLACK WOMEN & DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Fighting the growing problem

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Volume 90, issue 52 October 28, 2021

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DN To the POINT LET THE PEOPLE BE HEARD

Condoleezza Rice rejects Critical Race Theory. What are your thoughts?

Repost@theshaderoom

COMMENTS pete.jones.127201 She never was and never will be for us. As we all know, not all skin folk are kin folk. She is one of many house negroes and sell outs.

resource.musik This is tragic because making white people feel bad is NOT what CRT is about lol

howardlee58 It’s not about feelings. It’s about teaching history correctly instead of a falsely and fragmented constructed narra-tive. What people feel about it is a different subject.

eric.talbot.3382 SMH

beautifullydonedrapery She is apparently benefiting from White Privilege. Our kids need to know and their kids need to know why we are where we are today as a people. Their white skin gives them more privilege, thus more opportunities, thus more access and history reveals this. Check out any schools GT Program. I am so disappointed to hear her say this. She (was) once a role model for my 11 year old daughter not after this. She actually made me cry. So heartbreaking for those of us facing the opposite of what she is saying.

pepflyhigh Boy have white folks done a number on us… she’s worried about white children feeling guilt.

How about how black children have felt for hundreds of years. Tell the TRUTH OF AMERICAS HISTORY

irv1906 There is a way to teach it without offending

reaves_reginald No one is trying to make white kids feel guilty what about black kids and how they feel about their ancestors being enslaved it works both ways

getuptime Oh please it’s actual American History

sociology_nut Critical race theory is not about making white kids feel bad at all. That totally misses the point.

Astros superfan Anana Walker

Message from the Associate Editor ROOTING FOR DUSTY & ANANA

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

Full disclosure. I grew up hating the Astros.

This year marks the 55th anniversary of the Back in the day they were in the same divifounding of the Black Panther Party for Self-Desion as my hometown Cincinnati Reds. So, I’ve fense, yet much of their work still remains a been rooting against the ‘Stros long before they mystery to most. As with most things related to donned those horrific, multi-striped 80s uniBlackfolk, the story of the BPP has been grossly forms. The fact that for a couple of years, they distorted. They have been, and still are, portrayed were the only baseball team to field an entire as a violent, anti-white hate group. Some misAswad Walker squad with zero American-born Black ballplayguided souls even call them the Black version of ers, only solidified my anti-Astros position. But the KKK. But the Panthers never carried out doin 2017, out of nowhere, my youngest daughter, Anana, be- mestic terrorism attacks against the white community, and came an Astros superfan. Seeing the joy on her face when never had, like the KKK did, a cadre of police, military, FBI her hometown team won left me no choice but to root for and elected officials backing up their lynching and bombing the Astros. And when they hired Dusty Baker, that solidified campaigns. “Uncritical” race theory has made the Panthers my Astros love. I saw Baker play in Cincinnati’s old River- and violence synonymous. But the BPP was formed to profront Stadium as Hank Aaron’s teammate and in the Dome tect Black Oakland residents from the violence inflicted on as a Dodger. I’m a big Dusty fan, and even bigger fan of my them by police during car stops. Yes, the BPP were about daughter Anana. So, please believe, I’m cheering for the As- our right to self-defense, but their most lasting legacies were tros to win it all! providing the models for the free breakfast programs, neighborhood health clinics and job training programs adopted THAT’S GREEK TO ME and used by the U.S. government to this day.

When I heard that folk were attacking actress Amanda Seales for wearing AKA sorority gear on TV’s Insecure IN THIS WEEK’S DEFENDER even though, in real life, she’s not an AKA, I thought, “That’s  Check out our In Focus on a critical topic: Domestic Violence. crazy. She’s an actress playing a role. How ‘insecure’ do you  Watson Watch: The Texans are on the clock if they want have to be to be mad at a Black actor or actress playing roles to get fair trade value for their disgruntled and legally emwhere they’re Divine Nine members?” I needed someone to battled QB. make this make sense. Then, I heard comedian and radio  Mayor Turner announces the 2021-22 Mayor’s Youth show host Rickey Smiley (an Omega) explain that if he were Council. to wear Omega Psi Phi gear on a show, he would first have to get permission from the fraternity’s international office. ON THE WEB My response to that explanation? “I still need someone to  Texas universities are caught between local and federal make this make sense.” Feeling some kinda way because vaccine mandates.

Seales’ role called her to be an AKA seems beyond childish.  Opponents to Critical Race Theory seek to flip school I’m not a Greek, so maybe that’s why this is Greek to me, but boards locally and nationally.

I’d think a frat or sorority would be flattered to have their set  Issa Rae and Amanda Seales respond to critics of sorority positively highlighted on the big or small screen. affiliation in Insecure.

October 28, 2021 |

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DN News

House committee investigates Black books in schools Texas Tribune

A Republican state lawmaker has launched an investigation into Texas school districts over the type of books they have, particularly if they pertain to race or sexuality or “make students feel discomfort.”

State Rep. Matt Krause, in his role as chair of the House Committee on General Investigating, notified the Texas Education Agency that he is “initiating an inquiry into Texas school district content,” according to an Oct. 25 letter obtained by The Texas Tribune.

Krause’s letter provides a 16-page list of about 850 book titles and asks the districts if they have these books, how many copies they have and how much money they spent on the books.

His list of titles includes bestsellers and award winners alike, including: • “The Confessions of Nat Turner”

by William Styron • “Between the World and Me”

by Ta-Nehisi Coates • “Hood Feminism: Notes from the Women that a Movement Forgot”

by Mikki Kendall

• “Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents”

by Isabel Wilkerson • “LGBT Families”

by Leanne K. Currie-McGhee • “The Letter Q: Queer Writers’ Notes to their Younger Selves” edited by Sarah Moon • “The Underground Guide to Teenage Sexuality: An Essential Handbook for Today’s Teens and Parents”

by Michael J. Basso

Krause, a Fort Worth lawmaker and founding member of the House Freedom Caucus, is running for state attorney general against Ken Paxton. Krause declined to comment and no explanation was given as to how these books were chosen.

Krause informs districts they must provide the committee with the number of copies they have of each book, on what part of campus those books are located and how much money schools spent on the books, as well as information on any other book that violates House Bill 3979, the so-called “critical race theory law” designed to limit how

race-related subjects are taught in public schools. Critical race theory, the idea that racism is embedded in legal systems and not limited to individuals is an academic discipline taught at the university level. But it has become a common phrase used by conservatives to include anything about race taught or discussed in public secondary schools.

School officials have until Nov. 12 to respond. It is unclear what will happen to the districts that have such books.

Texas State Teachers Association President Ovidia Molina said in a statement that the investigation is a “witch hunt” and that nothing in state law gives lawmakers the right to go after educators.

“This is an obvious attack on diversity and an attempt to score political points at the expense of our children’s education,” she said.

Read more on this story and the list of books being banned.

JPMorgan Chase opens innovative branch in 5th Ward, gives $1m to TSU Defender News Service

Chase is celebrating the grand opening of its first Community Center branch in Houston, which is designed to provide greater access to banking services and financial education for the underserved communities of Houston.

The new branch in Houston’s historic Fifth Ward will help more Black and Hispanic consumers open accounts, manage their money, start businesses and buy homes.

