Black El Paso Voice

All Things Black in El Paso

C'ri Roi

The 2nd Annual Nancy L. Green Afro-Latinx Symposium: Honoring Art, Legacy, and Community

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FREE EVENT

Saturday, October 4th at 11AM. 

El Paso Museum of History, 510 N. Santa Fe. St. 79901

This is the second year during Hispanic Heritage Month the El Paso community comes together to honor the life of Nancy L. Green – a proud Afro-Chicana, beloved poet, educator, musician, and artist whose presence continues to be felt across generations. This fall, the celebration grows with the 2nd Annual Nancy L. Green Afro-Latinx Symposium, guided by the 2025 theme: “Nancy L. Green and the Arts.”

Remembering Nancy L. Green

Nancy L. Green was more than a talented writer and artist — she was a teacher, a mentor, and a voice for the Afro-Latinx community in El Paso. As a beloved faculty member at El Paso Community College, she dedicated her life to creativity, culture, and education. Through her poetry and storytelling, she gave voice to histories and experiences that shaped the borderland community.

Although her passing left a void, her spirit lives on through initiatives like this symposium, which was founded by Dr. Jackeline Biddle Richard, creator of the Soy Maravillosa Afro-Latinx Initiative and El Paso Afro-Latinx Heritage Week. Dr. Richard envisioned the symposium as a living tribute, ensuring that Nancy’s legacy continues to inspire and uplift.

A Mission Rooted in Culture

The symposium’s mission is to enrich the quality of life in El Paso through art, storytelling, and community-building. It celebrates diversity while fostering connections across cultures, reminding us that heritage is not only preserved but also reimagined through each new generation.

This year’s theme — centered on the arts — reflects Nancy’s lifelong devotion to creative expression. At the center of the event, the reflection is on her belief trhat creativity is both deeply personal and a way to bring people together through poetery, music, and visual art.

Gathering Through Art and Story

The symposium is designed to guide participants through different moments of reflection and celebration.

Beginning with a brief welcome to explain the purpose, it extends to a presentation of Nancy L. Green’s story, highlighting her life, contributions, and lasting influence featuring poetry readings, live music, and art activities that showcase the creativity and diversity of El Paso.

Afterward, guests will have a chance to enjoy appetizers, connect with one another, and share their own stories during a reception.

Closing out with remarks of gratitude, friends and associates will honro Nancy’s legacy.

A Celebration Beyond the Moment

The symposium is not just an event. It is an act of remembering Nancy and bringing together voices, rhythms, and traditions, while strengthening and reaffirming El Paso’s Afro-Latinx heritage.

Brotherhood, Legacy, and Celebration: Sigma Tau Chapter to Host 2025 Founders Banquet

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The Sigma Tau Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is preparing to welcome Brothers, families, and friends for a night of honor, reflection, and celebration at its 2025 Annual Founders Banquet. The event will take place on Saturday, November 15, from 6 p.m. to midnight at the Underwood Golf Complex in El Paso (3200 Coe Bldg. 3191, El Paso, TX 79904).

Honoring a Timeless Legacy

Since its founding in 1911, Omega Psi Phi has stood on the pillars of Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. The Founders Banquet has become an annual tradition for Sigma Tau Chapter, uniting the fraternity with the broader community to honor those guiding principles.

The evening will begin with Happy Hour from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., offering an early chance for fellowship before the formal program begins. For $60 per ticket, attendees will enjoy not only a dinner but also a powerful evening filled with meaning, history, and recognition.

A Distinguished Voice

The banquet’s highlight will be the words of Grand Counselor Brother Clement Osimetha, a member of the Supreme Council of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Known for his commitment to advancing the fraternity’s mission, Brother Osimetha’s presence adds both prestige and inspiration to the evening. His keynote address is expected to challenge and uplift those in attendance, reminding them of the enduring vision of the Founders.

