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

June 15, 2025 by C'ri Roi

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
C'ri Roi

C’ri is a passionate writer with an insatiable appetite for storytelling in all its forms. You’ll likely find her curled up with a good book or immersed in the latest blockbuster at her local cinema when she’s not crafting articles. Jane’s knack for staying on top of current events adds depth to her writing, while her laid-back personality brings a refreshing perspective to even the most complex topics. With a cup of tea and her finger on the pulse of pop culture, C’ri transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary one word at a time.

blackelpasovoice.com

Filed Under: Juneteenth, News & Information

Socorro ISD board approves plan to lay off about 300 employees

February 20, 2025 by Courtesy of El Paso Matters

Socorro ISD board approves plan to lay off about 300 employees

by Claudia Lorena Silva, El Paso Matters
February 19, 2025

An estimated 300 teachers and staff in the Socorro Independent School District will lose their jobs at the end of the year after the school board on Wednesday approved a plan to cut $38 million from next year’s budget.

The board voted 3-2 to accept recommendations from Interim Superintendent James Vasquez to lay off employees, eliminate its elementary fine arts programs and increase class sizes. 

Trustees Michael Najera, Cynthia Ann Najera and Alice Gardea voted in favor of the recommendations while Paul Guerra and Marivel Macias voted against them. Trustees Pablo Barrera and Ricardo Castellano were absent.

https://www.youtube.com/live/7hFRfoeuwXY

The vote came after a nearly five-hour meeting filled with pleas from teachers, parents and students hoping to save the elementary school fine arts programs as the once-growing district attempts to claw its way back to financial solvency.

But the board also received a sobering presentation from the administration and state-appointed conservators Manny Hinojosa and Andrew Kim that demonstrated years of board-approved deficit spending that has brought El Paso’s second-largest school district to a fiscal precipice. 

“As difficult as this decision is, it's necessary,” Vasquez said. “If we don't make the necessary cuts for the next school year, if we don't have money in our fund balance to cover the deficit, we will be insolvent, in other words, means we would have to declare financial exigency, which is equivalent to bankruptcy.”

The Socorro ISD Board of Trustees meets to hear public comment and vote on a proposal to cut fine arts programs and lay off about 300 teachers and staff, Feb. 19, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)

Hinojosa, who pointed out he has the authority to overrule decisions by the board and superintendent, said he would watch the board’s actions. “You cannot pay your mortgage with your credit card,” he said. “If you're insolvent, the state takes over and they replace the board, and they replace the superintendent. 

“You see how close you are to the edge right now. You asked for us to come help you, and that's what we're doing here. And I have the authority to overrule your decisions. I don't want to do that, but I can and I will.”

The district will decide who will be laid off by March 7 and notify employees by April 1, Interim Chief Human Resources Officer Celina Stiles said during the meeting.

Vasquez said even without the elementary fine arts program the district will still need to teach the subject to its students.

“We've been getting it done expertly by our fine arts teachers,” Vasquez said. “We want to work to see how we can support our regular (education) teachers to be the same.”

Hundreds of SISD employees, parents, students and supporters of the elementary fine arts program packed the SISD board room — and filled an overflow room — to ask trustees to keep the elementary fine arts program and urge them to find alternatives to the layoffs.

Hundreds of parents, teachers and graduates of Socorro Independent School District showed up to the Board of Trustees meeting to protest the recommendation to cut fine arts programs and layoff an estimated 300 teachers and staff, Feb. 19, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)

Some suggested reducing salaries and cutting high level administrative positions.

Others expressed concern that getting rid of the elementary school fine arts program would worsen the district’s already poor attendance and push parents to enroll their students in other districts.

“There is no doubt that a comprehensive academic experience that includes the arts is and will always be best for every student. The minute you choose to cut fine arts programs and eliminate those positions is the minute SISD is no longer the best choice for my kids,” said Lluvia Salas, a parent and former SISD music teacher.

Karina Cueto, a sophomore at Socorro High School, pleads with the Socorro ISD Board of Trustees to not fire 300 teachers, saying that for her and many other students, their teachers are like their family, Feb. 19, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)

Some talked about the difficulties students with disabilities face and how changing teachers or increasing class sizes can exacerbate them.

