07.02.2026_Defender-e-FULL

TothePOINT DN

Message from the Reporter

TheBlack diaspora is showing out at theWorld Cup

TheFIFAWorld Cuplooks to be the Blackestsportstournament,atleastforme. IabsolutelyenjoylivingintheWorldCup bubble,learningaboutdifferentcountries, andtalking to people from variouscountrieswhocametoHoustontosupporttheir teams. Watchparties blendedsoccerwith music,food,fashion,andprideinwaysno corporatesponsorcouldmanufacture.It’s agoodbreakfromWhiteHouseshenanigans.Myfavoritepastime during thetournamentislearningabout theBlack playersplaying forall thoseEuropean countries.Let me tell you, thereare so many!Don’t getme startedabout theAfrican countries. They arecomingin strong,likeIvory Coast, Senegal, andGhana.Thenthere wasDRCongo’s team arriving in sharpblack suitswith leopard-print panels,the internet declared them thereal winnersbeforetheyplayeda singlegame. Anddid youall seethe underdogslikeHaiti andCuracao making history fortheircountries?It’sfuntoseehoweveryoneissounified, even if it’s just fora month. Iwishitwerelonger.

Nigeria,waspickedbytheHoustonRockets.ZubyEjiofor,bornChukwuebukaEjioforinDallastoNigerianparents,sweptthe BigEastPlayeroftheYear,DefensivePlayer oftheYear,andScholar-AthleteoftheYear in thesameseason. I’mhappy to seemore parentsopentoencouragingtheirchildren to exploretheir options andbeingpartof theprocess.

Studentloans arebleedingusdry, andit’sbydesign

TheNBA draft 2026 is themostdiverse yet There’saconversationthathappensinAfricanimmigrant households across America, especiallywhenitcomes to careers.Stabilityfirst,dreamssecond.Igrewuphearingit Youprobablydid too. Butthe 2026 NBADraft just added anamazingelementtothisconversation:11playersofAfricanheritageweredrafted,the deepestclass in history. AJ Dybantsa,son of aCongolesefatherwho came to theU.S in 1989 andaJamaicanmother, went No.1 overalltothe Washington Wizards. Ugonna Onyenso, born in Owerri,

If this doesn’tpertain to you, then this messagedoesn’t apply. Forthe last severalweeks,I’vebeendownarabbit hole of Threadconversations andTikTokclips debating howsteepthesenewchangestothefederalloanrepayment programs areunder Trump’spolicies. Some people who have managedpaymentsare nowhavingtopay upwards of $400, $500, or even more underthese changes. There aresomanyBlack borrowerswho’vehad to take outmore than they needed andthenowe more than they originally borrowed,notbecausetheywereirresponsible,butbecause we’reenteringthe same jobmarketwithlessinherited wealth,aneconomicrollercoaster,stagnantwages,inflation, andeverythingelseinbetween.TheAmericanDreamwas soldonapaymentplanthatpeoplecouldn’tafford.That’sa predatorysystem.Andit’stimewecalleditexactlywhatitis.

On theWeb

•Black Houstonartists discussmusic,AItechnology.

•The soundofHouston:How Blackmusic shapes the soul of thecity.

•HoustonrapperBuddieRoetalksHipHop,Fatherhood

TSU POLL

Texas voters split on election integrity, ballot access

ByTannisthaSinha

A new survey from the Barbara Jordan PublicPolicyResearchandSurveyCenterat TexasSouthernUniversityoffersarevealing snapshot of how Texans think about voter fraud and the tradeoffs between securing electionsandexpandingaccesstotheballot

Thepoll,whichsurveyed1,706registered Texas voters between April 22 and May 6, 2026,withamarginoferrorof2.37%,found that the views on these issues are shaped almost entirely by partisanship

MichaelO.Adams,apoliticalscienceprofessoratTexasSouthernUniversity,arguesthat while the split is striking, the demographic breakdowns carry more weight, particularly among Black and Latino Texans “These are the same communities, I believe, for whom therighttovotewasguaranteedonpaperlong beforeitwasprotectedinpractice,”Adamssaid

Howbigaproblemisvoterfraud?

Whenaskedhowmuchvoterfraudoccurs inU.S.elections,Texansgaveamixedverdict.

About 24% said they believe there is “a great deal” of fraud, 35% said “some,” 30% said “very little,” and 11% said “none” Theoverallsplit,however,masksastark partisan chasm.

Morethaneightoutof10TexasRepublicansbelievethereiseithera“greatdeal”or “some”voterfraud,comparedwith30%of

Democrats who hold the same view

Conversely, seven out of 10 Democrats say fraud is very rare or doesn’t happen at all, compared with 17% of Republicans. Few other demographic factors, such as race, gender, generation, education, or geography, produced gaps nearly as wide, underscoring how perceptions of election fraud have become partisan rather than a demographic phenomenon.

Anevensplit

The survey’s central question asked voters to choose between two competing values: Doing “everything possible to stop voter fraud and illegal immigrants from voting” versus ensuring that “eligible citizensarenotdeniedtheabilitytovote.”The

result was a precise 50-50 tie statewide. Moreover,80%ofRepublicansprioritize electionintegrity,while88%ofDemocrats prioritizeballotaccess Independentsland between the two.

Racial and generational patterns echo this divide in revealing ways White voters favor election integrity by 58 to 42%, while Black voters favor ballot access by 72 to 28%, the widest gap of any subgroup in the survey Latinovotersalsoleantowardballotaccess, thoughbyanarrower55to45%margin.

Generationally, the Silent Generation and Baby Boomers favor election integrity, while GenZstronglyfavorsballotaccess,withGen XandMillennialsroughlysplit.

Meanwhile,voterswithafour-yeardegree

or higher favor ballot access, while those with lower levels of education are more evenly divided.

Geography tells a similar story: Rural and semi-rural voters favor election integrity, while voters in urban, suburban, and regional-hubcountiesaremoreevenlysplit.

