HOME INSURANCE
CRISIS EXCLUSIVE
PROFILE
JAMES TALARICO
BRANDON N JOHNSON N
The Texas U.S. Senate candidate continues Houston Black voter outreach.
Volume 95, issue 48 September 17, 2026
The former collegiate a athlete finds purpose in mento oring Houston area youth.
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2 | September 17, 2026 |
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DN To the POINT CONCERTS
THEATER
Harris County Clerk Teneshia Hudspeth declined a salary increase from $179,000 to $305,000, saying she did not want the additional cost to come from her office’s existing budget. Credit: Lucio Vasquez/ Houston Public Media.
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Harris County Commissioners may program, and no guarantee Republicans have had plenty to debate when it came to winning in November would put five grand raises for elected officials, but there was one in anybody’s bank account. salary increase that apparently wasn’t conSo before you start mentally spending troversial: Harris County Clerk Teneshia that money on groceries, bills, or a muchHudspeth’s. needed vacation, remember we’re talking Commissioners voted to increase Hudsabout a campaign promise, not a check. peth’s salary from $179,000 to $305,000, a And if you believe that $5,000 is already nearly 70% raise that would bring her comas good as deposited, send me your debit pensation more in line with county clerks card and PIN, and I’ll buy a bridge over in other major metropolitan areas. downtown. ReShonda Tate But Hudspeth turned down the additional $126,000 a year. Not because she doesn’t believe MacKenzie Scott actually puts money on the the job deserves the money. She thanked Commissioners table Court for recognizing the responsibilities of her office. The MacKenzie Scott should be the poster child for “Don’t problem is that elected officials accepting the raises must talk about it, be about it.” The billionaire philanthropist has absorb the additional cost within their existing departmen- written another massive check to an HBCU, this time givtal budgets. Hudspeth said her priority is filling positions ing $42 million to Elizabeth City State University in North requested during the budget process and maintaining the Carolina. The gift pushed Scott’s total giving to historically staffing needed to serve Harris County residents. Black colleges and universities well past $1 billion. In other words, taking more for herself could mean havBillion. With a B. And this isn’t Scott’s first investment ing less available for the people helping her do the job. Hud- in Elizabeth City State. She gave the university $15 million speth could have taken the money, smiled for the cameras, in 2020. and kept it moving. I don’t know many people who could Many of her donations are unrestricted. Instead of swoopstare down an extra $126,000 and say, “I’m good.” ing in with millions of dollars and a list of instructions about But leadership isn’t always about what you’re entitled to how institutions should spend it, Scott has largely trusted receive. Sometimes it’s about what you’re willing to leave the people running these organizations to know what their on the table when taking it could come at somebody else’s communities need. expense. Now, the county needs somebody to take that Imagine that. Scott has given major gifts to Prairie View, $126,000 off their hands, I am somebody. (What? The Lord and eight other Texas schools, along with HBCUs all over is still working on my leadership skills) the country. Since 2020, her overall philanthropy has reached roughly $26 billion. Trump promises money that isn’t yet on the table HBCUs have spent generations producing doctors, lawPresident Donald Trump has a deal for America. If yers, educators, entrepreneurs, scientists and leaders while Republicans retain control of the House and Senate in operating with a fraction of the resources available to many November, every adult American citizen will receive a predominantly white institutions. $5,000 “Trump Dividend.” Scott isn’t just praising that legacy. She’s investing in its There’s just one BIG problem. Trump didn’t initially future. Plenty of wealthy people talk about changing the explain exactly how the government would pay for checks world. MacKenzie Scott keeps quietly writing checks that that could cost more than $1 trillion. He suggested tariffs actually help somebody do it. And that is why she remains would help cover the expense, but FactCheck.org calculated THAT girl. it would take more than six years of tariff revenue at the current pace to generate $1.2 trillion. And despite Trump On the Web suggesting he could issue the payments himself, Congress • Houston City College HVAC training offers new career would have to approve the money. shift. Maybe Congress will eventually approve some version • Texas Board approves controversial Islam curriculum. of it. But right now, there is no $5,000 check, no enacted • Research: AI makes America dumber and more racist.
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DN News
Co ongrats to Marion Spann and Byron Robinson for major appointments in the Houston Fire Department.Spann: First Black woman appointed Executive Assistant Chief of Administrative Support. Robinson: After 30 years of service named Fire Marshal.
EXCLUSIVE
Talarico: Hires Blacks to get Black votes By Tannistha Sinha
James Talarico, the Democratic U.S. Senate candidate, held another rally in Houston’s historic Third Ward, appealing to Black voters ahead of the midterm elections in November. Polls show that the U.S. Senate race in Texas is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in the state. In July, when Talarico held a town hall in Houston, he had pledged $25 million to increase Black voter outreach across the state. Since then, he has hired three Black political operatives, Aisha J. McClendon, Delilah Agho-Otoghile, and Cliff Walker to his team. His campaign team also partnered with Black-owned communications firms, including Bryson Gillette, Foston International Communications, and Advantage Communications Group. But, Talarico clarified, he would not break down the dollar amounts by allocation, and his new hires will use the funds to “turn out every single Black voter” across Texas. “We’re not going to advertise every budget line item to our opponents, but we will report it publicly as we are legally required to do so,” he told the Defender in an interview after the rally. “We just rolled out a bunch of new hires on our campaign, some of the most decorated veteran political operatives who are leading this Black engagement effort, as well as some well-known and well-respected Black-owned political firms.” Why the push?
