Houston Style Magazine Vol 35 No 25

Houston Style Magazine

LARRY JONES

Sworn In As New Ft. Bend County Democratic Chairman

Fred Taylor

Ben Jealous

Racial Terror Did Not End With Slavery

Publisher Francis Page, Jr. fpagejr@stylemagazine.com

Associate Publisher Lisa Valadez lisa@stylemagazine.com

Managing Editor

Jo-Carolyn Goode editorial@stylemagazine.com

Social Media Editor/Videographer

Reginald Dominique reggiedominique@me.com

Graphic Design /Layout Editor

Cameron C. Lee thisiscam6@gmail.com

Political Editor

Burt Levine

texascampaigns@gmail.com

Sports Editor

Brian Barefield brian barefield@yahoo.com

Arts Editor

Bianca Elam biancaelam777.be@gmail.com

Food Writer

Alex Jack alexandriajack1991@gmail.com

TotallyRandie Totallyrandie@gmail.com

NATIONAL WRITERS

Jesse Jackson jjackson@rainbowpush.org

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Vicky Pink vhpink@gmail.com

ADVERTISING/SALES

AdVertising emAil advertising@stylemagazine.com

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©2023 Houston Style Magazine, a Minority Print Media, L.L.C. Company. All Right Reserved. Reproduction in whole or within part without permission is prohibited. Houston Style Magazine has a 2019 Audit by Circulation Verification Council (CVC). Houston Style Magazine is a member of the Texas Publishers Association (TPA), Texas Community Newspaper Association (TCNA), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), Independent Free Paper of America (IFPA), Association of Free Community Papers (AFCP) and Members of Greater Houston Partnership(GHP). National Association of Hispanic Publications, Inc. (NAHP, Inc.), Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (HHCC), League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Latin Women’s Initiative (LWI), National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Houston Association of Hispanic Media Professionals (HAHMP), National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ), and Supporters of Greater Houston Partnership(GHP)

Comcast NBCUniversal’s – Celebrating Voices of the Civil Rights Movement In Houston, Texas on June 11, 2024

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

wife of the late Ovide Duncantell; Jacqueline Whiting Bostic; Norma Bradley; and Dr. James Douglas at Houston’s Emancipation Park Cultural Center, June 11, 2024. Comcast NBCUniversal hosted the evening to celebrate Houston-based civil rights champions featured on its “Voices of the Civil Rights Movement” platform. (Comcast NBCUniversal / Voices of the Civil Rights Movement)

From August 2023 through August 2024, Comcast NBCUniversal is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its groundbreaking multimedia initiative, Voices of the Civil Rights Movement . This platform honors the monumental Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s by chronicling the lives and experiences of over 200 leaders, activists, innovators, and trailblazers whose courage and determination fundamentally altered the course of American history.

In a grand gesture of appreciation and celebration, Comcast NBCUniversal hosted a celebratory dinner to honor the contributions of Houston-based civil rights champions featured in the Voices collection. This event took place on Tuesday, June 11, at 5 p.m. CT, at The Cultural Center at Emancipation Park. The event shined a spotlight on local heroes such as Norma Bradley, Dr. James Douglas, Rev. William Lawson, Ovide Duncantell, Judson Robinson III, and Jacqueline Whiting

Bostic, recognizing their enduring legacy and impact on the community.

In the Community:

The Voices of the Civil Rights Movement platform extends far beyond just multimedia content. Comcast NBCUniversal has curated a series of signature events, debut screenings, and intimate celebrations that foster meaningful connections within communities. These efforts highlight and honor the civil rights icons who continue to inspire and lead.

Ebonee L. Leaphart, Vice President of Local Media Development (LMD) of Comcast Corporation, emphasizes the importance of this initiative: “Comcast NBCUniversal developed the installation to chronicle the lives and experiences of those who fight for the equality of all people.” This statement underscores the commitment of Comcast NBCUniversal to preserving and promoting the stories of

those who have dedicated their lives to the fight for civil rights.

For those interested in exploring the Voices of the Civil Rights Movement collection, Comcast customers can access the full experience on Xfinity On Demand by simply saying “Black History: Always On” into their X1 Voice Remote. The platform is also freely accessible to the general public at CivRightsVoices.com and through social media channels @ CivRightsVoices on Facebook and Twitter. This 10-year celebration of the Voices of the Civil Rights Movement not only honors the past but also inspires future generations to continue the fight for equality and justice.

Houston Style Magazine readers, please join us in commemorating these extraordinary individuals and their indelible impact on our society.

www.VoicesofTheCivilRightsMovement.com

Comcast NBCUniversal leaders and teammates gathered with HONORED GUESTS (left to right) Judson Robinson III; Beatrice FootsDuncantell,

COMMENTARY ON JUNETEENTH LET US REMEMBER, RACIAL TERROR DID NOT END WITH SLAVERY

When Terence Crutcher, a father of four who sang in his church choir, was shot and killed by the police in 2016 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, his twin sister Dr. Tiffany Crutcher saw history repeating itself.

