THE TORCH
CELEBRATING SISTERHOOD, SERVICE AND SCHOLARSHIP ACROSS HOUSTON
DECEMBER
2025 | VOLUME III, ISSUE 4
As we close out the year, HMAC celebrates sisterhood, service and the joy of gathering together.
S.P.A.R.K.
PERCY LY KABIR, 2025-2027 BIENNIUM CHAPTER PRESIDENT
From the Desk of the President: Reflectingon2025,Embracing2026
As we close the year 2025, I extend heartfelt gratitude and warm greetings to each of you In the spirit of my Southeast Asian heritage, I look to the lunar calendar: 2025 was the Year of the Snake a symbol of renewal, transformation, and wisdom. Just as the snake sheds its skin, we too release what no longer serves us and step boldly into 2026 with courage, grace, and fresh energy.
This year has been one of growth and connections. Together, we have strengthened our bonds, expanded our partnerships, and reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to service, scholarship, and sisterhood.
New Partnerships & Initiatives
Looking ahead, our chapter is poised for an exciting year filled with impactful collaborations:
Habitat for Humanity – All Woman Build 2026
Empowering women through hands-on service, building homes and hope for families in need
American Heart Association – Red Dress Fashion Show
Advocating for women’s heart health through awareness, artistry, and community engagement. We are honored to join the Red Dress Fashion Show planning committee.
UNCF Leadership Conference – Houston, Texas
Partnering with UNCF to invest in leadership development for the next generation of scholars and changemakers. Our chapter will be an active participant in the upcoming conference in February.
Sparks & Spurs Supreme Weekend (Feb. 27 – Mar. 1, 2026)
Our new signature fundraiser three days of Zydeco rhythm, Western elegance, and HBCU pride raising scholarships and celebrating community
Each initiative reflects our mission to uplift, empower, and inspire.
Sorors, as we shed the old and embrace the new, let us carry forward the lessons of this year with hope and determination. In 2026, we will build homes, raise awareness, inspire scholars, and celebrate sisterhood.
May the coming year be one of transformation, unity, and boundless impact.
THE BEACON
DR. LYNELL TIPPEN WRIGHT, 1ST VICE PRESIDENT & MEMBERSHIP SERVICES CHAIR
BRING YOUR GIFTS TO HMAC
Dr. Lynell Tippen Wright
1st Vice President Chair, Membership Services
Staying Connected This Holiday Season
As we enter this season of joy, reflection, and renewal, I encourage each of you to remain connected to one another. The holidays are when bonds of sisterhood shine brightest — whether through a phone call, a shared meal, a heartfelt card, or simply a prayer whispered in love.
Our chapter thrives because we do not walk alone. Even as calendars fill with family traditions and festive gatherings, let us remember the strength we draw from one another. Staying connected ensures that no Soror feels distant, and every Soror feels cherished.
May we carry the spirit of service and sisterhood into our celebrations, lifting each other up with kindness, encouragement, and joy. Together, we weave a tapestry of unity that extends far beyond the season.
IMPACT AND ACTION
KAMERON BRACKINS, 2ND VICE PRESIDENT AND PP&D
SISTERHOOD IN SERVICE: CONNECTING THE HEART AND THE WORK
Service has always been at the core of who we are an expression of purpose, compassion, and commitment to uplifting our communities Yet within Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter, service is more than the programs we execute or the hours we record. It is a shared experience that deepens our sisterhood, enriches our lives, and strengthens the fabric of our collective impact.
Our PP&D committees consistently demonstrate that meaningful programming is not only about addressing community needs, but also about cultivating bonds among the women who carry out the work. Whether assembling health kits, mentoring young women, supporting global initiatives, supporting black-owned business, or responding to moments of crisis, sorors find connection in the small moments between the tasks the laughter during preparation, the encouragement exchanged, the pride felt when a project comes to fruition
These shared experiences remind us that service is both outward and inward Outwardly, we meet the needs of families, youth, and communities who rely on our support Inwardly, we nurture fulfillment, purpose, and kinship feelings that come from serving with women who share our values, our drive, and our love for Delta.