Celebrating Service and Community

In addition to inspiring words, the evening will feature award presentations that recognize outstanding service within the fraternity and the community. These recognitions highlight the Sigma Tau Chapter’s ongoing dedication to mentorship, leadership, and community uplift.

Guests will also enjoy a first-class dining experience, historical reflections on the fraternity’s journey, and opportunities to reconnect with Brothers and supporters who continue to make an impact locally and nationally.

A Night to Remember

The 2025 Founders Banquet is more than a formal gathering, it’s a reminder of what it means to belong to a brotherhood that has stood the test of time. For the Sigma Tau Chapter and its guests, this night represents honoring the past, embracing the present, and stepping boldly into the future.

Event Snapshot

📅 Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025
🕕 Time: 6 p.m. – Midnight (Happy Hour: 6–7 p.m.)
📍 Location: Underwood Golf Complex, 3200 Coe Bldg 3191, El Paso, TX 79904
🎤 Guest Speaker: Grand Counselor Brother Clement Osimetha
💵 Tickets: $60

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The community is invited to join in this celebration of heritage, unity, and excellence. For the Brothers of Sigma Tau, it’s not just a banquet — it’s a testament to the legacy that began in 1911 and continues to inspire today.

2025 Business & Community Awards Dinner – Ticket Deadline extended to August 5th

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El Paso, TX – July 19, 2025 | Click here to purchase tickets, sponsorships, or ads https://blackelpasovoice.com/2025awards/

On Saturday, August 16, the Black El Paso Voice Business and Community Awards will spotlight some of El Paso’s trailblazers, innovators, and community champions. The event, set for 6 PM at the EPCC Auditorium (Building A, 9050 Viscount, El Paso, TX 79925), promises an evening of recognition, inspiration, and celebration.

The program will feature a formal dinner, live entertainment, and an awards ceremony hosted by Rick Isaías, Communications Officer for the City of El Paso and a familiar face from the city’s annual Juneteenth Celebration. “We are thrilled to honor the extraordinary achievements of our community’s legends who unapologetically allow us to share in their business and community endeavors,” said Monica Tucker, founder of Black El Paso Voice and the event’s coordinator. “Our more rigorous vetting process ensures that each honoree truly exemplifies the highest level of dedication and impact.”

This year’s keynote address will be delivered by Abeni Janae, an acclaimed young leader and arts advocate. A 2019 graduate of Andress High School, 2023 UTEP graduate, and 2025 UTEP master’s graduate in music composition, her journey is evidenced by her trailblazing accomplishments. She was recognized as one of UTEP’s Top Ten Seniors for the 2023-24 academic year, featured on Amazon Prime’s The College Tour in 2024 – Season 12, and is the youngest composer signed to Carl Fischer Music Publishing (NY) for her arrangement of the spiritual Hold on Just a Little While Longer. The UTEP Concert Chorale commissioned her work during the pandemic for the “Sing Hope Love” YouTube series, led by conductor Elisa Fraser Wilson.

Janae is not only a singer, songwriter, and educator but also a passionate mentor who believes El Paso has the potential to become a hub for musical excellence. She is dedicated to bridging cultural gaps through collaboration while leading her own music business, Abeni Janae Music.

The evening’s entertainment includes Tomas Arellano, educator, singer, History advocate, and others. 

Tickets and Sponsorships

Tickets are available. Deadline is extended to August 5.

Prices are $45 per person or $360 for a table of eight. Sponsorships Tiers include Platinum ($1,250, limited to one sponsor) and Gold ($750, two available). Packages include premium seating, advertising opportunities, and brand visibility.

“This event is a testament to the power of community and a chance to invest in El Paso’s grand future,” Tucker added. “From our Juneteenth volunteers to our rising leaders, this celebration honors the people who are shaping our city.”

Proceeds support The Black Roundtable and Black El Paso Voice News, avenues that have served as a crucial platform for initiatives, news, and information impacting Black and multiracial communities in the region since 1998.