Terence, who had his hands up, needed help but instead received a bullet. It was fired by the same police department that 95 years earlier had deputized members of the lynch mob that started the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. It reminded Dr. Crutcher of perhaps the most prominent victim of that Massacre, the renowned surgeon Dr. A.C. Jackson. Dr. Jackson was shot leaving his house, also with his hands in the air.

The Crutchers are direct descendants of a survivor of the 1921 Massacre, which destroyed Tulsa’s historic Greenwood District. Dr. Crutcher is also a leader of the movement to get official recognition of and restitution for that destruction. I was honored to stand with members of that movement in Tulsa this past week to commemorate the Juneteenth holiday.

The Tulsa Race Massacre was probably the single worst incident of racial violence in American history post-slavery. Over an 18-hour period, as many as 300 Black residents were murdered. More than 10,000 others were displaced as refugees in their own country. Over 1,250 Black homes and hundreds of Black businesses and gathering places were burned.

Last week, the Oklahoma Supreme Court dismissed a lawsuit seeking reparations for the last known living survivors of the Tulsa Massacre (ages 110 and 109). But another important fight continues. That is the fight to create a national monument where the Greenwood District once thrived. A bipartisan bill to do that has been introduced in Congress by Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and James Lankford (R-Okla.). President Biden could also establish the monument with executive authority under the 1906

By Ben Jealous, National Political Writer

Antiquities Act.

A similar movement is underway to establish a national monument to the 1908 race riot in Springfield, Illinois. That riot, in the hometown of Abraham Lincoln, shocked the nation and was a major catalyst for the creation of the NAACP six months later.

Just one generation removed from slavery, Tulsa’s Greenwood District was a 35-square-block bastion of Black prosperity. It was nicknamed “Negro Wall Street” by Booker T. Washington. An especially prosperous section of a thriving boomtown, it was seen as a Promise Land for the Black people who flocked there. In the age of lynchings and race riots, it seemed like an exception to the rule. During Red Summer in 1919, when at least 26 cities across the country experienced intense racial violence, Tulsa remained peaceful.

But the peace did not last. Resentment of the famed “Black Wall Street” and its residents’ success simmered among white Tulsans. As Dr.

Crutcher notes, “in an era when white supremacy ran rampant, Black people were not supposed to thrive … if you tried to live free, tried to vote, or even looked at someone the wrong way, it was an excuse to destroy and lynch Black people.”

The spark that lit the powder keg in Tulsa was the same that ignited so many other examples of racial violence in America. A Black boy was accused of assaulting a white girl. A lynch mob formed. And when the mob was rebuffed, all hell broke loose.

This month, as we celebrate Juneteenth, which marks the end of chattel slavery in the U.S., Dr. Crutcher reminds us that “we celebrate an idea that has yet to become a reality.”

That is because when it comes to reckoning with and healing the wounds of our nation’s history with race, we still have a long way to go.

For many decades following the Massacre, the history of that terrible event was buried in what Dr. Crutcher calls a “conspiracy of silence.”

Dr. Crutcher grew up in Tulsa just a few blocks from historic Greenwood and even attended school in Greenwood. Yet she was never taught this history that so impacted her community – and her own family. She first heard mention of the Massacre and Black Wall Street when she went away to college and would tell people she was from Tulsa.

Home from college one weekend, she asked her dad about it. Dr. Crutcher learned not only about the Massacre but that her great-grandmother, Rebecca Brown Crutcher, had barely escaped it. She found out her father had only learned about it himself when, amidst the assassination of Dr. King and the riots that followed in the late 1960s, “Mama Brown,” as the family called her, whispered to him, “Something like that happened here.”

She whispered because all those years later she was still afraid. Survivors were told if they talked about the events, they would be lynched or bring on another massacre. So for decades, the history was not only scrubbed from textbooks and schools, but even from families’ oral traditions.

One reason a national monument is so important is the need to protect and learn from our history. As we commemorate Juneteenth, we must not just remember the history and end of slavery. We must remember the long shadow cast by the dehumanization of Black people in this country. And we must recognize that we still have not fully stepped out of that shadow and into the light.

Ben Jealous is executive director of the Sierra Club, professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania and author of “Never Forget Our People Were Always Free.”

You can write to Ben Jealous in care of this Newspaper or by website at: www.BenJealous.com www.StyleMagazine.com

KTSU 90.9 FM, known for its rich legacy in community-focused broadcasting, proudly announces the addition of the legendary Lawrence “Funky Larry” Jones, affectionately known as “Uncle Funky,” to its esteemed lineup. With a remarkable broadcasting career spanning over five decades, including more than 30 years in Houston, Uncle Funky brings his iconic voice, extensive experience, and profound community connections to KTSU.