Talarico’s appeal to Black voters comes as the U.S. Senate race in Texas heats up. He has been trying to consolidate his support base among Black voters, a crucial demographic for Democrats in this race. Vowing to break the cycle of candidates campaigning and then disengaging after election results are announced, Talarico said he would devise a political infrastructure that extends well beyond election day. “Well, when I was in the State House [Texas House of Representatives], I had an advisory committee of my constituents to help inform my policies and my decisions,” he added. “We’ll do the same thing statewide when we’re in the U.S. Senate so that my constituents have a way of providing that feedback and shaping the policymaking that we’re doing in Washington.” To a diverse crowd of attendees at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, Talarico touted his eagerness to represent the state’s 4.2 million Black residents. “As the next U.S. Senator from this state, I will represent the largest number of African Americans of any senator in the country,” Talarico told attendees. “And that work of representing Black Texans doesn’t start the day after Election Day, it starts now.”
Delilah AghoOtoghile brings experience leading Texas campaigns. Credit: Lone Star Parity Project.
Aisha J. McClendon brings more than two decades in Democratic politics. Credit: Aisha McClendon.
Cliff Walker brings experience in Texas organizing, campaigns, and political strategy. Credit: Seeker Strategies.
Bryson Gillette was founded by Bill Burton. Credit: Bryson Gillette.
CEO Linda K. Brown founded Advantage Communications Group. Credit: Linda K. Brown.
Judy Foston is the president and founder of Foston International. Credit: Foston International.
Talarico’s campaign promises to Black Texans
Speaking to the Houston crowd, Talarico said he would address maternal mortality, health care disparities, and education in the Black community. “Texas is facing a crisis where Black mothers are dying at a disproportional rate,” he said. “Harris County, where we’re at right now, is the deadliest place for a Black woman to give birth in the whole country.” To address the crisis, he said his team has rolled out a plan to implement paid family leave, close maternal care deserts, and improve training and data collection. If elected, he also pledged to increase funding for HBCUs like Texas Southern University and close the “funding gap” between HBCUs and institutions with similar numbers of low-income students. Voting rights are among his top priorities. “We’ve seen the most aggressive attack on Black political power since Jim Crow,” Talarico told the Defender. “We need to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Act [John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2025]. We’ve got to ban gerrymandering.” Standing in the Third Ward, which grapples with gentrification and a consequent rise in living costs, Talarico said he would bring his four-term stint in the state legislature to the U.S. Senate and advocate for better pay for Texans. This includes his economic mobility plan, which aims to raise pay for Texans, strengthen labor unions, and lower the costs of housing, child care, and prescription drugs.
“It’s not like Texans are spending their money on nice clothes or cars or vacations,” he said. “We are struggling to afford the basics: groceries, gas, utilities, health insurance, the things that we need to survive.” The topic of affordability was relatable to a few of the attendees. But some made it clear that just showing up for rallies will not be enough.
Ursula Wanza, 57, a long-term resident of the Third Ward, said the community responds to rallies like Talarico’s, but it is not enough to gauge if he would visit as often, if elected. “It’s very important for candidates like Talarico to visit communities like Third Ward because a lot of times these particular communities are neglected and people don’t take the time to come out to communities like this,” Wanza said. “...just talk to people about their concerns and their needs and to show that he is concerned because a lot of them do not take the time to come out to small communities like this to show that.”
James Talarico made another visit to Houston to continue to garner support from Black voters ahead of the midterms in November. Credit: Getty Images.