Beliefdrivespriority

The extent of fraud a voter believes exists stronglypredictswhichprincipletheyprioritize

Among those who think there is a great deal of fraud, 79% prioritize election integrity,andamongthosewhosee“some”fraud, that figure is 64%.

Conversely, among voters who believe fraud is very rare or nonexistent, roughly 80% prioritize ballot access

Aboutoneinfivevoterswhobelievefraud is rampant still prioritize ballot access over tougheranti-fraudmeasures,andoneinfive voters who prioritize election integrity say they believe there is no voter fraud.

The overlap suggests that for a meaningfulsliceoftheelectorate,thechoicebetween integrity and access is not purely a matter of how big they think the fraud problem is, but reflects deeper values about the proper balance between security and participation in a democracy. These are values that, for now, leave Texas voters split right down the middle, according to the report

Karmelo Anthony legal team plans to fight

By ReShonda Tate

Karmelo Anthony’s newly appointed legal team is preparing a rigorous multiyear appeal process, with legal experts predicting a fierce battle centered on allegations of racial discrimination during jury selection. Following Anthony’s recent conviction and 35-year prison sentence for the 2025 murder of 17-yearold Austin Metcalf at a Frisco track meet, a powerhouse coalition of appellate, civil rights, and criminal defense attorneys has stepped in pro bono to overturn the verdict.

The defense’s immediate next step is a comprehensive, independent review of the extensive trial record to identify legal errors. According to appellate experts, the crux of Anthony’s appeal will likely hinge on a contested “Batson challenge” regarding the total absence of Black jurors on the final 12-person panel However, insiders warn that the appellate process is a marathon, not a sprint, and could take several years to resolve through the Texas courts

“Our responsibility is to determine whether a legal error occurred and to ensure that every issue supported by the record is fully and vigorously presented on appeal,” the legal team said in a statement, while also acknowledging the profound loss suffered by Metcalf’s family.

The Core of the Appeal: The Batson Challenge

Legal analysts, including Dallas criminal appellate lawyer Niles Illich, point to the jury selection process as the primary battleground for the upcoming appeal

• The Issue: Out of more than 500 potential jurors, not a single Black juror was seated

• The Conflict: Prosecutors used peremptory strikes to eliminate the final three remaining Black prospective jurors (all educators of schoolaged children). Anthony’s trial lawyers launched a Batson challenge, arguing the strikes were racially motivated.

• The Ruling: State District Judge Angela Tucker accepted the prosecution’s counter-argument—that the prospective jurors were struck due to their professions, not their race—and allowed the trial to proceed

Anthony’s new team is expected to argue that the denial of this challengeconstitutedastructurallegalerror, which could be grounds for a new trial.

Who is on Karmelo Anthony’s new legal team?

The pro bono coalition represents some ofthemostformidablelegalmindsinTexas, combiningextensiveexperienceinwrongful convictions, appellate law, and civil rights.

RussellWilson-Board-certifiedincriminallawsince2003;formerheadoftheDallas County District Attorney’s Conviction Integrity Unit

Gary Bledsoe - President of the Texas

NAACP since 1991; National NAACPBoardMember;veteran civil rights litigator admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court. Michael L. Ware - 40+ years of experience; Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers’ Hall of Fame inductee (2025); helped establish the nation’s first conviction integrity unit

Additional team members: Brooke Cluse (Ben Crump Law); Sean Daredia (Daredia Law Firm); Justin A. Moore (Stafford Moore PLLC)

The timeline ahead

Becauseappellatecourtsonlyreviewthe written record and legal briefs rather than hearingnewwitnesstestimony,theprocess moves slowly Anthony will remain incarcerated while his attorneys draft, file, and argue their briefs before the Texas Court of Appeals—a process that safely guarantees this legal battle will stretch well into the future

Cost of living Is

Americans’top source of

anxiety

By LauraOnyeneho

The price tagoneverydaylifeistakinga toll on more than just bankaccounts Forthe thirdconsecutive year,personal financesand therisingcostoflivingrank as theNo. 1sourceofanxiety in America, accordingtoThriveworks’ 2026 Pulseon Mental Health Report.

Basedona nationallyrepresentative survey of 2,000 U.S. adults conductedby Wakefield Research in March2026, 48% of Americanscitefinancialpressureastheir topstressor.Politicalnewsandglobalevents ranked second at 38%, followed by workplace stress at 29%.

The same report revealsa record 62% of Americanshavenow consulteda mental healthprofessionalatsomepoint,upfrom 48% in 2025. Yetonly27% arecurrently in care,eventhough85% of thosewho have triedtherapy report meaningful benefits, includingimprovedconfidence,betterrelationships,andgreateroverallhappiness.Cost remainstheleadingbarrier,arealitythathits manyBlackHoustoniansespeciallyhard VanessaLongoria-Carter, alicensed marriage andfamilytherapist with Thriveworks, has spentfive yearsworking alongsideclientswhosefinancialstresswalksinto sessions rightalongside them. Shesaidthe workbeginswithonefoundationalmessage

Alan Pruittis the founder of the Houstonbasedcompany, PruittPrepCPA

Credit:Alan Pruitt/LinkedIn

“Thereisnomoralityattachedtofinancial struggles,”

The conversation about mental health in Americaismorepronouncedand intricatethaneverin2026. Credit:GettyImages.

Longoria-Cartersaid. “Therapy is asafe spacetotalkabout thesethings.”

itissuchagreatthingtoletgoofthosesocial andculturalstigmas,”shesaid.“Sometimes just offeringthat, they understandthatI getit.”

Shesuggeststhatindividuals notready fortherapy should beginwithsmall steps, suchasjournalingtovalidatetheirfeelings, listingactionabletaskslikenegotiatingbills, andusingaffirmationstomanageanxiety.

