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!

#BlackBusinessMonth | Highlighting Angie Michelle Barraza | Art4Life

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Angie-Michelle Barraza (she/her), a local artist from El Paso, Texas, has cultivated a remarkable artistic journey spanning over two decades. With a Bachelor’s degree in studio art painting and a Minor in metals from the University of Texas at El Paso, she has established herself as a dynamic force in the creative landscape. As a former El Paso Art Association board member in 2021, Angie-Michelle showcased her commitment to the local art community. Her artistic exploration has birthed two compelling coloring books: “I Love Us” and “I Love Us So Much!” released in 2021 and 2023, demonstrating her ability to merge storytelling with interactive art. Angie-Michelle’s work portrays her experience as a Black/Afro-Latina woman in America. It extends to commissioned paintings enriching the city’s spaces and sharing her expertise through painting instruction at public events.

linktr.ee/angie_michelle

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“I deserve to take up space.”

#BlackBusinessMonth | Highlighting Tyrone D. McDuffie Jr., LPC

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Tyrone D. McDuffie Jr. is a licensed professional counselor who believes that there should be no negative stigma attached to a person seeking help for mental health related problems. He specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and anger management with a focus on stress management. He has found that with many of his patients that suffer from mental health related problems that overwhelming stress and the lack of healthy stress management techniques is a main contributing factor.

Tyrone is a certified stress management coach under the Spencer Institute and certified anger management coach under Century Anger Management. He has also served as a host, motivational, and keynote speaker in El Paso, Texas and the surrounding areas. Tyrone served honorably in the U.S. Army from 1993 to 1998 and is a proud veteran. He also has a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (2010) from Park University and Master of Arts in Counseling (2013) from Webster University. He completed his post graduated supervision at the Army Continuing Education Services (ACES) Ft. Bliss Texas and El Paso Behavioral Health System in El Paso, Texas. He is always motivated about helping people live better lives through counseling, coaching, and consulting.

facebook.com/mcduffie.tm

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“Some of the best things in life will happen for you when you just show up.”

#BlackBusinessMonth | Highlighting Ronnie & Dr. E.C. Dukes, DUKEScomics.com

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E.C.-Dukes and Ronnie Dukes are the creative force behind DUKEScomics, an independent comic books publisher. E.C. is a writer. Ronnie is an artist. The duo met in Minneapolis, Minnesota. E.C. is from New Mexico and Ronnie from Chicago. They’ve been married for over 15 years. Their first graphic novel “A.W.O.L.” was published in English in 2016 and premiered at El Paso Comic Con. The Japanese edition of “A.W.O.L.” was published in 2018 and premiered the same year at Tokyo Comic Con in Japan. The Spanish edition of “A.W.O.L.” came out in 2020 and premiered at virtual MexAmeriCon. Elvira and Ronnie have just released their second graphic novel, Daizee and the Dukes of Chuco: Chuco-Juárez World Rally and have launched into a world tour to promote their new epic adventure.

“Embrace the journey because every step, whether big or small, takes you closer to your dreams.” Ronnie & Elvira Dukes

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Ronnie Dukes is a Black artist from the south side of Chicago. His first professional artist experience began at Gallery 37 while in high school. Ronnie earned a degree in computer animation in Minneapolis before relocating to Harlem in New York City where he began to paint and exhibit work. Ronnie created his publishing company DUKEScomics with his wife, partner Elvira Carrizal-Dukes, featuring their first major print project “A.W.O.L.”, a full -color graphic novel available in English, Japanese and Spanish. Ronnie past work includes collaborations with the Department of Tribal Empowerment Ysleta del Sur Pueblo, the Alzheimer’s Association West Texas Chapter, and the El Paso Museum of Art. 