4 | September 17, 2026 |
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DN News OBJECTIVE:
Increase Black voter turnout By Aswad Walker
For decades, Black voters have been among the most influential forces in American politics. Yet election after election, the same question arises: How do we increase Black voter turnout? Houston-area activists, organizers, and political leaders say the formula is clear: Educate, organize, engage, and hold one another accountable year-round. Start organizing before election season
One of the biggest mistakes campaigns make is waiting until a few weeks before Election Day to engage voters. Katy-area activist Makeda Hawkins argues that voter education should be a year-round effort, particularly for complicated local races. “The issues impacted by politics impact us 24/7,” said Hawkins. “So, it only makes sense to me that people who are running for office or organizations that are trying to educate voters should be doing their work year-round, not just weeks or days before an election.” Houston Voting Initiative (HVI) founder Annie Johnson Benifield notes that many voters miss school board, city council, and judicial elections that directly affect daily life. “The strongest motivation for voting is understanding that elections produce real-world consequences,” said Benifield. “Outreach efforts should clearly connect voting to decisions about schools, healthcare, criminal justice, economic development, environmental justice, transportation, and quality of life.” How to do it:
Host monthly voter education workshops and share election dates at churches and civic clubs. Create simple voter guides that explain
The strongest motivation for voting is understanding that elections produce realworld consequences. Outreach efforts should clearly connect voting to decisions about schools, healthcare, criminal justice, economic development, environmental justice, transportation, and quality of life.” ANNIE JOHNSON BENIFIELD Founder of Houston Voting Initiative (HVI)
issues in plain language. Meet voters where they are
Former Houston City Council Member Carroll Robinson says candidates must spend more time listening to Black communities. “Holding rallies and going to churches is not good enough,” Robinson said. “Prayer is powerful, but we need to be clear on where candidates stand on public policy issues.” He argues that voters want direct conversations about education, healthcare, housing, and economic opportunity. How to do it:
Hold unscripted forums at barbershops, beauty salons, and community centers. Require candidates to answer issue-based questionnaires. Use trusted messengers
Research shows people are more likely to vote when encouraged by someone they trust. Church leaders, teachers, and neighbors often
have more influence than campaign commercials. “Use trusted community relationships to connect voting with issues that affect daily life,” shared Benifield. “Organizations that combine civic education, relational organizing, and sustained community engagement will be best positioned to increase Black voter turnout in Texas and across the nation.” How to do it:
Recruit “voter captains” for every block and civic organization. Create peer-to-peer texting and phone-banking teams. Help people make a voting plan
Benifield encourages every voter to develop a detailed plan. According to HVI, direct outreach helped reach more than 60,000 voters in 2025, contributing to approximately 20,000 ballots cast. How to do it:
Decide whether to vote early,
VOLUME 95, NUMBER 48 - SEPTEMBER 17, 2026 The Defender newspaper is published by the Houston Defender News- paper Inc. and audited by Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). Only digital subscriptions are available at: www.defendernetwork.com/subscribe No paper subscriptions available. All materials covered by 2025 copyright. No materials herein may be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. 713-663-6996 | P.O. Box 8005, Houston, TX 77288
by mail, or on Election Day. Verify polling locations, arrange transportation, and vote early to avoid long lines. Remove practical barriers
Sometimes turnout isn’t about motivation; it’s about logistics. Precinct Chair Monique Jackson believes election officials should simplify the voting process. “We should be allowed to have sample ballots for people to pick up outside by different organizations,” said Jackson. “This helps people to feel confident about the choices instead of feeling they are voting for the wrong person at the voting booth.” Jackson also supports reducing inefficiencies that create long wait times. How to do it:
Organize rides to the polls and provide childcare during voting events. Assist seniors and first-time voters with navigating procedures.
Publisher | CEO Sonceria Messiah-Jiles
Content Manager Terrance Harris
Strategic Alllance Clyde Jiles
Associate Editor Aswad Walker
Managing Editor ReShonda Tate
Culture/Lifestyle Reporter Laura Onyeneho
Focus on young voters
Young Black voters represent a massive opportunity for growth. Organizers must engage them where they spend their time. How to do it:
Partner with student organizations and HBCU alumni groups. Use short-form video content and hold registration drives at festivals and sporting events. Create a culture of accountability
Increasing turnout requires collective responsibility. Community advocate Norma Jean Thomas offers a direct assessment: “Refusing to vote is just plain stupid... Silencing your own voice is like handing back the shackles.” How to do it:
Create church-versus-church turnout challenges and encourage families to vote together. Publicly celebrate high-turnout neighborhoods.
Special Assignments Reporter Tannistha Sinha Sports Terrance Harris Jimmie Aggison Video Editor Bryan Erdy
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DN Feature Narrative Project seeks youth justice By Laura Onyeneho
Jacob Newsome grew up in Houston’s Fifth Ward, raised by a single mother and shaped by a childhood of trauma he later spent years unpacking in therapy. Now he’s trying to offer that same kind of healing to some of Harris County’s most vulnerable teenagers – the youth locked inside the county’s juvenile detention system. Newsome is founder and executive director of The Narrative Project, a Houston-based nonprofit that has spent the past several months piloting a workshop model called the Narrative Healing Circle inside the Harris County Juvenile Probation Department’s Youth Village. The sessions ask detained teenagers to separate who they are from what they’ve been charged with. Newsome is now in early talks to bring the model into a Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD) facility, a significant step into the state’s most restrictive youth incarceration system. “You are not your charge,” Newsome said. “You’re not the moment you were in. … You can be better because you are already good.” The stakes are especially high for the youth Newsome serves. Nationally, Black youth are 5.6 times as likely as white youth
produced a 33-point net increase in particNewsome, who identifies as a Black queer ipants’ identity and emotional-asset scores, man, founded The Narrative Project in June and 81% shifted from a negative emotional 2025 after losing a COVID-19 research job state to a positive one, according to results when federal funding was cut, followed by Newsome shared. No behavioral escalations a painful breakup that left him feeling like were recorded. no one believed his own story. A follow-up session in July, “Story Shield,” That experience, paired with years of his produced similar results with another 16 own trauma therapy, convinced him that youth. But Newsome’s own written materihealing needed to be more accessible, espe- als are careful about the limits of that data, cially in Black communities where stigma stating plainly that it does not establish and cost keep many people out of therapy causal effectiveness or long-term behavioral altogether. change, and recommending a lon“How can I make healing ger, funded six-week pilot next. accessible, and who needs it most?” Newsome recalled askIn the community ing himself. The answer, evenAaliyah McGuire is a volunteer tually, was Houston’s juvenile with The Narrative Project and justice system. has served as a co-facilitator. The Narrative Project part“They actually participated. TRAINING FUTURE nered with Restorative Houston They opened up and had a conLAWYERS to facilitate one of its The Masks versation with us about their Come Off workshops with their life, where they came from, their young people in April. Restorgoals,” said McGuire, adding that ative Houston is led by Dr. Anita Wadhwa. some of the girls talked about wanting to The program asks teenagers to build masks become lawyers or nurses. “Where they are representing who they show the world ver- now is not where they’re going. Some guidsus who they are inside. ance, some support, and communication The single session with 16 youth could really go a long way.” From personal pain to purpose
The Narrative Project focuses on narrative justice, trauma healing, and community empowerment, specifically igniting hope and healing for marginalized groups. Courtesy: Jacob Newsome.