Each PP&D committee offers a path for sorors to channel their passions into purpose. Whether your heart leans toward youth development, global awareness, health advocacy, financial literacy, educational initiatives, or community response, there is a space where your values can shine. By choosing a committee that aligns with what inspires you most, you not only strengthen the program you enrich your own Delta journey. Serving in a space that reflects your passions deepens your sense of purpose and creates natural, meaningful connections with sorors who share similar interests
As we continue investing our time and energy into building programs that inform, inspire, and empower, let us also embrace the joy that comes from serving together The emotional connection we forge through service is just as meaningful as the work itself. It reminds us that we are never alone in our mission; we are part of a sisterhood strengthened by each act of collective care.
And so, sorors, I call on every member to take an active part in this shared journey. Commit to serving on at least one PP&D committee this year. Find the space that speaks to your passions, aligns with your values, and allows your gifts to flourish. Your presence, your energy, and your unique talents make all the difference.
When we serve together, we strengthen our bond and our impact May that message continue to guide and inspire us as we uplift our community hand in hand, heart to heart, in true sisterhood
Kameron Brackins
2 Vice President nd Chair, PP&D
THE RECORD & THE REPLY
INSIGHTS FROM YOUR SECRETARIES
PAULA
LYRSE, RECORDING SECRETARY & DR. KRISTY LOVE, CORRESPONDING
From the Record
SECRETARY
Thank you, Sorors, for helping us keep our meetings running smoothly and our records accurate. Here are a few gentle reminders to support our process:
ElectronicVotingMadeEasy
All voting during Chapter Meetings will take place electronically on your phone.
If you’re unsure of your website login, please stop by checkin to pick up a Vote Card.
This small step on the front end helps ensure voting is quick, smooth, and stress-free for everyone
CommitteeReports&Presentations
To keep everything organized and ready for review:
Paula Lyrse
Recording Secretary
Upload your reports and presentations to the Members Only section of the HMAC website (in your committee folder).
Please make sure everything is uploaded by the Friday before Executive Board. Remember: Committees present at Executive Board first before presenting at Chapter Meeting.
Your cooperation truly helps us maintain clear records and well-structured meetings. Thank you for your attention to the details that keep our chapter moving forward
From the Reply
Thank you, Sorors, for your continued support in keeping our communications consistent and polished. A few friendly reminders as we plan upcoming events: EventRequestsThatInvolvethePublic
If your committee is planning an event open to the public, please make sure that registrationisrequired. This allows us to track participation and document our community outreachefforts.
If you’d like to include a spot for volunteers, just add that note in your request Club Express has built-in volunteer sign-up features we can activate for you.
Thank-YouLetters&PartnerFollow-Up
Dr. Kristy Love
Corresponding Secretary
Partnering with community organizations is a special part of our work. After your event, please send a thank-youletteroremail using a warm, professional tone.
Be sure to include how their support helped the community or contributed to the success of the event.
All outgoing correspondence should be submitted to the ChapterPresident for approval and placed on officialHMACletterhead before it goes out.
Thank you for helping us communicate with excellence and gratitude — it makes a difference.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY HAPPY BIRTHDAY
December Sorors! December Sorors!