JPMorgan Chase also announced a $1 million commitment to Texas Southern University to expand student education, scholarship and recruitment opportunities.

“We recognize that talent is distributed equally but opportunity is not,” said Jamie Dimon, Chairman and CEO of JPMorgan Chase. “HBCUs have been producing top talent for decades and we feel that by expanding our partnerships more broadly, we’ll inspire a whole new generation of leaders to guide us into an exciting global economy and a more equitable future.”

“Texas Southern University is proud to partner with JPMorgan Chase to transform the lives of our students and community,”

TSU Pres. Dr. Lesia Crumpton-Young and JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon meet on campus to talk with students about Chase’s $1 mil investment.

said Dr. Lesia Crumpton-Young, President of Texas Southern University. “We look forward to a strategic relationship that will enhance the career trajectory of our students, provide

professional resources for our faculty, and elevate the financial and entrepreneurial prowess of our entire TSU community. We are grateful for the generous donation of the time, talent

and resources of the JPMorgan Chase team.”

The $1 million investment will support TSU’s Future Bankers Leadership Program, designed to open pathways for students seeking careers in finance. The program will serve juniors and seniors enrolled in the college’s Jesse H. Jones School of Business. Earlier this year, JPMorgan Chase announced a $250,000 investment with TSU to establish a virtual information hub that will help Houstonians living in neighborhoods that are vulnerable to flooding. TSU will work with those communities to create their own disaster preparedness plans and personal readiness plans. The work will include information for COVID-19 prevention.

In late September, JPMorgan Chase announced a multi-million-dollar investment in Unity National Bank to strengthen the independent, Black-owned bank so that it can increase mortgage lending and support of local small businesses. Founded in Houston 58 years ago, Unity is the only African American owned banking institution based in Texas.

Unity’s historic bank branch is located only a few blocks from the TSU campus.

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DN News

ELECTION DAY

 Tuesday, Nov. 2, 2021  Find your voting spot at www.HarrisVotes.com

Abbott approves new political maps Texas Tribune

Gov. Greg Abbott has approved Texas’ new political maps for the state’s congressional, legislative and State Board of Education districts, according to Texas Legislature Online.

The maps were drawn to keep Texas Republicans in power for the next decade. They simultaneously diminish the power of voters of color — despite new census numbers pointing to Texans of color as the main force behind the state’s population growth.

The new districts will be used for the first time in next year’s primary and general elections, barring any Greg Abbott court interventions.

The redistricting process, which happens every 10 years after new census data is released, is complicated and contentious. Legal battles have already begun, with one early lawsuit raising various claims that the new districts unfairly and illegally discriminate against voters of color. More legal challenges are expected to pop up in the near future.

Here’s what Texans should know about the 2021 redistricting outcomes.

The Texas GOP fortified its power with all four maps

Texas lawmakers drew political maps that would protect the GOP’s majorities in the Texas Legislature, on the State Board of Education and within the state’s congressional delegation to Washington, D.C. Throughout the process, Texas Republicans — nearly all of whom are white — struggled against demographic tides to protect their grip on power.

Republicans drew maps that dilute the power of voters of color

Census data shows that Texans of color accounted for 95% of the state’s population growth, but the state’s new political maps don’t reflect this growth.

New congressional map increases districts Trump would have won

With the state’s new congressional districts, Republicans designed a map that will tighten their hold on diversifying parts of the state, where the party’s grip on power was waning. It will also lock in the GOP’s majority in the 38-seat delegation for the U.S. House. The state’s delegation had consisted of 23 Republicans and 13 Democrats.

Trump won 22 current U.S. House districts, but would have won 25 under the new maps.

Senate map protects Republican incumbents

Texas’ new Senate map draws safe seats for Republican incumbents who were facing competitive races as their districts diversified over the last 10 years. As of October 2021, the chamber’s 31 seats were divided among 18 Republicans and 13 Democrats.

State Board of Education map keeps Republicans in control

The State Board of Education is the 15-member body that dictates what millions of Texas public school students are

A man adjusts his mask as he walks past a mural in the heavily Latino section of Oak Cliff in Dallas. Latino advocates and officeholders say it’s time to correct past wrongs. The state’s explosive population growth over the past decade, half of which comes from Latinos, has earned it two new congressional seats. At least one should be a Latino-majority congressional seat in the Dallas area, they argue. AP Photo/LM Otero

REDISTRICTING 2020 ELECTION

76 85 74 65

CURRENT MAP

WITH THE NEW MAP

districts voted for Trump

districts that would have favored Trump

voted for Biden

that would have voted for Biden

taught in classrooms. It is currently made up of nine Republicans and six Democrats. The new map continues to give Republicans control. Seven of the districts went to Biden during the 2020 general election, but under the new maps, Biden would have won only six of the districts.

New House districts decrease Hispanic, Black voters’ influence

The state’s new House map pulls back on Hispanic and Black voters’ potential influence in electing their representatives. The map brings the number of districts in which Hispanics make up the majority of eligible voters down from 33 to 30. The number of districts with Black residents as the majority of eligible voters would drop from seven to six. Meanwhile, the number of districts with a white majority among eligible voters would increase from 83 to 89.

The redraw will ultimately aid Republicans’ ability to control the chamber for years to come.

MORE ON HOW THE NEW MAPS CAN ALTER UPCOMING ELECTIONS

Redistricting maps in Texas.

VOLUME 90 - NUMBER 52 - OCTOBER 28, 2021 Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles

Managing Editor ReShonda Tate

Chief Development Officer Emelda Douglas

Associate Editor Aswad Walker

Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles

Education Reporter Laura Onyeneho

Creative Director Michael Grant

Sports Terrance Harris Jodie B. Jiles

Engagement Manager Alexandria Williams

Photographers Jimmie Aggison

The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender Newspaper Inc. and audited by Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). Only digital subscriptions are available at: www.defendernetwork.com/subscribe No paper subscriptions available. All materials covered by 2020 copyright.

No materials herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. 713-663-6996 | P.O. Box 8005, Houston, Tx 77288

October 28, 2021 |

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6 | October 28, 2021 |

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DN News Justice delayed in Houston cases deserving national attention

By ASWAD WALKER

Decades before April 22, 2020, the day 35-year-old Joshua Johnson was shot and killed by Harris County deputy Tu Tran, former Texas Southern student Darius Elam was convicted of a crime for which no physical evidence exists linking him to the crime.

Elam has been in prison for 39 years, yet is just as adamant today about his innocence as he was when initially arrested.

Johnson can’t speak for himself, but his parents Wilhemina and Richard Beary, along with family spokesperson James Hudson, have continued to demand justice for Joshua.

In both local cases, however, justice has been delayed, the plights of Johnson and Elam have been overshadowed by higher-profile cases.

RECAP OF CASES

In 2020, the police killings of Ahmaud Arbery (Feb. 23), Breonna Taylor (March 13) and George Floyd (May 25) made national news. Johnson’s killing, however, failed to garner national attention even though Tran, who shot and killed Johnson, gave an account of events through Sheriff ’s Department spokesmen that was vehemently refuted by what several residents of the 15000 block of E. Ritter Circle assert they saw.

Yet, a grand jury failed to indict Tran.

Prior to his incarceration, Elam, who had no criminal past, relocated to Houston from Chicago to attend TSU on a track scholarship. Moreover, he was married with newborn twins, along with another child.

