August 15, 2025
GREATER HOUSTON EDITION
AframNews.com
Vol.30, Issue 30
FREE
African-American News&Issues
“Addressing Current & Historical Realities Affecting Our Community”
REMEMBERING THE LIFE OF MARCUS By: Fred Smith
SILENCING BLACK AND LATINO VOTERS By: Roy Douglas Malonson
In recent days, more than 50 Texas House Democrats have taken a bold and unprecedented stand, leaving the state to prevent a vote on a controversial redistricting plan. Traveling to states such as Illinois and New York, their absence has denied the Texas House the quorum needed to advance the proposal, effectively stalling the process. The stakes are immense. The Republican-backed plan, reportedly encouraged by former President
Donald Trump, seeks to create as many as five additional Republican U.S. House seats ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Civil rights advocates say the plan would dismantle the political influence of Black and Latino voters in key areas like Austin, Houston, Dallas, and South Texas. For Black Texans, the impact would be immediate and far-reaching. Several Voters on pg. 3 historically Black neighborhoods
Marcus Christopher Skelton was born January 15th, 2004, in Houston, Texas, to Myron Skelton and Raven Wheaton (Jones). The firstborn of three children, Marcus entered the world prematurely at 33½ weeks. Doctors warned that he would face severe health challenges, predicting he would never have functioning kidneys, never care for himself, and would live with major limitations. At two days old, one of his lungs collapsed, and he endured two blood transfusions that same week. But after six weeks in the NICU, Marcus came home—and never returned to the hospital. God had a different plan. Marcus faced challenges with courage and joy. He participated in Special Olympics, from basketball and track to his beloved bowling—where his slow-rolling balls often ended in strikes. He loved football, shouting “Touchdown!” or “Fumble!” with enthusiasm. In church, his praise dancing was so infectious that his Big Papa gave the children their own space to worship. Although Marcus’s speech wasn’t always clear, his love spoke volumes. Everyone who met him felt it—his joy, his kindness, and his way of making you feel special. His hugs, laughter, and playful teasing reached deeper than words ever could. His Uncle Meeko Skelton was one of his biggest supporters, always encouraging Marcus and making sure he felt valued and included. Marcus’s life is a reminder that adults with disabilities deserve attentive care, protection, and environments where they can thrive. Safety protocols are essential—consistent supervision, secure transportation practices, and awareness from caregivers and the community. These measures ensure that Read more at individuals like Marcus can live joyfully, aframnews.com