“Laying off our teachers further compounds the challenges faced by students with disabilities … Increasing the student-to-teacher ratio will increase anxiety in our children, especially my son, and will make it harder for the remaining teachers to provide individualized attention to the children,” said Diana Serano, the parent of an Eastlake High School special education student.

“I want to request you to not fire my teachers. My teachers are important in my life, and I'm tired of having substitutes,” her son David Serano added.

Before the meeting, Vasquez told El Paso Matters the 300 layoffs are an estimate and said he wasn’t prepared to say the exact number of employees that will be cut or how many of them would be teachers.

“We’re hoping that teachers who have been considering retirement might do that, which could reduce the need for layoffs,” he said.

District administrators will meet with campus leaders next week to look at enrollment projections and staffing needs as the district plans to increase class sizes at elementary and middle schools, Vasquez said. Campuses with declining enrollment will also come up with plans to reduce staff.

Staffing needs amid declining enrollment

Vasquez said Socorro ISD has been “overstaffed” for years, and in an effort to make the district more appealing, has invested heavily in salaries and health benefits to retain and attract teachers, adding to its expenses. 

Ahead of the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years, the board approved higher raises than what was recommended by district administration.

These changes raised the average SISD teacher salary from over $55,200 a year in the 2019-20 school year to nearly $86,000 a year during the 2023-24 school year, according to data reported to the Texas Education Agency. 

Socorro American Federation of Teachers President Veronica Hernandez denounced the idea that raises contributed to the district’s budget issues and the need for layoffs. She said she could not tolerate blame  being placed on the salary increases over the last two years for the district’s financial troubles. 

Heading into the 2023-24 school year, the district hired more staff in anticipation of an additional 700 students. 

Instead, enrollment declined by 500 students to 47,200, Vasquez said. Enrollment declined by another 600 students this school year and is expected to continue declining to about 43,000 students by 2034, he said.

Penny swaps, hiring freezes and state funding

Even with the layoffs, Socorro ISD will likely still need to find more revenue to stay afloat.

The district projects it will have a $38.3 million deficit during the 2025-26 school year. By laying off employees, closing existing vacancies, changing staffing formulas and redesigning programs the district expects to cut the deficit by $30.3 million, leaving it with an $8 million deficit.

The district is considering asking voters to approve a “penny swap” later this year that would allow it to move property tax rate money earmarked for repaying debt to use in general operations. If approved, the swap wouldn’t change the tax rate but would allow the district to generate an additional $28 million in revenue, Vasquez told El Paso Matters.

The plan to reduce the district’s budget by $38 million assumes teachers continue leaving the district at the same rate as in recent years.

During the 2023-24 school year, the most recent data available, about 11% of SISD teachers resigned or retired. At that rate, the district will lose about 220 by the next school year, according to district figures.

The has implemented a hiring freeze for all but a few specialized positions such as special education teachers, Vasquez told El Paso Matters. That means between attrition and layoffs, Socorro could have 400 or more fewer teachers next year than this year.

The plan also assumes that the state won’t increase school funding or raise its basic allotment of $6,100 per student – a number that’s been unchanged since 2019.

Even if lawmakers agree to increase school funding as planned by the Texas Legislature, Socorro ISD will use the additional money to rebuild its reserves, which have been depleted in recent years by budget deficits.

The Socorro ISD Board of Trustees meets to hear public comment and make a decision on their proposal to cut fine arts programs and lay off about 300 teachers, Feb. 19, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)

Last year, the SISD school board adopted a $479.6 million budget with a $22 million deficit for the 2024-25 school year. The deficit has grown to $24 million since then, Vasquez said.

“We need to build up our fund balance. At the end of this year, we’ll only have 17 days (of operating revenue) in our fund balance, and we need to get back to the 75 days in our policy,” he said.

In an effort to cut costs, the district reduced its employee health plan contribution leading to reductions in their take home pay and has removed vacant positions from the budget.