According to his brother Samuel, Darius, being a good Samaritan, gave a co-worker, Clarence Richardson, a ride home. While in route, they stopped at the Galleria where Richardson used an altered credit card of Richard Bowen, who was found on May 7, 1983 on Rice University’s campus with a fatal gunshot to his head.

Both men were charged with credit card

Tammie Lang Campbell (in yellow) during a 2020 press conference regarding the Darius Elam case.

abuse Samuel asserts his brother knew nothing of the credit card. Even more maddening for Darius supporters, Richardson served three years, while Darius received a murder charge, though he was convicted of aggravated robbery.

The two deciding factors in Darius’ conviction are shaky, to say the least, according to Tammie Lang Campbell, founder and executive director of the Honey Brown Hope Foundation, the group that has for the past three years spearheaded efforts to get Darius released: a mystery sheet of yellow paper that was not seen by two separate crime scene investigators or the 28 crime scene photos, yet it appeared 90 days later with Darius’ print, supposedly found in the victim’s truck — after the truck had been returned to the victim’s family and a jailed informant’s testimony that he later recanted.

UPDATES

When Darius requested DNA post-conviction testing, the Houston Police Department (HPD) reported that

HARRIS COUNTY ELECTIONS

HOW CAN THE COMMUNITY HELP?  Visit www.honeybrownhope.org to send emails and sign a petition to pressure Judge Joshua Hill to deliver his decision on the Darius Elam case to the higher court.  Go to YouTube to watch the play about the Joshua Johnson killing titled “Chapel of Restoration: The Coverup.”  Read articles on each case at DefenderNetwork.com and other places.  Share information about both cases via social media.  Challenge media outlets to publicize and investigate the cases.

it destroyed the questionable sheet of paper, the only piece of evidence HPD destroyed. Also, in 2014, post-conviction DNA testing dismissed Darius as a DNA contributor to the remaining evidence items, meaning no physical evi-

dence links Elam to the crime.

Yet, he remains incarcerated.

“I talk to my brother nearly every day, and basically, he’s in fight mode,” said Samuel. “I don’t think he’s feeling sorry for himself to the extent where he’s getting depressed about it. He’s just in fight mode.

He knows he’s innocent.”

The wheels of justice stalled for Darius in Judge Joshua Hill’s 232nd District Court of Harris County. Darius’ writ hearing seeking the court’s recommendation to drop the charges based on 2014 post-conviction DNA testing that dismissed Elam as a DNA contributor, was held on July 12, 2019.

“The Court had until Dec. 2, 2019 to render a decision as to whether the judge deems my brother not guilty of the crime and this case should be overturned, and get that to the Court of Appeals,” said Samuel. “It’s been almost two years now, it’s almost December 2021, and we’re still waiting.”

“We have documents to prove that what happened to Joshua Johnson was a coverup,” said Hudson.

November 2nd is ELECTION DAY

Vote at any location in the county.

Visit harrisvotes.com to make a plan to vote!

October 28, 2021 |

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Education SCHOOLS-TO-PRISON PIPELINE

UH hosts panel on solutions

By Laura Onyeneho

The University of Houston College of Education hosted a community conversation aimed at identifying key action plans to disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline in favor of equity-centered educational opportunities and outcomes for students.

The discussion introduced a lineup of experts in fields ranging from education to the law, including: HISD Superintendent Millard L. House II; Harris County Assistant County Atty Glenda Duru; Director of the Center for Civil Rights Remedies of UCLA’s Civil Rights Project Dan Losen; and Houston Health Dept. Chief of Children and Resiliency Kristi Rangel.

Falling short nationwide

Losen explained the many factors that contribute to the risk of juvenile delinquency and incarceration. One factor that is often overlooked is the way in which schools may be contributing to such patterns, failing to meet the needs of students

Assistant County Attorney

Supt., Houston Independent School District

Director, Center for Civil Rights at UCLA

Chief of Public Health education, City of Houston

UH Community Conversation Panelists

and how it contributes to the crisis. He said the current system across the nation is grossly inequitable.

Challenges include lack of training for educators to deal with mental and behavior health due to COVID-19, ineffective teaching of reading, parental outreach, lack of diversity among staff, power imbalance on school boards and inequitable harsh discipline given to

troubled students by decision-makers.

Losen added that the presence of police on campus is more detrimental than beneficial. Suspensions also increase the rate of dropping out and failing to graduate on time.

School district solutions

House discussed steps his district is taking. The HISD Wraparound pro-

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gram provides families with food, counseling, rental assistance and other services for students who have stressful home lives. He said many schools that have a zero-tolerance policy can criminalize infractions that should be handled inside a classroom rather than a courtroom. HISD’s police department works directly with the Harris County Attorney’s Office to ensure that students with minor infractions enter a program that leads to rehabilitation as well as trauma-informed training with law enforcement.

HISD is working with the Center of Urban Transformation on a program that allows students arrested on minor drug charges to have their records expunged when they complete a drug education program. The school district encourages principals, teachers and students to build rapport rather than surface-level communication to understand the root of a child’s behavior and life experience.

8 | October 28, 2021 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Special CELEBRATING 90 YEARS

COMMITTED TO BLACK EXCELLENCE

By Laura Onyeneho

Since 1930, The Houston Defender has served as Houston’s leading Black information source. For the last 90 years, the Defender continues to be an integral part of the city’s history and a model of journalistic integrity and it’s still going strong.

Even in a rapidly changing media landscape, the Defender has been recognized locally and nationally for its quality content and its ability to localize complex societal issues that impact the Black community.

The Defender has received multiple grants and awards for its blend of thought-provoking discussions, forward-thinking ideas, creative content and attention-grabbing storytelling that creates a safe environment for its audience.

ReShonda Tate-Billingsley Managing Editor ABOUT ME: I’m a Houstonian (by way of Smackover, Arkansas). My most important job is mother to my three children.

I am the National Bestselling Author of more than 50 books, some of which have been made into TV movies (I starred in two of them...okay maybe I didn’t star but I did have a couple of lines). I am a former TV news anchor and reporter who has worked in Houston, Oklahoma City and Beaumont. I also work as a ghost writer, literary editor and consultant, and a screenwriter. My first film I penned will be released this winter.

FUN FACT: I wanted to be a rapper back in high school (I’m an award-winning poet). My mom shut that dream down.

Aswad Walker Associate Editor ABOUT ME: I’m originally from Cincinnati, Ohio. I’m a husband and father of six children. I’m an associate pastor for the Shrine of Black Madonna (Houston). I am a lecturer (adjunct professor) in the University of Houston Main Campus’s African American Studies Department and have done that since 2004. I have authored five books and contributed to the Frederick Douglass Encyclopedia, Journal of Black Studies and several other books and publications.

FUN FACT: I graduated from the greatest high school in the universe...Willowridge High School and started as an offensive guard on our undefeated 1982-83 state championship football team that went 15-0.

The future is digital and we are growing with the times.

The Defender is in the process of a major transformation in the way we bring our community the news. We have started investing in new digital products to help us expand our reach and better connect with you.

The success and longevity of the Defender couldn’t be possible without the help of the community and our team of talented news professionals who are ready to take this news organization to the next level.

As the Defender celebrates another year around the sun, we hope that you continue to support us and our mission to tell the story of the Black experience for the next 90 years.