to be placed in juvenile facilities and make up 46% of youth in placement while representing just 15% of the youth population, according to a 2023 analysis by the Sentencing Project. A Rice University Texas Policy Lab review of nine years of Harris County juvenile justice data found that a small group of repeat-contact youth, disproportionately Black boys, received harsher punishments even when their offenses did not grow more serious over time.
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DN InFocus
Texans face home insurance crisis
Premiums soar, claims fail, and Texas homeowners face a system prioritizing profit over protection.
that rapidly rising premiums, high deductibles and disputes over claims were making insurance increasingly The state’s latest push difficult for some homeowners to follows months of feedback afford. from homeowners. The report released by Unlocking On Sept. 10, TDI released America’s Future at the time called results from its “Speak Up, for stronger consumer protections By Tannistha Sinha Texas” initiative, which State Rep. Josey and greater scrutiny of insurers. Texas homeowners struggling with rising solicited public input on Garcia ties rising Kyle Herrig, spokesperson for insurance costs could see new consumer pro- home and auto insurance premiums and Unlocking America’s Future, framed tections on the horizon as state officials turn from March through July. claim denials the crisis as the predictable outcome their attention to affordability and the way Affordability and rate to devastating of policy choices made years earlier. insurers calculate premiums. increases were the most real-life losses for He pointed to a 2017 law backed by Gov. Greg Abbott has directed the Texas commonly identified home- seniors, veterans, insurance industry interests that he Department of Insurance (TDI) to take steps owners’ insurance issues. and Hill Country said made it harder for homeownaimed at making home and auto insurance Claims handling, repairs and families. Credit: ers to sue insurers for wrongfully more affordable. His plan is to work with law- customer service followed. Josey Garcia denied claims and reduced penalties makers during the 2027 legislative session to Participants proposed a when companies were found acting strengthen protections for policyholders and range of changes, including greater scrutiny in bad faith. curb premium increases. of large rate increases, clearer explanations “This is no accident,” Herrig said. “This is “The average annual homeowners’ insur- of why premiums rise, stronger enforcement a system designed to extract maximum revance premium in Texas rose 79% in six years,” against slow claims payments, more trans- enue from families while providing minimal said Abbott. “Price optimization drives up parency about coverage and exclusions, and protection when disaster strikes.” costs for loyal customers. Insurance compa- incentives for homeowners State Rep. Mihaela Plesa, vice chair nies must base rates on risk, not on how much who strengthen their propof the Texas House Democratic Cauextra money they think a customer will pay. erties against storms. Some cus, said the effects are showing up TDI will take action against any company that respondents also called for daily in household budgets across her uses this illegal practice.” TDI approval before insurNorth Texas district. Families, she said Prior to this announcement, Texas law- ance rate increases take effect. in December 2025, are forced to weigh makers and consumer advocates called for TDI says it will use the insurance premiums against groceries sweeping reforms to the state’s home insur- feedback to develop recomand car repairs. ance system, following a report and public mendations for lawmakers State Rep. Gene “You would think that those press call that revealed what they describe as ahead of the 90th Texas Leg- Wu blames state skyrocketing prices, we’re getting a crisis of affordability and accountability for islature, which convenes in leadership for rock solid coverage, but we’re not,” homeowners across the state. January 2027, and may imple- policies that Plesa said. “That’s where this crisis New state data also shows just how sharply ment some proposals using its are pricing becomes unacceptable. Families are the cost of protecting a home has increased. existing regulatory authority. Texans out of paying record premiums, and when Insurers paid $8.74 billion in Texas homeownhomeownership. they finally need help after a hailers’ losses in 2025, according to TDI. Wind A long fight Credit: Gene Wu storm, a burst pipe, or a roof is torn and hail have accounted for an average of 62% The debate marks the latoff because of wind, they’re getting a of homeowners’ losses since 2019, underscor- est chapter in a years-long fight over Texas’ letter instead of a check. That’s not insurance, ing the role severe weather plays in the state’s home insurance system. In December 2025, that’s extraction.” insurance market. lawmakers and consumer advocates warned Since then, some protections approved by lawmakers in 2025 have also taken effect. Insurers must now provide written explanations when policies are declined, canceled or not renewed. Residential property policies issued or renewed after Jan. 1, 2026 must also include Families are paying record premiums, an appraisal process that can be used to resolve disputes over the amount of a covered loss. an nd when they finally need help after Another law prohibits insurers from requiring a hailstorm, a burst pipe, or a roof customers to purchase home and auto policies is torn off because of wind, they’re together. Texans raise concerns about affordability and claims
getting a letter instead of a check. That’s not insurance, that’s extraction.”
