Houston’s Commitment to Dr. King’s Legacy: Mayor John Whitmire Champions Unified MLK Parade for 2025
By Francis Page, Jr., Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
The City of Houston and Mayor John Whitmire have once again demonstrated their unwavering dedication to celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s enduring legacy. In 2025, Houston will proudly continue its tradition of supporting the Black Heritage Society’s MLK Day Parade on Monday, January 20, 2025, marking 48 years of honoring Dr. King’s vision of unity, justice, and progress.
Mayor Whitmire, in collaboration with City Council members and community leaders, has ensured that the City of Houston will actively support this iconic event by allowing the use of the city’s name and logo. This decision reaffirms the administration’s commitment to the values Dr. King stood for, reminding Houstonians of the importance of coming together as a community to celebrate his dream.
Mayor John Whitmire (2024–Present)
Continuing the proud tradition of his predecessors, Mayor John Whitmire has reaffirmed the City of Houston’s steadfast support for the MLK Day Parade. His administration is working closely with the Black Heritage Society to ensure the 2025 parade is a powerful celebration of Dr. King’s legacy.
“This parade is more than just a celebration of Dr. King’s legacy; it’s a reminder of the power of unity and our shared commitment to justice and equality. Houston’s support for this event remains steadfast, and I’m proud to continue this tradition,” Mayor Whitmire stated.
To create a larger, more impactful celebration, Mayor Whitmire has championed the idea of consolidating efforts into one grand parade, ensuring its resonance and accessibility for all Houstonians.
Mayor Sylvester Turner (2016–2024)
Mayor Turner actively participated in the MLK Parade during his tenure, often marching alongside community leaders and residents. “The MLK Parade is a celebration of Houston’s diversity and our collective commitment to justice and equality. It’s a day to honor the past and inspire the future,” Turner often said.
Under his leadership, the parade grew into a nationally recognized event, drawing participants and spectators from across the region and beyond.
Mayor Annise Parker (2010–2016)
Mayor Parker was a passionate
advocate for the MLK Parade, emphasizing its role in celebrating Houston’s diversity. “This parade embodies Dr. King’s dream—a dream of inclusivity, equity, and opportunity. It is a privilege to see Houston come together every year to honor his legacy,” she remarked.
Her administration strengthened the city’s partnership with the parade’s organizers, ensuring its continued success and vibrancy.
Mayor Bill White (2004–2010)
Mayor White saw the MLK Parade as an opportunity to bring Houston’s diverse communities together. “Dr. King’s dream of equality and justice is one we must strive for every day. This parade reminds us of our shared humanity and our shared responsibility to make Houston a better place for all,” he said.
His administration provided robust support for the event, ensuring its place as a cornerstone of Houston’s civic calendar.
Mayor Lee Brown (1998–2004)
As Houston’s first African American mayor, Mayor Brown held the MLK Parade close to his heart. “This event is more than a parade—it’s a movement. It represents the best of who we are as Houstonians and as Americans,” he stated.
Brown’s leadership amplified the parade’s reach, making it a platform for advancing civil rights and community engagement.
Mayor Bob Lanier (1992–1998)
Mayor Lanier worked to grow the MLK Parade’s influence, ensuring that it reflected Houston’s values. “The Martin Luther King Parade is Houston’s heartbeat on a day when we celebrate progress and recommit ourselves to making our city a place where dreams come true for all,” Lanier said.
His administration collaborated with community organizations to expand the parade, making it one of the most inclusive and impactful celebrations in the nation.
Mayor Kathy Whitmire (1982–1991)
Mayor Whitmire was a strong proponent of the MLK Parade, recognizing its power to unite the city. “The Martin Luther King Parade is a vibrant reflection of Houston’s commitment to the values of justice, peace, and equality. It’s a day for all Houstonians to stand united in honoring a man whose dream continues to inspire
us,” she said.
Her administration provided critical support to the parade, solidifying its role as a key part of Houston’s identity.
Mayor Jim McConn (1978–1982)
As Houston’s mayor during the parade’s inception, Mayor McConn laid the groundwork for its success. “Dr. King’s message of hope and unity transcends time,” McConn noted. “This parade serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to create a city where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.”
