04.23.2026_Defender-e-FULL

To the POINT DN

View A&M University raised nearly $1.1 million at its Presidential Gala, with university leadership emphasizing the impact donor investment will have on student potential.

Message from the Reporter

Houston ISD NES expansion continues

The Houston Independent School District is expanding its New Education System (NES), with nine additional elementary school campuses opting into the model for the next school year A school district spokesperson announced that the decisioncamedirectlyfromprincipalswho are choosing to join, largely because of the “added support, staffing, and instructional resources” that come with it

The nine schools include: Barrick Elementary,BastianElementary,BenbrookElementary,Burnet Elementary,CarrilloElementary,WhiteElementary,Foster Elementary, Garcia Elementary, and Law Elementary

Currently, HISD has 130 schools under its NES model.

“Now, this decision reflects the strong work happening acrossourcampusesandthesharedfocusonwhatwillbest support students every day,” said HISD spokesperson Trey Serna.“Now,we’reseeingprogressinschoolsacrossthedistrict…They see what’s happening at other NES campuses across the district They know that the NES model comes with a strategic amount of resources that principals and teachers want to benefit from.”

TheNEScurriculumcomprisestime-dependentinstruction during classes and test-based evaluations, following a centralized schedule, pre-planned lessons, quizzes, and follow-up teaching. Teachers at NES schools also receive a higher salary than teachers at non-NES campuses.

HISDcampusessawgainsintheTexasEducationAgency’s A-Faccountabilityratings,withnocampusesreceivinganF ratingin2025.ThenumberofAandBschoolshasmorethan doubledinthesameperiod,from93in2023to197in2025.

On the other hand, HISD parents and teachers have expressed concerns with the NES curriculum through protestsandspeechesatboardmeetings,citingrigorousstudent and teacher evaluations and the closure of libraries as a few of the issues NES campuses face

PVAMU Gala raises $1.1 million for student scholarships

It was a big night for Prairie View A&M University

Atthisyear’sPresidentialScholarshipGala,theuniversity raisednearly$1.1millioninsupportofstudentscholarships

The theme was “Investing in Brilliance.” From student testimonials to performances by the university’s music and

theaterdepartments,thenightaimedtoshow where that money would be going.

In a conversation with the Defender, PVAMUPresidentDr TomikiaP.LeGrande framed the university’s funding sources as a way to remove barriers for students and invest in their talents.

“See, when you invest, you get a return on your investment, right?” she said. “We’re providing impact reports so people know howtheirfundingisimpactingourstudents. When a student gets a scholarship from the institutionorfromadonor,itsaysyoubelieve in them It says that you believe that they are capable and that you’re investing in them.”

Black Houston(s) Symposium reimagines sports as lived experience

The stories shared at this year’s Black Houston(s) Symposium started in arenas and small towns across Texas. Hosted by Rice University, the two-day event brought togetherathletes,scholars,artists,andcommunityvoicesto rethink sports.

OneofthemostpowerfulmomentscamefromfourBlack rodeo cowboys, Myrtis Dightman, Harold Cash, Freddie “Skeet” Gordon, and James Boone, who spoke about navigating segregation and hostile crowds, delving into their hardships and connections.

Panels explored food systems that affect athletic performance and how coaching strategies can shape classroom teaching

“As a fan and as someone who both played and worked in sports, this year’s theme, A League of Our Own: Sports and Embodiment, was super special to me,” said Erika Thompson,associatedirectoroftheCenterforAfricanand AfricanAmericanStudies(CAAAS),whoalsoworkedwith Black Houston(s) before “What I love most about Black Houston(s)isseeingthearrayofcommunitymembers,students, faculty and staff come together to share and learn fromoneanother.It’samagicaltime,oneIlookforwardto every year.”

On the web

• HowredistrictingisreshapingBlackpoliticalpowerin 18th Congressional District

• DeQuina Moore brings Broadway to Houston.

• Why Trump’s war matters to us Blackfolk.

News DN Cocodyowners respond afterdress codecontroversy

By ReShondaTate

What beganasabirthdaydinnerturned into aviralflashpointoverdress codes, respectability,andwhogetstodefine“appropriate”inupscalespaces

Now, theownersofCocody, aluxury French restaurant in RiverOaks, arespeakingout

The controversyerupted after aTikTok videopostedbyuserRoszzemaryamassed more than 3.6million views, showinga groupofBlack womendeniedentry to the restaurant over what they were told didnot meetdresscodestandards.Inthevideo,the womendisplaytheiroutfits—shortdresses andasheer look —while questioningwhy theywereturnedaway

Therestaurant’swebsitestatesthatguests areexpectedtowear“SmartWear,Business Casual,orProfessionalAttire,”andnotesthat entrymaybedeniedfor“athleticwear,sleepwear,slippers,excessivelyrevealingclothing, orexposedundergarments.”

“One of thewomen hadona sheer, seethroughdressandtheotherhadonflipflops, both of whichviolate thedress code,” said co-ownerEdithBosso

Owners sayincident was‘taken out of context’

In an exclusiveinterview with The Defender,Edith Bossoand herhusband, EdwinBosso said theviral videodoesnot accuratelyreflectwhathappenedthatnight.

“Theinteractionwascompletelytakenout of context,”Edwin Bossosaid. “Theyoung lady that didthe videowas notthe person whowasrefusedaccesstotherestaurant.”

AccordingtoBosso,two membersof the

groupweredeniedentry —not thewoman whofilmedthevideo—adistinctionhesays waslostasthevideospreadonline.

“I thinkthatwas misleading to alot of peoplewatchingit,”hesaid

Bossosaidhewas surprisedbyhow quicklythesituationescalatedanddescribed thebacklashasboth“sad” and“scary,”particularlyasassumptionsabouttherestaurant anditsownershipcirculatedonline.

“Alotofpeoplewereexpressinganopinionwithout knowinganythingabout the subject,”hesaid.

Avision of ‘elegance’ —and the tension around it

Cocody,whichhasbeenopenforjustover twoyears,wasintentionallydesignedtooffer whattheownersdescribeasanelevateddiningexperienceinHouston.

“We’ve talked alot aboutelegance, we’ve talked alot aboutupscale,” Bossosaid.

“There’sabigdifferencebetweenbeingrich andbeingelegant.”