In discussing his exciting new venture, Uncle Funky shared, “This is a God assignment. I'm here because of God's grace, and my gifts and talents fit the vision of Mr. Walker and the family at KTSU. I was called to come and bring 51 years of experience, 35 years of being here in the city, and 40 years of programming experience to see if we can elevate and have some fun every afternoon or every Saturday afternoon with the ‘Ultimate Backyard Party.’”

Listeners can anticipate engaging new segments like "Grilling with Uncle Funky." Despite the title suggesting outdoor grilling, this segment serves as a platform to discuss various topics ranging from relationship advice to TSU sports and reconnecting with the University community. “It's a big backyard party with Grilling with Uncle Funky,” Jones explained. “To get your brother to have to chop it up a little bit, tell

LOCAL: TSU'S KTSU Welcomes Legendary Broadcaster Uncle Funky Larry Jones

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

me about you, your life, your kids, your wishes, your wants, your needs, anything!”

Uncle Funky Larry Jones is celebrated in the radio industry, renowned for his smooth, welcoming voice and unwavering commitment to community service.

His career highlights include hosting the top-rated "Afternoon Ride with Uncle Funky Larry Jones & Ali Siddiq" on Urban One’s MAJIC 102.1 FM and contributing his voice to numerous high-profile

events and organizations.

Returning to an HBCU setting holds special significance for Uncle Funky.

“I'm a product of an HBCU. I have my bachelor's degree from Alabama State University in Montgomery. Coming home to an HBCU has pretty much been a dream of mine,” he said. “To fulfill this, want in this season of my life with all the knowledge and things I've obtained, the chance to just flat give back, and be an integral part of the

overall vision of elevating KTSU and serving the city of Houston, for me, is a dream come true.”

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Uncle Funky Larry Jones to KTSU 90.9 FM. With his incredible wealth of knowledge and decades of experience in the industry, his presence will not only elevate our programming but also provide invaluable insights and inspiration to our students,” said Ernest Walker, General Manager of KTSU and The Vibe. “At KTSU, we strive not just to be on the airwaves but to be an integral part of the community, making our listeners feel connected and valued. Larry embodies this mission, and we are confident that his addition will greatly enrich our station and the community we have served for 52 years."

The new show will air on Saturdays from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., debuting on Saturday, June 15, 2024. Tune in to KTSU 90.9 FM for an unforgettable experience with Uncle Funky Larry Jones and be part of the ultimate backyard party.

For more updates and engaging content, visit Houston Style Magazine and stay connected with KTSU 90.9 FM on social media.

LOCAL: MONIQUE FRANKLIN APPOINTED INTERIM DIRECTOR FOR FORT BEND COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM

By Francis Page, Jr.

Fthe Fort Bend County Library System. Franklin's extensive experience and unwavering dedication to li-

Monique Franklin brings over two decades of experience in library science and management. She began her tenure at Fort Bend County Libraries in

September 2011 as the Adult Collection Development Coordinator. Her innovative approach and commitment to enhancing library collections quickly garnered attention. A year ago, she was promoted to Assistant Library Director, where she worked closely with the former Library Director, Clara Russell, who retired on June 7, 2024.

Franklin’s journey in library services is marked by her significant contributions to various library systems. Before joining Fort Bend County Libraries, she spent ten fruitful years at the Harris County Public Library as the Children's Materials Selection Librarian. Her passion for children's literature and educational resources led to the development of numerous successful programs and initiatives.

Her career also includes pivotal roles at the Houston Public Library and the Free Library of Philadelphia, where she served as a Children’s Librarian. These roles allowed her to impact the community positively, fostering a love for reading and learning among young patrons.

Franklin’s foundation in library services was laid at the St. Charles Parish Library in Destrehan, Louisiana. As a Branch Manager and Youth Services Coordinator, she demonstrated exceptional leadership and a keen ability to connect

with the community. Her academic credentials include a master’s degree in library science from Louisiana State University, reflecting her strong educational background and commitment to her profession.

In her new role as Interim Director, Franklin will oversee the daily operations of the Fort Bend County Library System, ensuring seamless service delivery and the implementation of innovative programs. Her vision includes expanding digital resources, strengthening community outreach, and enhancing library services to meet the evolving needs of Fort Bend County residents.

The Fort Bend County Library System, known for its extensive collection and diverse programs, continues to be a cornerstone of the community. Under Franklin’s interim leadership, the library system is expected to uphold its tradition of excellence while exploring new opportunities for growth and development.

