On March 7th, 1965, 60 years ago today, hundreds of civil rights activists gathered in Selma, Alabama, to march to the state capital, Montgomery. (About a 54 mile distance) They were protesting unfair laws that made it almost impossible for Black Americans to vote. The march was peaceful, but when they reached the Edmund Pettus Bridge, police attacked them with clubs, tear gas, and whips. This violent event became known as Bloody Sunday, and it played a major role in the fight for voting rights in the United States.
During the 1960s, Black Americans in the South faced many obstacles when trying to vote. Even though the U.S. Constitution gave all citizens the right to vote. Some had to take nearly impossible literacy tests, pay unfair taxes, or face threats from white officials and the Ku Klux Klan. In Selma, only about 2% of Black citizens were registered to vote because of these barriers.
The situation was heightened after a young Black activist named Jimmie Lee Jackson was killed by an Alabama state trooper on February 18, 1965. Jackson was shot while trying to protect his mother during a protest. His death angered the civil rights movement, leading leaders like John Lewis of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and Hosea Williams of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) to organize the Selma-to-Montgomery march.
On the morning of March 7, 1965, about 600 peaceful marchers left Selma, led by John Lewis and Hosea Williams. They walked in pairs, carrying signs and singing freedom songs. As they crossed the Edmund Pettus Bridge, they were met by Alabama state troopers and Sheriff Jim Clark’s officers, who were waiting with clubs, tear gas, and horses.
The police ordered the marchers to turn around. Before they could respond, officers attacked them, beating them with clubs and whips while spraying them with tear gas. Many were knocked to the ground and badly injured. John Lewis was hit so hard that his skull was fractured. The attack was caught on camera and shown on television.
After the attack, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. led another march on March 9, 1965, but he turned back when faced with more police violence. Finally, under protection from federal troops, thousands of marchers completed the 54-mile journey from Selma to Montgomery from March 21-25.
The violent images from Bloody Sunday convinced President Lyndon B. Johnson to act. On August 6, 1965, he signed the Voting Rights Act, which banned unfair voting laws and protected Black citizens’ right to vote.
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