#CONSTANTER

 

E.C.-Dukes (a.k.a. Dr. Elvira Carrizal-Dukes) is a Xicana writer from Chaparral, New Mexico. She earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Rhetoric and Composition from the University of Texas at El Paso, a Master of Fine Arts degree in Film from Columbia University in the City of New York, and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities in Journalism and Chicano Studies and a minor in Theatre Arts. Dr. Dukes writes comics, graphic novels, screenplays, plays for theatre production, and academic scholarship. She is a writer, filmmaker, and teaching artist. To learn more about Dr. Dukes’ work, visit her online portfolio at: https://ecdukes.wixsite.com/multimedia-portfolio

 

 

#BlackBusinessMonth | Highlighting DeMarco Wren, JDC Energy Resource

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LIFE IS ENERGY

JDC ENERGY RESOURCE, LLC is an energy enhancement distribution company. We are a distribution company for the Electrical Energy Enhancement units called Speed Joule. We also provide services for renewable energy and electrical services, residential/commercial, in the El Paso, Texas area.

#BlackBusinessMonth | Highlighting Alexis & Jenzel, Different Breed Performance Training

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In the heart of El Paso, Texas, a sports revolution is underway with Different Breed Performance Training. Founded by former Division 1 athletes Jenzel Nash and Alexis Thornton, this dynamic program aims to unlock the potential of every athlete who walks through its doors. Beyond conventional training, Different Breed focuses on mental toughness, agility, strength, and reaction time, preparing athletes to shine when the spotlight is on. The tight-knit DB Family forms a support system that fosters growth and resilience, making it a home for athletes of all levels. With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to excellence, Different Breed redefines sports training and creates champions destined for greatness.

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“Set goals that push you to the limits, and once those goals are reached, you’ll realize anything is possible with hard work and dedication.” Jenzel Nash

Find out more about Black Business Month

#BlackBusinessMonth | Highlighting Mr. Charles Smith, Gentleman Boutique by GON

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I am Charles Wesley Smith Jr. I am a Loyal ,Creator, and game changer in my community. Being a son, husband, proud father and successful business owner at the age of 27. In addition to always finding new avenues to provide an exceptional experience in business concepts to anyone I come in contact with, keeping God in the center in all I do.

Charles Wesley Smith Jr. is a 27-year-old loyal and innovative figure in the community. As a devoted husband, proud father, and son, he also thrives as a successful business owner. Charles’s commitment to delivering exceptional experiences in his ventures is matched only by his steadfast faith, keeping God at the center of all he does. His impact as a game-changer and visionary has left an inspiring and lasting impression on those fortunate enough to cross paths with him. Support Gentleman Boutique by

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“It is great for others to see the value in you, However it profits you nothing if you do not see the value in yourself.” CJ

Find out more about Black Business Month

We Remember – August 3, 2019 | Honoring Victims – Standing with Families and Survivors

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Four years ago, on this day, I received news that shook me to my core. I was away from home in Nashville when I got a call from my dear friend and advisor, Pastor Michael Grady. His voice trembled as he told me his daughter was among the victims of a mass shooting at a Walmart in El Paso. My heart sank, and I immediately reached out to my own family, praying that they were safe, but I couldn’t shake off the overwhelming feeling of sadness that engulfed the entire community of El Paso.

Today, as we remember that dark day, my thoughts are with the victims’ families, who carry the weight of their loss daily. I cannot fathom their pain, but I stand in solidarity with them, sending prayers for strength and healing. We must remember the names and faces of those we lost, for they were more than just statistics—they were loved ones, cherished members of their families and communities.

We implore you to call out the victims’ names and remember their families as you pray for peace and comfort.

  • Andre Anchondo, 23
  • Jordan Anchondo, 24
  • Arturo Benavides, 60
  • Leonardo Campos, 41
  • Angie Englisbee, 86
  • Maria Flores, 77
  • Raul Flores, 77
  • Guillermo “Memo” Garcia, 36
  • Jorge Calvillo García, 61
  • Adolfo Cerros Hernández, 68
  • Alexander Gerhard Hoffman, 66
  • David Johnson, 63
  • Luis Alfonzo Juarez, 90
  • Maria Eugenia Legarreta Rothe, 58
  • Maribel (Campos) Loya, 56
  • Ivan Filiberto Manzano, 46
  • Elsa Mendoza Marquez, 57
  • Gloria Irma Márquez, 61
  • Margie Reckard, 63
  • Sara Esther Regalado Moriel, 66
  • Javier Rodriguez, 15
  • Teresa Sanchez, 82
  • Juan Velazquez, 77

As we remember the victims, let us not forget the survivors. That tragic event forever altered their lives, and they bear that fateful day’s visible and invisible scars. We must respect their choices and the choices of those who stand with them in remembering and coping with the trauma they endured. Some may find solace in sharing their stories in person, while others might seek comfort online through support groups and forums. Some prefer to remember privately, in their thoughts and prayers. Whatever their choice may be, we must offer understanding and empathy.