His leadership ensured the parade became a cherished tradition, celebrated by Houstonians of all backgrounds.
Harris County Judges Lina Hidalgo and Ed Emmett
Harris County judges have played a vital role in supporting the MLK Parade. Judge Lina Hidalgo remarked, “The MLK Parade is a time for us to reflect on our shared values and recommit ourselves to building a more equitable future. Harris County is proud to support this tradition.”
Judge Ed Emmett echoed these sentiments, stating, “Events like the Martin Luther King Parade remind us that we are stronger together. It’s an honor to be part of a county that values diversity and inclusivity.”
Honoring Tradition, Embracing Progress
Mayor Whitmire’s support for the Black Heritage Society’s parade represents a continuation of this tradition, ensuring that Houston remains a beacon of hope and progress. As the parade marches into its 48th year, the event will not only celebrate Dr. King’s vision but also showcase Houston’s rich diversity and enduring commitment to justice.
From music and floats to speeches and performances, the 2025 parade will offer something for everyone, creating a space where Houstonians of all backgrounds can come together to honor the legacy of one of history’s greatest leaders.
A Tradition of Unity and Progress
Houston Style Magazine invites readers to join this year’s parade on Monday, January 20, 2025 and celebrate Houston’s enduring commitment to justice, equality, and unity. Together, let’s honor the dream that continues to inspire our great city.
COMMENTARY GAS IS DIRTY. LNG PROPONENTS DON’T
Not long after her adopted twins came to live with her in Freeport, Texas, Melanie Oldham saw their health start to decline. Both children were diagnosed with severe asthma.
As Oldham sent the twins to school – every day with their inhalers – she realized a lot of the kids in her part of Brazoria County had bad asthma. She also began to see that other serious chronic illnesses were rampant in her community.
“It’s shocking the number of people in their 50s that already have severe COPD, all the skin problems we know are caused by different types of emissions, premature heart attacks, spikes in certain types of cancers – including one form of childhood leukemia – and the number of children with asthma is staggering. ”
Those emissions she is referring to are from the oil, gas, and petrochemical plants peppering the landscape of her part of the Gulf Coast.
Increasingly, the source of that pollution is the growing number of liquefied methane gas (commonly referred to as LNG) facilities in the region. Freeport LNG, in Oldham’s town, is the third largest LNG export terminal by capacity in the country.
By Ben Jealous – National Political Commentator
The largest is Sabine Pass LNG, just a few hours along the coast from Freeport. That facility sits just over the Louisiana border from Port Arthur, TX – which is also home to Port Arthur LNG, currently under construction.
Port Arthur, like Freeport, is a textbook environmental sacrifice zone. John Beard, a Port Arthur community leader, says the entire region is a “sacrifice coast.” Texas Monthly once labeled this part of the state the "Cancer Belt." Beard speaks of members of his community like Etta Hebert, a two-time cancer survivor whose daughter
also has cancer and whose husband Roy just passed away from a long battle with cancer on November 30. And Beard’s own family has been impacted by the intense pollution in the area. His oldest son had to have a kidney transplant – despite no family history of kidney disease – and his daughter had a brain tumor removed.
This is what the extractive fossil fuel industry does to human bodies and communities. It is the real-life human toll of our continued reliance on fuels like methane gas. And it is a toll that will get significantly steeper if the US expands LNG exports and
the infrastructure to support a continued LNG boom.
Despite decades of branding and rebranding efforts by the industry, the fact remains: methane gas is simply yet another dirty, dangerous fossil fuel polluting our communities.
LNG takes the deadly threats methane gas poses to the extreme, not just by increasing the amount of gas fracked, but by adding dangerous and pollution-heavy steps to the process. From fracking to pipeline transmission to the compression and liquefaction of the gas and the shipping of the LNG overseas, virtually every stage of the lifecycle leaks methane (which captures 80 times more heat than carbon dioxide), is powered by the burning of other dirty fossil fuels like oil, and carries the risk of catastrophic ruptures and explosions.