Houston Style Magazine readers, for more information about the Fort Bend County Library System and upcoming programs, visit their official website at Fort Bend County Libraries.

Fort Bend County Commissioners Court has officially announced

appointment of Monique Franklin as the Interim Director of

Monique Franklin

Funky Larry Jones

In an inspiring and monumental ceremony, Fred Taylor was sworn in as the new Chairman of the Fort Bend County Democratic Party. The event took place on Monday night, with former Judge Maria T. Jackson officiating the oath on a Bible held by Taylor's sister. The ceremony was witnessed by hundreds of enthusiastic supporters, marking a significant milestone in Fort Bend County's political landscape. Victory in a Tight Race

Taylor emerged victorious in the Democratic Party Primary Run-off held on Tuesday, May 28, winning by a narrow margin of 72 votes. He secured 3,239 votes against Dr. Jennifer Cantu’s 3,167 votes. This win underscores the community's confidence in Taylor's vision and leadership. A Commitment to Down-Ballot Candidates

As a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, University of Houston graduate, educator, entrepreneur, and former Missouri City mayoral candidate, Taylor brings a wealth of experience to his new role. In his acceptance speech at the Houston Community College in Missouri City, Taylor emphasized his commitment to supporting down-ballot candidates. "Far too often, down-ballot candidates suffer defeats due to insufficient funding. As the Chairman of the Fort Bend

POLITICAL: FRED TAYLOR SWORN IN AS NEW FORT BEND COUNTY DEMOCRATIC CHAIRMAN

By Burt Levine, Political Editor for www.StyleMagazine.com

County Democratic Party, I am committed to eliminating this trend by ensuring those down-ballot candidates receive the financial support they need," Taylor stated, to resounding applause.

Prioritizing Professionalism and Respect

Taylor outlined his priorities for the party, focusing on increasing fundraising efforts, providing precinct chairs with working budgets, expanding year-round voter outreach, and establishing an oversight board of trustees. He stressed the importance of

professionalism and respect for all, which he believes are crucial for the party's success.

Financial Transparency and Youth Outreach

As the second Chairman and the first elected since Democrats began winning county-wide races, Taylor is keen on improving financial transparency, verifying candidates' eligibility and qualifications, and expanding youth community outreach. "We need to be in every precinct in every part of Fort Bend County’s diverse communities and to know the youth are the future," Taylor

remarked.

A Diverse and Growing Community

According to recent U.S. Census estimates, Fort Bend County, one of the fastest growing and most ethnically diverse counties in the country, now boasts a population of 916,778. The demographic breakdown is approximately 29% Caucasian, 25.5% Hispanic or Latino, 22.1% African American or Black, and 22.1% Asian. This diversity is reflected in the county's evolving political landscape.

Political Shifts in Fort Bend County

Historically, Fort Bend County elected officials were predominantly white Democrats before the 1990s. From the 1990s to 2018, the county saw a shift with mostly white Republicans in office, except in precincts like Missouri City, which elected African American and Hispanic Democrats. The 2018 elections marked a turning point with every county-wide position won by African American, Asian, and Hispanic Democrats. The 2022 elections saw a mix of seven Democrats and six Republicans winning county-wide.

Fort Bend Democratic Party Chairman - Fred Taylor

INATIONAL: CORPORATE AMERICA MUST STAND BY DEI AND CHIEF DIVERSITY OFFICERS

By Earl G. Graves, Jr. and Michael C. Hyter

n New York City, BLACK ENTERPRISE hosted its second annual Chief Diversity Officer Summit and Honors, presented in partnership with Fidelity Investments, Merck, and The Executive Leadership Council, the preeminent organization representing senior Black executives in corporate America and corporations throughout the globe.

The event’s purpose is to highlight the contributions of great champions of corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), including impactful industry leaders such as trailblazer James Lowry, former Dell EMC CDO Jacqueline Glenn, and the dynamic duo that designed and drove the inclusive culture at PepsiCo, Ronald Parker, and Maurice Cox.

Perhaps more critically, the summit serves as a platform for conversation about the status and future of DEI as it faces withering attacks on all fronts. Indeed, DEI needs its champions now more than ever. It was just four years ago when the murder of George Floyd and the galvanizing global protests that followed seemed to inspire a racial reckoning focused on the systemic discrimination of African Americans, and corporate America was very much a part of it.

Corporations across industries

declared their renewed commitment to DEI goals with grand pledges of support for equity and fairness. We seemed to be on the precipice of great change.

We were, but it was not the change we’d hoped for or anticipated.

The landscape has shifted dramatically in recent months. The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to strike down affirmative action in college admissions has opened the floodgates for legal challenges to DEI policies in the workplace. A federal appeals court’s recent ruling to end Fearless Fund’s grant program for Black women entrepreneurs could potentially set a chill-

CLOSED VEHICLE

ing precedent that undermines measured and effective efforts to level the economic playing field.

