C'ri Roi

Where We’ve Been, Where We Are, Where We’re Going: The 2025 State of Black El Paso

As communities across the nation reckon with the need for honest civic dialogue and targeted action, El Paso’s Black community continues its path forward—examining where it has been, where it is, and where it is going. On Wednesday, June 19, 2025, at 3:30 PM, the 2nd Annual State of Black El Paso Address will take place at the McCall Neighborhood Center, inviting the public to participate in a town hall rooted in truth, vision, and responsibility.

This year’s theme is not just a reflection—it’s a challenge. Founder Monica Tucker, longtime advocate and voice behind Black El Paso Voice, will deliver a comprehensive review, setting the tone for a deeper discussion on the pressing issues facing Black El Pasoans today.

With an eye on generational responsibility, the event emphasizes civic engagement as a tool to disrupt cycles of neglect. By participating, attendees help lay the groundwork for younger generations to become informed leaders and decision-makers who understand the importance of voting, advocacy, and holding others accountable.

The event will explore four core focus areas:

• Civic Engagement & Anti-Racism: Addressing low voter turnout, recent racial incidents in schools and public spaces, and the urgent need for Black voices in governance. As Monica Tucker states, “When we know better, we do better—it is our responsibility to secure a seat at the table.”
• Health, Wellness & Access to Care: Examining mental health stigma, chronic health disparities, and the lack of Black healthcare providers contributing to medical distrust and poor outcomes.
• Black Youth – In Schools, In the Community, In Life: Focusing on disproportionate discipline, underrepresentation in curricula, and the need for culturally-rooted mentorship and opportunity.
• Barriers to Black Representation & Success on the Border: Tackling intra-community disconnection, economic exclusion, and the need for Black-led historical education in a time when national narratives are being erased.

In addition, a special presentation by community guest speaker Tom Handy—Army veteran, investor, and civic leader—will center on the importance of wealth building and connecting economic literacy to generational empowerment. 

Dr. Jackeline Biddle Richard, a dynamic force in law, health, and advocacy, will moderate the event and guide discussions toward real-world application.

After the address, the community is invited to engage directly during a Q&A panel with local leaders, including:

• Curtis Smith – (Retired) Army Veteran, activist, mentor, leader
• Lucille Samuel – Army Veteran (Retired) Civic leader and Retired EPCSO Exec. Admin Officer
• Ryan Adams – Army Veteran, civic and Black history advocater, leader, entrepreneur
• Shonique Tornes – Navy Veteran, women’s leadership advocate, entrepreneur
• Michael Hall – (Retired) Army Veteran, community leader, and mentor

Admission is $10, and RSVP is required. Attendees can choose to attend the town hall/panel, the offsite reception at 6ixx Lounge (4317 Dyer Street) at 6:00 PM, or both. Proceeds support Black El Paso Voice initiatives, including education, economic empowerment, and business development efforts.

Click here to purchase admission. Tickets at will-call.

In a region where Black voices are often undercounted, this event is more than a report—it’s a call to action. Everyone—Black, allied, young, seasoned, business-minded, and community-focused—is encouraged to attend.

Because if we don’t lead the conversation about our future, someone else will.

Special thanks to MEKALE KNIGHT-VICTOR of First Command for supporting this session.