In the curtains closed on 2024, Houston emerged as a beacon of resilience, political vibrancy, and unyielding optimism. From the jubilant re-elections of City Council members to the heartbreaking losses of beloved leaders, this year was a kaleidoscope of emotions, triumphs, and lessons learned. The year tested our resolve, yet reminded us of the transformative power of unity and perseverance. Let’s revisit a year that was as challenging as it was inspiring.
A Year Bookended by Milestones
The year began with celebrations at Houston City Hall, where re-elected council members like Amy Peck, Tarsha Jackson, and Tiffany Thomas reaffirmed their commitments to serve. The festivities carried a bittersweet undertone, as 2024 ended with the nation mourning the passing of humanitarian and former President Jimmy Carter, who lived to see his 100th birthday. The juxtaposition of hope and loss defined Houston’s political narrative this year.
Sheila Jackson Lee: A Towering
LOCAL: 2024 HOUSTON POLITICS: TRYING, TIRING, AND TRIUMPHANT
By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com
Sheila Jackson Lee’s journey in 2024 was nothing short of monumental. In a fiercely contested March 5 Super Tuesday primary, she secured her 16th nomination for Houston’s 18th Congressional District. Her campaign was a testament to her enduring influence and the respect she commanded among her constituents. Tragically, her untimely passing mid-year left a void in Houston’s political landscape.
Yet, her legacy lived on as outgoing Mayor Sylvester Turner announced his candidacy to succeed her in Congress, culminating in a triumphant victory that
Super Tuesday Showdowns and Democratic Victories
March 5 was a pivotal date, with key Democratic figures securing nominations across the board. Lizzie Fletcher, Al Green, and Sylvia Garcia demonstrated their political prowess, while Alma Allen, Senfronia Thompson, Harold Dutton, and Jolanda Jones solidified their positions in the Texas Legislature. These victories underscored the strength of Democratic leadership in the region, setting the stage for impactful
general elections.
Suburban Successes and Grassroots Grit
May 4 brought suburban city elections to the forefront, with Suzanne Whatley and Patrick Powers achieving landmark wins in Sugar Land and Fulshear City Councils, respectively. Kathy Blueford Daniels also made history by earning a county-wide seat on the newly formed Harris County Central Appraisal Board. These victories showcased the power of grassroots efforts and the importance of local governance in shaping our communities.
The Agony and Ecstasy of Primary Run-offs
May 28’s primary run-offs served as a stark reminder of the razor-thin margins that can define political careers. Kenneth Omoruyi and Jarvis Johnson’s narrow defeats highlighted the critical importance of voter turnout.
ensured her vision for Houston continued.
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Burt & Sandra Levine with Congressman Sylvester Turner
Travis Scott
Photos By Kory Savage, Michael Stargill, Bob Levy & Getty
Honorable Sylvester Turner
Chris Hollins - Houston Controller
Photos By Team Style Magazine Photographers
Sylvester Turner & Francis
Shannon Sharpe - Luncheon Speaker
Jerome Love – Shannon Sharpe
Photos By Team Style Magazine Photographers
BUN B – Jerome Love
U.S. President - Joe Biden
Proponent in TX – Al Edwards
Photos By Team Style Magazine Photographers
Ms. Opel Lee & President Biden
If you're caring for someone you love and struggling to find support, AARP and United Way have teamed up to help you get AARP family caregiving resources through your local 211. Call 211* to connect with a 211 specialist in your community who can help – for free –find AARP caregiving resources for things like managing finances, transportation needs, and more. 211 specialists are ready to listen, offer support and help you find answers.
Simone Biles - 1 Gold Medal
Coco Gauff & Labron James
Photos By Team Style Magazine Photographers
CHINA BEFORE COMMUNISM
e Mystique and Beauty of China Before Communism
Shen Yun’s unique artistic vision expands theatrical experience into a multidimensional, deeply moving journey through one of humanity’s greatest treasures— the five millennia of traditional Chinese culture. Featuring one of the world’s oldest art forms—classical Chinese dance— along with innovative multimedia effects and all-original orchestral works, Shen Yun opens a portal to a glorious civilization of unrivaled beauty, artistry, and inspiration.