ForBosso andhis wife,Edith,the dress code is part of that experience —not about exclusion, butabout maintainingacertain atmosphere

“Wecreatesomething beautiful, elegant, chic,” said EdithBosso.“We love to dress up…tohaveagoodtime.”

Still,hercommentsalsoreflectthetension fuelingthebacklash.

“Ithurts me,” shesaidofthe criticism. “Thoseladiesareyoungandbeautiful…they shoulddobetter.”

Social media, perception, and a largerconversation

viralmomenthighlightsthe power—and danger—ofsocialmedia

“Withonemoment…youcancreatealot ofstresstootherpeople,”hesaid.

He also notedthatthe controversy appeared to gain traction in part dueto assumptionsabout therestaurant’s ownershipandrace.

“Itwas reinforcinga rhetoric,” he said.“I thinkthewholewhite/Blackthingformeis irrelevant.”

Dresscodesand discretion

At theheart of thedebateisa familiar issue:discretion

Termslike“excessivelyrevealing” leave roomforinterpretation,andthatinterpretationcanvarydependingonwhoisenforcing therules

EdithBossoframedthepolicyinsimpler terms.

The incident hassparked broaderquestionsbeyondonerestaurant Online, reactionshavebeensharply divided. Some usersdefendedCocody’s righttoenforce itsdress duingthatfine establishoften require rtainlevel of ttire. Others questioned whether such policies are pplied contently —orif ey dispropornatelyimpact ackwomen ortheBossos, woareBlack,the

code, argu dining ments o a cer at ap sist the tion Bla Fo who

ShirleyAlfred Johnson

HOUSTON,TX —The Houstoncommunity prepares to bida finalfarewellto ShirleyAlfredJohnson,awomanwhoselife wasdefined by trailblazingservice andan unforgettable personality. A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be heldthis Thursday, April30, at 11 a.m. inthe sanctuaryofWheelerAvenueBaptistChurch Mrs. Johnsonwas apillarofher congregation andadevoted member of the AlphaKappa Omega ChapterofAlpha KappaAlpha Sorority,Inc.Asamember

of Houston’slargest AKAchapter,she was cherishedbyher sorority sistersand fellow parishioners alikefor herwelcoming smile andatrademarksharpcandor

Herprofessionaljourney wasasdiverse as it wasdistinguished.Mrs.Johnson broke barriersinlawenforcementandpublicsafety, servingasaHarrisCountyDeputySheriff andan ArsonInvestigator.Her entrepreneurialspiritlater ledher to establishher ownprivateinvestigationcompany

Shewas thebeloved wife of thelate Rev.

W. VanJohnson,who served with distinction as achaplainand professorat Prairie ViewA&MUniversity In lieu of flowers, thefamilykindly requests that donationsbemadeinher honortothe University of Texas M.D Anderson Cancer Center (P.O.Box 4486, Houston, TX 77210-4486) or onlineat http://mdanderson.org/gifts. Friendsand familyareinvitedtogatheratWheelerAvenuetocelebrate alifelived with immense purpose, faith, andgrit.

“Thedresscodeisadresscode,”shesaid. “Youarewelcomeanytime…withthedress code.”

Shecomparedittorespectingahost’s houserules—aperspectivesomeagreewith, andotherschallenge

Whathappens next

Despitethebacklash,theownerssaythey remaincommittedtotheirvisionforCocody —one rooted in elegance,experience, and presentation

“We’retryingtocreatesomethingspecial forthecityofHouston,”EdwinBossosaid. In thedaysfollowing thecontroversy, they saysomedinershavecomeinspecificallytoask questionsand seethe spacefor themselves

News DN Homeless youthget lifeline

By Tannistha Sinha

TheHouston City Council approvedanextensionofitsagreementwithCovenantHouseTexas, directing $545,534 in federaland stategrantfundingtotheorganization throughMarch 31,2027.

Thefunddraws from three fundingstreams:

•$344,284 in HomelessHousingand Services ProgramYouthfunds

•$175,000 in EmergencySolutionsGrant funds

•$26,250inCommunityDevelopment BlockGrant funds from theadministration

Theadditional dollarswill ensure thecontinuationofemergencyshelteroperationsfor 125 unaccompanied, homeless young adults betweenthe ages of 18 and 24, accordingtocitydocuments

Undertheagreement,youthwill receive shelterand individualized casemanagementservicesfocused on stabilization,including basic needssuchasmeals,clothing,and mental health support, as well as long-termhousingsolutions

Themeasurewasrecommended by theHousingand Community DevelopmentDepartment(HCD) andpresentedtotheQualityofLife Committee in February

Who needshousing in Houston?

Accordingtoregionalcounts conductedbythe Coalitionfor theHomelessofHouston/Harris County,3,325 people were homelessasofthenightofJan.27,2025, in Harris, Fort Bend,and Montgomerycounties,anincreaseof45 peoplefromtheprioryear’scount CovenantHouseTexashasbeen akeynodewithinTheWayHome,

Houston’slocalhomelessresponse system,whichisanetworkofover 100partners,includingnonprofits andlocalgovernments,workingto make homelessnessrare.

LocatednearDowntownHouston,CovenantHouseservesyoung people ages 18 to 24, including parentswithchildrenuptoage 5. Nearly 70%ofits visitors and residents areAfrican American, perstaff.

Theorganization recently completeda$55 millionfacility build-out designedspecifically to

prioritize youth.

Therenewed city funding will supportCovenantHouse’s multi-stage model, whichbegins at itsYouth Engagement Center, alow-barrier,no-prerequisite drop-inspace,and canextend throughtransitionalhousingand eventually,independentapartment living

FeliciaBroussard,chief philanthropy officer,saidMayor John Whitmiretouredthe newfacility

“CovenantHouse Texasis exceptionallygratefulfor the

continuedsupport of theCity of Houston,”Broussard told the Defender.“He [Whitmire] also fellinlovewiththeideaofansweringhomelessnessexperiencedby youthinaveryspecial way. And he cannow envisionanevenbettersolutiontosolving or ending homelessnessinthiscity, as we’re addressing 18 to 24-year-olds.”

The grantarrives as Covenant Houseaimstoamass itsannual revenuebudget of $9.5 million. Nextyear,perBroussard,thebudgetisexpectedtoreachnearly$11 million.