AlanPruitt,acertifiedpublicaccountant (CPA)andfounderofHouston-basedPruitt PrepCPA,LLC,bringsanequallygrounded perspective.Hisfirm,witheightprofessionals, specializes in mental health providers andentrepreneurs, aniche born of helping hiswife, alicensedprofessionalcounselor, buildherprivatepracticeonasolidfinancial footing.

Inhisworkwithclients,Pruitthasfound that financial anxietydeepens most when peoplecannotseetheirfullfinancialpicture. “That financial anxietygets worsewhen youdon’t have financial clarity,”hesaid. “Thatmonsterintheclosetisscariestifyou neverlookinthe closet.”

Many Blackfamilies grew up in households wheremoney wasnot discussed openly andwhere emotionaldistresswas answered with “giveittoGod”, acultural norm rooted in faiththatcan also become adelay on theroadtohealing Longoria-Cartersaidshe is deliberateabout meetingclients wheretheyare, including offeringtoconnect them with a Blacktherapist when theculturalgap feels toowide to bridge.

“Ialwaystrytohelpthemunderstandthat

That financial anxietygetsworse when youdon’t have financial clarity. That monsterinthe closet is scariest if you neverlook in thecloset.”

ALAN PRUITT Certified public accountant (CPA)

Hisfirstrecommendationisabudget, reframed notasa punishment butasa tool.“Abudgetisn’tarestriction.It’samap,” Pruitt said.“It’s much harder to be anxious abouta road that youcan actually see. ” Forthose trying to make therapy more financiallyaccessible,Pruittpointed to health savingsaccounts as an often-overlookedoption.TheIRSallowsindividualsto contributeupto$4,400annuallytoanHSA in2026andupto$8,750forfamilycoverage Contributionsaretax-deductible,growthis tax-free,andwithdrawalsforqualifiedmedicalexpenses, includingtherapy,carrynotax penalty. He also urgedreaderstoexamine thementalhealthbenefitsalreadyembedded in their existing health insurance.

“Alotofusarepayingforinsuranceoutof ourchecksbut aren’t taking allthe benefits of it,” Pruitt said.“Double checkwithyour employer to seewhatthose benefitsare.”

Freedmen’s Town Marks new era of historic preservation News

By Laura Onyeneho

CharondaJohnsonwasbornin1977,the same year filmmaker James Blue released “Who Killed Fourth Ward?,” a documentary warning that Houston’s oldest African American neighborhood had already been marked for erasure

Nearlyfivedecadeslater,Johnson,whose familyhascalledFreedmen’sTownhomefor fivegenerations,stoodinthecommunityher ancestorsbuiltanddeliveredaverdictofher own.

“The plan to take my community had alreadyformedbeforeIwasborn,”shesaid “And the fact that we are still here in 2026, planningandprogramming,forme,itisthe ultimate blessing.”

The Houston Freedmen’s Town Conservancy(HFTC)andtheContemporaryArts Museum Houston (CAMH) held a community groundbreaking at Mount Horeb MissionaryBaptistChurch,1108VictorSt., launchingPhaseTwoofRebirthinAction,a multi-yearinitiativetopreserve,protect,and revitalizeoneofthemosthistoricallysignificantBlackcommunitiesintheUnitedStates.

The ceremony marks the start of construction on a new pavilion designed by artist and cultural strategist Theaster Gates and the rehabilitation of three historic row houses that will house a food pantry, afterschoolprogramming,andseniorservices.A spring 2027 opening is anticipated.

A community built on freedom

Foundedin1865byfreemenandwomen in the years following Juneteenth, Freedmen’sTowngrewfromatentsettlementon thesouthbanksofBuffaloBayouintowhat residents call Houston’s “Mother Ward.” By the 1930s, more than 400 Black-owned businesses lined its streets. More than half ofthoseoriginalstructureshavesincebeen losttogentrification,newdevelopment,and

the Interstate 45 corridor built through the neighborhood in the late 1940s and 1950s. SharonFletcher,executivedirectorofthe Houston Freedmen’s Town Conservancy, said the groundbreaking signals years of advocacy

“It says this community, the oldest African American settlement in Houston postCivilWar,deservesthekindofattentionit’s getting,” Fletcher said “And it invites people in, so they are not just spectators but co-owners of this transformative work.”

PhaseTwoencompassestherehabilitation of three row houses, one as a community pantry, one as a gathering space for youth programming, and one for senior services, alongside a new open-air pavilion A third phase covering the full restoration of the neighborhood’s historic brick streets is

expected to begin in spring 2028.

Central to the entire effort are those bricks. Since February 2025, HFTC has cataloged and preserved more than 20,000 historic bricks hand-laid by Freedmen’s Town residents more than a century ago. Fletcher said the bricks will ultimately be reinstalledonAndrewsandWilsonstreets.

The brick street project is expected to go before the Houston City Council in July or August 2026.

Ryan N. Dennis, co-director and chief curator of CAMH, said the museum’s role reflects what arts institutions are uniquely built to do “Museums have a unique opportunity to unpack social, cultural, and socio-political questions with artists in dynamic ways, ” she said “There is a need toensurewecanunderstandwhatourpath was to look forward to the future.”

The community groundbreaking ceremony marks the start of a new phase of the Rebirth in Action project, aimed at preserving, protecting, and revitalizing Houston’s historic Freedmen’s Town. CourtesyFreedmen’sTown Conservatory

Five generations, One fight Johnson,knownasthe“MayorofFreedmen’s Town” and community engagement leadfortheHFTCandCAMHpartnership, has spent years correcting a narrative she says distorted the neighborhood’s history for generations.

“When I was younger, we were told the slaves did this, and the slaves did that,” she said “Andthentogrowupandfindoutthat thereisnoslavenarrativehereinFreedmen’s Town, everything that happened here was done by free men and women. ”

Johnsonsaidthisprojecthasastructural safeguard. The block is owned by Mount Horeb Missionary Baptist Church, with revenuesflowingbackintothecongregation and community Her next goal is to bring backlegacyfamiliespushedoutbydecades of urban renewal and gentrification.