And in March, another federal ruling similarly gutted the Minority Business Development Agency, a potentially devastating blow to minority businesses that have long struggled to overcome systemic barriers to advancement.

As political pressure on companies to abandon DEI has intensified, the chief diversity officer role in the corporate hierarchy is being increasingly marginalized or eliminated altogether. And those lofty statements of commitment to DEI that beamed so

proudly from company websites in the wake of the Floyd protests have quietly vanished. Is this how DEI ends? Are we about to lose the chief diversity officer permanently? Or will corporate America come to its senses and acknowledge the value of equity and inclusion in its growth and profitability?

To answer that question, it’s important to remember that the business case for DEI has been made and reaffirmed in study after study, contrary to the hyperbole of its critics.

Chief diversity officers have redefined how companies recruit and develop talent. They have elevated the profile of HBCUs as a rich, viable, and long-underutilized recruitment resource and demonstrated the importance of mentorship in opening the leadership pipeline beyond the traditional white male boy’s club.

Most significantly, the rise of the CDO helped countless corporations establish profitable relationships with diverse suppliers, identifying growth opportunities that allow companies to capitalize on emerging trends. This kind of collaboration leads to new and wider access to unexplored markets and untapped talent.

Bishop James Dixon II

The Honorable – Sheila Jackson Lee

Photos By Team Style Magazine Photographers

Sheila Jackson Lee

Hidalgo, Finner & Turner

Troy Finner & Carolyn Shabazz

Photos By Team Style Magazine Photographers

Troy Finner & Edward Pollard

FINANCIAL: L i ftFund CELEBRATING JUNETEENTH –

ADVANCING EQUITY IN LENDING AND BEYOND

By Laurie Vignaud – President of LiftFund

As the echoes of history resonate today, the story of Juneteenth stands as a beacon of resilience and hope, marking both a pivotal moment in the fight for freedom and a reminder of the enduring quest for equity. This significant day, celebrated on June 19th, commemorates the moment in 1865 when the news of the Emancipation Proclamation finally reached enslaved people in Texas, more than two years after it was issued. Today, Juneteenth serves as

a powerful reminder of the importance of the long and continuing journey toward true equality and justice.

In this spirit of progress and perseverance, we reflect on Juneteenth not only as a celebration of liberation but also as a catalyst for change. Our mission at LiftFund has always stayed true – to provide opportunity and resources to people who can’t take a traditional route. We’re steadfast in our commitment to the strides

LiftFund is a nonprofit, communitybased small business lender that serves diverse business owners whose circumstances have limited their access to honest support and affordable capital. ■ $1 BILLION in funding ■ 30k businesses supported ■ Serving 15 states

Let’s make it happen!

being made in lending to those without access to capital, as well as the pivotal role of organizations, like LiftFund, in fostering economic empowerment. We’re guided by the unwavering belief that every step towards equity is a step towards a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow for us all.

A Journey Towards Equity and Justice

The journey towards equality and equity in lending continues to unfold slowly but steadily. As we push for progress, it’s important to understand the difference between equity and equality. Equality seeks uniformity – everything the same. But equity addresses disparities and barriers. It takes the nuance of life and seeks to make things fair. Without equity, we all miss out on the opportunity to see the full potential of our world as a whole.

One of the biggest barriers that can hold some of our entrepreneurs back is the societal debt that they carry through no fault of their own. At LiftFund, it’s our job to help recognize their value, despite that debt. We are in the unique position to foster opportunities to propel people forward by providing them with the resources and support they need.

Empowering Communities Through Economic Support

We truly believe that everyone benefits from the progress made toward equity. By creating more opportunities for people to reach their full potential, we’re not only given the gift of being surrounded by stronger, more resilient communities, but we all gain access to the wonderful businesses that may not have been if it weren’t for someone giving them a lift.

LiftFund's impact is profound and far-reaching. Through our tailored financial services, we have empowered countless individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their entrepreneurial dreams. Our commitment extends beyond mere financial assistance; we provide mentorship,

training, and the tools necessary for sustained success. This holistic approach ensures that our clients are well-equipped to thrive in today's competitive marketplace.

Reflecting on Progress and Inspiring Future Change

As we reflect on the impact of Juneteenth, we acknowledge the progress that has been made, the progress yet to be realized, and we are inspired to take a lesson from history and do our part to make sure the message of our mission reaches those who need it. The celebration of Juneteenth is a reminder that the fight for freedom and equality is ongoing and that every effort we make today contributes to a fairer, more just society.

At LiftFund, we stand in solidarity with the values embodied by Juneteenth. We are dedicated to continuing our work in breaking down barriers and building up communities, one loan at a time. Together, we can ensure that the spirit of Juneteenth lives on through our commitment to equity, justice, and opportunity for all.