Yahaira Campble 12 01
Darla Harris 12 01
Sherail Jordan 12 01
Alicia Rushing 12 01
Dana Burns 12 02
Arletta Gordon 12 02
Amisha Blake 12 04
Chiara Dellihoue 12 05
Frances Montgomery 12 05
Carlana English 12 06
Typhanie Jackson 12 06
Jasmine Guess 12 07
Marcia Johnson 12 07
Jeanette Lastrape 12 07
NaShunda Baskin 12 10
Teneshia Hudspeth 12 10
Ruth McCoy 12 12
De'Ja Montgomery 12 12
Sonja Eckford 12 13
Rasheedah Jones 12 13
Nia Pierce 12 13
LaFoscia Maxie 12 14
Jarvelin Ardley 12 15
Shani Dennis 12 17
ReShane Dawn-Fowler 12 18
Jamika Phillips 12 19
Charlyn Stewart 12 19
Yvonne Valentine 12 19
Charmaine Wilson Martin 12 20
Sandra Akachukwu 12 21
Bridgette Moss-Miller 12 21
Keira Duah 12 22
Raven Hollis 12 22
Muriel Jackson 12 22
Christina Gibson 12 23
Tiffany Hill 12 23
Erica Jones 12 23
Nichole Ogojiaku 12 24
Tiniska Brooks 12 25
Karen Motley 12 25
Nicol Wright 12 26
Sonya Fowler 12 27
LaKeydra Toliver 12 27
Winnefred Jackson 12 28
Jessica Rogers Bell 12 29
Destiny Chatman 12 30
Deandralette Smith 12 30
Joan Graham 12 31
UPCOMING EVENTS
Arrive by 8 a m to set up and greet early arrivals.
Hostess Committee
Ignite IgniteSpark! Spark!
The Membership Services Reclamation Committee is thrilled to announce the RECLAMATION
Unclaimed HMAC Polos UnclaimedHMACPolos
Ifyoupurchasedapoloearlierthisyearandhaven’thadachancetopickit upyet,we’vebeenkeepingitsafeforyou!PleasestopbytheMembership ServicesTableduringourGeneralChapterMeetingtoretrieveyouritem. Ifyou’reunsurewhetheryouorderedone,simplycheckthelistbelow!
AnnieBenifield
CharmainePerry
ChristianSherrod
ChristinaGibson
DebraGrisby
DiTubbs
DioneBurke
DonnaWhite
JanMatthews
JewelJohnson
KatessaMoody
KaysahL.Melancon
KeishaFields
KrissyW.Davis
LaKenyaSpriggs
LindaShankle
MajorieGibson
MarlaDavis
MeganByrd
MiaE.Davis
MichelleMcCain
MoniqueWilliams
MylanaJackson
NicoleThomas
PauletteRandle
ShanaAugust
SonyaJohnson
StacieWright
TempesttBell
TracySingleton
TriCiaGuidry
ValarieLandry
November November
C H A P T E R
M E E T I N G
November’s meeting was filled with connection, energy, and purposeful sisterhood. We kicked things off with our Crimson&CreamConnect,givingSororsthe chance to mingle, catch up, and enjoy a momentoffellowshipbeforetakingupdated chapter headshots that captured our unity andspirit.
After connecting, we shifted into Delta business as usual, reviewing important upcoming initiatives, community service opportunities, and key chapter updates. The conversations reflected our shared commitment to staying engaged, showing up for our community, and moving intentionallythroughthesororityyear.
As we transition deeper into the season, our November meeting reminded us of the beauty of gathering, the strength of our bond, and the impact we make when we lead with purpose. We look forward to closing out the year continuing to serve, connect,andgrowtogetherinsisterhood.
Sisterhood Sisterhood
Scholarship Scholarship
Service Service
Sparkling Soror OF THE MONTH SparklingSoror OF THE MONTH
DELTA GEMS Educational Development
Economic Development MoneyMakeover:ACrashCourseinFinancialFreedom
On November 1, the Economic Development Committee presented “Money Makeover: A Crash Course in Financial Freedom” at Trinity United Methodist Church. The program featured five knowledge speakers who discussed the fundamental aspects of financial literacy, including budgeting, saving, investing, estate planning, and charitable giving. The speakers included Ronald Levi, a Certified Financial Planner and seasoned wealth advisor; Nicholas Bracy, a registered investment broker; Angel Henderson, owner of a local insurance agency; Michelle Taylor, an estate planning attorney; and Reverend Tabitha Mock. Each of the speakers shared powerful tips to master strategies for taking your finances to the next level. Twenty individuals attended the event and actively participatedtaking notes and asking insightful questions.
Lunch was provided by Henry Tennessee, a local black-owned businessman who served delicious barbecue sandwiches. The event was an overall success and the committee is looking forward to continuing to bring the community meaningful and impactful programming.