“Addressingmentalhealthand physicalhealthinthe medical clinic,that’sonehugewayinwhich fundingwillbeused.Thenthey’re abletoworkoncareerandeducation goals,”she said Currently, Covenant House relies on federaland statefunding, as well as privateinvestments fromfoundationsandindividuals. Broussardaddedthatcitygrant agreementslikethisoneareacritical pieceofits operatingbudget. The services funded underthe agreementspanseveralareas.On thehealthside, theorganization operates ano-cost clinic offering primarycare, includingphysicals andSTDtesting,referralsfordentalandvisioncare,andbehavioral health support. Partnerships with Baylor help ensure access to therapy, andstaffhelpyouth enroll in publichealthprogramssocarecan continuebeyondtheirtimeatCovenantHouse

Along-term agreement

Covenant Househas received fundingfromtheCityofHouston since 2009.

The newfunds come as part of athirdamendment to an agreement,buildingonapattern of successive city investmentsinthe organization

News DN

HarrisCountypusheshomeowner exemptions

By Tannistha Sinha

Thedeadlinetofileregularresidential homesteadexemption applications is due on April30, 2026.HarrisCountyofficials areurginghomeownerstoact before this deadlinetoreducetaxbills.

PerHarrisCountyTaxAssessor-Collector

AnnetteRamirezandHarrisCentralAppraisal DistrictChiefAppraiserAdamBogard,more than 150,000 homeowners,who qualifyfor homesteadexemptions,havenotapplied.

themostimmediate ways to lowercosts is throughpropertytaxexemptions.Buthere’s thereality:Manyhomeownerswho qualify haven’tapplied.”

“That’srealmoneybackinpeople’spockets,”Ramirez said

“Right now, toomanyhomeownersin Harris County arepayingmorethanthey need to,” Ramirez said.“We know families arefeelingrealfinancialpressure,andoneof

Eligible homeownerscould seesignificantreductions on theirannualproperty taxbills,withsavings rangingfromhundreds to thousandsofdollars, dependingonproperty valueand qualifying factors such as ageordisability status.”

ANNETTERAMIREZ

Harris County TaxAssessor-Collector

Ramirez emphasizedthatseveraleligible homeowners arenot awareofthe benefits availabletothemand areyet to complete theapplication processasthe deadline approaches.

AccordingtoananalysisbyChild Poverty Action Lab(CPAL), thelargest gapin receiving homesteadexemptionsisfound in low-income,majority-Black andBrown neighborhoods. Barriersinclude alackof awareness,difficultyaccessingappraisaldistrictwebsites,andlanguageaccessgaps.

RecentdatafromRamirez’s office highlights theamountofmoney homeowners cansavethroughexemptions:

•A homeownerwitha$250,000 propertycouldreducetheirtaxliabilityfrom $5,313 to $3,020, or possibly eliminate their HarrisCountytax bill entirely for qualifyingseniorsordisabledresidents •Ahomeownerwitha$400,000property couldreducetheirtaxbillfrom$8,500to $5,571, or as lowas$1,321, depending oneligibility

Join us to learnmoreabout theI-45NHHIP– atransformativeproject designed to reduce congestion,enhance safety,improve mobility,drive economic andcommunity opportunities,and bolsterflood resistance across the Houstonregion.

Communities of color underrepresented in applications

Despitethe financialrelief available, Ramirezsaidcommunitiesofcolorremain underrepresentedintakingadvantage of exemptions andother ways to save on property taxes.

Inresponsetothisissue,theHarrisCentralAppraisalDistrictaimstoconducttargetedoutreach.

“Weareworkingonaninitiativewiththe appraisaldistricttoidentify, thoseneighborhoodsand to actuallygoknock on doors,”RamireztoldtheDefender.“There’s ahighprobabilitythattheycouldprobably qualifyforanexemption,sowe’regoingto starttakingoninitiativesthattargetspecific areasandspecificstreetstoseeifwecanget some folkstoapply forthose exemptions.”

Bogard said oneofthe biggestbarriers is alackofawareness

Formoreinformation,callthe Harris CountyTaxOfficeat713-274-8000orvisit www.hctax.net/property/taxbreaks.

Themeeting will provideupdatesonSegment 3project activities,including proposed design changesfor Segment 3C-1,seekingfeedback from thepublicinanopen-houseformat. Segment3C-1includesI-10fromGregg Street to Waco Street,for atotal length of approximately0.75miles.Since theRecordofDecision(ROD) in 2021, the projectteamhas continuedtorefine thedesigninSegment 3C-1 perdiscussionswiththe City of Houston(COH) andother stakeholders. The proposedchanges includethe addition of an outfallchannelfromI-10toBuffalo Bayoutofacilitatedrainage, construction of apumpstation,the addition of tie-back anchorstosupport deeper retainingwalls,and thereconnectionofBuckStreetnorth of I-10.

These proposed design changeswould requireanadditional 1.18 acresofnew rightofway (ROW), with one potentialresidential displacement,and approximately3.0 acresofeasementbeyondthe amount studiedinthe FinalEnvironmental Impact Statement(FEIS)/ROD.

SEGMENT3C-1PUBLICMEETING

Thepublicmeetingwillbeconducted in EnglishwithSpanish interpretation available. If youneed an interpreterordocumenttranslatorbecause EnglishorSpanish is notyourprimary language,orhavedifficulty communicating effectivelyinEnglish or Spanish, onewillbeprovidedtoyou free of charge.Ifyou have adisabilityand need assistance,special arrangements canbemadetoaccommodate most needs. If youneed interpretation or translationservicesorifyou are apersonwitha disability whorequiresanaccommodation to attend andparticipate in thepublic meeting, please contactGabriel Adame, Public Engagement Coordinator, at 713-802-5199 or Gabriel.Adame@txdot.gov, no laterthan4p.m., Wednesday, April22, 2026. Please be awarethatadvance notice is required as some services andaccommodationsmay require time forthe project team to arrange. Please note that forthe in-personmeeting, oversizedbagswillbechecked in at registration andreturneduponexiting themeeting.

French: Arabic: /

Kinyarwanda: Mandarin: Mandarin (traditionalChinese): Mandarin /Vietnamese: Creole:

TOXICBeauty

Newstudy showsriseinharmful chemicalsinsynthetic &human ha

By ReShonda Tate

Forgenerations, braids,wigs,and extensionshavebeenmorethanbeautychoicesfor Blackwomen—they’vebeenculturalexpression, convenience,and,often, necessity.But newresearchisraisingurgentquestionsabout whatmaybewovenintothosestyles.

