Black El Paso Voice

All Things Black in El Paso

Monica Tucker

Monica is the founder and publisher of Black El Paso Voice. She is an advocate fighting against racism and embracing positive community involvement. She is a lover of God, Puerto Rican cuisine, and the greatest defender of her family. She also enjoy House Music and swears it's the best music on the planet!

Renard Johnson for Mayor: Founder’s Statement

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It is no secret that the final day of a major political election brings out most voters. Today, I hope everyone who didn’t vote early, does their part in choosing who is right to assist with positive progress.

Living in El Paso as a military spouse, mother, businesswoman, community activist, and advocate for almost 30 years, I have gained clarity and understanding concerning what it takes and who it takes to lead our community forward. Understanding the intersection of resilience, dedication, and vision, this current season of change is reflective of my beliefs and where I believe that we, as a community, go from here.

Our city is not without complex issues, and because of that, it takes people who are compassionate, non-combative leaders, to help us attain a greater level of being seen as a city that invites new innovations for job creation, improved safety, and better quality of life, among other things.

Heightening my commitment to the well-being of El Paso, I have chosen roles that shape my perspective and have accompanied my heart and mind since a young age, and my heart is for El Paso. Renard Johnson embodies these qualities that our city needs now more than ever. He genuinely understands the challenges and aspirations that define El Paso and is a proven leader in business who exudes compassion when it comes to having a heart for the community.

Renard is the only candidate for mayor who stepped forward to ensure our military families, especially military spouses, are included in the progress of our city and is positioned to drive the growth we need to be an inviting city to new and expanding industries.

I’m not only convinced but assured that Renard is a leaders leader who is caring enough to understand that we, the people, are a part of the necessary group that should be included in leading our city.

Monica Tucker

  • Founder, Black El Paso Voice/The Black Roundtable
  • Community Activist, Advocate, Volunteer
  • Mother, Grandmother
  • Businesswoman
  • Military Spouse – 34+ years
  • El Pasoan – 28+ years
  • Positivity Promoter – Since birth

Minerva Torres Shelton for Sheriff: Founder’s Statement

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Everyone who knows me knows that besides Northeast El Paso, the sheriff’s department and who we have as a leader is important to me because I want our deputies to be safe, and we want the corruption to end! My opinion is unpopular, but the other candidate can’t hold a candle to Minerva regarding experience, honesty, and diplomacy. She does not have a negative agenda.

My vote is actually for Sgt. James Brown. She will provide the leadership necessary to ensure we won’t lose our service members to ignorance. Our law enforcement community deserves better, and change is needed in the sheriff’s department. Don’t let the party affiliation fool you; Minerva Torres Shelton is the experienced leader El Paso needs to revitalize the Sheriff’s Department. She has over 25 years of law enforcement training and experience, including a distinguished tenure with the FBI and serving our country in the Army in military intelligence.

Her expertise and vision make her the ONLY candidate on the ballot to address systemic issues that plague the county law enforcement division. Minerva began her law enforcement career as a patrol officer with the EPPD, where she enhanced her experience in community policing and public safety. She started her career with the FBI, as with many, after September 11, 2001. In this role, she led critical investigations into violent crimes, human trafficking, and counterterrorism.

As a Supervisory Special Agent, her experience with the Joint Terrorism Task Force and her work on human trafficking initiatives demonstrate her commitment to protecting vulnerable populations. Transparency and accountability, which are essential in the role of the sheriff to end corruption, is where her approach is focused on restoring trust in the Sheriff’s Department.

Who we elect is crucial to the safety of our deputies and the department’s operations. She has a plethora of strategies to enhance public safety while prioritizing mental health support within our jails.

Minerva Torres Shelton is not just another candidate; she is the ONLY candidate who has demonstrated passion for advocacy for fair justice. Neither a consensus nor a survey is needed to understand that we’ll risk further mistrust and mishandling if we don’t transfer leadership to a more experienced candidate. Her aim is to create a Sheriff’s Department that reflects the values of El Paso—integrity, service, and community engagement.

Hands down, she is unmatched when it comes to experience, integrity, and commitment. How do you throw safety out the window? By voting for the least experienced person.