In remembering this day, let us unite as a community, nation, and human beings. Let us honor the memory of those we lost by fostering a world of compassion, understanding, and love. While honoring the victims and survivors, let us forever engrain the insights gained from that sorrowful incident. Let us dedicate our efforts to preventing any future occurrence of such irrational cruelty.

Today, I stand with El Paso and all the communities affected by racism and domestic terrorism. May we find strength in unity and may the memories of those we lost serve as a powerful reminder of the work that still needs to be done.

#BlackBusinessMonth | Highlighting Nicole Hector, Opulent Skin Suite

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ABOUT NICOLE HECTOR

Nicole Hector is an Esthetician and the owner of Opulent Skin Suite, a boutique Facial Spa established in 2018.

In addition to being a self-care advocate and wellness enthusiast, she is a mom, a wife to an Army Veteran, a dog mom, and an avid bruncher. She wears many hats and is an inspiring example for other women aspiring to live out their dreams of entrepreneurship. Her advice for them is, “If you’re passionate about it, you can’t fail.”

Nicole aspires to continue to help women boost their self-confidence through self-care practices and to be an activist in her community for wellness initiatives.

Facebook.com/opulentskin
Instagram.com/opulentskinsuite

Celebrate August as Black Business Month! Throughout the month, #EPBlackBusinessNetwork will shine a spotlight on Black Entrepreneurs on the Border, featured in the #ElPasoBlackBusinessDirectory. Founded by Historian John William Templeton and engineer Frederick E. Jordan Sr in 2004, National Black Business Month aims to impact policies affecting 2.6 million Black businesses.

Despite facing historical challenges like systemic racism, redlining, and violence, Black businesses have shown incredible resilience and success. Let’s honor those who paved the way for today’s entrepreneurs in El Paso County with Black El Paso Voice.

El Paso can make a positive impact by supporting initiatives like elpasoblackpages.com, a free platform for Black business owners, and the El Paso Black Business Network.  Embracing business diversity and celebrating milestones, successes, and progress in the Black business community is vital for our city’s continued success.

Black entrepreneurs bring unique perspectives, talents, and innovation that enrich the fabric of our city. It’s essential to provide them with the necessary resources, opportunities, and recognition.  Let’s also remember, as business owners, to prioritize delivering a pleasant customer experience. #BlackBusinessMonth #SupportBlackBusinesses #ElPasoEntrepreneurs #BusinessDiversity #InnovationMatters

Juneteenth: The Red, The White, The Blue

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The Juneteenth flag was created in 1997 by activist Ben Haith aka Boston Ben, founder of the National Juneteenth Celebration Foundation (NJCF). Boston-based illustrator Lisa Jeanne Graf brought Haith’s vision to life. Also contributing were Verlene Hines, Azim, and Eliot Design. The Juneteenth flag was revised in 2000 to include “June 19, 1865,” the day enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, were freed.

The Juneteenth flag is a powerful symbol of freedom and justice for Black Americans, and it has become a symbol of Black emancipation in the United States of North America, the journey our ancestors have taken, and the continuous journey we are taking. We have work to do.

ABOUT THE COLORS: WE ARE FREE U.S. AMERICANS

Mr. Haith was intentional about every aspect of the creation.

  • The arc on the Juneteenth flag represents a new horizon, meaning fresh opportunities and promising futures for Black Americans.
  • The star represents Texas – Juneteenth started in Galveston. It represents the freedom of Black Americans in all 50 states.
  • The burst (zig-zag shape surrounding the star) represents Black Americans’ journey to achieve freedom. Inspired by a nova, the burst symbol represents the term astronomers use to mean a new star – in essence, a new beginning.
  • The colors of the flag represent the United States of America. The flag is a reminder that enslaved people and the descendants of enslaved people were AND ARE Americans. Those colors are a testament that Americans are committed to striving for actualization of liberty and justice for all.