Greek Council SpiritofThanksgiving
HMAC’sGreekCouncilSharestheSpirit ofThanksgiving
In a beautiful act of community care, HMAC’s Greek Council stepped forward to support the Annual Thanksgiving Giveaway hosted by NPHC-Houston in partnership with Gustavia Pearls. Held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Houston City College East Campus, the event brought together volunteers and donors to ensure families across Houston could enjoy a warm and festive holiday meal. HMAC’s Greek Council contributed:
48boxesofcornbreaddressing
48cansofcranberrysauce
60boxesofmacaroniandcheese
These heartfelt donations helped fill Thanksgiving baskets with comfort and tradition, reminding us all of the power of unity and service. Each item shared brought warmth to a family’s table and joy to their celebration.
Collegiate Connection SpreadingSisterlySupportwithFinalExamSurvivalBoxes
On November 20th, the HMAC Collegiate Connection Committee brought a little joy, sparkle, and a lot of encouragement to our Delta Gamma collegiate sorors at Texas Southern University
HMAC’s Annual Final Exam Survival Boxes were lovingly assembled and distributed to twelve collegiate sorors to aid them in successfully completing the semester. Each box contained a selection of practical items and considerate additions intended to alleviate stress during the exam period and motivate sorors to finish the semester strong Contents included essential study tools such as pens, highlighters, and sticky notes, alongside snacks, beverages, Ramen, and encouraging affirmations. These packages served as a meaningful reminder of the support provided by HMAC members. Beyond tangible supplies, the Final Exam Survival Boxes offer comfort, sisterly encouragement, and reminders to pause, reflect, and rejuvenate during this demanding phase of their academic journey
Graduating seniors found a special invitation in their care package, inviting them to attend HMAC’s December Chapter Meeting and connect with Collegiate Connection members as they get ready for life after college.
We’re not done yet! Collegiate Connection is excited to continue the season of support as we head to the University of Houston on December 1st to meet with the sorors of Zeta Sigma Forty collegiate sorors will receive their own Final Exam Survival Boxes. This is yet another chance for HMAC to uplift, empower, and pour into the next generation of Delta women. With final exams scheduled earlier than usual this year, the timely delivery of these survival boxes to Delta Gamma and Zeta Sigma ensures our collegiate sorors have the resources and encouragement they need right when it matters most
Texas Southern University Finals: November 29th through December 4th
University of Houston Finals: December 10th through December 15th
We’d like to shout out every soror who donated to our Final Exam Survival Boxes! Your generosity helped us pour love and support into our Collegiate sorors during one of the toughest times of the semester.
We would also like to extend our sincere THANK YOU to the Collegiate Connection Committee for their support and contributions! Your time, energy, and care in assembling and hand-stuffing each box made this project truly shine We’re so grateful for your teamwork and dedication Because of HMAC, our boxes were a beautiful success Thank you for showing up with that undeniable Delta spirit!
Through these boxes, we hope to remind every collegiate soror that we are so proud and most importantly, “You’ve got this, and We’ve got you!”
SistersGiving at Mikki’s
HMAC AIDS RESOURCE FAIR
WORLD AIDS DAY COLLABORATION
Physical & Mental Health
Joy Under the Angel Tree
Sisterhood
CRIMSON FINANCIAL CORNER
IGNITE THE SPARK!
YOUR 2026 GUIDE TO DUES AND COMMITTEE REIMBURSEMENTS
Sorors, it’s time to ignite the spark and secure your financial membership for the 2026 fiscal year! Please review the following important dates and deadlines to ensure your dues are submitted on time and without additional fees.
In-PersonCollection:
�� December 13, 2025 – Chapter Meeting
�� 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
PaymentDeadlines(AvoidingLateFees)
✅ PayPal Payments: Submitted by December 13, 2025
LateFeeNotice
November 1 – December 15, 2025
➤ A $10 late fee applies for payments made by In-Person Collection, Mail or PayPal during this period
ReinstatementFees
After December 15, 2025
$15 reinstatement fee applies
$30 reinstatement fee if inactive for 2+ years
Timely payment ensures uninterrupted financial status and continued access to all the rights, privileges, and sisterhood benefits of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
ElectronicExpense/ReimbursementForm
We are excited to announce the launch of our new electronic HMAC Expense/Reimbursement Form! ➡ Go to the Committee Chair Information section.