Monica Tucker

  • Founder, Black El Paso Voice/The Black Roundtable
  • Community Activist, Advocate, Volunteer
  • Mother, Grandmother
  • Businesswoman
  • Military Spouse – 34+ years
  • El Pasoan – 28+ years
  • Positivity Promoter – Since birth

Cynthia Boyar Trejo for District 4 NE Rep: Founder’s Statement

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I’ve had the privilege of speaking and getting to know Cynthia Boyar Trejo, and it’s clear to me that she’s uniquely suited to represent Northeast El Paso. As a third-generation El Pasoan and an Andress High School graduate, Cynthia knows our community’s values and challenges firsthand.

As the founder of a nonprofit focused on underserved populations, she has over 20 years of business experience. Expanding economic growth and improving the quality of life for all Northeast residents is what she is dedicated to achieving with the help of those she will serve.

She is passionate and dedicated, as many of us are when it comes to changing the narrative about the Northeast and showcasing the potential for growth and opportunity. She is committed to community-driven solutions and ensuring the residents of Northeast El Paso have a voice because she genuinely understands the need to be heard and valued.

Solid leadership, years of executive coaching, and hands-on community work, I have no doubt she is ready to advocate for vital services, attract new businesses, and create opportunities that benefit all of El Paso.

Monica Tucker

  • Founder, Black El Paso Voice/The Black Roundtable
  • Community Activist, Advocate, Volunteer
  • Mother, Grandmother
  • Businesswoman
  • Military Spouse – 34+ years
  • El Pasoan – 28+ years
  • Positivity Promoter – Since birth

Afro-Latinx Heritage Week: September 29 – October 5, 2024

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Via the City of El Paso: “We are excited to announce that from September 29 to October 5, 2024, we will celebrate “El Paso Afro-Latinx Heritage Week”! Founded by the inspiring Dr. Jackeline Biddle Richard, this week is dedicated to raising awareness and educating our community about the rich Afro-Latinx experience in the United States.
As we honor the legacy of individuals like Nancy Lorenza Green and recognize the contributions of champions like Tomas Arellano, Angie Barraza, Maria Kennedy, Adenaji Jones-Tornes, Tanya Berry, and many others, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting a more inclusive and equitable El Paso.
Join us in celebrating the vibrant heritage, culture, and contributions of our Afro-Latinx community! Let’s come together to create connections and uplift voices that enrich our city.”
Stay tuned to find out about upcoming events and educational sessions relating to #AfroLatina #AfroLatinoHeritage … sign up at soymaravillosa.org.  #AfroLatinxHeritageWeek #ElPasoPride #SoyMaravillosa

Opinion: Embracing Diversity in Faith-based Civic Engagement, Politics, Community Building, and Involvement

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As a person of faith deeply engaged in our community, I feel compelled to offer a more nuanced perspective on the intersection of faith/religion, politics, and civic engagement. God may have called one to float and one to fly.

Following yesterday’s incident with the former president, quite a few voices have emerged, each presenting their perspective on the who, what, when, where, and why –  blasé skippy. 

Our diverse Christian community is a kaleidoscope of individual gifts, talents, and callings. It’s important to remember that God’s gifts are not distributed to each person the same; what one person is called to do may differ greatly from another’s. The assumption that one’s personal convictions should be universal is a dangerous oversimplification of faith and civic duty. While we are one in the body of Christ, our delivery methods will vary.

In my view, the belief that one political party holds a monopoly on righteousness is fundamentally flawed. Our society is complex and faces various challenges that rarely have simple, one-sided solutions. As people of faith, we should be wary of partisan entrenchment and instead strive for a more nuanced understanding of the issues at hand.

Rather than silencing voices that don’t align with our personal views, we should create spaces for respectful dialogue. It’s through these conversations that we can hope to bridge divides and find common ground on the issues that affect our communities most deeply.

Engaging with current events and politics can profoundly express faith when approached with integrity and compassion.

However, we must do so with humility, recognizing the limitations of our own understanding and remaining open to growth and new perspectives.To those who would seek to silence voices of faith in the public square, I say this: What you’re not going to do is stifle the diverse group of believers who know they are called to engage in civic discourse. Our faith compels us to be active participants in shaping our society for the better. I don’t need a doctorate in theology to know that or elicit approval.