MIHAELA PLESA State Rep. D-Plano
Credit: Mihaela Plesa
Higher deductibles
Lawmakers also criticized insurers for shifting risk onto homeowners through higher deductibles and cost-cutting tactics. In North Texas, deductibles that once stood at $1,000 have doubled to $2,000, while coastal homeowners often face percentage-based deductibles that can exceed $9,000 before coverage
A new report states that Texas homeowners are paying record insurance premiums. At the same time, coverage increasingly falls short when disasters strike. Credit: Getty Images
kicks in, according to the report. The report also criticized insurers’ increasing use of aerial photography rather than in-person inspections to assess properties, arguing that the technology can be less accurate while reducing inspection costs. Houston-based Texas State Representative Gene Wu placed responsibility squarely on state leadership, arguing that political donations from the insurance industry have stalled meaningful oversight. Wu cited campaign contributions to Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick while accusing state leaders
of ignoring warnings that weakening consumer protections would lead to widespread claim denials. “And you wonder why things never get better,” Wu said. “That’s why, because the people who are in charge of the state, the people who actually fix this, the people who appoint the insurance commissioner, the people who can change the way the state writes its laws and spends its money to make sure that Texans can stay in their homes, they won’t because they’re paid not to. And every Texan, every homeowner, every aspiring homeowner should be
enraged about this.” Speakers called for immediate action from the governor and insurance regulators, including restoring penalties for wrongful claim denials and increasing transparency around claims and deductibles. What the state’s insurance agency said
The Texas Department of Insurance responded to the Defender’s queries, showing data that 30.45% of claims were closed without payment in 2025.
“An insurance company might deny a claim because the policy doesn’t pay for certain types of damage. For example, most policies don’t cover flooding or rodent and insect damage,” TDI wrote in an email. “A company might close a claim without payment if the amount of damage was less than the deductible.” The agency, which regulates the state’s insurance industry, encourages consumers to review their policies carefully while filing a claim. They can also talk to their agents to help them know what their policies cover. If their claim is denied, consumers should ask
their company why. The insurance company must tell them why in writing, TDI suggested. “For premiums, insurance companies look at different factors when calculating what they charge a homeowner,” TDI wrote. “They commonly consider things like where you live, your claims history, your credit score, the cost to replace your house, and your home’s and roof ’s age.” TDI’s advice to consumers seeing higher premiums at renewal is to ask their company to explain the increase and ask if they are getting all available discounts.
8 | September 17, 2026 |
DEFENDER NETWORK
DN Feature COMMUNITY MEETS
Neglected needs for somebody else to solve the problem.
By Aswad Walker
For generations, Black people in America have had a complicated relationship with “the state” — the political systems and institutions that make, enforce, and administer laws and public policy. That relationship has often meant fighting for rights, resources, and protection that should have been guaranteed. So, what happens when government repeatedly falls short? In Houston, increasingly, people are answering that question themselves. Across the city, community organizations, foundations, educators, activists, artists, and residents are providing food, clothing, education, cultural programming, workforce development, civic engagement, and other necessities. It is an old tradition with modern urgency. New York Times columnist Tressie McMillan Cottom has argued that one reason the U.S. government viewed the Black Panther Party as a threat was its community programs. “What they were afraid of was the care,” said Cottom. “It was the food … It was the healthcare. Doing the job of the state delegitimizes the state, and the people will then start to turn to each other.” Feeding people — preserving dignity
Houston has multiple examples of this self-organizing energy. The RobinHood Project-Houston and Beyond feeds people one Sunday each month, with volunteers paying out of pocket. Typically serving near City Hall, the group also responds to apartment fires and other disasters, distributes clothing, shoes, and toiletries, provides holiday meals, and offers warming supplies during extreme cold. The National Black United Front Houston Chapter has operated its Feed the Hood initiative for more than 11 years. Krista Folade Madzimoyo said the program distributes food, toiletries, clothing, and other necessities, usually on the third Saturday of each month. It is self-funded and receives no government funding. “We do not give people anything we would not eat or use ourselves,” Madzimoyo said. Feed the Hood also includes political and cultural educational materials, connecting immediate needs with political empowerment. Meeting needs beyond food
The Texas Federation of the People Foundation supports people returning home from incarceration and their families
Government sometimes shows up
through re-entry assistance, workforce development, essential needs, and education about resources and rights. The Community Artists’ Collective connects African American artists and communities through education, exhibitions, entrepreneurship, and community development. All Real Radio fills an information and cultural gap, providing news traditional and international media may overlook while offering affordable media services to organizations and independent businesses.