➡ Under Common Resources, look for the Reimbursement Form icon FormLink:HMAC Expense Reimbursement Form
Reminders:
Ensure you have all receipts and documentation ready to upload at the time of your submission Include your committee chair’s email address for approval. All requests must be submitted within 30 days of the purchase date.
This new process will streamline reimbursements, ensuring requests are submitted and approved tl i b t b i d ti
Your HMAC Finance Team
ERT FirePrevention
Let's dive into the world of fire prevention – it's like being a superhero with the power to stop fires before they even start! Think of it as a set of plans and best practices designed to keep the flames at bay. To prevent fires, you need to remove one or more of the essential components: fuel,heat,oroxygen. All three are necessary for a fire to breathe life, just like we need coffee, Wi-Fi, and snacks to function. Now, let's talk about the five golden rules of fire prevention:
StayingAttentiveintheKitchen: Channel your inner chef and keep an eye on those pots and pans. Remember, a watched pot never boils over and causes a fire!
PracticingElectricalSafety: Treat your electrical appliances like VIPs. Don't overload outlets and give those frayed wires the boot. It's shocking how much safer you'll be!
KeepingFlammableItemsAwayfromHeatSources:Thinkofitassocialdistancingforflammable items.Keeppaper,cloth,andothercombustiblesfarawayfromheaters,stoves,andanythingthat getshotenoughtostartafire.
InstallingandMaintainingSmokeAlarms:Theselittlegadgetsarelikeyourhome'spersonalfire detectives.Makesurethey'reinstalledandhavefreshbatteries.They'llsniffouttroublebeforeit getsoutofhand.
NeverLeaveCandles,Heaters,SmokersUnattended:Imagineyourcandle,heater,orsmokerisa mischievouschild.Neverleavethemalone,ortheymightcausesomeserioustrouble!
Followtheserules,andyou'llbewellonyourwaytobeingafirepreventionsuperhero Staysafeand keepthoseflamesatbay!
We've covered the basics of fire prevention; it's time to dive into the three P's of fire safety:
Prevent,Plan,andPractice. We’ve already nailed down the prevention part, so let's talk about planning and practicing in the event of an emergency
First up, let's make sure our fire safety plan includes both active and passive fire protection measures:
1.ActiveFireProtection: This is all about immediate response to fire and suppression. Think of it as your fire-fighting superhero squad. The most common active fire protection systems are:
SmokeDetectors: These little lifesavers sniff out smoke and sound the alarm.
Sprinklers: Ready to shower the flames with water and cool things down.
FireExtinguishers: Your trusty sidekick for putting out small fires before they get out of control. It is important to remember this acronym: P.A.S.S
i.Pull (the pin)
ii Aim (the nozzle at the base of the flames)
iii.Squeeze (the handle to discharge) and
iv.Sweep (spraying in a sweeping motion at the base of the flames)
2.PassiveFireProtection: This is like the fortress walls that keep the fire contained and slow its spread. Examples include:
Fire-RetardantMaterials: These materials are like the fire's kryptonite, making it harder for flames to spread.
Fire-ResistantWallsandDoors: These barriers help contain the fire to one area, giving everyone more time to escape and reducing damage. Now, onto the practice part. Just like any good superhero team, we need to be prepared and ready to spring into action Here’s how we can practice fire safety:
RegularDrills: Conduct regular fire drills so everyone knows the escape routes and what to do in case of a fire. Here is another important acronym: R.A.C.E
R: Rescue/Remove- help anyone that is in immediate danger but only if it is not putting yourself at risk
A: Alarm/Alert– activate the nearest fire alarm and call 911
C: Contain/Confine– close all doors and windows to slow down and help contain the fire
E: Extinguish/Evacuate – extinguish the fire if it is very small and safe to do.