ArecentstudybyConsumerReportsfound that syntheticbraidinghair, wigs, andextensions —productsdisproportionatelyusedby Blackwomen—maycontainharmfulchemicalslinkedtocancer,hormonedisruption,and respiratoryillness.

The findingsare notmeant to sparkpanic, experts say, buttoencourage awareness, accountability,andinformedchoices.

Adeeper look at what’s in the hair

The studyexamined dozensofproducts commonly used forbraidingand protective styles, identifying169 chemicalsacross 43 products.Amongthemwereflameretardants, pesticides, phthalates, andvolatileorganic compounds(VOCs).Researchersalsodetected troublinglevelsofheavy metals includinglead,insomesamples.

“Wedidthisstudybecauseconsumers askedus,”saidDr. James Rogers,directorofproduct and foodsafetyresearchandtestingat ConsumerReports.“Theywanted toknowifthereweresaferoptions, especiallyafter earliertesting showedhighconcentrations of lead in many syntheticbraiding hairproducts.”

In asurprisingtwist,some humanhairproducts—oftenmarketedassaferalternatives—containedevenhigherlevelsoflead.

“Thatwasoneofthebiggestsurprises,” Rogers said.“Humanhair hadthe highest levels of lead magnitudes higher than anything wetested.”

At thesametime, thetesting showed that saferoptionsmaybepossible.

“Duringthistesting effort, we identified productsthathad smalleramounts down to undetectableamounts of theheavy metals,” Rogerssaid.“Thissuggeststhatintheproductionofsyntheticbraidinghair,theseproducts canbemadewithoutbeingcontaminatedwith thesepotentiallyharmfulchemicals.”

TopFindings

Allbutonesamplecontainedheavymetals. Leadwasdetectedin29ofthe30productswe tested,and humanhairwas by farthe worst offender.

Onehundred percentofthe products also containedVOCs, including acetone, arespiratory irritant,and lowlevelsofcarcinogens (toxinsthatmaybelinkedtocancer).

Brands that make claims aboutsafety or qualityofingredientscontainedcontaminants, too, although at sometimeslower levels than manyotherproductstested.

It allhighlightsthe question that severa consumersposted: Is therea braidinghairproduct on the market that doesn’tinclude potentiallyharmfulchemicals?

James. E. Rogers PhD Director Food Safety

Follow-uptestingin2025reinforcedthose concerns.Researchers foundheavy metals in nearlyeveryproducttested,withleaddetected in29of30samples.VOCswerepresentinall products, includingacetoneand lowlevelsof knowncarcinogens.

cosmetics compared to other consumergoods.

Consumer Reportsisnow advocating forstrongeroversight,arguingthatthese products should fall under federal cosmeticregulations.

“Webelieve theFDA should take responsibility forthese products,”Rogerssaid. “They arewornonthe body andhave thepotentialtoimpacthealth.”

Health implications

“We’re no said.“We’r informatio makeinform

Consum ingfor poli federaland petitionsu ofthebraidin

Fornow nessisthefi

“Duringthistesting effort, we identifiedproductsthat hadsmaller amountsdownto undetectable amountsofthe heavymetals.Thissuggeststhat in theproductionofsynthetic braidinghair, theseproducts canbemade withoutbeing contaminatedwiththesepotentially harmfulchemicals,”says Rogers,who also highlighted that in the2025 report,seven outof10productscameback negative forbenzene, aknown carcinogenthatcancauseacute myeloidleukemia.

Acumulative exposurerisk

Theconcernisn’tjustwhat’sinthehair—it’s howoftenandhowlongit’sused.

Blackwomen areamong thehighest-frequency usersofbraidinghairand protective styles,oftenwearingthemforweeksatatime.

“Weknowwomen wear braids forfour to sixweeks,” Rogers said.“That’sprolonged exposure,especiallywhenthehairisindirect contactwiththescalp.”

Heat application, tightbraiding, andconstanthandlingcanincreasetherisk.

“Ifbraidsare tootight,theycan cause microtears in thescalp,” Rogers explained. “That canallow chemicalstoenter thebody moreeasily.”

There’s also concernabout inhalation and ingestion.

“Braidinghaircanbebrittle,”hesaid.“Small particlescanbreakoff,andthroughhand-tomouthcontact,theycanenterthebody.”

Oneofthe reasonsfor choosing this pathwaylies in thehairbraidingsalons. If you’ve evergottenyourhairbraided,youmayalsobe awareofhowoftenbraidersgofromhandling braiding hair to touching theirface, wiping their mouth, or,putting “somethingintheir stomachs,”akaeatingasnack,betweenclients or whileone is underthe dryer. Although it’s unhygienic,somebraiderssometimesalsoput theclients’braidsintheirmouthstohelphold up longer braids,enablingthemtocomplete

thebraidmoreeasily

The label problem

Formanyconsumers,productlabelsarethe firstlineofdefense.Butresearcherswarnthat thoselabelscanbemisleading.

Products marketed as “safer”oreven “organic”werenot necessarily free of harmfulchemicals

“You can’talwaystrust thelabels,”Rogers said.“Someproductsadvertisedassaferwere justasbadasothers.”

Headdedthattermslike“organic”areoften misused.

“‘Organic’ really applies to howfoodis grown,”hesaid.“Itdoesn’thaveameaningful applicationtochemical-basedhairproducts.”

Whyregulation is limited

Part of theissuelies in aregulatorygray area

Unlike food or drugs, many cosmetic and hairproducts—includingsyntheticextensions —arenotrequiredtofullydiscloseingredients before hittingthe market. The U.S. Food and DrugAdministrationhaslimitedauthorityover

Exposuretocertainchemicalsidentifiedin thestudy has been linkedto:

•Highblood pressure

•Hormonaldisruption

•Reproductiveissues

•Respiratory irritation

•Increased cancer risk

•Leadexposureisparticularlyconcerning.

“Thereare no safe levels of lead,” Rogers said.“It’sassociatedwithhighbloodpressure cancer,anddevelopmentalissuesinchildren.”

Beauty, access, and disparity

FormanyBlack women, synthetichairis notjustapreference— it’s oftenthe most affordableandaccessibleoption

Thatrealitysitsattheintersectionofbeauty standards, economic access, andhealth disparities.