The district took out a $25 million loan in November to make payroll when its cash reserves were low and while it waited to receive a scheduled payment from the TEA.

Vasquez said the district will have to take out another loan this summer because it won’t have the cashflow to make the payment out of its revenues.

This article first appeared on El Paso Matters and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

Courtesy of El Paso Matters
elpasomatters.org

Filed Under: Education, News & Information

Cryptocurrency Investment Fraud (CIF): What is “Pig Butchering” and What is the FBI Doing to Help Victims?

February 14, 2025 by SAC FBI EL PASO

Cryptocurrency Investment Fraud (CIF), commonly known by the disparaging term “pig butchering,” is a confidence-based investment scam where subjects target victims online and elicit a friendship or relationship prior to introducing a fraudulent cryptocurrency investment opportunity. Victims are coached to invest more and more money into what appears to be an extremely profitable platform, only to be unable to withdraw their funds.

This version of the confidence scam originated out of Southeast Asia (Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia), and most of the organized crime groups throughout Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa and south America are targeting victims in the United States.

The FBI has launched Operation “Level Up” as a proactive approach to identify and notify victims of this scam to prevent further financial loss. Level Up was initiated in January 2024, with the support of agents from the FBI and the United States Secret Service. Sophisticated cyber techniques have enabled agents to identify active victims en masse. Several thousand victims across the United States were notified between 01/23/2024 and 12/31/2004. Because the investment phase of these scams last multiple months, the Level Up’s early notification efforts have likely saved victims significant financial harm and saved lives.

To show the impact of Operation Level Up, here are aggregated statistics to date January 2025.

  • Victims notified: 4,323
  • Estimated savings to victims: $285,639,9691
  • % of victims who were not aware that it was a scam prior to notification: 76%
  • Identified victims disseminated to foreign partners: 526
  • Victims referred to a Victim Specialist for suicide intervention: 42

We’d like to show examples of how Operation Level Up prevented victim loss:

  • Victim stated the FBI stopped them from liquidating their 401k to invest an additional $500,000.
  • Victim was in the process of selling her house to invest an additional $500,000.
  • Victim was going to use the platform to raise money for her cancer treatment.
  • Victim was in the process of getting a $400,000 loan to send to the scam.

What should a victim do if they think they are being scammed?
a. If you feel that you are a victim of a cryptocurrency investment fraud, immediately stop sending money and file a report with IC3 as soon as possible. Crime reports are used for investigative and intelligence purposes. Rapid reporting can also help support the recovery of lost funds.
b. Be aware of who you are communicating with online. If you met someone online or through an unsolicited text message and that person pitched an investment opportunity, beware: this is likely cryptocurrency investment fraud.
c. One of the most common tactics these criminals employ is a false sense of urgency or isolation. For this reason, the FBI urges the public to “Take A Beat” by resisting pressure to act quickly, pausing for a moment, and assessing the situation. It’s better to be safe than scammed.
https://www.fbi.gov/news/press-releases/fbi-takes-action-to-protect-your-hard-earned-money


For more information about Operation Level Up and what to look out for, please visit fbi.gov/levelup and fbi.gov/scams.

John Morales
Special Agent in Charge, FBI El Paso

SAC FBI EL PASO

With El Paso so close to the Mexican border and Mexico in the throws of revolutionary struggle during the early 1900s, southwest Texas became a key focus of the Bureau soon after its founding in 1908. As the FBI heads into its second century, the El Paso Division remains committed to protecting the people and defending the nation while upholding the rule of law and the civil liberties of all.

www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/elpaso

Filed Under: FBI El Paso Updates, News & Information

El Paso County to Honor Black History Month with Official Resolution

February 9, 2025 by C'ri Roi

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.”

C'ri Roi

C’ri is a passionate writer with an insatiable appetite for storytelling in all its forms. You’ll likely find her curled up with a good book or immersed in the latest blockbuster at her local cinema when she’s not crafting articles. Jane’s knack for staying on top of current events adds depth to her writing, while her laid-back personality brings a refreshing perspective to even the most complex topics. With a cup of tea and her finger on the pulse of pop culture, C’ri transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary one word at a time.

blackelpasovoice.com

Filed Under: Black History Month, News & Information

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

January 10, 2025 by C'ri Roi

 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.