Archival footage of Booker T. Washington High School. Courtesy: African American History Research Library

“None of these are my ideas I’m just carrying the torch,”Johnsonsaid “Wehaveelderswho have been fighting this fight for 50 years. I want them to see this before they go to glory. Andthefactthatitis happening, it is the ultimate blessing.”

BlackHoustonians reflect: Americaat 250 InFocus

Americaiscelebratingits Semiquincentennial (its250th birthday). But today’smood is farlessfestive.

By AswadWalker

Manyhistorians, activists, andpolitical observersargue that thenation is grappling withdeepracial, political, andeconomicdivisions,while attacksondemocracy, voting rights,and equality continue to intensify. Yetamidthe national conversation,few mediaoutlets have askedBlack people what this milestonemeans to them.

TheDefenderdid.AndBlack Houstonhad plenty to say.

200th vs.250th:

Different eras, familiar tensions

TheBicentennialisoften remembered as aunifying celebrationthathelpedrestore national pride afterVietnamand Watergate. Butthat memoryoverlookssignificant opposition

butnever fullydelivered,” said Dr.CandiceMatthews, humanrightsactivistand National Minister of Politics of theNew BlackPanther Nation.“The question is not whetherAmericahasreached250years.The question is whetherAmerica is finally preparedtoliveuptoits ownideals.”

BusinessleaderSharonWatkinsJonessaid themilestoneshouldbebothcelebratoryand reflective.

“Wehaveevery reason to celebratewhat we’vebuilt,whatwe’vefoughtfor,whatwe’ve made greatand to usethisopportunity to hldurnationaccountable forits omises andshortcomings,” aidWatkins Jones.

Sharon Watkins Jones. CourtesySharon WatkinsJones.

Groups such as the Afro-AmericanBicentennial Corporation andthe People’s BicentennialCommission challengedwhattheyviewedasa“triumphalist” versionofAmericanhistory.Protestersmarched in Philadelphiacarrying signssuchas“BicentennialIsaRulingClass Ripoff” and“Bicentennial Is aRacistPig Scheme.”

Marc Stein, presidentoft Organization of American Historians,noted that many counter-Bicentennial activists arguedthe nation had repeatedlyfailedtofulfillits democraticpromises.

“One of thethings that’s interestingtome,”Stein said “isthe regularinvocationof the nation’sfoundingidealsbysome of thenation’smostpowerful critics.”

Pride and pain

KennethRodgers,presidentofSuper Neighborhood 67, called the anniversary“amirror” for BlackAmericans

“You can’tcelebrate the romise of freedomwithout amingthe price we’vepaid to make that promisereal,” Rodgerssaid. “America at 250 is pride andpaininthe same breath.”

Rev. Ross Adams, pastor of Blueridge MethodistChurch, framed themomentas aspiritual challenge

“African Americanshavealwayslived in thetension betweendisappointmentand determination,” Adamssaid. “This anniversary is notsimplyamarkerofnationa butareminderofsacred esponsibility.”

Mshinda Nyofu. CourtesyMshinda Nyofu.

FormanyBlack Houstonians, America at 250 is both acelebration of Blackresilience andareminder of promisesyet to be fulfilled

“America at 250means Blackpeopleare still fightingfor rights that were promised

Community advocate DoloresRodgers said the moment callsfor renewed activism.

“It’stimetogetintoalittlegood trouble,”she said referencingthe late Congressman John Lewis. Educator MshindaNyofu offered asimilarperspective “Withour victorious consciousness,Black people have continuedthe struggle,keptthe faithofourhonoredancestors,andheldthe line as themoral vanguard of this country,” said Nyofu.

Reminder of unresolved contradictions

Others viewed the250-yearmilestone

as evidencethatmanyof America’sfoundational contradictionsremain unresolved

“America’s250thanniversar ofindependencehaslittlemean ingfor Blackpeople,”saideducatorandauthorMarsitaJordan.

Anationalconversation

TheviewsexpressedbyBlackHoustonians echo concerns raised by national voices. CivilrightsleaderAlSharptonquestioned whetherBlack Americansshouldfeelobligatedtocelebrate afoundingmomentthat excluded them.

“They’regoingtocelebratethe250thanniversaryofthe countryonJuly4th,but that’s notourcelebration,”Sharptonsaid.“Wewere slaves then.”

Meanwhile, MSNowhostAli Velshi has spoken of hisown unease surroundingthe anniversary, citing concerns aboutvoting rights andpolitical representation

“Anniversariesareimperfectrecordsofthe thingwhichisbeingcelebrated,”Velshinoted “Ifyou’vegotconflicting feelingsaboutAmerica’s upcominganniversary you’re notalone.”

As America approaches 250years Black Houstonians share complex perspectives on pride, unfulfilled promises, and the ongoing fightfor democratic ideals.

Credit: ChatGPT.

If BlackHouston’s responsesrevealanything, it’s that America at 250 isn’ta simplecelebration.Formany,it’sa momentofreckoning— onethatinspirespride in Blackperseverance, frustrationoverunfulfilled promises, and reneweddetermination to continue thestrugglefor amoreequitable nation

Shepointed to ongoingbattles overvotingrights,education,and politicalrepresentation, arguingthatmany oftheCivilRightsMovement’sgainsremain under threat

Scholar-activist Dr.AndreaRoberts emphasizedthe complexity of thenation’s foundingnarrative

“Black Americansatthe time of theDeclarationofIndependencewereenslaved,free, andevensomefoughtfortheBritish,”Roberts

said.“Thisanniversary showshow little we know of thefullstory of America’s o-calledbeginnings.”

ForHRdirectorPamela Walker,current events shape howshe marksthe occasion.

“Lookingatthecurrentadministrationandwherewearetoday, I’dsay Americahas notlived up to itsfoundingidealsfor everyone,” Walker said.“To me,I will celebrateonJuneteenth.”