Just because God didn’t give it to you, doesn’t mean he didn’t give it to another. Each of us have different gifts, talents, and levels of capacity. Your opinion believing one political party is better than the other is your first mistake.

All things should be done decently and in order, with pure intent. Don’t allow emotions to move you in the wrong direction. Emotions often shape opinions, but decisions should be based on facts. Use emotions as motivation, but let reason guide your actions. Balance feeling with thinking for better outcomes.

Regardless, as Christians, we may know and opine about the facts, but our behavior should reflect purity in all things. No one knows why yesterday happened, but I pray for all parties involved and pray deeply for an end to the nonsense discourse that encourage these unnecessary tragedies. 

As we move forward, let’s focus on building a community values diverse perspectives, encourages thoughtful engagement, and remains grounded in our shared faith values. The challenges we face are bigger than any one of us – it’s time we start acting like it

NAACP El Paso Branch Announces Freedom Fund Banquet on August 17th

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The NAACP El Paso Branch has announced its annual Freedom Fund Banquet, scheduled for August 17th at the Fort Bliss Centennial Club and Conference Center. This event is a social gathering and a powerful statement emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and voting rights.

The banquet, themed “Show Up to Vote,” will feature Casey Thomas, the first Vice President of the Texas NAACP, as the keynote speaker. Thomas is expected to provide valuable insights on political participation and its impact on the community.

Tickets for the event are $70.00 per person, and proceeds support scholarships and community activities that fund the NAACP’s civil rights initiatives. The dress code for the evening is semi-formal.

The El Paso Branch of the NAACP, the oldest branch in Texas, has a history of hosting impactful Freedom Fund events. These gatherings serve as a platform to celebrate achievements, recognize social justice heroes, and reinforce the organization’s commitment to equality and eliminating race-based discrimination.

For more information or to purchase tickets, interested parties can contact Diane Williams, the NAACP El Paso Branch Freedoms Fund Coordinator, at (334) 477-3733 or via email at naacpelpasobranch@yahoo.com.

Removing the Rug: Addressing Community Challenges Head-On

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This week, we will share the videos of each speaker from the State of Black El Paso, which took place on Juneteenth, 2024.

We have removed the rug. We’ve burned it.

Everyone who participated shared their thoughts and information on how to grow better together. Our community can be more inclusive and less degrading if we have hard conversations followed by active, empowering solutions. Community building cannot take place without first tearing down the walls that divide us.

Truth is everything.

Without acknowledging the causes of destruction, how can you ensure a more positive future? From civil rights to socioeconomic standing, a community is only as strong as its leaders. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, Fannie Lou Hamer, and others fought with words. If that’s not you, have a seat, but don’t try to stop what God is doing, and that is the very thing you prayed for – a more diverse and forward-moving El Paso.

Where Are Black Leaders in the Community?
Despite what you’ve heard, we are here. A leader isn’t just someone who holds a position within a community, company, or organization. A leader unapologetically takes their role as a citizen to do what’s right for the greater good.

A leader uses their voice and is not silenced or afraid of the faces of those who continue to use negativity to stunt our growth. Despite your socioeconomic status, if you’re in any part of the community/society that believes racism doesn’t exist on the border, that the Black community is just fine, and that you have no issues, and believe that some of us are “doing too much” to actualize unity… stay over there, especially if you are Black identifying. The hypocrisy is if you have those beliefs yet work in fields that combat ageism, classism, elitism, racism, sexism, etc.

Stay tuned this week as you hear the words from those who, like myself, desire positive community growth and change. We share collective goals of improving and being a part of the solution instead of adding to the problems.

I’m not going to be in El Paso forever. Still, like I have previously stated: “If my children choose to remain here, I want them to know I did all that I could to try to bridge the divide and bring us closer to inclusion, representation, and Black self-empowerment and pride…unashamedly… while connecting with various other cultures on the border.” 

So, no more sweeping stuff under the rug. Let’s talk about it, but only for a short time. We’re adults – it doesn’t take long to screw in a light bulb.

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Juneteenth: Why is Texas Significant?

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Other states did not abolish slavery until after 1863, why is Texas so important?