For tickets and sponsorship information, visit blackelpasovoice.com/2025awards or contact C’ri Roi at 915.345.1661 or croi@blackelpasovoice.com.

Community Spotlight: Magnolia Court #28 Celebrates 125 Years of Service

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El Paso’s historic Magnolia Court #28 of the Heroines of Jericho is celebrating an extraordinary milestone — 125 years of service and sisterhood — on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Starlight Event Center, 6550 Continental Dr., El Paso, TX 79925.

Tickets are $50 and can be purchased via PayPal at magnoliacourtno28@yahoo.com. Attire for the evening is semi-formal, and RSVPs are requested by July 26, 2025 to Sonya Wilkes (sonyawilkes2@gmail.com) and LaTanja Goff (steelelatanja@gmail.com).

Magnolia Court #28 stands as a proud affiliate of Prince Hall Freemasonry, a legacy founded in 1775 by Prince Hall, a formerly enslaved abolitionist who sought to create opportunities for African Americans to join the Masonic tradition. The Heroines of Jericho, first adopted in Texas in 1897, became the first female Masonic house under the Texas Prince Hall Masons. Named after Rahab, the Heroine of Jericho in the Book of Joshua, the organization is dedicated to service, community uplift, and philanthropy — from providing college scholarships to supporting youth programs and aiding those in need.

This celebration will honor their 125 years of commitment to faith, service, and empowerment — a remarkable journey that has enriched the lives of countless individuals in El Paso and beyond.

Join Magnolia Court #28 for an unforgettable evening of history, honor, and celebration!

 

2025 State of Black El Paso

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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.

A Juneteenth to Remember: Black El Paso Voice & Parks and Recreation Bring the Community Together in Celebration of Freedom, Culture, and Unity

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Nations Tobin Park was alive this past weekend with the heartbeat of the community. Black El Paso Voice and the City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department joined forces for the second time—and third Juneteenth celebration overall—to deliver an unforgettable event full of pride, purpose, and pure joy.

From the first handshake to the last beat of the drum, this Juneteenth celebration was a living portrait of what happens when a community shows up with heart, purpose, and pride.

Families from every corner of the city gathered early, welcomed by friendly volunteers, a sea of smiling faces, and the unmistakable sounds of Black joy—music, laughter, and fellowship. Local vendors lined the walkways, offering a diverse range of items, from delicious food to handmade crafts, books, and resources from several city departments. The heat was no match for the spirit of celebration—and with the help of Kona Ice and Heavenly Popsicle, everyone stayed refreshed.

At the heart of the program was a powerful representation. El Paso’s own Mayor Renard Johnson and City Manager Dionne Mack, the city’s top two officials, were present and deeply engaged, offering words that inspired hope and pride. Their presence, as Black leaders in the highest seats of city government, did not go unnoticed—especially by the youth.

The spoken word from Danesha Shipman reached deep, reminding attendees of the unshakeable strength of our ancestors and the road still ahead. 2024 BEP Voice Youth of the Year, Montraviah Legg, moved the audience with a passionate recital of Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise,” embodying grace, confidence, and promise.

Musical and artistic performances from Alissa Saenz, The AJM Collective, Dendre Wright, the Jamal Streeter Band, and 2025 El Paso Black Hall of Fame Inductee Billy Townes made the stage a sacred space. Line dancing led by Stephanie D. Allen and the StepD & Company team—complete with community favorite Fletcher hyping the crowd—had folks of all ages on their feet.

“This year’s Juneteenth celebration showed what can happen when genuine community leaders and city leadership unite with a common goal,” said Monica Tucker, founder of Black El Paso Voice. “I am so overwhelmed by the love and support from the community, especially El Paso Parks and Recreation. Juneteenth is every day. We must remember our freedoms.”

The event also served as a vital connection point. More than 40 participating organizations and vendors shared resources and support—from public health services and immunizations to book giveaways and business outreach. The Holy Royal Arch Masons, Chapter No. 90, returned with their signature generosity—serving free food and collecting books for the community.