Beauticianssaytheyareincreasinglyaware of theissue butalsorecognizethe limited optionsavailabletoclients.

“We’re trying to do what’s best forour clients,but we don’talwayshavefullinformationaboutwhat’sintheseproducts,”saidstylist DavionAnderson,ofOpulenceBeauty.“Alot of times, we’regoing off what’s availableand affordableforourclients.”

ButAndersonnotes thegrowing concern amongcustomers

“Clientsareaskingmorequestionsnow,”he said.“Theywanttoknowwhatthey’reputting on their scalp, especially if they’vehad irritationbefore.”

Despitethefindings,expertsareclear:This is notacall to abandonbraidsorprotective styles

ForBla issueisn’t —it’sabo equity,and therig products.

Whatconsumersc

Whileregulationc up,experts recomm practicalsteps to re exposure:

•Researchprodu usingtrustedtestin sources

•Avoid overly tigh braids to preven scalpdamage

•Shortenweartime andgivethescalp breaks

•Use well-ventilatedspaces during installation

•Weargloves whenhandling braidinghair

•Doa patch test before full installation

•Switch products if irritation occurs

“Consumers should vote with their dollars,”Rogerssaid. “Ifyou’re concernedabout aproduct,choose somethingelse.”

WhyBlackmalehealthmattersin2026

ByAswadWalker

John Bunchy Crear, 74, stands as a living testamenttobothsurvivalandwarning

A longtime community activist and former member of the Black Panther Party, Crear admits he once avoided doctors altogether.

“Ididn’tgotothedoctorforprobablytwo or three years, ” Crear said “When I did, I hadamajorproblem—Ihadbladdercancer The only thing that made me go was blood inmyurine.”

Even that life-altering diagnosis didn’t immediately shift his behavior It took witnessingacomradebattlerectalcancer—and enjoy major cost savings through various Medicareprograms—tochangehismindset.

“That’s when I signed up… and I go for regularcheck-upsnow,”hesaid

Crear considers himself fortunate. Many Black men never make that appointment. Many never detect an illness early. And too often,thatdelaybecomesfatal.

In2026,thestakesareevenhigher Longstanding disparities are colliding with new economic and political realities, creating what can only be described as a deepening healthcrisisforBlackmen.

Thenumberstellatroublingstory

The data is stark and consistent Black men in the United States continue to experience shorter life expectancy—roughly 70 to 72 years—compared to white men, who averagecloserto76to78.

But statistics alone don’t capture the urgency.Whatmattersishowwidespread andpreventable—manyoftheseconditions are.

DonnellCooper,executivedirectorofthe African American Male Wellness Agency in Houston (AAMWA), points to alarming findingsfromrecentnationalscreenings

“In2025,wescreened10,000Blackmen… 86%hadhighbloodpressure,”Coopersaid “Thatisa911activationforus.”

Hypertension, often called the “silent killer,” sits at the center of a web of interconnectedhealthissues.Blackmenaremore likely to die from heart disease, face higher ratesofdiabetes,andaredisproportionately impactedbyprostatecancer

Cooperemphasizesasimplebutpowerful intervention:awareness.

“Wewanttoencouragementoknowtheir numbers,”hesaid

Yet awareness alone cannot overcome structuralbarriers.

Structuralforcesshapinghealth outcomes

Healthdisparitiesarenotaccidental Structuralracism,economicinequality,andenvironmentalinjustice,alltheresultofpolitical policies,shapeBlackmen’shealthrealities.

Accessremainsacentralissue.Blackmen are significantly less likely to have health

Oftentimes, the difference between good health and disastrous health outcomes is the decision to see a medical professional and get needed screenings, as past AAMWA Black Men’s Wellness Day participants shown here did Credit: Jimmie Aggison/Defender

4THANNUALBLACKMEN'SWELLNESS DAY

Sat., April 25, starting at 7 am @ Community of Faith Church, 1024 Pinemont Dr. Houston 77018

insurance or a consistent primary care provider.Experiencesofdiscriminationinmedical settings deepen mistrust, discouraging engagementwithhealthcaresystems.

There is also the issue of “invisibility.”

Researchersestimatethatapproximately1.5 million Black men between ages 25 and 54 aremissingfromdailylifeduetopremature deathorincarceration—asoberingreflection ofsystemicneglect.

Even basic necessities like food quality matter MauriceBlandon,aGenZurbangardener,highlightsthedeteriorationofaccess tonutritiousfood

“Everything’s worse, ” Blandon said “The foodthat’savailabletousthesedaysishorrible…We’regettingediblepoisonnow.”

Diet, environment, and access are not separateissues They’reinterconnectedforces shapinglifeoutcomes

2026:Aturningpointforbetteror worse

What makes this moment particularly urgent is the convergence of policy changes andeconomicstrain.

Recent federal actions—including major Medicaid cuts and the rollback of Affordable Care Act supports—threaten to push millions out of coverage For Black men, whoalreadyfacebarrierstocare,thiscould mean fewer check-ups, delayed diagnoses, andworseningchronicconditions

In Texas, the dismantling of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in publicinstitutionshasfurtherconsequences

These programs have historically helped increasethenumberofculturallycompetent providers—anessentialfactorinimproving trustandoutcomes

At the same time, cuts to safety-net

hospitals and health disparity research reduce both access and understanding. The resultisacompoundingeffect:lesscoverage, fewerresources,andrisingstresstiedtoeconomicinstability.

This is not just a healthcare issue—it is a justiceissue.

Community-basedsolutions

Despitethesechallenges,grassrootsefforts aresteppinginwheresystemsfallshort.

The AAMWA is one such example. Its 4th Annual Black Men’s Wellness Day in Houston (Sat., April 25, starting at 7 am at the Community of Faith Church, 1024 Pinemont Dr.) is designed to make healthcare accessible, culturally relevant, and community-centered.

The event, which includes a 5K Run & Walk,combinesphysicalactivitywithmedicalscreeningsandconsultationsofallkinds.

“We’re empowering men to get their screenings—glucose, BMI, hypertension,” Cooper explained. “Then they can have a one-on-onedialoguewithanAfrican-Americandoctor.”