Meet our dynamic Defender team: Jodie B. Jiles High School Sport Editor ABOUT ME: I love sports and have been with the Defender since birth. I joined the staff as a videographer and accepted the responsibility of doing high school sports and never looked back.

FUN FACT: I am trying my hand at being an author and preparing to launch a book entitled “Vampire in Egypt.”

Terrance Harris Professional & College Sports Editor ABOUT ME: I’ve been with The Defender since August 2019. I’m a long-time sportswriter who has covered everything from college sports to the Texans and Rockets during my 16 years of living in the Houston market. Before joining The Defender, I worked for the Houston Chronicle, AOL, Sports Radio 610, and NOLA.com.

FUN FACT: When I’m not juggling assignments, I’m usually spending time with my two children, Amari and Nigel.

One is four hours away in college, but that doesn’t stop her from keeping me busy with the Daddy do’s. My son is 14 and vacillates between an aspiring athlete and a drummer.

Go figure. But I enjoy every minute and all of the quirks of being a girl and boy dad.

Clyde Joseph Jiles Strategic Alliance Manager/ Social Media Director ABOUT ME: I was born into the business, and have been exposed to the dynamic effect the Defender has on the Houston Black community since I was a little boy. I have worked as a paperboy, secretary, distribution team member, virtual event

producer, and several other roles. In working in those various capacities within the Defender I was able to see how this company truly cares about the people and community we serve.

FUN FACT: I am a classically-trained chef.

Laura Onyeneho Education Reporter ABOUT ME: I cover Houston’s education system as it relates to the Black community as a Report for America corps member. I’m a multimedia journalist and have reported on social, cultural, lifestyle, and community news for 6+ years. Prior to the Defender, I was a multimedia producer for the Boston Herald and worked as a news associate at WBZ-TV, a CBS station.

FUN FACT: I’m a proud Nigerian-American. I’m also a professional event emcee. For years, I’ve facilitated a diverse range of events from weddings to cultural festivals.

I look forward to sharing my talent with the Bayou City.

Jimmie Aggison Photographer ABOUT ME: Originally from Kansas. University of Kansas graduate in the area of communication studies.

Huge sports and Kanye West fan. Favorite color is red.

FUN FACT: I like to watch documentaries or listen to interviews on YouTube while cropping photos.

Emelda J. Douglas Chief Development Officer | NEW ABOUT ME: Wife. Mother. Community Advocate.

Business Executive. I align revenue strategies capable of supporting robust organizational growth. At Defender Network we are strengthening business capabilities and building our newsroom to better promote, amplify and distribute Black news and information via print and digital networks.

FUN FACT: Love the great outdoors - gardening, hiking, snorkeling.

October 28, 2021 |

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN InFocus FOCUS SOCIAL Harris County District Attorney outlines plan to combat domestic violence

By ReShonda Tate

Harris County is seeing an increase in the number of domestic violence assault cases, prompting the district attorney’s office to outline a plan to tackle the issue.

District Attorney Kim Ogg says she will be looking for more funding and more employees for the office’s Domestic Violence Division from Harris County Commissioner’s Court in fiscal year 2022-23.

“We are looking to invest more in our community to stop domestic violence,” Ogg said during an Oct. 27 web panel on domestic violence. “So not only am I willing to advocate for support for you, I am willing to invest in you because this is the people’s money. I wanted to go back to the communities that have been hurt by the very criminals who we forfeit the proceeds of their crimes.”

Kim Ogg Ogg was joined by members of her office’s Domestic Violence Division, who spoke on several points about the work it is performing to help combat domestic violence, including assistance with reporting and prosecution, safety measures victims can take through criminal courts, and the work that is performed by the division’s social workers.

“The state of criminal justice when it comes to domestic violence and, in truth, overall in Harris County, is in crisis,” Ogg said. “The good news is the system is not broken. You’ll hear a lot of people in the political world, the social media world and to some degree our victims feel like our system is broken. I assure you it’s not.”

Domestic violence homicide has been one of three drivers for the county’s increasing homicide rate, Ogg said. The other two are: commission of murders by repeat violent offenders and a commission of murders by gang members.

“In the four and a half years I have been in office, this is the most that we’ve ever filed in this area,” Ogg said on the number of victims of domestic violence homicide.

That is why the Domestic Violence Division is imploring victims of domestic

BY THE NUMBERS

Total number of domestic violence assault cases filed: Misdemeanors and Felonies 2018:

5% 28%

5% of Texas pop.

3%

13% of Texas pop.

11,357 11,582 13,150 10,888

32%

41% of Texas pop.

2019:

2020:

32%

40% of Texas pop.

2021:

YTD

This does not include: VPOs, sexual assaults, terroristic threats, stalking, burglary hab. or homicide

2020

389 83

Charges/cases of murder

Victims of domestic violence homicide Source: Harris County Justice Administration Department

violence to call the police and get law enforcement involved, and to make sure they are keeping close friends and family in the loop so that if things escalate, they have people they know and are on alert for any kind of concerning situation, said Michael Hanover, the Domestic Violence Division’s assistant district attorney. However, even in cases with an uncooperative victim, the DA’s office is still able to prosecute through other evidence, including 911 calls and body camera footage, photographs taken by law enforcement at a crime scene, and talking to friends and family of the victim, Hanover said. A protective order also remains an option for victims of family, domestic or dating violence, and victims of stalking, harassment, sexual assault, and more, Assistant District Attorney Cornelia Hartman said.

“The good news is the system is not broken.

You’ll hear a lot of people in the political world, the social media world and to some degree our victims feel like our system is broken. I assure you it’s not.”

-Kim Ogg, Harris County D.A.

The Harris County D.A.'s office is releasing a number of PSAs to tackle the growing domestic violence problem.

CLASSIFIED PowerSchool Group, LLC is bidding on project RFP 21-06-02 Instructional Curriculum Materials, Supplies and Digital Resources for the Houston Independent School District. We are looking for subcontractors who can provide the following services: implementation project management, product training. If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Jen Armstrong, Manager of Proposal Development, at jen.armstrong@powerschool.com no later than November 10, 2021.

The HARRIS CENTER for Mental Health and IDD (formerly known as MENTAL HEALTH MENTAL RETARDATION AUTHORITY OF HARRIS COUNTY) will be accepting Requests for Proposals for the following:

WHOLE HOME GENERATOR PROJECT Specifications may be secured from The HARRIS CENTER, Purchasing Services located at 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074; telephone (713) 970-7279, The HARRIS CENTER website www.theharriscenter.org or the Electronic State Business Daily Site https://portal.cpa. state.tx.us/ beginning Monday, November 1, 2021. Deadline for prospective vendors to submit questions to this RFP is Monday, November 8, 2021. Responses must be submitted to Purchasing Services, delivered to 9401 SW Freeway, Houston, Texas 77074 by 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 30, 2021 in a sealed envelope marked “RFP - DO NOT OPEN UNTIL – TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2021, WHOLE HOME GENERATOR PROJECT”. Any questions pertaining to this solicitation should be addressed in writing to Sharon Brauner, Purchasing Manager and Nina Cook, Director of Purchasing, via E-mail to sharon.brauner@theharriscenter.org cc: nina.cook@theharriscenter.org or fax at (713) 970-7682. Historically Underutilized Businesses, including Minority-Owned Businesses and Women-Owned Businesses are encouraged to participate. The HARRIS CENTER reserves all rights to reject any and/or all proposals, to waive formalities and reasonable irregularities in submitted documents as it deems to be in its best interests, and is not obligated to accept the lowest proposal.