By embracing the lessons of Juneteenth and committing to the ongoing journey toward equity, we at LiftFund envision a future where every entrepreneur has the chance to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances. Join us in celebrating Juneteenth and in supporting the mission to create a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Laurie Vignaud

James Harris – H-E-B, Laurie Vignaud – President of LiftFund, Lynda Toyota – LiftFund, Sherronda and Madison Scroggins –KC Events Houston, and Dylan McNally – SBA

INATIONAL : AMERICANS' PERSPECTIVE ON U.S. INSTITUTIONS - A DEEP

DIVE INTO ENDURING CHALLENGES AND HOPES FOR CHANGE

By Jo-Carolyn Goode for www.StyleMagazine.com

n a recent comprehensive study by Pew Research Center, an overwhelming majority of Black Americans have voiced their belief that the foundational structures of U.S. institutions were deliberately designed to disadvantage Black people. This sentiment echoes through various sectors of society, including education, employment, healthcare, and criminal justice, underscoring a persistent distrust that these systems have fundamentally ingrained biases.

Historical Context and Current Perceptions

The perception of systemic bias is deeply rooted in historical realities. From the era of slavery to the Jim Crow laws, Black Americans have faced institutional barriers that have perpetuated inequality. The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s marked significant progress, yet many Black Americans feel that the reforms were insufficient in dismantling the underlying prejudices that continue to affect their daily lives.

According to the Pew Research Center's findings, a substantial 63% of Black adults assert that U.S. institutions were intentionally designed to keep Black people in subordinate positions. This belief is especially strong among younger Black Americans and those with higher levels of education, suggesting a growing awareness and refusal to accept the status quo.

Economic Disparities and Educational Inequities

Economic inequality remains a critical issue, with Black Americans experiencing higher rates of unemployment

and lower household incomes compared to their White counterparts. The racial wealth gap is a stark indicator of these disparities, with median White households possessing significantly more wealth than median Black households. This economic divide is often attributed to discriminatory practices in hiring, wage disparities, and limited access to quality education and professional opportunities.

Educational inequity also continues to be a pressing concern. Predominantly Black schools often receive less funding,

have fewer resources, and suffer from overcrowded classrooms. These conditions hinder the academic achievement of Black students, contributing to lower graduation rates and diminished opportunities for higher education and well-paying jobs.

Healthcare Inequalities and Criminal Justice System

Healthcare disparities further exacerbate the challenges faced by Black Americans. They are more likely to suffer from chronic conditions such as hyperten-

sion, diabetes, and asthma, often due to limited access to quality healthcare and healthy food options. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted these inequities, with Black communities experiencing higher infection and mortality rates.

The criminal justice system is another area where Black Americans report significant bias. From policing practices to sentencing, Black individuals are disproportionately affected by harsher penalties and longer prison terms compared to White individuals for similar offenses. The recent calls for police reform and the Black Lives Matter movement have brought renewed attention to these injustices, emphasizing the urgent need for systemic change.

Hope for the Future and Pathways to Change

Despite these challenges, there is a palpable sense of hope and resilience within the Black community. Many Black Americans are actively engaged in efforts to reform these systems through advocacy, education, and community initiatives. There is a growing movement towards achieving equity and justice, driven by a new generation of leaders committed to creating lasting change.

The Pew Research Center's study illuminates the enduring belief among Black Americans that U.S. institutions are fundamentally biased against them. While significant progress has been made over the decades, much work remains to dismantle these systemic barriers. As the nation continues to grapple with its history and strive for a more equitable future, it is crucial to listen to and amplify the voices of those who have long been marginalized.

CULINARY: THE FORGOTTEN RACIAL HISTORY OF RED LOBSTER

By Nathaniel Meyersohn, CNN

In around the country are losing cheddar bay biscuits and all-you-can-eat seafood deals as troubled Red Lobster closes around 100 US restaurants, with up to 135 more closures looming.

But Red Lobster’s decline is particularly a loss for many Black diners, who formed a loyal base for the brand and still account for a higher share of customers than other major casual chain restaurants, according to historians, customers and former Red Lobster executives.

“Red Lobster cultivated Black

customers. It has not shied away from that customer base like some brands have,”

Clarence Otis Jr., the former CEO of Darden Restaurants from 2004 to 2014, when the company still owned the chain, told CNN.

After Otis became CEO, Sacramento Observer columnist Mardeio Cannon wrote that “it is only fitting” Red Lobster had a Black CEO because “if there is any restaurant in America that most African Americans love, it’s Red Lobster.”

In a 2015 presentation to investors, Red Lobster said 16% of customers were

Black, two percentage points higher than the Black share of the US population. Red Lobster did not respond to CNN’s request for comment on current customer demographics.