Sometimes, the “adopted” Pan-African flag represents the dispersed diaspora globally. The Juneteenth flag represents the freedom of enslaved U.S. Black people and their descendants.

Proceeds benefit our efforts in the community to educate the community about the history of Black America, and to foster a more equitable and inclusive society on the border. 

Building Bridges: Law Enforcement and Community Members

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When it comes to fostering a safe and just society, building bridges is a crucial step. Building bridges between community members and law enforcement is one of the most important relationships. However, past hurts and negative experiences can make establishing trust and understanding between the two groups challenging. 

Creating opportunities for open and honest dialogue is necessary. Along with one of our local community FBI agents, an Andress H.S. graduate, Jeanette Harper, a platform for dialogue and discussion is available. First Fridays with the FBI is a platform where we share information with the community to be aware and build the desperately needed relationship.

Why is it essential to overcome these barriers and create a stronger sense of unity? 

A lack of trust and understanding between these two groups can lead to a breakdown in communication, heightened tensions, and even violence.

Several reasons include:

  • Improved communication and understanding: When community members and law enforcement officers have a positive relationship, it can lead to better communication and understanding. Effective communication can help to prevent misinterpretations and reduce tensions, which can escalate into potentially harmful situations.
  • Increased safety: A strong relationship between the community and law enforcement can lead to increased safety for all. Community members are more likely to report crimes and cooperate with law enforcement when they trust and respect them. This can help officers to prevent and solve crimes more effectively.
  • Enhanced accountability: When community members and law enforcement work together, it can lead to greater responsibility. Law enforcement officers can be held accountable for their actions, and community members can be held accountable for their behaviors.
  • Empowerment of the community: Building bridges between community members and law enforcement can empower the community to ensure its safety actively. When community members feel connected to law enforcement, they may be more likely to participate in community policing initiatives, neighborhood watch programs, and other efforts to reduce crime.
  • Reduced polarization and conflict: Polarization and conflict between the community and law enforcement can lead to a breakdown in social cohesion and a decrease in trust in public institutions. Building bridges between these groups can reduce polarization and conflict, creating a more cohesive and unified society.

Building bridges between community members and law enforcement is critical for promoting safety, accountability, and social cohesion. Overcoming past hurts and negative experiences can be challenging, but working towards creating a positive relationship between these two groups is essential.

The FBI plays a critical role in maintaining public safety and upholding the rule of law in the United States. Building bridges between the FBI and the communities it serves is essential for several reasons:

Strengthening trust: The FBI investigates a wide range of crimes, including those involving civil rights violations or abuse of power by law enforcement. For communities to feel comfortable reporting such incidents, they must have confidence that the FBI will handle these cases fairly and impartially. Building bridges through open communication and collaboration can strengthen this trust.

Improving intelligence gathering: The FBI relies on the cooperation of community members to gather information about potential threats to public safety. People may be less likely to come forward with information when relationships are strained. The FBI can better understand and respond to community needs and concerns by building bridges and cultivating positive relationships.

Fostering diversity and inclusion: The FBI is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities it serves. Building bridges with community members can help the FBI recruit and retain talented individuals from all backgrounds, ensuring that the agency is well-positioned to address various threats and challenges.

Enhancing collaboration: Effective law enforcement requires collaboration across multiple agencies and levels of government. Building bridges between the FBI and other law enforcement agencies, as well as community-based organizations and other stakeholders, can ensure that resources are effectively allocated, and everyone is working towards common goals.

Enhanced collaboration is the key. 

The FBI isn’t trying to infiltrate all organizations. 

If you would like to participate in a discussion and ask a question, please do not hesitate to contact me at monica@blackelpasovoice.com or FirstFridaysFBI@gmail.com. 

First Fridays is a citizen ran initiative. 

Follow on social media @FirstFridaysFBI. Subscribe on YouTube at youtube.com/@firstfridaysfbi.

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