Source: Library of Congress, Wikimedia Commons, QuartierLatin1968, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Source: Library of Congress, Wikimedia Commons, QuartierLatin1968, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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It’s counterproductive to argue over whether Texas was indeed the last Confederate state to abolish slavery. Such debates miss the more significant point and detract from the real significance of Juneteenth and the emancipation process.

Texas was the last state in the Confederacy to enforce emancipation. The news of emancipation reached Texas on June 19, 1865, when Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston and issued General Order No. 3, declaring all enslaved people in Texas free. This event is commemorated as Juneteenth.

However, it is important to note that while Texas was the last Confederate state to enforce emancipation, slavery continued to exist in some Union states until the ratification of the 13th Amendment in December 1865. States like Delaware and Kentucky still had legal slavery until then.

The end of slavery was a complex, gradual process that unfolded differently across various states and regions. What’s most important is recognizing the profound impact of emancipation, the struggles of enslaved people, and the ongoing fight for equality. Rather than fixating on which state was “last,” we should focus on understanding the full historical context, honoring those who endured slavery, and addressing the lasting effects of this institution on U.S. American society.

Why Are People Upset About Juneteenth Being Associated with Texas As Opposed to Other States? People may be upset about the official emancipation date being June 19th for several reasons:

  1. Historical Complexity: Emancipation did not occur uniformly across the United States. While June 19, 1865, marks the day Union General Gordon Granger arrived to announce and enforce the end of slavery in Texas, other states and regions had different timelines for emancipation. For example, the Emancipation Proclamation was issued on January 1, 1863, and some states had already abolished slavery before June 19, 1865. This complexity can pose challenges in determining a specific date that marks the end of slavery.
  2. Political and Social Context: Juneteenth’s recognition as a federal holiday has occurred in a politically and socially charged environment. Some people view the focus on Juneteenth as part of a broader cultural and political discourse on racial injustices and the history of slavery in the United States. This has led to debates about how American history is taught and commemorated, with some conservative groups opposing the emphasis on structural racism and the long Black freedom struggle.
  3. Commercialization Concerns: As Juneteenth gains broader recognition, there has been a rise in commercialization, with retailers and other entities capitalizing on the holiday. This commercialization can sometimes overshadow the historical and cultural significance of the day, leading to concerns that the true meaning of Juneteenth is being diluted.
  4. Alternative Emancipation Dates: Different communities have historically celebrated emancipation on various dates, depending on when they received the news of freedom. For instance, some areas in Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, and Oklahoma might celebrate emancipation on dates in July or August. This variation can lead to a sense that June 19th does not fully capture the diverse experiences of emancipation across the country.
  5. Historical Narratives: The narrative that the news of emancipation “traveled slowly” to Texas is sometimes seen as oversimplifying reality. In truth, the delay was more about the slow movement of power and the resistance of slaveholders to relinquish control. This nuanced understanding can lead to frustration with how history is presented and commemorated.

Overall, while Juneteenth is a significant and symbolic date marking the end of slavery in Texas, the broader historical context and contemporary political and social dynamics contribute to the mixed reactions regarding its official recognition as the primary date of emancipation.

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While other border states and Union-controlled areas also experienced delayed emancipation, Texas’ situation is particularly notable due to various factors. The combination of its large slave population, geographical isolation, and the dramatic moment of General Granger’s announcement on June 19, 1865, has made Texas’ emancipation story a powerful symbol in the narrative of American freedom.

Here’s an overview of the situation:

  1. Border States: The Emancipation Proclamation did not apply to the remaining border states in the Union. Slavery remained legal in these states until the ratification of the 13th Amendment in 1865:
  • Maryland (abolished slavery in 1864)
  • Delaware
  • Kentucky
  • Missouri
  1. Union-controlled areas: The proclamation exempted parts of the Confederacy already under Union control. This included:
  • 48 counties of West Virginia
  • Several counties in Virginia
  • Specific parishes in Louisiana, including New Orleans
  1. Tennessee: While not explicitly mentioned in the search results, Tennessee was also not covered by the Emancipation Proclamation due to its status as a Union-occupied Confederate state.