The chain hired Black workers and served Black guests from its beginnings in the South in the late 1960s, and Black celebrities such as Chris Rock and Nicki Minaj worked there before they became famous. (Minaj later joked about being fired from “all three or four” of the Red Lobsters where she worked over “Lobsterita” drinks and cheddar bay biscuits with Jimmy Fallon.)

And Beyoncé sang about taking a romantic partner to Red Lobster in her 2016 song “Formation,” which addresses police brutality, Hurricane Katrina and Black cul-

ture in America.

Red Lobster attracted both working-class and affluent Black diners during the 1970s and 1980s at a time when many sit-down restaurants were unwelcoming of Black patrons, said Marcia Chatelain, a professor of Africana studies at the University of Pennsylvania and author of “Franchise: The Golden Arches in Black America,” which explores the relationship between McDonald’s and Black consumers. Red Lobster’s early locations near shopping malls also helped it grow with Black customers, she said.

Clarence Otis Jr.

BEAUTY: DONNA'S RECIPE - REVOLUTIONIZING HAIRCARE WITH TABITHA BROWN'S VEGAN

TOUCH

By Jo-Carolyn Goode For www.StyleMagazine.com

Pressed and straightened, blow-dried and curled, tangled and twisted, braided and stressed—our hair has a personality of its own. For actress, author, social media personality, and entrepreneur Tabitha Brown, her hair, affectionately named Donna, embodies a bold and beautiful crown. Maintaining Donna's unique personality requires a special kind of care, which is why Tabitha created Donna's Recipe, a vegan haircare line that stands out in the beauty industry.

The Birth of Donna's Recipe

Tabitha Brown's rise to fame is paralleled by the growth and vibrancy of her hair. Donna's personality shines through as a testament to the quality and care of Tabitha's own haircare line. The journey began in Tabitha's kitchen, spurred by a personal hair crisis—a bald spot at the back of her head. Like many, she turned to the internet for solutions but found nothing satisfactory. This challenge sparked a collaboration with business partner Gina Woods, leading to the creation of Donna's Recipe, tailored specifically for Donna and every hair type with a personality.

Donna's Recipe stands out for its commitment to vegan ingredients. Each one is meticulously selected to avoid harmful chemicals, making the products safe and gentle for all hair types. The vegan haircare line is designed to cater to the diverse needs of natural hair and includes everything from shampoos and conditioners to growth oils and styling creams, each designed to bring out the best in your hair while promoting health and growth.

The Power of Natural Ingredients

Whether your hair is curly, coily, or wavy, Donna’s Recipe promises to enhance its natural beauty with its line of products containing clean, vegan ingredients: Sweet Potato: Grows and thickens the hair shaft.

Cinnamon : Removes build-up from the scalp for healthy follicles.

Vanilla: Stimulates blood circulation to grow hair.

Aloe Vera: Promotes cell growth and shiny hair.

Vitamin E: Hydrates, brightens, and smooths hair.

Shea Butter: Moisturizes and conditions hair.

Personal Experience with Donna's Recipe

The center provides confidential testing and counseling, ensuring that men receive the care and information they need to make informed decisions about their sexual health.

I had the opportunity to try Donna’s Recipe on Zondria, my nickname for my hair. Zondria constantly gets tangled, eats up oil, and hardly ever acts right. Donna’s Recipe knocked two of my problems out with the first usage. Opening the box was a wonderful experience as I was entranced by the pleasant smell of the products before I even opened them. I couldn’t wait to lather up and put them on Zondria. Anything with an aroma like that must be good for the hair.

With Donna’s Recipe, a little really goes a long way. I poured a sizable amount of the conditioner on my hair and was in a state of zen. After conditioning and drying my hair a little, I applied my favorite product, the strength hair oil. My hair had not been hydrated in a while, so it absorbed the oil beautifully. I swore my hair was glistening. Zondria looked vibrant, strong, and healthy even before styling. I felt that with prolonged usage, my hair would grow and be healthy.

Get your hands on Donna’s Recipe by Tabitha Brown at DonnasRecipe.com Experience the revolution in haircare and let your hair’s personality shine!

Donna's Recipe's Owners - Tabitha Brown & Gina Woods

Campus Chronicles

The Houston Metropolitan Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. (NCBW® 100) is honoring Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney at its 3rd Annual Blackshear-Rockwell Scholarship & Community Heroine Awards Reception for her outstanding contributions to education.

Congratulations to the Alief Early College High School students who recently graduated from Houston Community College! Their exceptional achievement of earning both high school diplomas and Associate Degrees was a testament to their hard work and dedication. The entire community was immensely proud of these students for their remarkable commitment and perseverance. This dual accomplishment highlighted their

Quick fingers and impressive recall recently earned a team of three students from Spring Branch Academic Institute (SBAI) a first-place win at a national Academic Bowl in Orlando, Florida.