ScholarKevin Johnsonsaidthe anniversaryremindshimofGilScott-Heron’spoem Buy-Centennial “WeneedtothinkbeyondtheU.S.,”Johnsonsaid, issuingacallfor afocus on the worldwideBlack family.“We have agloba interconnected situationtodealwith.”

Formany, Americaat250 inspires little enthusiasm andinstead evokes frustration, disappointment,orindifference

“Theexpectation forBlack people to celebrate national triumphs before blood debts have been addressedfeels less like patriotism andmorelikeStockholm Syndrome,” said NBUF officer Krista Folade Madzimoyo.

Ihavemixed feelings about Americaat 250,likeabad relationship.”

NDEGWA GILLIAM aviation mechanic Not athing.”

DENNIS MONMOUTH educator

NWADIEI Galveston resident It means absolutely nothing.”

This year is justanother year of compoundedinterestonreparations.”

Americaat250 is 250 yearsofenslavement.”

CLAUDELL MBUTU SANFORD retiree

JAMES SHERROD retiree Same ole song.” DENNIS BOATWRIGHT II politicalscientist

America 250means absolutely nothing to me.”

ERIC “COACH E” MCWHORTER trackcoach

Feature DN

TSU Fashion, Textile resurrects

ByAswadWalker

Texas Southern University is breathing new life into its long-dormant Fashion Design and Textile Technologyprogram, positioningittomeet growing demand for fashion education at historicallyBlackcolleges and universities (HBCUs).

Once among TSU’s most popular academic offerings, the program flourished from the 1970s through the 1990s, when Black pride, cultural expression, and HBCU fashion wereontherise

“Fashion and textiles used to be one of the most valuable classesoncampus,”saidDr MichonBenson, assistant dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Behavioral Sciences (COLABS). “I have beenchargedwithrevitalizingthefashionand textileprograms.”

Fashionshowcasefuelsmomentum

Recently, TSU’s COLABS hosted Cultural Renaissance 2026, a fashion “experience” to provide support for the TSU Fashion and TextileProgram.

True to its nature, the event, held at TSU’s UniversityMuseum,featuredfashiondesigners Kameereo Crisp, Brent Law, Nicholas Nguyen, Remy Toh, and multiple TSU studentdesigners

Among those honored was Dr Destry Dokes, who said he is encouraged by the program’sfuture

“This program is extremely important because it’s another avenue for people interested in fashion to learn and grow creatively,”Dokessaid.“I’mexcitedaboutwhat’s happening.”

Benson said the event demonstrated that

The TSU Fashion and Textile program is reclaiming a narrative wherein aesthetics, excellence, and ethical consciousness move together.”

DR. MICHON BENSON

theprogram’smissionextendsbeyondteachingtechnicalskills

“The success of this show confirms that we are doing more than just teaching students how to sew or design,” she said. “We areteachingthemthattheircreativityisaform ofstewardship.”

Sheaddedthattheprogramaimstoblend “aesthetics,excellence,andethicalconsciousness”whilepreparingstudentstohelpshapea moresustainablefashionindustry

Studentleadersshowsupport

TSU student leaders also embraced the program’sreturn

“ThethemeisBlack Renaissancetoshowup and show out not only for TSU, but for all thingsfashion,”saidMr TSUZyiasRichards “I want the student body to know they can representwellintheclassroomandstillputona flyfit.”

Miss TSU Carmon Nelson Grimes was unable to participate inthefashionshowdue toschedulingconflicts, but said she enjoyed seeingthecreativityon display.

“I was excited to see the different outfits they brought out and styled,”Grimessaid.

Honoringarichlegacy

Bensonsaidtheprogramhasdeeprootsin TSU’sC.S.LaneBuilding,whichalsohoused programs in dietetics, nutrition, and child development.

Thebuildingoncefeaturedaclothingcloset that provided professional attire to students preparingforjobinterviews.Fashionstudents even tailored donated clothing to ensure a properfit.

The facility’s fashion lab gave students the opportunity to transform sketches into finishedgarments.

Fashion programs have long been a staple at HBCUs, with institutions such as North Carolina A&T State, Clark Atlanta, and Howard University producing graduates who entered careersindesign,merchandising,andapparel.

Supporters envision TSU’s program steppingintothatconversationasanationalleader and facilitating graduates’ entry into various careersinthefashionandapparelindustry

Preparingthenextgeneration Housed within COLABS, the program offerscourseworkinclothingconstruction, textiles, and merchandising while emphasizing both creative design and technical training.

“Students can enroll in certain courses now, as the Fashion Advisory Board hosts workshopsinsewing,merchandising,and manufacturing, and we take students on

outings,” Benson said FashionindustryveteranPetraAlexander,a memberoftheadvisoryboard,saidmentoring studentsiscentraltotheprogram’smission. “Myroleistorevitalizethefashiondepartmentbymentoringthestudentsandhelping them catapult their future,” Alexander said “After 30 years in the fashion industry, my dutyistopassalongmyknowledgeandexperiencetoourcurrentstudents.”

KAREN TILLMAN Profile DN

Balances faith, family,and franchising

ByReShondaTate

On most mornings,Karen Tillman’sday begins long before thefirst smoothie is blended.

By 5a.m., she’salready awake, working out, andmapping outthe hoursahead.The routineisintentional.Ithastobe

Tillmanisa wife,mother, corporateprofessional,activedeaconessatWheelerAvenue BaptistChurch,busymemberofseveralorganizations,andco-ownerofthelargestJamba locationintheHoustonarea.Somehow,she managestomakeeachrolelookseamless.

“Thegrace of God,”Tillman said when askedhowshebalancesitall.“I’mameticulousplanner,andI’manearlybird.Mywhole dayisplanned.”