10 | October 28, 2021 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

| 11

DN In FOCUS SOCIAL Focus FIGHTING THE GROWING PROBLEM

By ReShonda Tate

Black Women & Domestic Violence

same period last year. mestic violence, but she says there is huge need and a lack When Houstonian Layla Steele met Zacchaeus Gaston, the 24-yearThe Houston Police Department said doof a coordinated response in the community that focuses

BY THE NUMBERS old was hoping for happily ever after, especially after she became on women of color. mestic violence is the most unreported crime Domestic violence crimes pregnant. But the relationship quickly soured and on the same day “No matter how we slice it, how we look at the numbers, and in the last two years, the number of retheir baby boy, Zeus turned 1 year old, police say Zacchaeus, who it continues to come back as women of color continue to be ported incidents have increased exponentialwas out of jail on seven felony bonds, gunned Layla down – with Zeus disproportionately impacted by domestic violence. And so ly. HPD reports from Jan. 1 to Sept. 30, there in her arms. it made sense to me and so many others that we would start were more than 25,000 domestic violence cases, In Harris County Layla died later at the hospital. Zeus was also hit, but survived. The Maylaysia Levy which are up by 74%. According to its data, an organization that met their needs in a culturally specific family says the shooting was the culmination of Layla trying to escape way and met them where they were not passing judgment, domestic violence murders account for 17% of a domestic violence situation. And like so many victims, even a protecnot making it difficult for them to get the help. Simply the city’s homicides and domestic sexual assaults tive order couldn’t keep her safe. making it easy for them to access, because just admitting account for 15% of all reported sexual assaults.

Domestic violence “We would say the only way we could get him away from her is if you’re a victim of domestic violence is a huge, huge deal. deaths In 2020 he’s in jail,” her sister, Jazz said. “She was scared of him. She was in Combatting the problem “It’s a big deal,” Cloud said. “People, a lot of times are in *Crimestoppers love with him, but she was scared of him. There’s no way that that What can be done about the epidemic of domestic violence situations that don’t even realize it. So should’ve slipped, where seven felony bonds, a person was out, and I violence facing Black women? The first and once they realize it and they overcome that hurdle, they feel like, my sister’s blood is on their hands.” perhaps most important thing that we can want to get help. I wanted to make accessing the help as Layla Steele October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and tragically, all do is address the root causes of domeseasy as possible.”

Layla’s story is all too common. tic violence, such as the objectification and Cloud’s organization works to rebuild lives, helping surBlack women who experienced For 19-year-old Maylasia Levy, she simply wanted her relationdegradation of women in media, rape culture, vivors access legal services, food, clothing, housing, mental psychological abuse ship with her boyfriend to work. The Thurgood Marshall High harmful gender norms, the pay gap and othhealth services, jobs and education.

School graduate had just given birth in August 2020 when she er forms of inequality.

“The response from the survivors especially has been was shot by her 18-year-old boyfriend, Yates basketball star The underlying causes of domestic vioabsolutely remarkable,” she said. “We work together to Antwon Norman. Norman was arrested and charged with manlence are the same for all women and are get the help they need. I can cry, laugh, share with them.

Black women who slaughter, though he said the shooting was an accident. The family often more pronounced for Black women.

They can share with me. And then we connect them to experienced physical abuse says it was murder.

By taking on such issues directly, we can reresources and whatever they need to be better. And then * National Center for “I was not aware of any physical abuse in her relationship,” said Carvana Cloud duce the incidence of domestic violence for they come back and not only do they say thank you, but Victims of Crime her mother Quin Levy, who has started a foundation [M.Arial all women — and in particular, Black women they want to know how they can help the next person.”

Love Foundation] in her daughter’s honor. “I was aware of the relationship who are even more impacted by these factors. being toxic and the verbal abuse and the bullying online. I tried to warn her, Local officials face the problem but it was her first love. She saw all the signs, but she was pregnant, and she Empowering survivors The Texas Council on Family Violence has established high-risk domestic wanted it to work. She wanted to have a family for her baby. She just kept A new non-profit organization is working to reach more survivors of domes- violence teams in 13 Texas counties — including Harris County — to coorhoping and it cost her her life.” tic violence in Houston’s minority communities. The Empowered Survivor be- dinate with local law enforcement and advocacy groups to support victims gan as a pilot project with 35 survivors and in three months time grew to more of domestic abuse, with a strong focus on violent cases.

Staggering statistics than 300 clients.

The group’s 2020 report, which gathered data from teams in 10 counties, The statistics on domestic violence in the United States are disturbing.

“What we’ve always known is minorities are disproportionally impacted by found that: One in three women and one in 10 men will experience domestic violence in domestic violence,” said Carvana Cloud.

• 70% of offenders abuse their victims again. their lifetime. Each year, domestic violence is estimated to affect 10 million Cloud is the former head of the Harris County District Attorney’s Special Vic- • Victims and offenders in reported domestic violence cases ranged from 14 Americans. tims Bureau. She is now the founder and executive director of The Empowered to 73 years old.

For Black women, the numbers are even more stark. More than 40% of Black Survivor.

• Most high-risk domestic violence incidents occurred in relationships less women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime, according to the In“As a child survivor of domestic violence myself and growing up in a very than a year old. stitute of Women’s Policy Research’s Status of Black Women in the United States. underserved community where there were not a lot of resources for families that • Assault causing bodily injury and strangulation were the most common Black women are 2.5 times more likely to be murdered by men than white looked like mine who were experiencing those traumas, I knew that I had to do types of violence used against victims. women. In the overwhelming majority of cases — 92% — the person who something different,” she said.

• Abusive partners had access to a firearm in 46% of cases. killed them knew their victim, and 56% of such homicides were committed “I had a comprehensive vision where I bring a survivor perspective, a proseIn Harris County, the high-risk domestic violence team consists of HPD, by a current or former intimate partner. Nearly all — 92% — of the killings cutorial perspective, a law enforcement perspective, having worked and learned Harris County Sheriff ’s Office, District Attorney’s Office and local advocacy were intra-racial, which means that they were committed by a Black man and continue to learn from law enforcement, as well as experience from the groups. A coordinator works with the team to connect them with victims of against a Black woman. healthcare and social services side. We not only provide resources, but we help domestic violence.

With statistics like these, the Black Women’s Health Project determined to change the narrative of what domestic violence is and how to combat it in our They often work in conjunction with Crime Stoppers, which blames the that domestic violence is the number one health issue facing Black women. communities.” rise in domestic violence on the pandemic and “a revolving door at the In Houston, domestic violence related homicides were up 78% from the Cloud acknowledges all of the efforts being made in the city to combat do- courthouse,” as well as unemployment benefits disappearing.

Up 40% 228 53.8% 41.2%

RESOURCES EMPOWERED SURVIVOR info@empoweredsurvivors.org (346) 304-8750

NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE 1−800−799−7233

M. ARIEL FOUNDATION www.mariellovefoundation.com

READ MORE ABOUT THE M.ARIAL LOVE FOUNDATION AND ITS FOCUS ON TEACHING YOUNG PEOPLE ABOUT LOVE AND TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS.