Why is Texas More Widely Discussed? Texas’ emancipation is more widely discussed and commemorated for several reasons:

  1. Late notification: Texas was geographically isolated from the rest of the Confederacy, which led to a significant delay in the announcement of emancipation. Enslaved people in Texas were officially informed of their freedom on June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.
  2. Juneteenth: This delay led to the celebration of Juneteenth (June 19th), a widely recognized commemoration of emancipation across the United States.
  3. Symbolic significance: Texas was the last Confederate state to have the proclamation announced, making it a symbol of the end of slavery in the former Confederacy.
  4. Cultural impact: Texas’ late emancipation story has been widely shared and has become an important part of African American cultural heritage.

It’s important to note that while Texas’ emancipation was more widely discussed, the process of ending slavery was complex and varied across different states and regions. The 13th Amendment, ratified in December 1865, was ultimately necessary to legally abolish slavery throughout the entire United States.

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What influenced Texas’ emancipation timeline?

The following factors combined created a unique emancipation timeline in Texas. The last enslaved people in the United States gained their freedom over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. This delay and the subsequent celebration of freedom on June 19th led to the creation of Juneteenth as a distinct and significant commemoration of emancipation.

  1. Geographical isolation: Texas’s location at the far western edge of the Confederacy made it difficult for news and Union forces to reach the state quickly. This isolation contributed to the delayed announcement of emancipation.
  2. Confederate stronghold: Texas remained under Confederate control throughout most of the Civil War, which meant that the Emancipation Proclamation could not be enforced there until Union troops arrived.
  3. Continued slavery: Due to its distance from major battlefields, Texas became a haven for slaveholders from other Confederate states. By the end of the war, an estimated 250,000 enslaved people remained in Texas, outside the reach of the Emancipation Proclamation.
  4. Arrival of Union troops: The turning point came on June 19, 1865, when approximately 2,000 Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas. June 19th marked the official announcement of freedom for enslaved people in Texas.
  5. General Order No. 3: On June 19, 1865, Union Major General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3 in Galveston, which enforced the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas. This order was disseminated through newspapers and word of mouth across the state.
  6. Resistance to change: Some enslavers in Texas resisted the order and delayed informing their enslaved workers of their freedom, sometimes waiting until after the harvest season to make the announcement.

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How did the news of emancipation spread throughout Texas after the announcement and enforcement? It’s important to note that the spread of this information was not immediate or uniform. Some enslavers resisted the order and delayed informing their enslaved workers, sometimes waiting until after the harvest season. Additionally, Texas’s vast size and geographical isolation contributed to the slow spread of information in some areas.

The process of spreading the news of emancipation throughout Texas was complex and took time. Some formerly enslaved people did not learn of their freedom for months or even years after Granger’s announcement in Galveston.

After June 19, 1865, the news of emancipation spread throughout Texas through several channels:

  1. Union troops: Approximately 2,000 Union soldiers, including some United States Colored Troops, marched through Texas, spreading the news of emancipation. These troops played a crucial role in disseminating the information to remote areas.
  2. General Order No. 3: Union Major General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3 in Galveston, officially announcing and enforcing the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas. This order was then distributed across the state.
  3. Newspapers: The news of emancipation was published in local newspapers, helping to spread the information to literate populations and those with access to news sources.
  4. Word of mouth: As formerly enslaved people received the news, they shared it with others, spreading information across communities.
  5. The Freedmen’s Bureau, a key player in the post-emancipation era, promoted June 19th as a day of celebration for African Americans. Their active efforts significantly contributed to the widespread awareness of emancipation.
  6. Church services: Many preachers shared the news of freedom with their congregations during church services.
  7. Public readings: In some areas, ceremonial readings of the Emancipation Proclamation were held to inform people of their newfound freedom.