ThatdisciplinehashelpedTillmanandher husband,Hugh,buildmorethanasuccessful franchise. In 2019, thecouplemade history as thefirstBlack Jambafranchise owners in TexaswhentheyopenedtheirMissouriCity locationnearSienna.

Today,theirstorestandsasbothathriving businessand atestament to what canhappenwhenfaith,preparation,andopportunity intersect.

Fromfamilyjoketobusinessreality

The journeybeganwitha runningjoke. TheTillmanswerefrequentJambacustomers, drawntothebrand’sfocusonhealthyliving, freshingredients,andbalancednutrition

“WewenttoJambasooftenthatwewould say, ‘We’re here all thetime. We need to buy oneoneday,’”Tillmanrecalled.

It wasjustapassing afterthought. Then lifechanged.AfterHughlosthisjobin2018, Karensuggested they seriouslyexplore the ideatheyhadjokedaboutforyears

“I said,‘Youalwaystalkabout owning a JambaJuiceoneday.Whydon’twelookinto that insteadofpursuinganother full-time job?’”

What startedasa casual conversation quicklybecameabusiness plan.Thecouple soonlearnedthatfranchisingrequiresmore thancapital

“Peoplemakethemistakeofthinkingthat if youhavemoney,you canget approved,” Tillmansaid. “Atleast with Jamba, that’s not howitworks.”

Prospectivefranchisees undergo arigorousvetting processdesignedtodetermine whethertheyalignwiththe company’scultureandvalues.

Forthe Tillmans,their commitmentto healthandwellnessbecameakeyadvantage Aformertrackathletewhoattendedboth undergraduate andgraduate school on athleticscholarships,Tillmanstillworksoutsix daysaweekandprioritizeshealthyeating

“Wetrulyembracedthatlifestylefromthe beginning,”shesaid

Therealitybehindthesmoothies

Runninga successful franchiseisn’t as simpleasunlockingthedoorseachmorning. Tillmansaidoneofthebiggestcha been managingaworkforce sha COVID-19pandemic.Mostofher arehighschooland collegestud enteredtheworkforceafterspend developmentalyearsisolatedfrom customers,andcoworkers

“BeforeCOVID,peoplewere work hard andbesociable, par customer service,” Tillmansaid have to encouragepeopletotalk smile,andbemorepersonable.”

Shebelievesmanyyounger w stillrecoveringfromthe social createdbythe pandemic. Tillma hasemployedseveralyoung pe community andhas become kn placewhere many teensget thei theworkforce.Among thoseem isKaren’sowndaughter,Faith,wh she’slearningbyexample.

“Mymom is thebestbusin ownerIknow. Definitelyaninsp rationtome.Shereallydoesitall andshe’sthebestrolemodelto me,”Faithsaid.

Inflationhas created anotherhurdle. Thecostof

g llengeshas aped by the employees ents Many dingcritical mclassmates, willing to ticularly in . “Now we to guests, workers are disruption an ’ s business ople in the nown as a r start in ployees osays ness pi-

ingredients,supplies,andoperationscontinuestorise,whilecustomersremainsensitive topriceincreases.

“I can’tcharge$20 fora smoothie,” Tillmansaidwithalaugh.“Butmycostofgoods

wouldprobablysuggestIshouldcharge$30.”

Despitethose challenges, thebusiness recentlycelebrateditsseventhanniversary.

“We’re grateful to stillbeopendespite it all,”shesaid

Faithasaleadershipstrategy

ForTillman,faith is notseparatefrom business.Itisthe foundation of it.Anactive member anddeaconess at WheelerAvenue BaptistChurch, she approaches leadership throughthe lensofservice,while neverlosingsightofherpriorities.

“ItrytoprioritizeplacingGodandfamily first,” shesaid. “Then thebusiness. Thenmy job.”

Thatperspective helpsher avoidburnout whilekeeping herfocus on what matters most.Thephilosophy also shapes howshe interactswithemployeesandcustomers.

The Tillmans often describethemselves as being“blessedtobeablessing,”abelief reflectedintheircommitmenttocommunity involvementandmentorship.

As oneofthe fewBlack franchiseowners within theJamba system, Tillmanunderstands theimportanceofcreatingpathways forothers.

In fact, shesaidshe andher husbandare currentlyhelpinganotherBlackcouplenavigatethefranchiseprocess.

“WewerethefirstinTexas,”shesaid.“Now we’reseeingotherscomebehindus.”

Mitchel. Courtesy:KarenTillman.

Sports DN

Aaron Allen

Expands his coaching reach to China

By Terrance Harris

Aaron Allen has had the type of football career most dreamed about.

The former Ridge Point standout quarterback played collegiately at Louisiana Tech and then Alcorn State before getting an opportunity to play professionally in Italy. He now works out kids in the area aroundhisfull-timejobtohelpfillthevoid andhopefullymakeadifferenceinayoung athlete.

“I’m just trying to find something that gives you that edge outside of playing and beingoutthereonthefield,”Allensaidina recent conversation “Right now, I’m in the oil and gas industry, but I still train kids on theside Istillwanttobearoundthegame.”

His continued love and longing for the gamehavebroughtaboutauniqueopportunity Allenhasbeenofferedtheopportunity to travel to Shanghai, China, this week to serveastheleadquarterbackinstructorfora four-daycampwithparticipantsages7to29.

I’m very excited to go to China for this opportunity and cultural experience. I’m honored to be part of something that builds bridges by using football in such a powerful way.”

AARON ALLEN

It’s Allen’s first venture over to China.

“I’mlookingatitinasimilarwayaswhen IwenttoItaly.It’sachancetostayaroundthe game and just shine my light on the youth over there,” said Allen, who played in Ferrara, Italy, for a spell. “I’m definitely looking forward to having a great camp and seeing the growth in kids

“Iwillputthemthroughsomedrills,and hopefullywewillseeimprovement,andthat will hopefully lead to another opportunity to go there again.”