The SBAI team—Jinu Kang, Austin Wang, and Bolin Zhang—qualified through an online exam and regional competitions. Coached by Willa Liao, the

Burlington Stores celebrated the opening of its new location in Stafford with a generous $5,000 donation to Fort Bend ISD’s E.A. Jones Elementary. The donation was made in partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org,

Since taking the helm of Aldine ISD in July 2018, Dr. Goffney has boosted student achievement by focusing on early childhood education, literacy, professional development for teachers, and community collaboration. Her efforts have garnered numerous awards and honors. She is dedicated to maximizing opportunities, developing leaders, and providing opportunities for all students.

NCBW® 100's mission is to advocate for black women and girls, promoting leadership development and gender equity in health, education, economic empowerment, and public policy.

bright futures and set a high standard for academic excellence. Well done, gradu-

Dragons (SBAI’s mascot) triumphed in their first year together, displaying sportsmanship and resilience.

Notable performances included:

- Aditya Mandke: Second place in the National Science Bee, semifinalist in Geography and History.

- Noah Anderson and Bolin Zhang: Quarterfinalists in History and Geography Bees.

- Gwyneth Galimberti, Joshua Ghattas, Pablo Sarkar, and Sean Zeng: Gained valuable experience for future contests.

a non-profit organization that supports teachers and students. The funds will enable Jones' teachers to purchase classroom supplies and materials through AdoptAClassroom’s online marketplace.

NATIONAL: GARY GUIDRY: PIONEERING EXCELLENCE IN GLOBAL MUSIC PROMOTIONS

By Francis Page, Jr. for www.StyleMagazine.com

As the CEO of the Black Promoters Collective (BPC), Gary Guidry stands at the forefront of a transformative movement in the music industry. With a career spanning 26 years, beginning with street promotions in college, Guidry has cultivated a legacy of innovation and community engagement.

The BPC is renowned for promoting tours by legendary acts such as Frankie Beverly & Maze, Keith Sweat, and “The Love Hard Tour” featuring Keyshia Cole, Trey Songz, Jaheim, and K. Michelle. However, for 2024, Guidry is most excited about a particular festival in Florida that promises to elevate the concert experience.

“I’m very proud of the launch of our Jazz in the Gardens (JITG) festival,” Guidry shares. “It was a huge success, evident in the remarkable increase in year-over-year sales and the enhanced production quality and overall patron experience.” The festival's success not only met but exceeded the city’s objectives of revitalizing the brand, fostering community engagement, and reinstating a culture of excellence where attendees could truly revel in the experience.

Being selected as one of Pollstar's Impact 50 is a significant milestone for Guidry and his partners. “This recognition

is owed to our dedicated and efficient support staff, who make everything happen, and our incredible partners in music, who allow us to support them on stage,” says Guidry.

The JITG festival, now in its second year, was held on March 9-10 in Miami Gardens, Florida, attracting over 35,000 music fans. This year’s expanded artist lineup featured Babyface, Omarion, Summer Walker, Kirk Franklin, October London, Tink, Eric Bellinger, Fantasia, Jaheim, Jazmine Sullivan, Tamia, Marsha Ambrosius, and Maxwell. The BPC successfully introduced younger talent while appealing to older audiences, creating a multi-generational celebration around exceptional music.

“Our event brought families together, providing entertainment for aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, mothers, fathers, and children,” Guidry notes. This inclusivity highlights BPC’s commitment to creating experiences that resonate across generations.

Guidry acknowledges that post-pandemic realities pose significant challenges. “As everyone rushes back into the scene, the competition is fierce, but it’s poised to balance out soon,” he observes.

“This leveling will allow produc-

tion companies to focus on creating larger, more tailored shows that cater directly to consumers’ preferences. In turn, audiences will have the opportunity to experience meticulously curated events that meet their expectations.”

Guidry’s guiding business philosophy emphasizes the importance of listening over speaking. “Patrons will reveal their consumption desires, while artists and partners will express their preferred audience and desired communication channels,” he explains. JITG is just one example of this philosophy in action. Looking ahead, BPC plans to launch two more festival experiences in 2025, further solidifying their impact on the music promotion landscape.

For the concert-loving readers of Houston Style Magazine, Gary Guidry’s journey and achievements serve as a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and a keen understanding of the audience’s needs. His work with the Black Promoters Collective not only enhances the music scene but also fosters a sense of community and shared joy, one festival at a time.

More information on the Black Promoters Collective (BPC), go to: https:// blackpromoterscollective.com/

Ancestor’s Torch, oil on canvas, Ava Cosey, courtesy of

Kinsey African American Art & History Collection

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