The picture is not entirely onesided. Houston City Council Members Edward Pollard and Carolyn Evans-Shabazz recently partnered with Hugs & Diapers and the Texas Diaper Bank for a community diaper drive providing free baby and adult diapers and other necessities. YES Prep Public Schools also activated YES Prep Cares after a days-long power outage affected Rose Plaza Apartments in Fifth Ward. Team members distributed bottled water, hygiene products, and household necessities. “YES Prep Cares reflects our commitment to showing up for our neighbors when they need us most,” said Isy Castillo, the organization’s chief external officer.
Resources
NBUF Houston nbufhouston@gmail.com 832-422-7806 Texas Federation of the People Foundation info@txfpf.org 936-243-1303 The RobinHood Project-Houston & Beyond mcgeetravis@sbcglobal.net Community Artists’ Collective info@thecollective.org 713-523-1616 All Real Radio allrealmail@gmail.com Houston Cares Foundation info@houstoncaresfoundation.org 281-788-9462 Family Scholar House info@familyscholarhouse.org 877-677-9177 Houston Voting Initiative ceo@houstonvotinginitiative.org 713-487-8797 YES Prep 713-924-5300
Supporting mothers and families
Shining Stars Leadership Academy focuses on young mothers, providing guidance, counseling, food, formula, clothing, and supplies. “Supporting young mothers means supporting two generations,” said artist Norma Jean Thomas. “With assistance, young mothers are more likely to remain in school, pursue higher education or vocational training, and develop parenting skills.” Houston Cares Foundation assists people facing economic hardship, including single parents and domestic violence survivors. Family Scholar House supports student parents and families through academic and career coaching, apprenticeships, and wraparound assistance.
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Community power means civic power
The Houston Civics & Leadership Campaign School trains aspiring candidates, campaign operatives, and community leaders. Houston Voting Initiative provides voter education, outreach, and civic engagement, particularly among underrepresented and low-propensity voters. Other community-based efforts include the Harris County Coalition for Online Safety, Batho Pele Resource Center, The Love International Foundation, We Are One, WorkingGroup512, Character Camp, Taylor Made Farm, and Black Gold Nation. Collectively, they demonstrate a simple principle: Communities don’t always wait
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September 17, 2026 |
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| 9
DN Profile
WATCH
VIDEO
Brandon Johnson Finds purpose mentoring Houston youth
By Laura Onyeneho
The basketball court at Briargate Townhomes in Missouri City hasn’t changed much since Brandon Johnson was a kid dribbling on it from sunup to sundown. “A number of guys from the neighborhood used to come out here, older guys, and I was the younger guy,” Johnson said, standing on the same blacktop decades later. “The badge of honor was if you had heart.” Johnson, 39, once had a Division I scholarship and an NBA Summer League roster spot with the Phoenix Suns. Instead, in 2013, he was sentenced to six months in federal custody for conspiring to commit sports bribery tied to point-shaving during his college career at the University of San Diego. He’s back home in Houston, mentoring kids who remind him of himself. His basketball path started with his older brother, Ron, who switched from football to basketball as a kid because their father loved the sport. “Whatever he was doing, I was doing,” Johnson said. A chance connection through Master P’s Amateur Athletic Union program (AAU), alongside players like Lil Romeo, opened his eyes to a life beyond his neighborhood. “That exposure just changed my imagination,” he said. “It let me know what’s all out there and what is possible.” His motther’s incarceration duringg his childhood forced him and his brothers to be raised d largely by each other, and by the time he reached hiss teenage years, a disagreem ment with his father over o committingg t o A AU basketball left him without a home. “I wasn’t a bad kid, I wanted an opportu-nity,” John-son said. ““I just packed my clothes up, two bags, and leeft.”
Brandon Johnson (left) plays basketball with his son, Brandon Jr.(right), in Briargate Townhomes in Missouri City, where Johnson grew up. Credit: Jimmie Aggison/ Defender.
He went on to earn that scholarship to the University of San Diego, help lead the Toreros to the 2008 NCAA Tournament, and graduate in 2010. He was the first in his family to graduate from college. Months later, while training with the Suns and the Washington Wizards’ preseason squad, federal agents arrested him in a bribery scheme involving USD games during the 2009-10 and 2010-11 seasons. He was forever changed after being sentenced to a federal incarceration. “I’ve always been n in survival mode,” Johnson said. “Bein ng inside there gave me a lot of time to think.” He said the stiillness pushed him toward his faith and d forced a reckoning he had avoided forr years. “I realized I had d to look in the mirror at my accou untability,” he said. “I realized h how important decisions are. a ”
Brandon B Johnson revisits the basketball court in Missouri City, where he first learned the game, now the back kdrop for the mento orship work he brings s to Houston youth. Credit: Jimmie Aggiso on/Defender.