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How has Juneteenth impacted modern civil rights movements? Juneteenth has had a significant impact on modern civil rights movements in several ways:

  1. Renewed focus on racial justice: The increased recognition of Juneteenth, significantly since 2020, has helped refocus national attention on ongoing racial inequalities and the continued struggle for civil rights.
  2. Connection to contemporary movements: Juneteenth has become linked to modern civil rights efforts like Black Lives Matter. The holiday reminds us that the ongoing fight for equality connects historical struggles to present-day activism.
  3. Educational platform: Juneteenth provides an opportunity to educate people about African American history and the lasting impacts of slavery, which informs and motivates current civil rights efforts.
  4. Catalyst for action: The recognition of Juneteenth has inspired more people to engage in civil rights activism and advocacy. For example, the Poor People’s Campaign held a Juneteenth Solidarity Day in 1968, helping to revitalize interest in the holiday.
  5. Institutional change: The federal recognition of Juneteenth has prompted organizations and institutions to examine their roles in perpetuating systemic racism and to take steps toward greater inclusivity and equity.
  6. Symbol of ongoing struggle: While Juneteenth celebrates emancipation, it also reminds us that full equality has not yet been achieved, motivating continued efforts in the civil rights movement.
  7. Community empowerment: Juneteenth celebrations often include discussions about current civil rights issues and strategies for community action, fostering grassroots organizing and empowerment.

Juneteenth has become both a celebration of progress and a call to action for modern civil rights movements, linking historical struggles with contemporary efforts to achieve full equality and justice for African Americans and other marginalized communities.

Let’s continue to celebrate and educate.

Amplify El Paso Features Local Fashion Designer

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Emmanuella Andongatou Ngam, fondly called Ella, is ready to leave her imprint on the runway of New York Fashion Week, one of the most esteemed events in the industry. As she prepares to showcase her brand, NANKA Clothing, to a global audience, Ella’s journey is not just one of fashion innovation but also a testament to resilience, cultural pride, and the power of entrepreneurship.

Ella’s story blends her African heritage with the diverse mosaic of American culture. Originally from the Republic of Cameroon, she now calls the United States home, embracing its opportunities while honoring her identity. Through her brand, NANKA, Ella bridges the gap between her African

roots and the contemporary Western fashion landscape, offering designs that celebrate her heritage and life in the United States.

As a devoted wife and mother of three daughters, Ella’s entrepreneurial journey is intertwined with her personal life. Residing in El Paso, Texas, she balances the demands of family and business with grace and determination. Her academic credentials speak to her commitment to excellence. With a Bachelor of Science in International Business and Public Policy, a Master of Arts in Human Services Administration, and an Executive Certificate in Psychology, Ella brings a multidisciplinary approach to her work in the fashion industry.

Nanka Clothing, founded in 2021, is more than just a fashion brand; it’s a platform for cultural expression and empowerment. In a world where mainstream fashion often overlooks the rich diversity of African heritage, Ella’s designs stand out as a unique and vibrant celebration of Africanness. Through a careful blend of traditional African textiles and contemporary silhouettes, Nanka Clothing offers a fresh perspective on fashion that embraces both the past and the present.

At the core of Nanka Clothing’s ethos is the belief in self-expression. Ella’s designs are not just garments but symbols of resilience and pride. As she readies herself to unveil her latest collection at New York Fashion Week, Ella aspires to ignite a sense of pride in others, urging them to embrace their cultural roots as they carve their niche in the world of fashion. For her, diversity is not just a buzzword – it’s a lived experience that she hopes to celebrate and honor through her work.

Authentic representation, authentic voice – Ella embodies a genuine example of elevating purpose despite challenges. Through Nanka Clothing, she invites us to embrace the beauty of our differences while celebrating the threads that connect us all. As she takes her place on the global fashion stage, Emmanuella Ngam is not just a designer – she’s a trailblazer, transcending cultures and redefining the meaning of style.

Find out more about Ella in the latest issue of Amplify El Paso Magazine.

Choosing Not to Associate: A Decision Rooted in Values, Not Ill Will

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I absolutely support local arts organizations. My family, friends, and community co-laborers are artistic. Our goals include advancing the movement.

Transparency as a professional and community activist: As publishers, making decisions about supporting organizations in our local community can be challenging. Ultimately, we prioritize what is best for our publication, readers, and family, ensuring our choices align with our core values and mission.

Transparency: The Question – Why are you choosing not to associate your name and brand with the new black arts organization? | As a parent, I ensure my children’s well-being and comfort, regardless of age. In addition, protecting your name and brand is crucial during these times. Specific individuals associated with a local supposed cultural arts organization have demonstrated behavior that is detrimental to a positive and supportive artistic environment. These actions have caused significant concern and discomfort for people, including my family. We have chosen not to associate ourselves with the organization. We want nothing but the best for any initiative meant to advance the culture as long as harmful tactics aren’t used to do so.