CheckEquipment: Regularly inspect and maintain smoke detectors, sprinklers, and fire extinguishers to ensure they're in working order.
ReviewandUpdate: Periodically review and update our fire safety plan to incorporate any new safety measures or changes in the building layout. By preventing, planning, and practicing, we can stay ahead and be prepared for any fire emergencies. Let's keep our superhero capes ready and make fire safety a top priority! Stay safe and vigilant!
Source: https://wwwusfa fema gov/downloads/pdf/publications/home-fire-safety-posterbrochure.pdf
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
P&P POWER MINUTE QUIZ: DECEMBER EDITION
Purpose:To reinforce knowledge of the Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter’s governing documents and promote compliance awareness among all members.
Aquorumistheminimumnumberofmemberswhomustbe presentatthemeetingforbusinesstobevalidlytransacted.T conductbusinessduringachaptermeeting,what%ofthe membershipmustbepresenttoensurewehaveaquorum?
a.10%
b.25%
c.15%
d.22%
Answer: 25%. A quorum consists of 25% of chapter members. Percentage must be greater than or equal to 25%. (A quorum is not required to begin the ceremonial opening, but no business can be conducted without a quorum).
TrueorFalse?Allofthechapter’srecordsshouldbekeptinperpetuity?
Answer:False.
Records which are not designated as permanent should be destroyed based on the method appropriate for the record medium. The retention timeframe will depend on the record type. Records designated as permanent should not be destroyed. Please refer to the guidelines of the Sorority’s Record Retention and Destruction Policy per the Chapter Management Handbook. Special note: no records are to be destroyed when the Sorority is in litigation.
The _________________ or _____________________mustcollectmoneyonbehalfoffundraising committee.
Answer:FinancialSecretaryorAssistantFinancialSecretary
The Financial Secretary or Assistant Financial Secretary are the only ones who must collect money on behalf of the fundraising committee.
TrueorFalse?Receiptsandapprovedvouchersforrequestsforreimbursementmustbe submittedwithin30days?
Answer: True. Generally, receipts should be submitted with approved vouchers within 30 days of the event. All disbursements must be supported by an approved voucher with original invoices or receipts. Receipts must not include personal expenses. Voucher must be filled out completely, approved by the Committee Chair and Chapter President. The chapter budget will be checked prior to issuing the check.
P&PReminder:
Staying informed of HMAC’s Policies and Procedures ensures that we each uphold the standards of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and maintain operational excellence within our chapter.
Awards & Recognition
CelebratingBrillianceinEveryMoment
In November, the Awards and Recognition subcommittee honored Soror Jasmine N. Lynch through “Look Who is Sparkling in HMAC: A Giving Heart of Service” for her generosity and devoted commitment to serving others, thereby embodying Delta’s enduring legacy of giving with heart and purpose.
Additionally, the subcommittee paid tribute to(from left to right)SororKarenLTurner,SororHenrieittaJohnson,Soror PatriceR.LewisandSororJessicaRogers-Bell(not shown), who have faithfully served in the United States Armed Forces and courageously dedicated their lives to serve and protect our country.
In December, the subcommittee will present “LookWhoisSparklinginHMAC:TheSpiritof Generosity,” celebrating a Soror whose acts of philanthropy serve as catalysts for sustainable community prosperity. Through her continuous support and commitment to empowerment, she has the ability to transform compassion into an opportunity to strengthen the economic and social fabric of the community.
January-CarryingtheTorch February-ChampionofWellness March-SisterhoodinAction
April-CreativityontheRise May-GuidingtheLight June-SisterlyGratitude
Her spirit transcends simple gestures, showing a steadfast commitment to investing in initiatives and programs that create lasting impact. As we continue to honor the light that shines within HMAC, may we carry forward the spirit of service, leadership, and love that defines us, working together to uplift our communities while carrying Delta’s legacy into the future.
Social Action
ElectionsHaveConsequences
"Whenweshowupattheballotbox,wearenotjust castingvotes,wearecastingvisions."K.King
All17PropositionsPassed.NowWhat?