Allen got this opportunity to work in Shanghai through his connection here withTGBTGSports,whichhasoperatedin Chinaformorethan25yearsandfacilitates internationalopportunitiesforhundredsof American athletes.

Allen has been training Houston Christian wide receiver Jackson White, whose father, Cyril White, is the managing directorforTGBTGSports.Whitewasimpressed enough to invite Allen to join the coaching contingency.

“I’veknownhimsincehighschool,andI knowheisafirst-classprofessional,”White said “I am happy to help him expand his internationalreachbytakinghimtoChina.”

Cyril has been part of the pipeline to

introduce American football to athletes in China. The June 29-July camp focuses on quarterbackplayandskilldevelopmentfor receivers and defensive backs, along with game-speed training.

“Football is growing rapidly in China, especiallywithflagfootballsetforthe2028 Olympics,”Whitesaid “We’reproudtohelp lead that development and provide opportunities for cultural and athletic exchange.”

ForAllen,it’sachancetokeeplivinginhis purpose.Currently,heworksfull-timeinthe oil and gas industry as a safety technician

But his real passion remains in football and helping young people improve.

“Irelatewellwithalotofyoungerplayers, just because, I’m going to tell you exactly how it is,” said Allen, who graduated from Ridge Point in 2018. “We’re very relatable in that sense.

“IcanreallyhelpjustbecauseI’mkindof coming out of it and just went through it.”

Allen never really considered coaching, despiteothersurginghimto,untilhecame

backfromItaly.Hewaslookingforwaysto stillbeinthegamewhenhewasapproached about conducting private workouts.

Now this opportunity in China has opened more possibilities.

“My parents always said just go coach, andIalwaysthoughtifI’mgoingtoputthat amountofhoursin,I’mgoingtostillwantto play,”saidAllen,whoplayedatLaTechfrom 2018-21beforetransferringtoAlcornState to play for then head coach Fred McNair “That’s kind of how I always looked at it

“I just love being around the game.”

Healsotakespleasureinwatchingyoung athletes grow under his tutelage

“It’sbeenanotherwaytoinsertmyselfinto the game,” he said. “You see the improvement when you’re coaching and training.

“You can see from one week to the next theprogresstheymake,andit’sevengreater from a month to two months to three months later. It’s a really good feeling to be a part of a young person’s growth in

game.”

MANVEL’S

Esmeralda Salazar

Shifts from softball dreams to pediatric nursing

ByJimmie Aggison

ForManvelgraduateEsmeralda Salazar, afirstbaseman,softballhasbeenpartofher lifefor as long as she canremember.

Salazarbeganplayingthesportatagefive in theAlvin GirlsSoftballLeaguebefore latercompeting in thePearlandGirls SoftballLeague.Byage10,shehadtransitioned to travel ball,spendingmuchofher childhood on thediamond.Althoughshe has playedeverypositionthroughouthercareer, firstbasebecameherfavoritebecauseofthe constant involvementand thecomfort she developedthere

“Softball has helpedshape me into the person Iamtoday by fosteringa focused mindset, consistency, accountability,discipline, andagreat attitude throughsportsmanship,”saidSalazar. “Ithas also helped medevelopteam-buildingskills,leadership, andsocialrelationshipsthatIuseeveryday to navigate thestressesof everyday high school life.”

Salazarhopes thenextchapter of herlife willallowhertopursuebothofherpassions, softball andnursing

Although she received admissionoffers fromseveral universities,including Sam HoustonState University,TarletonState University,Stephen F. Austin StateUniversity, andthe University of NorthTexas at Dallas,Salazar chosetoattendHouston ChristianUniversity.

“HCU is agreat school,and it’s closeto home,” said Salazar, whoplans to pursue a walk-onopportunitywiththesoftballteam. “I’mnotreadytogiveuponthesportIlove andappreciate. Alot of blood,sweat,tears, hardwork,latenights,andcheershavegone

Softballhas helped shapemeintothe person Iamtoday by fosteringa focused mindset, consistency, accountability, discipline,and agreat attitude through sportsmanship.”

Butanunexpectedexperienceinahigh school choirclassroom introduced herto anew passionand helpedshape adifferent vision forher future,one centered on servingothers.

ThroughChoirPALS,aprogramdesigned to providestudentswithdisabilitiesa safe andinclusive environmenttoexperience music,Salazarfoundacallingthatultimately inspired hertopursuepediatric nursing.

“Ilovehelping,Ilovesinging,ChoirPALS allowed me to do both,” said Salazar.

Therelationshipsshebuiltwiththosestudentsrevealedthe need forcompassionate professionalsinthe medicalfield andultimately inspired hertopursuea career as a pediatricnurse

“Wehaveacurriculumtailoredtoour fundamentalskillsstudents, andwehave students like Esmeraldawho arethere to help,”saidManvelHighSchoolchoirdirectorBlytheHopson.

ManvelHighSchool senior Esmeralda Salazar hasplayed apivotal role at first base for ManvelHighSchool Credit: JimmieAggison/Defender

studenta Christmaspresent that reflected theirinterests.Shespentthesemestergetting to know them,which hada bigimpacton ourstudents.”

As thesemesterprogressed, Salazar became increasingly invested in herstudents’ lives.

“I startedrealizingthisclass wasaffectingmylifegoalswhenIbeganputtingthem beforemyself,”saidSalazar.“Iwouldspend everylastdimeI hadonthem, andI would make sure they were always happytocome to choirclass.Their happinesswas importanttome.”

intothis.It’shardformetowalkawaycompletelywithout lookingback.”

WhileSalazarhopes softball remains part of herfuture, shehas alreadydecided whereherprofessionalfuturelies:pediatric nursing.

“I’m superexcited becausenot only will Ibedoing somethingI love,but Iwillalso be helpingpeopleand beingsomeone they candependonwhentheyareinneed,”said Salazar. “I chosepediatric nursingbecause Ilovechildren. Iwanttobecomeamom someday,andkidsdeserveafightingchance atlifeandtheopportunitytoexperienceit.”