This choice is rooted in our commitment to maintaining a safe, ethical, and nurturing space for artistic expression. We believe that creative endeavors should be pursued in an atmosphere free from anxiety, toxicity, or any form of negative influence.

Our non-participation is not a reflection on the importance of Black arts in our community but rather a stance against specific behaviors and attitudes incompatible with our values and the well-being of artists.

We remain committed to supporting and promoting Black arts through other avenues that align with our principles of respect, integrity, and positive community building.

Our activation of a positive local Black Arts initiative is not hindered by the pause in our efforts due to intellectual property issues; it will continue as it has since prior to meeting the current leadership of the aforementioned.

Transparency: Official Statement | The organization’s inception is marred by intellectual theft and a betrayal of trust, as the concept and name were originally my daughter’s idea. The individual who appropriated this idea has shown a troubling lack of integrity, not only by using my daughter’s concept but also by admitting to using psychological manipulation for personal gain against others as stated by the individual themselves.

My decision is not a hasty one, but a result of a steadfast commitment to authenticity, safety, and moral principles. By placing my family’s well-being at the forefront and aligning with those who uphold honesty, respect, and civility, I am consciously distancing myself from potentially toxic and harmful influences.

I firmly believe that true artistic and cultural movements should be founded on genuine creativity, mutual respect, and positive community impact, not on manipulation and false narratives.

I choose to adhere to a path of integrity, even if it means standing apart from a different cultural movement that some have unfortunately embraced.

This approach reflects my belief that the quality of one’s associations and the ethical foundation of artistic endeavors are more important than mere popularity or scale.

My rejection of this association is not a rejection of Black arts or cultural expression but rather a principled stand against these essential concepts’ misappropriation and potential misuse.

It is a powerful reminder that the integrity of a movement’s leadership and founding principles is crucial to its true value and impact.

If you have an organization (arts or otherwise) that we can truly work with void of toxicity, let us know. Our goal is to work smarter, not harder because we are better together; however, please be genuine and have a loving care and concern for the community respecting the ethical and moral positive beliefs of others.

If your goal is to deceive and manipulate people, I can’t recommend nor participate.

It’s time for real change.

Timeline

2021: My daughter and I discussed her interest in starting a local organization for Black citizens involved in various artistic disciplines.

2022: We began to develop the concept, incorporating ideas from previous initiatives that I and her godfather had envisioned for Black El Paso Voice in the late 90’s. As my daughter was busy with school, I took the lead in identifying local artists and briefly shared the information with a newcomer to El Paso.

August 2023: I revisited the idea with this new individual, who found the concept unique and brilliant and agreed to participate.

Early September 2023: The individual revealed toxic and harmful behavior. To protect Black men focused on community building and myself, we severed ties after the person admitted to using their psychology background to manipulate someone.

The Following Week: The person began circulating the name “El Paso Black Arts Association,” which was the name my daughter had intended for her organization that I shared with this individual as the hope was to plan for Black History Month 2024 due to the theme of: African Americans and the Arts. This was a regrettable outcome of sharing our plans with the person. 

Since Then: The situation has been challenging, with continued falsehoods and cyberstalking despite my requests for no further communication. In addition, several well-respected people in our community informed me that I should inform the community that I have no ties with the person due to her behavior with them as well. I chose to remain silent but in doing so, the situation worsened. I was told that I should protect my name and business as this person was mentioning both in meetings and public spaces. 

Moving Forward: My daughter remains undeterred and will continue to pursue her dream of creating an arts organization for the Black community that encourages engagement with other cultures. She has not allowed the theft of her intellectual property to stop her.

I cannot support toxic activity from those who are supposed leaders. Our values do not align, as I am committed to positive community building and not negative manipulation. Not that it matters, but because my faith was questioned, I not only love God, but follow the principles of love, grace, faith, and forgiveness, and will continue to follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit, unapologetically.

I do not dismiss anyone whose spiritual beliefs are akin to mine; however, I do not condone certain practices that may cause harm to others, including mentally, physically, or socially.

My prayers will forever include those whose behaviors are harmful to others, asking God to deliver them from evil.