12 | October 28, 2021 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN News

Turner unveils Mayor’s Youth Council

By Laura Onyeneho

Nineteen Houston-area high school students were selected out of a pool of more than 100 applicants between the ages of 1418 to become members of the 2021-22 Mayor’s Youth Council (MYC). The members were chosen through an interview process conducted by the selections committee.

“I am proud to welcome the new members of the Mayor’s Youth Council and look forward to hearing from them about the issues that impact young people and their communities,” said Mayor Sylvester Turner during the inaugural ceremony at City Hall.

“They are the leaders of today and tomorrow, and we welcome their perspectives and creative ideas for addressing the challenges our communities face,” Turner said.

MYC was established in 1998 to provide youth the opportunity to exchange ideas with elected officials, share their concerns about issues impacting young people, learn about the inner workings of city government and gain civic leadership experience skills through community service activities.

The council is modeled after the elected City Council, with members representing 11 single-member districts and five at-large districts. The program is administered by

Mayor’s Youth Council members pose with Mayor Sylvester Turner and Department of Neighborhoods director TaKasha Francis and staff. Photo: Department of Neighborhoods

the Department of Neighborhoods.

“At the Department of Neighborhoods, we pride ourselves as being ‘The People’s Department’ and we strive to improve the quality of life for all Houstonians no matter what district they live in and so do these students,” said MYC Advisor Jesse Gutierrez.

“These youth are driven and accomplished. I want to give the power back to the youth and put the decision-making in their hands. I’m there to facilitate their vision for their ideas.”

During their tenure, the students will

be involved in community and leadership development activities including the UNICEF Child Friendly Cities Initiative, Youth Bill of Rights, coordinating town halls at area high schools to address issues impacting youth and a monthly service learning project.

Folakemi Elekolusi is a 16-year-old Harmony School of Innovation and MYC member representing Council District AtLarge 5. She joined the council to find solutions around the lack of interest in politics some young people have. One idea she has

includes hosting a full day “simulated election” in schools where young people experience a mock national or local election.

“Being a part of this council means having direct access to city officials. Young people have passion but feel ignored by government officials because of their age,” she said. “We need to find ways to connect and advertise to young people on social media and other means where it’s easy to communicate with this demographic.”

The MYC term of office runs from October 2021 to May 2022.

Nigerian youth launch movement exhibit

By Laura Onyeneho

It was just a year ago this month that Houston’s Nigerian community held protests along with other cities nationwide in support to #ENDSARS, the movement that called for an end to violence and police brutality against Nigerian citizens at the hands of the special anti-robbery squad in the West African country.

Now on the first anniversary of the movement, Nigerians in Houston continue to pay their respects to the lives lost and reflect on what the next action of the diaspora will entail.

Ayo Shofoluwe, founder of the philanthropic organization PeacexPiece, partnered with the SAiD (Society of Africans in the Diaspora) Institute to reveal Shofoluwe’s 20.10.20 Project: The Declaration of the Nigerian Youth.

The event, with more than two dozen in attendance, included a community conversation around the pressing issues facing Nigeria and the vital role Nigerian youth play globally in the development of the country through the medium of a visual art exhibition and petition.

“October 20, 2020 became the date that will forever be engrained in the minds of Nigerians worldwide as army officers ar-

rived at Lagos, Nigeria’s Lekki Toll Gate, surrounded a large group of peaceful protester and opened fire in the air and at the crowd,” Shofoluwe said.

“It made me angry. I wanted to amplify the voices of my people back home. This is our official response to those responsible for that tragic incident. This exhibition showcases the future of Nigeria and that is the youth.”

The exhibition introduced 10 striking photographic installations of Nigerian Diasporans in Houston decked out in bold colored Ankara fashion designs, with each photo sending a message of resilience, reassurance and resistance.

“At SAiD Institute, our goal is to help mobilize and bridge the gap between youth in the diaspora and in Nigeria. How can we channel our anger into something that is not confrontational?” said Debo Folorun-

Ayo Shofoluwe, founder of the PeacexPiece (Left) and Debo Folorunsho, executive director of SAiD Institute (Right) Photo: Laura Onyeneho

sho, executive director of SAiD Institute.

“Nigerians, especially in Houston, have the power, resources and influence to bring change to Nigeria.”

The event concluded with community members providing strategic ideas and sharing their personal experiences in Nigeria. Houston resident Benga Ayeni said in order for any progress to happen there has to be a strategy in place.

“We aren’t the first to protest and we won’t be the last. We can’t fight fire with

fire,” he said. “We can’t play into the [Nigerian] governments hands. We can counter their strategy and learn from our elders who’ve fought before us.”

The launch of the 20.10.20 project visual petition to end SARS is featured on change.org.

Laura Onyeneho covers the city’s education system as it relates to Black children for the Defender Network as a Report For America Corps member. Email her at laura@defendernetwork.com

October 28, 2021 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

¬21 in 2021 We’ve increased our U.S. minimum hourly wage to $21 as a next step toward $25 by 2025.

Bank of America has raised our minimum rate of pay for all U.S. employees to $21/hour — the next step toward $25 by 2025.

Over the past four years, we have led the way by increasing our minimum hourly wage 40%.

Being a great place to work starts with investing in the people who serve our clients. Providing strong pay and competitive benefits to support our employees and their families helps us attract and retain strong talent.

Our actions demonstrate our continuing commitment to sustain job growth and economic stability for the thousands of individuals working in support of each other, our clients and the communities where we work and live.

We will continue our efforts to make a difference and serve as a catalyst for others to do the same.

What would you like the power to do?®

Hong Ogle President, Bank of America Houston

Learn more at bankofamerica.com/houston

Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Credit Opportunity Lender. © 2021 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

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14 | October 28, 2021 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Entertainment

Otis Williams

Reflecting on Temptations’ Greatness NNPA

To hear him tell his story, Otis Williams is just a southern boy from Texarkana, Texas, who, while growing up, loved the “Devil’s music.”

His two grandmothers took care of him when his mother moved to Detroit in search of better employment and living conditions for the musically inclined troublemaker.

Williams had recently become a teenager when he happened upon The Fox Theater in the Motor City, where his family group, The Cadillacs, performed.

“Oh, how I wanted to have my own group,” he told NNPA Newswire in a discussion at the Imperial Theater on Broadway where a sold-out crowd sang, danced, laughed, cried, and cheered the fantastic musical, “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations.”

As in the musical, Williams revealed an everlasting fondness for the Classic Five, Paul Williams, Melvin Franklin, Eddie Kendricks, and David Ruffin.There’s also the seldom mentioned Lamont, not a Temptation, but Williams’ son.

“People often ask me, if I could bring back to life one member of The Temptations, which one would I choose,” Nik Walker, who portrays Williams in the musical, says during a spotlighted scene near the close of the electrifying performance.

“Lamont. My son. That’s who,” he said.Even behind the dark shades and the baseball cap with the “Aint To Proud” logo, one could see Williams’ genuine expressions.

“The music lives forever,” Williams deadpanned. “Life isn’t like a record that you can rewind.”

With the tragic deaths of each of the original members, Williams at 80 remains in a familiar spot. Sixty years ago, his motivation centered on not only making The Temptations the biggest group in R&B history but protecting the brand.