Formuchofher life, Salazarfocused on softballand earningacollege opportunity

During oneofher firstexperiences workingwiththe students, Salazarwitnessedamomentthatwouldleavealasting impression

“The firsttimeIworkedwiththe Choir Palstudents wasona Friday during karaokeday,” said Salazar. “Whenone student sang ‘GirlonFire’ by Alicia Keys,Icried becausewatchingthemsingtouched my heartdeeply.”

That moment marked thestart of aconnectionthatcontinuedtogrowthroughout thesemester.

“Esmeralda wasalwaysreallykindand supportive of allstudents,”saidHopson.

“She builtstrongrelationships with them andeventookituponherself to buyeach

Theexperiencerevealedqualitiesinherself that shehad neverfully recognized

“Choir PALS welcomed me with open arms andtrusted me to be someonethey coulddependonwhentheyneededhelp,” said Salazar. “Not aday goes by without them lookingfor me in thehallways and showeringmewithlove.Iamsogratefulto be apartoftheir lives.”

Therelationshipssheformedthroughthe programhelpedher realizethatcaringfor otherswassomethingshewantedtodolong afterhighschool.

“The experienceswiththe children throughChoir PALS ultimately taught me to be selfless,” said Salazar. “Italsotaught me to have compassion forothers, giving meabriefglimpseintotheireverydaylives.”

Entertainment

‘Destiny’sChild: Iconic Reimagined’ MathewKnowlesbringstribute to Houston

ByReShondaTate

Destiny’sChildisofficiallycominghome.

Followinga string of sold-out performances nationwide,music executiveand Music WorldEntertainmentCEO Mathew Knowles is bringing Destiny’sChild: Iconic ReimaginedTributebacktoHoustononFriday, July 24, 2026. Theimmersive,candlelit concertexperiencewilltakeoverthecityfor twohighlyanticipatedshowsat6:30pmand 8:45 pm

TheHouston stop kicksoff amajor Phase2 national expansion, whichalso coincideswiththe 25th anniversaryofthe group’sgroundbreaking Survivor album. ForKnowles,whohelpedsteerthegroupto global superstardom,bringingthe production back to thecitywhere it allbegan is a full-circlemoment.

“WewerehereJan.9,anditwassoldout,” Knowles told TheDefender. “It’saway that wegivehonortotheladiesfortheiraccomplishments It’s this re-imagined, unique momentintimethateverybodythat’sbeento onehasnothingbutravingreviewsbecause it’ssomethingthatmostofushaveneverhad theopportunity to see. ”

Flipping the script on classical tributes

Theconcerttransformsbeloved hits like “Say My Name,” “Independent Women,” “Bills,Bills,Bills,” and“Survivor”into

TICKET&SHOW INFORMATION

Destiny’sChild: Iconic ReimaginedTribute takesplace Friday,July24, 2026.

Showtimes: 6:30 PM &8:45PM

Tickets: Available at DestinysChild.com

cinematicorchestralarrangements. While candlelighttributeshowshavegrowninpopularity, Knowles revealsthathis inspiration forthisventure came from dissatisfaction with thestandardformat.

Afterattending adifferent candlelight show in Californiawithhis wife,Knowles foundthe strict,restrictive environment entirely detached from theenergyofBlack music culture.

“I didnot like it at all,”Knowles said frankly. “Theyopenupbysayingthere will benosinging.Therewillbenostanding,and therewillbenoonyourphones...Ilookedat mywife,andIwaslike,that’scrazy.We’reata show,andwecan’tsing,andtheydon’twant ustoturnthephoneson.That’smarketing.”

Knowlesalsofelta traditionalstring quartetlackedthe sonicdepth required to

carrythe group’slegendary rhythm and blues. He immediatelyset outtoredesign theexperience

“I didn’t like thesound of it becausethey hada quartetand Iwas like,you know,I couldn’t rock my head.Somineisa quintet with an uprightbass,”Knowles explained. “Soyou getthaturban Blacksound.Immediately,Itelleveryone,turnyourphoneson, singyourheartsout,and it’s arealdifferent experience.”

to do it,but afteralatenight,herolledinto thestudio hourslate.

“Beyoncé’ssittingatthesoundboardand they’renow15yearsold andshe’sannoyed. She’scallingherself beingsmart—a little smart15-year-oldteenager.Hewalksin,and hesays,‘B,singthatballadforme.’Andshe goes, ‘Boy,Iwanttoloveyou.See you,’real fast.It’sfastsinging.Andhelooksather,and he says,‘Ilikethat[expletive]!’ Andthat’s howher fast singing stylecameabout.”

g light elements already baked p ’ s original catalog ledon’trealizethatalotofthe dsongshavestrings,”Knowles always viewed that as a rument... These songs plified because you ’ re and you ’ re like, ‘I that I played that ndtimes,Inever stringsinit’”

He notesthatthe classicalarrangements actually high into thegroup “Mostpeop Destiny’sChil shared.“We beautifulinst getreallyamp sittingthere neverknew songathousan realizedithad

Untold stor from H-Tow

ries

wn ets n

What s theHousto performance apartfrom other national tour stopsis Knowles’ personal involvement. As oneofthe featuringhisli crowdwillge making of ag Knowlespr er-before-hea hits—manyo backtolocalH dios.Givinga thechaoticSa a15-year-old tallydiscove rapid-fire vo annoyedwith Wyclef Jean “Weneeded very firstsin extend it at nisced.Wyclefwasintownandagreed

select cities ivenarration,thehometown t an inside look into the global phenomenon romisestosharerare,nevardbackstoriesbehindthe of which trace directly Houstonrecordingstusneakpeek,herecalled aturdaymorningwhen d Beyoncé accidenred her signature, ocal style while hip-hop legend aremixfor[their ngle] so that we could radio,” Knowles remiefwasintownandagreed