Gen Z member Maurice Blandon takes control of his health by gardening and eating what he grows, to avoid the many contaminants found in grocery store produce. Credit: Aswad Walker/Defender Pastor Jamail Johnson (left), vice president of the AAMWA, and Donnell Cooper, executive director of the Houston branch of the AAMWA take a moment during the 2025 event to pose for a picture. Credit: Aswad Walker/Defender

Profile DN MartineDesmolieres

Is all about ‘Going Out Divine’

ByAswad Walker

Martine Desmolieres’ journey to purposedidnotbegininaboardroom;itbegan in survival

HavingrelocatedtoHoustonfromConnecticut by way of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Desmolieres spent more than two decades working in the oil and gas industry She mastered the corporate world, building stability and professional credibility. But beneath that success was a calling rooted not in profit margins, but in liberation

“I transitioned and decided to work for myself and start Going Out Divine (GOD)… a non-profit organization that focuses on domestic violence awareness, education, and teen prevention,” said Desmolieres.

Freedom forged through survival

For her, this work is not abstract. It is lived experience—pain transformed into purpose.

“Unfortunately, when I was 17, I experienced domestic violence or teen dating violence at that time, which went into my early 20s. So, for me, this work is very personal,” she said

Desmolieres’ story reflects a broader social crisis often hidden behind closed doors. Domestic violence, particularly among young people, remains underreported and misunderstood. In communitiesalreadynavigatingeconomicandsocial instability, abuse can become normalized.

“And not only was it something that I experienced, I grew up in a neighborhood that wasn’t the safest,” she explained “Whether I would hear it behind closed doors or see it happening on school grounds, I was always exposed to it.”

What ultimately shifted her trajectory was not just endurance, but awakening. Thatmomentcameunexpectedly,sparked by a co-worker’s book recommendation.

“We talk about healthy relationships, boundaries, and red flags,” Desmolieres explained. “But we also give them the skills andthetoolsetsthattheyneedtohavestrong futures.”

Theimpactisalreadyvisible.

“In Her League wasn’t just an event—it was an empowerment summit,” said Shan Greggs,CEOofSimplyScentsCandleCompany “Houstonteensshowedup,askedbold questions,healed,andwalkedoutconfident.”

Expandingthevision

Desmolieres is not stopping with girls. Recognizing that prevention must include boys and young men, GOD is developing a co-ed initiative called The League Academy, settolaunchthisfall

“Weareopeningituptonotjustteengirls but to teen boys as well,” she said “The curriculumisextensive,andschoolswillhavethe opportunitytosendtheirstudents.”

This expansion reflects a critical truth: addressingdomesticviolencerequirestransformingthesocializationofallyoungpeople, notjustthosemostvisiblyharmedbyit

In addition to her nonprofit work, DesmoliereshaslaunchedVoicesRestored,aforprofitorganizationthatextendshermission intoinstitutionalspaces.

“We partner with corporations, schools, and organizations to bring various workshops and training programs that deal with domesticviolenceeducationandawareness,” she said “We also want to work with the schools… and connect with the parents so theycanbeinvolved.”

This dual model—nonprofit advocacy pairedwithprofessionaltraining—positions her work at the intersection of community empowermentandsystemicchange

Approximately 13% of 6th to 9th graders reported being stalked, with equal proportions of boys and girls affected.”

SherecalledreadingafewpagesofLiving

Your Best Life Now by Joel Osteen while covering a colleague’s desk.

“Itimmediatelycaptivatedme,”shesaid.

Encouraged to buy a copy, she used money she could barely spare.

“I finished it within 48 hours… it made me realize that I was valuable, that I was worth it, and that there was more to life than just this.”

What followed was an act of courage that would redefine her life. With just $40 to her name, she changed the locks on her apartment,packedherabuser’sbelongings, and forced a separation

“I could see a dent in the door—he had tried to break it down But that was what shiftedeverything…itunlockedsomething inside of me,” recalled Desmolieres.

Thatmomentwasnotjustanexit.Itwas a rebirth.

Building“Going Out Divine”

DesmolieresfoundedGoingOutDivine (GOD)withaclearmission:toensurethat other women and girls have access to the tools, knowledge, and support she had to fight to find

“We have community outreach where we support local domestic violence shelters with essentials that they need, such as toiletries,” she said

But the organization’s work goes far beyond material support. It addresses the deeper structural and cultural gaps that allowabusetopersist—particularlyamong young people

OneofGOD’smostimpactfulinitiatives isInHerLeague,ateenempowermentprogramdesignedformiddleandhighschool girls. The program deals with financial literacy, professional development, college readiness, and more

Sports DN TEXANSNFLDRAFTMISSION

Need vs. Best Player Available

By Terrance Harris

If you have listened to Texans general manager Nick Caserio, then you are very familiar with what BPA means.

Best Player Available.

And if you believe Caserio, as the seven-round NFL Draft kicks off, that is the exactmissiontheTexansareon Regardless of need, Caserio’s public stand is that the Texans will draft the best player available based on the grading system.

“The draft is the draft. We’ll grade the players,” Caserio said. “Ultimately, we’ll take the best football players, regardless of theposition That’swhatwe’vealwaysdone That’snotgoingtochangethisyearrelative to previous years. We’re a ‘BPA’ team.”

ButforaTexansteamthathasglaring needs in the trenches of the defensive and offensive lines and depth in the secondary, what does that really mean? The reality is that the Texans will likely draft the best available players at those positions, beginning with their first pick of the night at No 28 in the first round.

If Georgia defensive tackle Christen Miller is available when the Texans pick in the first round of the NFL Draft, he would be a valuable asset next to Sheldon Rankins.

Credit: Getty Images

TheonlypositiontheTexansaren’t evaluating and are up front about not caring about the BPA is at quarterback because they recentlypickedupC.J.Stroud’s fifth year and are intent on staying the course

Sothestronglikelihoodwith the Texans’ first pick is to think offensive or defensive line.

ThinkGeorgiadefensivetackle Christen Miller Think Alabama offensive tackle Kaydn Proctor. Think Oregon guard Emmanuel Pregnon. Think Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor

These four players fit the Texans’ most glaring needs in the trenches along the offensive and defensive lines.

