GREATER HOUSTON EDITION
June 20, 2025
AframNews.com AframNews .com
Vol.30, Issue 22
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African-American News&Issues
“Addressing Current & Historical Realities Affecting Our Community”
CYNTHIA WILSON
CHIEF OF STAFF
DICTATORSHIP VS DEMOCRACY By: Roy Douglas Malonson
What’s the real difference between a democracy and a dictatorship—and does it depend on who you are in America? For Black Americans, that question has never been theoretical. It’s personal. It’s historical. And in today’s divided political climate, it’s urgent. The events of January 6, 2021, when an overwhelmingly white mob stormed the U.S. Capitol to overturn the results of a presidential election, forced the nation to reckon with a truth Black communities have long understood: democracy in America has always operated on a double standard.
When Black people protest against injustice— whether police brutality, voter suppression, or systemic racism—they are met with riot gear, rubber bullets, and mass arrests. But when mostly white rioters violently breached the Capitol, many were allowed to walk away without consequences. The difference in treatment was not just about politics— it was about privilege. And it exposed how quickly democratic ideals can slip toward dictatorship when power is protected by force instead of votes. Donald Trump’s refusal to Democracy on pg. 3 accept the outcome of the
“It has been a true honor to serve Mayor Whitmire and the City of Houston,” said Newport. “I remain fully committed to the mayor’s vision for the city and deeply believe in this administration’s potential to drive positive change. I’m grateful to the exceptional team, colleagues, and city employees who have allowed me to serve alongside them. Due to personal obligations to my family, I must now serve in a different capacity—but the mayor knows he can count on me to support him and the city at any time, day or night.” To succeed Newport, Mayor Whitmire has appointed Cynthia Wilson as the new Chief of Staff. Since the beginning of Whitmire’s term, Wilson has served as Senior Advisor on operations and quality of life issues. “Cynthia and I go back many years, including her time as a school administrator in my Texas Senate District,” said Mayor Whitmire. “She came out of retirement to join my administration and has been a trusted presence in my office during every major decision. I have complete confidence in her leadership and trust her to effectively manage our city’s operations and challenges while advancing our priorities. Her extensive experience and dedication are exactly what we need.” Wilson’s career includes roles as District Superintendent for Houston Read more at ISD, Superintendent of Schools in the aframnews.com