Special thanks to Dr. Jackeline Biddle Richard, who offered resources on domestic violence prevention and supported the distribution of the Juneteenth Journal, and to elder Anna M. Harris-Howell, whose presence and thoughtful care (including bringing ice!) reminded us all of the power of community wisdom.

As the evening drew to a close, it was clear that this was more than an event—it was a movement rooted in history, joy, and purpose.

Thank you to El Paso. Thank you to the volunteers. And thank you to the ancestors. Until June 13-20, 2026—we look forward to seeing you again.

 

Photo: Duwan Mason
Photo: Duwan Mason

2025 McCall Center | Annual Juliet M. Hart Summer Enrichment Camp for Youth Age 5-17

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Juliet Hart Summer Enrichment Camp
Hosted at McCall Neighborhood Center | El Paso, Texas

Overview
The Juliet Hart Summer Enrichment Camp is a dynamic program for youth, held annually at the McCall Neighborhood Center in El Paso. Named after Juliet Hart—an esteemed educator and community advocate—the camp was long guided by her vision of empowering young people through education, leadership, and cultural awareness. Its mission is to inspire participants to explore new opportunities, no matter their background.

Program Highlights
The camp offers a well-rounded curriculum focused on:

  • The arts
  • Communication skills
  • Cultural enrichment
  • Career exploration

These activities aim to foster personal and academic growth in a supportive, inclusive environment.

Location
Programs are held in the Juliet Hart Educational Room at:
McCall Neighborhood Center
3231 Wyoming Ave., El Paso, TX

Legacy and Impact
Juliet Hart played a pivotal role in the El Paso community, serving on the McCall Center board and earning recognition for her lifelong dedication to youth empowerment and humanitarian work. Her legacy lives on through this enriching summer experience for local students.

Participation Details

  • Cost: Free
  • Eligibility: Open to youth who complete an application
  • Affiliation: Part of the McCall Center’s broader enrichment initiatives, committed to inclusivity across race, age, culture, and ethnicity.
  • Registration Contact: McCall Center – Mon-Fri (10am-2pm) at 915.566.2407 or Ms. Anna M.H. Howell at 915.704.2819

El Paso County to Honor Black History Month with Official Resolution

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El Paso County to Honor Black History Month with Official Resolution
El Paso, TX – The County of El Paso will officially recognize Black History Month with a resolution honoring Black Americans’ achievements, contributions, and enduring impact in the region. The reading of the resolution will take place on Monday, February 10, at 9:30 a.m. at the County Courthouse during Commissioners Court.
This year’s national theme, “African Americans and Labor,” underscores Black workers’ vital role in shaping the nation’s economic and social landscape. Locally, El Paso’s Black history is deeply embedded with figures like John and Mary Woods, the first documented African American entrepreneurs in El Paso and Juárez, whose influence helped forge economic and cultural ties between the two border cities.
El Paso is home to more than 24,000 African American residents, many of whom continue contributing to the city’s cultural, political, and economic fabric. Landmarks such as the McCall Neighborhood Center and the El Paso Museum of History serve as key institutions preserving the stories and experiences of Black El Pasoans. Organizations such as Black El Paso Voice, The Black Roundtable, Amplify El Paso, and the El Paso Black Business Network provide essential support and advocacy for the community.
Monica Tucker, founder of Black El Paso Voice, reiterated her stance on the importance of recognizing and acknowledging Black history: 

“We are Americans who just so happen to be Black. Our history is American history, and it deserves to be acknowledged and respected. Celebrating Black History Month is not just about looking at the past—it’s about recognizing the contributions we continue to make and ensuring our voice, encouraging unity, and encouraging ongoing progress.”