This November, Texas voters approved all 17 constitutional amendments placed on the ballot That may sound like a policy win on paper. Still, as political educators and frontline civic protectors, we must ask: whose interests were prioritized, and how will these changes manifest in our daily lives?
Let's be clear: Every proposition passed impacts Black and marginalized communities either directly or by design! Whether through taxation, education, criminal justice, or infrastructure investment, this election reflected the state's values in a mirror. A mirror, I am not sure, reflects the overall wellbeing of the communities in which we live, serve, and impact.
Social Action is committed to ensuring that the language is clear and that we understand the meaning of each of these propositions.
�� WhentheBallotBecomestheBattleground��
“Delta women don’t just vote, we analyze, organize, and mobilize. With every proposition passed this November, our charge becomes clearer: keep our communities informed, keep our values centered, and keep our eyes on the long game. We don’t vote just for a moment, we vote for a movement.”
-Kristie King, Co-Chair HMAC Social Action
Mappingthe2025PropositionstoOurLegislativePriorities
Let’s dissect what passed and what it means through the lens of our seven legislative priorities. Because policy doesn’t live in silos, it lives in systems.
VOTING&CIVICENGAGEMENT
“If our votes didn’t matter, they wouldn’t try to suppress them.”- Real Red Talk �� Proposition 16 - Clarifying that a voter must be a U.S. citizen On the surface, this may seem straightforward, but let’s not overlook the underlying current. This language, while technically reflective of existing law, can be weaponized in broader voter suppression efforts, particularly against immigrant communities. Perception legislation becomes a tool for confusion, fear, and unnecessary ID checks at the polls.
⚖ Proposition 12 – Restructuring the Judicial Conduct Commission Shifting appointments away from the legal profession and toward gubernatorial influence threatens the balance of accountability. When politics instead of peers police judges, community trust erodes and civic engagement weakens.
ECONOMIC JUSTICE
"Relief that doesn’t reach the working class is just another giveaway to the top."- Real Red Talk
�� Proposition 2 – Banning Capital Gains Taxes
This locks the door on future tax policy that could level the wealth playing field. With the racial wealth gap still yawning wide, it’s another mechanism that preserves affluence for the few while limiting tools for redistributive justice.
�� Proposition 8 – Prohibiting Estate/“Death” Taxes
Framed as relief, but it reinforces a system where generational wealth (which Black and Brown families are still fighting to accumulate) remains untaxed for those who already have. No new equity here, just further entrenchment of old advantages
�� Proposition 9 – Increasing Business Property Tax Exemption
On its face, this could help small businesses if they know how to navigate the process. But it also slashes local tax revenue, which funds services our communities depend on: public education, hospitals, and libraries.
�� Proposition 13 – Increasing Homestead Exemption
Tax relief for homeowners is welcomed but 60% of Black Houstonians are renters. This doesn’t address affordability or tenant rights And the state must now make good on its promise to reimburse school districts.
�� Proposition 5 – Animal Feed Tax Exemption
A small slice of economic justice for agricultural business owners, but few Black farmers or coops stand to benefit unless we actively advocate for inclusive access to agriculture policy levers.
HEALTH EQUITY
"We’re not underrepresented in health data we’re excluded"-Real Red Talk
�� Proposition 14 – Dementia Research Institute
$3 billion for dementia research sounds promising, but health equity means ensuring Black communities are part of the research, the data, and the solutions. Black elders experience higher rates of Alzheimer’s and dementia, but are often excluded from trials and care models.
�� Proposition 10 – Property Tax Relief for Fire-Destroyed Homes
Many Black and Latinx families live in older, underinsured housing stock This is a helpful protection, but access depends on awareness and the timely application of this knowledge. We must build education around it.