With the reopening of the Broadway show and a touring version hitting the road, Williams said he can now concentrate on getting back on the road with the latest incarnation of the supergroup.Williams reminds everyone that he’s been fortunate to have been with the “most singing-Esque brothers ever.” In all, the group has made 24 changes in its 60-year history and, as they embark on their anniversary tour, Williams confides that he’s about to make another

personnel change.

“But every single member has always, at some point, asked if they could come back,” Williams insisted.

With the opening of “Ain’t Too Proud,” Williams and the group will launch a concert tour that could span the globe.

On Monday, November 1, the City College Center for the Arts plans to honor the legend and other group members. The affair will feature a conversation with Williams, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee, and multiple Grammy Award winner.

It also will include special guests, including longstanding members Ron Tyson and Terry Weeks. Officials plan to simulcast the special event from the Aaron Davis Hall’s renowned Marian Anderson Theatre.

Viewers can see the program at www.citycollegecenterforthehearts.org. Distinguished musician, composer, and entertainment entrepreneur K. Sparks will conduct the online event, which begins at 7:30 p.m. EST. “For more than four decades, Aaron Davis Hall has been Harlem’s performing arts center,” stated City College of New York President Dr. Vincent Boudreau. “World scholars, artistic giants, and academic geniuses like Nelson Mandela, Alicia Keys, President Barack Obama, and Ella Fitzgerald have blessed these stages.

The City College of New York is so proud of the contributions The Temptations have made and continue to make to the American cultural landscape, and we are honored to add their name to that distinguished list.”Williams recalled his roots.

“It was always about the collective,” he asserted. “Sure, having talent is good, but I’ve always looked at the head and the heart over talent. That’s why we’ve been so successful and have become the number one R&B group ever because we were always operating under the realistic model that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.”

October 28, 2021 |

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Spotlight PASTOR TIA NORMAN

On a journey of awakening

By ASWAD WALKER

Tia Norman, pastor of Awakenings Movement, has been on many journeys in her life. Born in Boise, Idaho, she spent her most formative years in northern and southern California (San Francisco and Los Angeles, respectively), before moving to Colorado and then West Texas (Midland) where she graduated from high school.

Her college years at Texas Tech had her on a path to become a TV journalist before she detoured into a highly successful sales career. However, her professional journey did not end there, as a divine conversation directed her to a destination Norman never imagined for herself: a minister with many hats, including pastor, spiritual guide, yoga instructor, financial advisor, and most importantly, mother of two.

Norman recently shared with the Defender snapshots of her ongoing journey of life, light and love.

ABOUT PASTOR TIA NORMAN

Education: Texas Tech University What she’s reading now: “A stack of books with ‘Mystical Theology’ by William Johnston on top.”

Favorite author: Rob Bell Favorite music genres: Hip-Hop and R&B Favorite movies: “Heart and Souls” and “Lucky Number Slevin”

DEFENDER: How did you shift from sales to ministry?

NORMAN: My last sales job was selling corpo-

rate sponsorships. When I left Toyota Center I was managing the suite sales department. And in between those two things, there was a lot of turmoil going on within my home and my interior life. And there was this moment where I was on my way home one day.

And mind you, I was not raised in a religious setting or anything like that. But I just pulled my car over in a [Dollar Tree] parking lot, and I just threw my hands up. I was like, “I can’t do this anymore. God, I don’t know what to do.” And, I just felt this nudge of a couple of action items to take.

DEFENDER: What were the two actions?

NORMAN: One of them included ending a

Find out more about Pastor Norman’s ministry journey and the challenges she faced as a Black woman pastor.

relationship that I was in, which didn’t seem to make much sense because I had just had a daughter. And the second was to begin reading the Bible. So, I started to do that. I dedicated an entire year. When I would put my daughter to sleep, I would read the Bible. And when I got through that entire year, I found myself in this really curious place. I was like, “Why are these the stories that we have,” and “Of all the things that could have been recorded and kept for thousands of years, why is this still significant” and “What were these people’s lives like?” So, it just took me into this rabbit hole of exploring theology and spirituality and humanity, and what do all of those things mean. Then I felt another little nudge, “You’re going to go into ministry.”

DEFENDER: What drew you to Awakenings Movement, specifically?

NORMAN: After this whole life crisis and all of

these major changes and doing all of this reading, I was like, I need a place where I can ask questions.

And I knew I needed a community, but I wasn’t sure what that looked like exactly. Except, I did know that I needed to feel comfortable there, that I needed to feel like I could bring these questions and wouldn’t be presenting them in an environment where I would feel judged. A girlfriend of mine was like, “You should join me. I’m going to this place.” At the time they were meeting at The Flat. I thought she was crazy because I was like, “That’s where I go for mojitos on Monday night. So, I’m not sure what’s happening on Sundays, but okay.” So, I went in and of course The Flat isn’t functioning or serving in the capacity of a bar on Sunday mornings. When we went in, I was like, “This is it. This is exactly what I have been hoping for.” And I have been consistently present on Sunday after Sunday since that time, which was probably 2014, 2015.

16 | October 28, 2021 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

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October 28, 2021 |

| 17

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Business

Junious Williams

Jerome Love

Coach Cam

Lyndsey Brantley

Teneshia Hudspeth

Ernest Walker

Ruth Simmons

Derrel Noris

Helen Stagg

Lauren Ashley Alexander

Kevan and Ayesha Shelton

Bianca and Carris Carey

Alexis and Sade Moore

BLACK CHAMBER NAMES PINNACLE AWARD WINNERS The Greater Houston Black Chamber (GHBC) recently held its 27th Annual Pinnacle Awards, where some of Houston’s best and most promising Black-owned businesses received high honors.

The GHBC Pinnacle Award recognizes leading African-American entrepreneurs for their success in business and their positive impact on the communities and industries they serve. This year’s theme was “Excellence Has Arrived: Black Businesses Take the Lead.”

The virtual production opened with a performance by popular Houston-based

Se7en the Poet and included well wishes from political leaders including Mayor Sylvester Turner, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and Missouri City Mayor Robin Elackatt. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and Congressman Al Green also made remarks.

Songstress Mary Griffin gave a rousing rendition of Aretha Franklin’s “Rock Steady,” and CBS Sports anchor James Brown and Nate Burleson of “CBS This Morning” both made cameo appearances during the awards pre-show online.

Each year, five Pinnacle Awards, one Upstart Award and one Rising Star are

handed out to some of the most successful small businesses. The 2021 winners are: Upstart Award: Grand Park Square Rising Star Award: Coach Cam Pinnacle Award: Camellia Alise, Carey Business Solutions, Park Street Homes, Fresh Tech Solutionz, Sisters & Moore In addition to the prestigious honors, the GHBC honored several other businesses and individuals with community awards including: Legends Award: Dr. Ruth J. Simmons, president, Prairie View A&M University Excellence Award: Helen Stagg, president & CEO, Change Happens, Inc.

Larry V. Green Advocate of the Year Award: Jerome Love, president & CEO, Texas Black Expo Mickey Leland Public Leadership Award: Teneshia Hudspeth, Harris County Clerk Endurance Award: KTSU-FM Youth Entrepreneur Award: Lauren Ashley Alexander, 2BooG Beauty Dale Lockett of KHOU and Jemila Winsey of Re/Max Legacy Living and Re/ Max 1st Class served as co-chairs of the event, and Gerald Smith of Smith Graham and the Astros Organization were the honorary co-chairs.