No doubt the Texans addressed their offensive line needs in free agency with the

acquisitions of tackle Braden Smith,guardWyattTeller,and center/guardEvanBrown.Butplayers like Proctor, Pregnon, and Iheanachor help build depth andplanforthefuturemore cost-effectively

Along the defensive line, Miller seems like he wouldbeagoodcatchtopair alongside Sheldon Rankins in the interior of the defensive line, with defensive ends Will AndersonandDanielleHunterbringingthe heat from the outside Miller seems more sensible and is definitely more economical than the recent rumors that the Texans mightbeinplayforGiantsdefensivetackle

Dexter Lawrence, who comes with a king’s ransom of player and draft equity, not to mention salary

But the Texans could also surprise

It’s trust the grades. There’s a reason that we put grades on a player. Again, we grade the players, we stack the board, we do it vertically and horizontally, and then you work across.”

NICK CASERIO

Texans general manager

everyone and trade either up or down with the 28th overall pick They have four picks in the first 100 picks, and they have eight overall picks in the three-day draft. Fromthere,lookfortheTexanstoaddress depthneedsinthesecondary,particularlyat cornerback,andalsoimprovedepthattight end and maybe even linebacker

“I think we’re prepared for anything,”

Caseriosaid

“Idon’tknowifthere’sa,‘Well we’re going to do this.’ We could go both ways Again,it’salwayswhoareyoutrading up for. How far are you going and what do you have to give up in return?

“If you get past a certain cohort of players, ‘What’s the next tier? Well, we’re comfortable with these five or six, or you know what, maybe we’d rather have this player as opposedtothatplayer.’Look,I’mnottrying tobecutehere Wecouldgoeitherway,but again a lot of it is driven.”

ButeveniftheTexansmoveupordown, it doesn’t seem like it will change the positionstheywilllooktotargetinthefirstcouple of rounds of the draft, where they enter with three early-round picks.

Caserio, however, says it’s all about the BPAandthegradesintheTexans’warroom

“I would say other than quarterback, there’snopositionthatwewouldn’tconsider drafting if that’s what the board told us,” Caserio said “That’s why we set the board.”

Sports DN

FURR HIGH SCHOOL

KEVIN SALINAS

Eyes back-to-back 4A district discus championships

By Jimmie Aggison

Furr High School senior Kevin Salinas took a deep breath, stepped into the discus circle, and started his familiar spin that has become the key to his success. Moments later, the discus flew through the air and landedat131-feet-5,earninghimfirstplace at the 2026 Dave Bethany Relays.

Thethrownotonlyaddedanotherwinto Salinas’ senior season, but it also indicated thatthedefendingdistrictchampionmight be on his way to winning the 4A boys discustitleforasecondconsecutiveyear However,evenasthedistancesgrow,Salinasand his coach, Karen Waddell, believe his best throws are still to come

“Before throwing at the Dave Bethany Relays, I was nervous and a little in my head,” said Salinas “I always get nervous, butonceIsawwhateveryonewasthrowing, I knew I had to settle down.”

Salinas threw 131-feet-5, to win first place,butevenhefeltitwasn’thisbesteffort.

“WhenIsawmythrowreach131-feet-5, I knew it would be top three, but I know it was far from my best, so I was not completely satisfied,” said Salinas, whose personal record this season is 147 feet. “The throw felt different. When I felt the release, Iknewitwasgoingtogofar,butIjusthave to keep working.”

“Kevin’s hard work and determination paidoffagainthisweek,”saidgirlsandboys throwingcoachatFurrHighSchool,Karen Waddell

WhileSalinasisconsideredoneofthetop contendersin4Aboysdiscusthisseason,the pathtoanotherdistricttitleactuallystarted months earlier during practice

Asajunior,Salinaswasrecoveringfroma brokenarmhehadsufferedduringhissophomore football season. It was during this period that he met Waddell, who encouraged him to try the shot put and the discus after his arm healed

“I was not very good at shot put, so I stayed away from it and focused mainly on discus,” said Salinas “After watching athletes compete in the sport at the Olympics, I wanted to give it a try. As a junior, I won the district, and it felt great. It was my first year throwing, so I didn’t expect to win, but that made me believe that nothing was impossible.”

Salinas now feels both motivation and pressureashetriestodefendhisdistricttitle.

“As a senior, I’ve set two goals,” said Salinas.“Myfirstgoalwastothrow140feet,and I accomplished that at the Houston Relays

with a PR of 147 feet, so I’ve now set that goal to throw 150 feet and qualify for the UIL 4A State track meet.”

Unlike during his junior season, when Salinas took some time to settle into the sport,hewastednotimestartinghispreparation as a senior. After football season ended, Salinas immediately began his discus workouts.

Success in the discus circle rarely relies on strength alone. For Salinas, most of his progress has come from refining the technical aspects of the event.

“The most important technical elements ofasuccessfuldiscusthrowareacombination of spin mechanics, balance, footwork, andreleasetiming,”saidWaddell,whothrew discus while attending Prairie View A&M University “Kevin has improved many of those aspects while tremendously enhancinghiscontrolandreleasetiming.Theonly thingheneedstocontinuefine-tuningishis footwork.”

“The hardest part about learning and mastering the spin technique was being patient because it takes a lot of practice to master it,” said Salinas

In the beginning stages of learning the spin technique, Salinas would fall or get dizzy after finishing the spins.

“I wear glasses, but when I throw, I don’t wearthemsoearlyon;Iwouldgetdizzy,and myheadwouldhurt,”saidSalinas.“Iwould fallbecauseIhadn’tcompletelymasteredthe technique,butIalwaysgotbackupandkept trying.”

Now,withmoreexperience,Salinasconcentrates on balance and control during practice by slowing his movements and keeping the discus centered while maintaining proper body control.

“When everything clicks with balance and spin, the disc comes out smooth with nowobble,goodheight,anddistance,it’sthe best feeling ever,” said Salinas

As the technical improvements have materialized,sohavetheresultsonthefield, givingSalinasconfidencethathisdistances can keep increasing.

“Towinthedistrictagain,Ineedtofocus in practice, lock in, and compete at meets,” said Salinas.

“Withhishardwork,KevinhasthepotentialtoadvancetoandthroughtheRegional finals,”saidWaddell.“Continuousimprovement and putting it all together at the right time will be his key to peak performance.”

WhileSalinashasmadeanameforhimself as one of Furr’s top throwers, track and

Furr High School senior Kevin Salinas poses after winning first place in the discus with a throw of 131-feet-5 at the 2026 Dave Bethany Relays

Credit: Jimmie Aggison/ Defender

field isn’t the only sport shaping his future, asseveralschools,includingWestgateChristian University and Clutch City College Prep, have already shown interest in him playing football

“Iwouldloveanopportunitytocompete intrackandfieldatthecollegiatelevel,”said Salinas.“IfIgetanofferfromanyschoolfor tack, I’ll take it.”