��
Proposition 11
–
Raising
Homestead Exemption for Seniors & Disabled Persons
A welcome measure. However, if school districts are underfunded to offset the exemptions, our children may still bear the cost of our elders’ relief Equity requires balance
REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOM
& HEALTH
EQUITY (COMBINED)
"We’re not underrepresented in health data we’re excluded"-Real Red Talk
While no proposition directly addressed reproductive health, underfunding healthcare, criminalizing poverty (Prop 3), and politicizing education (Prop 15) all intersect with reproductive justice When people are denied agency in how they live, learn, or access care, reproductive freedom is under threat.
REIMAGINING PUBLIC SAFETY
"Safety isn’t more cops….it’s more care." - Real Red Talk
�� Proposition 3 – Expanding the Denial of Bail
Pretrial detention is already a racial justice crisis This measure allows individuals who have not yet been convicted to be held without bail under broader standards. Without due process protections, this disproportionately punishes the poor and people of color. We must closely monitor the implementation of this and advocate for pretrial justice reform at the county level.
⚖ Proposition 12 – Judicial Oversight (Again)
Reiterating here: giving the Governor outsized power over judicial oversight erodes impartiality. When political appointments control judicial discipline, justice is no longer blind; it’s biased
Policy literacy is protection. “Neutral” language is often coded language. Not every policy passed in November will benefit us, but all of them will impact us Voter Education is NOT Seasonal It’s 365
We must move in the spirit of readiness and align quickly to protect our communities. Passing a proposition is not the finish line, Sorors It is the starting point for community accountability.
As we look ahead to 2026 and beyond, our mission remains clear: to educate, equip, and execute with intention Guided by the unwavering truth that “Elections Have Consequences,” Social Action is committed to remaining politically informed and strategically positioned for action, both within our priorities and beyond
In the months ahead, we will continue to connect the dots between energy policy, criminal justice, health equity, and education rights, not only through analysis but also through action Using data, storytelling, and culturally grounded education, we will empower our communities to move from awareness to action.
I leave you with this: Delta women move with the legacy of Shirley Chisholm, the conviction of Barbara Jordan, and the strategy of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson We don’t just play the game, we’re here to change the rules. There is room for everyone. Find your lane. Lead with purpose. And let’s ride together.
�� Plug In With Us… Social Action in Motion�� Monthly Committee Meetings
�� Social Action Committee – 3rd Tuesdays at 6:30 PM Subcommittee Meetings
�� Reproductive Freedom & Health Equity –1st Tuesdays
�� Economic Justice – 1st Thursdays
�� Voting & Civic Engagement – 2nd Tuesdays
�� Environmental Justice – 2nd Thursdays
�� Education – 4th Tuesdays
�� Reimagining Public Safety – 4th Thursdays
All meetings begin at 6:30 PM
Stay connected via the Social Action Committee GroupMe and check the HMAC Calendar for Zoom login details
Houston City Council At-Large Position 4 Run-Off Election: December 14th
Two candidates remain:
Alejandra Salinas – First-time candidate and trial attorney – 21% in general election
Dwight Boykins – Former Houston City Council Member – 20% in general election
Houston Congressional District 18– RunOff Election: January 31, 2026
Two candidates remain: Christian Menefee - Harris County Attorney - 29% in general election
Amanda Edwards- Former Houston City Council Member - 26% in general election
Social Action
HMAC Legal Fair: Reimagining Public Safety January 31, 2026
Acres Homes Multi-Purpose Center 10am - 1pm
HMAC NOTES
O R C H
TTDECEMBER 2025
Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter P O Box 56108 Houston, Texas 77256-6108
ABOUT HMAC
The Houston Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter (HMAC) was chartered by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc , in October of 1974 Since its inception, HMAC has been actively involved in supporting national and local service agencies, all while sponsoring and presenting community workshops, awareness forums and health fairs HMAC members and partners have provided over $750,000 in scholarships, directly benefiting the youth of the greater Houston area
DECEMBER CONTRIBUTORS
PHOTOGRAPHY: Cassandra Brooks, Canva com, HMAC & Facebook page CONTENT: Percy Ly Kabir, Kristyn Cathey, Monica Hill, Jasmine Price, Matiko Austin, PhD , Santa McKnight, Harlisha Homer,