18 | October 28, 2021 |

DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports Texans defensive end Jonathan Greenard had four tackles, two sacks and a pass defended during the loss to the Arizona Cardinals.

Texas Southern senior guard Ataiya Bridges named to 2021-22 Preseason All-SWAC Women’s Basketball Second Team after averaging 16.5 points and league-best 3.2 steals per game last season.

Sports Briefs PVAMU football gets national attention

Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson watches warm ups before an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Chargers Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Carson, Calif. AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill

TEXANS MOTIVATED TO TRADE WATSON

By Terrance Harris

The Houston Texans have a serious quarterback dilemma this week.

No, it’s not the current mess playing out on the football field these past several Sundays. (SPOILER ALERT: Tyrod Taylor has been cleared to practice and will be the starting quarterback against the Los Angeles Rams).

It’s time to finally make a trade decision on Derrick Deshaun Watson. The Texans are on the clock. They have until Nov. 2 at 3 p.m. to move their disgruntled and troubled franchise quarterback or let the fiasco continue to hover over the team like Hurricane Harvey for the next several months.

All indications are something is about to happen on or before the upcoming trade deadline. The Miami Dolphins and Carolina Panthers are in play, general manager Nick Caserio is listening with more realistic expectations and Watson has reportedly adjusted his no-tradeclause from Miami-or-bust to being open to other landing spots.

This is what happens when all sides are properly motivated.

The Dolphins, despite coach Brian Flores’ weekly votes of confidence for second-year quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and his recent

four-touchdown performance in a losing effort to Atlanta, are not convinced they have their franchise quarterback in place.

The Panthers, who were interested in Watson when he first demanded a trade back in January but backed off once the sexual misconduct allegations started popping up from random massage therapists, now realize investing in Sam Darnold this past offseason was a huge mistake.

Caserio, who has fluctuated between demanding a king’s ransom to being non-communicative with potential trade partners for Watson’s services, is realizing his leverage could be waning on his valuable asset once the legal system, civil courts and NFL make a decision on the allegations being waged against Watson.

Then there is Watson, himself. With his no-trade clause in his contract, Watson is sitting in what is usually a position of power. But with his legal troubles and the NFL seemingly ready to pounce the moment a team makes a trade, Watson is actually in a position of uncertainty.

In a normal situation, more than half the league would be beating down the Texans doors for a chance to get a quarterback of Watson’s franchise quarterback caliber. But with Watson at the least being a public re-

lations nightmare for any team that would trade for him, and likely facing the NFL Commissioner’s Exempt List (essentially paid leave) and an eventual lengthy suspension, most teams are steering clear given he would be the face of the franchise.

Then there is the damning issue of possible criminal charges and jail time for a quarterback whose four-year, $156-million extension kicks in next season and the team that lands him would be out of valuable trade assets and players to have pulled off the trade.

So, Watson’s first right of refusal is limited to maybe a handful of teams.

Watson has yet to touch the football field this season, and in all likelihood will not play this season for any team he may end up with. The NFL has steered clear of making any moves on Watson so far because of the impasse he has with the Texans.

But the minute a trade is consummated, the belief is NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell will stash Watson on the exempt list while his legal troubles play out. And that could take a couple of years unless Watson and his attorneys begin settling some of the lawsuits.

Clearly, there are dilemmas everywhere, but the Texans have the biggest one.

The Prairie View Panthers are 6-1 overall and lead the SWAC West Division with a 5-0 record Eric on the season Dooley and as a result, they received 19 votes in the Top 25 of the FCS this week. And their defense is ranked in the Top 10 nationally.

“All of those things are good and great for your program, for your university as well as for the players, but I pride myself on not worrying about those things,” said PVAMU coach Eric Dooley. “I take a peek to see what’s taking place, but the biggest thing is to put these young men in a position where they can be successful.”

Small fraternity for Dusty Baker

Manager Dusty Baker has moved into elite company after Dusty guiding the Astros Baker to the World Series. Baker is now just one of nine managers to win Pennants in both the American League and National League, joining the likes of Yogi Berra, Tony La Russa, Jim Leyland and Joe Maddon.

TSU athletics making the grade The Texas Southern athletic department revealed an APR score for its student-athletes of 974, which is the highest score in school history.

The APR measures eligibility, graduation and retention each semester or academic term and provides a clear picture of the academic performance for each team in every sport. All teams must meet an academic threshold of 930 to qualify for the postseason and can face penalties for continued low academic performance.

October 28, 2021 |

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DEFENDER NETWORK

DN Sports MADISON JUNIOR RB

CHASE DEVAUGHN MAKING SOMETHING OUT OF NOTHING

By JODIE B. JILES

James Madison junior running back/slot receiver Chase Devaughn has the Marlins rolling after scoring two touchdowns in Madison’s fourth victory in a row against Stephen F. Austin this past week.

It is tough sailing looking ahead for Madison with two of its biggest tests against playoff contending Ft. Bend Willowridge and Ft. Bend Marshall to end the regular season. But at 5-3 and in 4th place in their district, everything is in front of Madison moving forward. Just know that every game from here on out is a playoff game.

Even with the odds against the Marlins, undersized running back Devaughn’s yards after contact ability and breakaway capabilities make him an X-factor to watch out for.

His ability to make something out of nothing is truly special.

When James Madison head football coach Shawn Narcisse was asked about his junior running back, coach Narcisse stated, “He works hard every day and is just an all-around good kid.”

“I have been working with him since 9th grade and always saw he had a lot of potential,” Narcisse continued.

The Defender spoke with Chase after Madison defeated Austin to discuss his style of play, keys to victory and the upcoming schedule through Fort Bend.

Style of Play

“I’m a dog. I put the work in and you see it on the field.”

Breaking Tackles

“Every time I try to fall forward because I have always been shifty. I just need to get a little stronger.”

Austin Victory

ABOUT CHASE DEVAUGHN Twitter: @lilchase1_ Players He Studies: Barry Sanders Favorite Artist: Da Baby Favorite Food: BBQ Wings Shoutouts: “My family and the coaches for giving me a chance.”

RIDGE POINT HS SENIOR QB

BERT EMANUEL JR. CARRIES ON

By JODIE B. JILES

As a son of former Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Bert Emanuel, Ridge Point senior quarterback Bert Emanuel Jr. has the pedigree to make something of himself in the game of football.

At 6’4” 200 lbs., Emanuel Jr. is a big, stocky kid who can take a hit while making throws on the run. As a returning starter this season, Bert has led Ridge Point to a 7-1 record so

far, only losing to C.E. King High School by less than a field goal. Since the loss, Ridge Point has won five games in a row.

The Defender spoke with Bert Emanuel Jr. to discuss his playing style, winning streak, keys to success and more.

Visit defendernetwork.com for the full article.

“We just wanted it more. Everybody knew we were not taking an ‘L’ today.”

4-Game Winning Streak

“We are trying to make it to the playoffs and everybody is just going in. Even on the road we are not going to lose.”

Upcoming Schedule

“Yeah, these wins gave us a little confidence, but we still know we have to work hard to get it in against Willowridge and Marshall.”

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DEFENDER NETWORK