Fornow,however,Salinas’focusremains

onfinishinghishighschoolcareerthesame way he started his rise in the event, inside the discus circle.

“Finishing my high school career with another district championship would be great,knowingIdidmybestinback-to-back seasons, ” said Salinas

“I want to be remembered as an athlete who played football but also tried another sport and found success, ” said Salinas

Entertainment DN CENTRELLREED BuildsHouston entertainment ecosystem

ByLauraOnyeneho

CentrellReedremembersthemomentshe decidedthemovetoHoustonwasworththe gamble.Her sister hadbeenurgingher to consider,butReedwasskeptical

“I waslike, whywould Ido that?” she recalls. “I mean,Houston’s gottofigure out itslife. Youall have hazards, thezoning’sall overtheplace,therearetoomanypeople.”

Buthersisterplantedaseedandtoldher thatthey“coulddosomanybigthingshere.”

Over adecadelater,thatinstinctproved prophetic.Reed,aNewOrleansnativewho spent14yearsasacertifiedprojectmanager in financial technology,now runs CReed Global Media, afull-service mediacompany that provides streamingtechnology, videoproduction, anddistributionservices toclientsrangingfromcitygovernmentsto independentfilmmakers

Shealsofounded andchairsthe International EntertainmentPartnership (IEP), an organizationthatbringstogetherHouston’s entertainmentcommunitytocompetewith majormarketssuchasAtlanta,LosAngeles, andNewYork

GrowingHouston’sente industryecosystem

a, os ge es, rtainment

Reed’sworkaddressesacrit ton,thefourth-largestandmo in America, has been losing i enttoothermarkets.Whens 4,000-square-footstudioin2 thelargestinHouston,ashoc someonewhohadlivedinLo Atlanta, wherestudios span 3 andeven100,000squarefeet

CReedGlobalMediaprovid everything they need to crea distributeitglobally.Herstud forsizzlereels,video product andevent hosting. Butwhat itsstreamingtechnology.The tributes contentto14platfor eightsmartTVs(Vizio,LG,Sa reaching over 250 million worldwide. Clients canmon contentthrough CGM’spar with majorstreaming servi musicdistributionplatforms

As clientsflooded in, Reed observed somethingtroubling.Productionswouldflyinalltheir equipmentandcrewfrom outofstate,bypassing localcamerahouses, prop vendors, andlighting companiesentirely. No economic development. Nojobcreation.

ticalgap:Housostdiversecity ts creative talsheopenedher 2018,itbecame kingrealityfor osAngelesand 0,000, 50,000, desclientswith ate content and diooffersspace tion, podcasts, sets it apart is ecompanydisrms, including msung,Sony), households netize their rtnerships ices and

Centrell Reed (far right) is abusiness owner, leader,actioncoach, speaker, mediafigureand thefounder &CEO of CReedGlobal Media Television Network andStudios. Credit:Centrell Reed

Shetookherobservationstothen-Mayor SylvesterTurner.Whatshelearnedexposed Houston’sentertainment crisis:highereducation institutions teaching theory without practicalapplication,nocentralorganization connectingproductionswithlocations,and virtuallynonexistentcrewsanddistribution channelsforindependentfilms.Thousandsof Houstoncreativesweredoinggigwork in Atlanta, LosAngeles,and

t a ta, os ge es, a d New York, then returning home because of family and better cost of living

Turner asked Reed to bring the community together The IEP nowconnectsprofessionals across Houston’s nine entertainment sectors: TV, film, art, theater,

e-sports, gaming,music,fashion,and photography.Its annual soiree brings together hundreds of creatives whopreviouslyoperated insilos.

Balancingcorporate Americawithagrowingmedia empire tested Reed daily. The COVID19 pandemic wiped

9 pa de c w ped out 60% of small businessesnationwide CGM survived through grants and being designated an essentialworker “Itwasjustbygracethatwe didn’t close,” Reed says “As a business owner, the hardest thingformeiswhenIhave toletsomeonegowho doesnotseethe vision Everyone doesn’t get to stay in theboat”

The unexpected turn

Reed’s biggestrevelationcamefroman unexpected client:the government.Not as acontractor, butasa storytellerneedingstreaming infrastructure.There are approximately5,000 public educationand government channels designed to provide transparentinformation to citizens,and Reed’scompany,withsixyearsofstreaming experience,hadsolutionsmostfirmscouldn’t touch.

“I thoughtstreaming wasgonna just be forfilm andTV, lookingatithonestlyas aconsumer,”she reflects. “Then Irealized there’satotaldifferenceinwhatitlookslike to manage anddistributecontent globally.” NowCGM serves city governments, generatingbillionsinrevenue,building monetizationstrategiesanddistribution channels they didn’t know theyneeded

Texassecured $1.5 billionin entertainmentincentivesfor2025. Senate Bill 22 proposes allocating thatamountintaxpayerfundsover xyearstopromoteTexasasahub rfilm,television,andvideogame oduction.ButAustinandDallas picallycapturethelion’sshareof osedollars

t a six for pro typ tho the veryhealthy says.“Youha ask for the d to be filmed residentson Warren W of Winston Reed transf landscape si seentheimp

Winston graphic adv match h Reed’s secret to coordinating Houston’s creatives.

“WhatIwouldliketoseeisthat ecityofHouston starts to geta yshareofthoseincentives,”Reed avetohaveprojectsthatactually dollars, andthose projects need dinHouston,putting Houston nthoseprojects.”

“The reali was operatin “Everybody this whole p laborativeeff

Winston, managing director WorldwideLLC,has watched form Houston’sentertainment ince they metinJuly2017. He’s pactfirsthand itywas theindustryasawhole ng in silos,”Winston explains. wasintheirownlittlesilo.What processisnow,it’smoreofacolffortversusasilo.”

believes Houstonhas ageovantagethatnoother city can

“You canliterally be in Houstonandhaveallenvironments available, countrysetting, urbansetting,citysetting, beachfront setting, without having to bounce from place to place,”hesays. “But theone thingthat’sgonna be keyis making sure we have the taxincentivesthatcould be provided to thoseinthe industry.”