El Paso’s First Annual Black Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony: A Historic Milestone

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 El Paso will mark a significant historical moment on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 5 PM, when the Starlight Event Center (6650 Continental Dr.) hosts the inaugural Black Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. This significant event, created by Monica Tucker, honors El Pasoans who have made exceptional contributions to the community. The goal is to establish the recognition as an annual meaningful tradition based on unity and inspiration. Tucker carefully chose the inaugural class of honorees to exemplify a strong standard of excellence and lasting impact.

Beginning in 2026, nominations will open in September of each year, with eight individuals and one organization embodying diversity and collaboration being chosen annually. The committee overseeing the selection process consists of active and retired service members, community leaders, and business professionals who bring a wealth of experience, perspective, and dedication to ensuring the honorees truly represent the best of El Paso’s Black community.

Honoring the Trailblazers
The first group of inductees includes distinguished leaders who have shaped El Paso’s cultural, civic, and professional landscape. 

Inaugural Class Inductees

  • Juan O. Lawson, Ph.D, Prof. Emeritus (UTEP)
  • LTC (Ret) Cephus “Dusty” Rhodes
  • Maj. Gen. (Ret) Dana J.H. Pittard
  • Maj. Gen. (Ret) Edward W. Greer
  • Johnnie M. Washington
  • Cynthia D. Horton
  • Lillian W. Crouch
  • Cheree Coleman
  • Renard Johnson
  • Marian Bennett
  • Chief Zina Silva
  • Ouisa D. Davis
  • Dionne Mack
  • Frances Hills
  • Billy Townes
  • Aaron Jones
  • Alvin Jones

The ceremony will also include a heartfelt tribute to individuals who are no longer with us but whose legacies continue to inspire and resonate within the El Paso community.

A Musical Highlight
The AJM Collective, a dynamic group founded by Abeni Janae, a current UTEP Music graduate student, will provide the music for the evening. The ensemble is composed primarily of UTEP students and professional community musicians and singers. Their performance will add a vibrant and soulful atmosphere to this historic celebration.

Supporting a Vision: Project 2030
Proceeds will benefit The Black Roundtable (TBR), a nonprofit organization committed to serving as a cultural hub for the Black community in El Paso to include the quarterly roundtable discussions on various topics, and meetings with entities like FBI El Paso. Central to their mission is Project 2030, an initiative to create a comprehensive community center that will feature:
• A cultural arts, events, and study center
• Entrepreneurial incubator
• Educational programs offering classes on entrepreneurship, history, arts, financial wellness, and essential life skills for youth and adults

The Black Roundtable also seeks to foster cultural collaboration through programs like the upcoming Respect My Culture event, highlighting Afro-Latinx heritage and other diverse traditions later this year.

The new format for discussions was inspired by mentors of TBR who are no longer with us: Professor Dr. Maceo Dailey and Activist Twymeni Purchase. Both played pivotal roles in the relaunch of TBR and its pending expansion to a physical location, with many planned activities reflecting their invaluable input. Their contributions will be remembered and honored during the event.

Celebrate and Support
The community is invited to support this premier event honoring the achievements and legacies of El Paso’s Black community while supporting a vision for progress and unity. The Black Roundtable committee comprises active and retired service members, community leaders, and business professionals who work tirelessly to uphold the integrity and mission of the organization and its events and activities.

For more information or to purchase ads, sponsorships, or tickets, please contact Monica Tucker at monica@blackelpasovoice.com or 915.345.1661. You may also visit TheBlackRoundtable.com.

TICKETS Pre-Sale through January 31st

  • INDIVIDUAL: $100 per person After January 31st – $125 (General Seating)
  • TABLE FOR 10: $1000 After January 31st – $1250 (Reserved Seating)
  • INAUGURAL SPONSORS: $3500 (Reserved Table Seating for 10) (Three (3) Available)

Click here for more Information, tickets, sponsorships, advertising:  monica@blackelpasovoice.com | 915.209.1850 Deadline: Noon | February 14, 2025

This historic evening promises to be an unforgettable celebration of legacy, diversity, and forward movement. It is a milestone for El Paso that will serve as a pathway for youth and young adults as El Paso progresses.