How Brandon is breaking the cycle with youth
After his release, Johnson played professional basketball for eight years across Europe, South America, and China, but said the work never fully satisfied him. A speaking invitation eventually opened the door to
what he now calls his real purpose. Reaching young people who grew up the way he did. In 2020, he launched the nonprofit No Script and its AWAKE Program, providing life-skills education across Houston, including a five-year contract to run programming in Harris County juvenile facilities. He has also partnered with Prison Fellowship Angel Tree for five years, connecting children of incarcerated parents with sports camps and community support. “You can’t go with the old rules; the new rules are here,” said Johnson, noting today’s youth mature faster, given their access to information. “A lot of them just need to hear, man, you’re a good kid. You made a bad decision.” Johnson’s own sons, Braylon, 7, and Brandon Jr., 19, watched from the sidelines during the interview. A reminder that the mentorship extends into the home. He said raising them is its own education, shaped by an experience most parents don’t share.
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10 | September 17, 2026 |
DEFENDER NETWORK
DN Sports
NEGRO LEAGUE Japan baseball 100-year connection honored
By Aswad Walker
The story of Negro League baseball extends far beyond the players denied entry into Major League Baseball (MLB). It’s a story of international influence, cultural exchange, and global seeds planted—including in Japan. In 2027, the 100-year connection between Negro League baseball and Japan will be celebrated through the Centennial Tokyo Tour, commemorating the 1927 Philadelphia Royal Giants (PRG) tour of Japan. The initiative brings together the Japan Afro-American Friendship Association USA (JAFA), JAFA Japan, the Biz Mackey Family Foundation, and institutional partners such as Keio University, Meiji Jingu Stadium, the Negro League Baseball Museum, and MLB Japan. At the heart of the celebration is James Raleigh “Biz” Mackey, the legendary Negro League catcher and National Baseball Hall of Famer. Before Jackie Robinson
For Reverend Ray Mackey III, chairman of the Biz Mackey Family Foundation and Biz Mackey’s greatnephew, honoring his uncle means highlighting the history before Jackie Robinson integrated MLB in 1947. “My great uncle predated ‘42,’ the great Jackie Robinson,” Mackey said. “Nobody knows the story before ‘42.’ You don’t know the story about whose shoulders Jackie stands on.” Biz Mackey wore No. 40, spent four decades in baseball, played alongside stars like Josh Gibson, and mentored Hall of Famers Roy Campanella and Robinson. Raised on a farm in Luling, Texas, Mackey began his career with the San Antonio Black Aces before competing internationally.
Crossing the Pacific
In 1927, the Royal Giants crossed the Pacific at a time when racial segregation barred Black players from the MLB. Ray Mackey describes the tour as an act of international sports diplomacy, saying, “It’s surrounding one game, two nations, but one legacy of baseball.” The Royal Giants traveled in the lower decks of a cargo ship, visiting Hawaii, the Philippines, and Japan, with return trips to Tokyo in 1934 and 1936. They played at Meiji Jingu Stadium, where Ray Mackey is scheduled to throw out a ceremonial first pitch next April. Building Japanese Baseball
According to Japanese baseball historian Kazuo Sayama, author of Gentle Black Giants, the Royal Giants laid critical groundwork for professional baseball in Japan, which officially established its major league in 1936. “They were banned in one country where they
couldn’t play—America—but they helped establish a major league in another country,” Mackey said, drawingg a line to contemporary Japanese MLB stars like Shoheii Ohtani and Tatsuya Imai. “What makes this so imporrt-ant now is that Japan, not the United States, is payin ngg homage to these players because they planted a seed.”
Biz Mackey was associated with Negro League baseball for over four decades. Courtesy: Ray Mackey III.
Sportsmanship and cultural exchange
The connection relied heavily on mutual respecct. During the 1927 tour, Biz Mackey met Emperor Hiro ohito at Meiji Jingu Stadium. In one notable momen nt, after being hit by a pitch, Mackey bowed to the pitch her—a gesture of traditional Japanese etiquette. “The crowd just erupted because of the sportsman nship that was displayed,” Ray Mackey shared. The 2027 centennial will expand on this spirrit through baseball diplomacy, education, documentarry storytelling, music, and youth engagement. Reclaiming history
Mackey notes that this history is crucial today as a Black youth participation in baseball declines. Man ny young people assume baseball “isn’t their sportt,” unaware of the foundational role Black players haad worldwide. “We introduce a lot of this history to youth in urbaan areas, not only in Houston but around the country,” he h said, framing the foundation’s mission around educatioon and inspiration. A lasting legacy
Excluded from domestic leagues, Negro Leaguers toured the Caribbean, Latin America, and Asia. Raayy Mackey views these journeys as an overlooked form m of international institution-building. America’s segree-gation policies attempted to isolate Black talent, butt players instead expanded the game globally. Today, those countries visited and exposed to pro-fessional baseball by Negro Leaguers, now produce thee lion’s share of players in the MLB.
The 2027 Tokyo centennial will celebrate Negro League pioneers whose talent, courage, and diplomacy helped transform baseball far beyond America’s shores. Courtesy: Ray Mackey III.
Looking ahead to 2027
The Centennial Tokyo Tour aims to turn historicall ties into active modern partnerships. JAFA is coordi-nating with historically Black colleges and universitiess (HBCUs) to send collegiate baseball players to Japan n for games and cultural exchanges. For Mackey, the centennial showcases what trans-pired when Black Americans were excluded at home— — and what the world gained from their talent. A statement on JAFA’s website spells out the orga-nization’s vision for the 2027 event: “The Centennial’ss mission is not only to honor the legacy of the 1927 tourr but also to foster new bridges of understanding, oppor-tunity, and friendship across the Pacific.”
Biz Mackey shakes the hand of a Japanese player during the 1927 Tokyo ‘barnstorming’ games. Courtesy: Ray Mackey III.
September 17, 2026 |
DEFENDER NETWORK
| 11
DN Sports AFTER HISTORIC SEASON
Ridge Point
Through two games, Ridge Point senior wide receiver John Rangel (1) has recorded 13 receptions for 254 receiving yards. Credit: Jimmie Aggison/ Defender.
Reloads for another run By Jimmie Aggison
Ridge Point may have to replace the most talented roster in program history, but the Panthers aren’t rebuilding. After sending 16 players to Division I programs and 19 players overall to the next level, Ridge Point enters the 2026 season with a new challenge: Proving it can remain among the Houston area’s elite without the overwhelming star power it had a year ago. With eight defensive starters returning, a proven quarterback back under center, and another group of Division I-caliber players on the roster, the Panthers believe they have enough to make another deep playoff run. “Last year’s team was the most talented team in Ridge Point’s history since I’ve been here,” said Ridge Point head football coach Rick LaFavers. “We have some pieces to replace, but more importantly, I believe we have people who have worked hard, developed, and are ready to step in and hit the ground running.” At Ridge Point, it isn’t just about talent. It’s the hard work that goes with it. “They work their tails off at all levels,” said LaFavers. “Development is the keyword in our program. The question for every kid is, ‘Where am I going to be in 4 years?” We preach to our kids all the time that it isn’t about what team you’re on. It is about development, getting reps, and getting better.” That development is driven by a competitive culture in which players constantly push each other to improve. “Our culture and program have proven, year in and year out, that our process works,” said LaFavers. “We preach ‘iron sharpens iron.’ Our kids are in a daily competition with each other. They know that if they don’t bring it every day, someone is right behind them, ready to take their spot.” Ridge Point’s culture of hard work led to an 11-1 overall record and a perfect 7-0 in 6A Region III, District 21 last season, with no district losses since October 17, 2019. But while last year’s team was defined by its depth of Division I talent, this year’s Panthers may be defined by something they have in abundance: Defensive experience.
“We have tremendous speed and length across the board,” said LaFavers. “Our front seven is talented, and every defensive starter has an offer to play college football, with several rotational players who have offers as well. We rotate a lot of guys, which helps our development and our ability to play fast and stay fresh.” Six-foot-one, 235-pound junior defensive end Chris Racey, who recorded 46 tackles and seven sacks last season, enters the season as the reigning district defensive lineman of the year. “Last season was a remarkable team. My defensive line award wasn’t just me, it was the whole team helping me get that,” said Racey. “Winning district defensive lineman of the year last season taught me that the hard work I put in during the off-season led to that success, so this year, I hit the off-season knowing I had to work harder. Now I’m looking to dominate and have fun with my guys.” An experienced defense can give Ridge Point a foundation, but the Panthers will still need their offense to replace the significant production from a year ago. “Brody Bartee’s experience gives this offense a calm in the storm,” said LaFavers. “He’s a tremendous leader, someone who is proven.
Development is the keyword in our program. The question for every kid is, ‘Where am I going to be in 4 years?” RICK LAFAVERS
RIDGE POINT HEAD FOOTBALL COACH
The 6-foot-2, 185-pound three-star senior quarterback threw for 2,098 yards and 26 touchdowns last season. “Last year I transferred in and was still growing into that leadership role, and I feel this year I’m taking it on,” said Bartee. With offensive weapons at wide receiver in John Rangel, Suhaib Ramseur, and Caiden Lawrence, Bartee will have plenty of options. While the passing game may not be in question, the running game has to be proven after the loss of a starting running back and three Power Four offensive linemen. “We need guys to step up, produce and execute,” said LaFavers. “It is their time now. We believe we have guys who can do that. That is what the pre-season scrimmages and the first three non-district games are for. Trying to see what that looks like and who is going to step up and be the “next guy” in a long history of guys at those positions.” If Ridge Point can find answers on the offensive line and in the running game, the Panthers could achieve the balance needed to complement what could be one of their
better defenses in recent years. With Strake Jesuit joining 6A Region III, District 21, Ridge Point could land in Division II, depending on which Fort Bend schools qualify for the playoffs. LaFavers believes that could give the Panthers a legitimate opportunity to make a state run, but health and ball security will also be important. “The path is a little different this year,” said LaFavers. “There are different potential matchups than in years past, especially in the early rounds. But bottom line, regardless of Division 1 or 2, Region 3 is a beast. The goal and focus are week by week. We must grow and develop week by week into the team I think we can be. If we do that, we should be in a good position to take that next step. But we can’t get ahead of ourselves at this point.” Ridge Point has already established that winning district championships is the expectation. Now, with a new group of players carrying the program forward, the Panthers have an opportunity to prove that standard extends beyond any single roster.
12 | September 17, 2026 |
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