C'ri Roi

C’ri is a passionate writer with an insatiable appetite for storytelling in all its forms. You’ll likely find her curled up with a good book or immersed in the latest blockbuster at her local cinema when she’s not crafting articles. Jane’s knack for staying on top of current events adds depth to her writing, while her laid-back personality brings a refreshing perspective to even the most complex topics. With a cup of tea and her finger on the pulse of pop culture, C’ri transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary one word at a time.

blackelpasovoice.com

Filed Under: Events, News & Information

Sigma Tau Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Announces Virtual Talent Hunt for El Paso High School Students

January 9, 2025 by BEPV Staff

Sigma Tau Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., proudly presents its Virtual Talent Hunt, an inspiring showcase for El Paso’s most talented high school students. Open to all students from grades 9 through 12, this competition encourages young artists to demonstrate their skills from oratory to dancing and various other artistic disciplines.

Event Details

Eligibility: High school students in El Paso, Texas (grades 9–12)

Application Deadline: February 7, 2025
Students must submit an application and a signed parent release form by this date to participate.

Entry Submission Deadline: April 26, 2025
Final entries must be submitted by this date.

Prizes:

  • 1st Place: $300
  • 2nd Place: $200
  • 3rd Place: $100

Categories for Competition
Participants may choose to submit their talent from any of the following categories:

  • Music (Vocal/Instrumental): Broadway | Gospel | Top 40 | Jazz
  • Dramatic Interpretation: Poetry | Oration | Monologue
  • Visual Arts: Sculpture | Photography | Drawing | Painting
  • Dance: Ballet | Modern Dance | Jazz |Tap

How to Participate
Students must complete an application and submit a parent release form by February 7, 2025. Once registered, participants will have until April 26, 2025, to submit their entries for consideration.

Students can gain recognition for their creativity, compete for cash prizes, and hone their skills.

For More Information and Forms
Contact: BorderQueTalentHunt@gmail.com
Don’t miss this chance to shine and inspire the El Paso community with your artistry.

Register today and get ready to take the stage virtually!

 

BEPV Staff
blackelpasovoice.com

Filed Under: Community News, News & Information

First Black Mayor of El Paso

January 7, 2025 by BEPV Staff

PHOTOS: El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson, new city representatives sworn into office

by Elida S. Perez, El Paso Matters
January 7, 2025

Renard Johnson was sworn in as El Paso mayor Monday alongside six city representatives and a handful of municipal court judges during a ceremony at the Plaza Theatre in Downtown.

“Today marks a new chapter for our city, a day to reflect on where we have been, celebrate where we are, and to look forward with hope and determination where we are headed,” said Johnson, the city’s first Black mayor, after being sworn in by El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego. “I am honored to stand before you today as your new mayor.”

The Star on the Mountain, under the Starlighters program of the El Paso Chamber, was lit blue in honor of Johnson by his family Monday.

“Together we will tackle the challenges that lie ahead and make our city a better place to live,” he said, addressing the new council and staff and all public servants in the community. “El Paso is a city with rich history, a vibrant culture and an unbreakable spirit.”

In addressing El Paso residents, Johnson promised to serve with “humility, transparency and dedication,” saying he will never forget his duty is to the “people of this great city.”

More than 1,000 people – including family members, city employees and community and business leaders – attended the ceremony and the reception that followed at the theater’s lobby.

READ ALSO: Mayor-elect Renard Johnson talks about economic development, taxes, services and other issues

Also sworn in were city representatives Alejandra Chávez, District 1; Josh Acevedo, District 2; Deanna Maldonado Rocha, District 3; Cynthia Boyar Trejo, District 4; Ivan Niño, District 5; and Lily Limón, District 7.

RELATED: What exactly does an El Paso mayor do? We explain

The new elected city leadership will begin their official duties at Tuesday’s City Council meeting. The meeting begins at 9 a.m. at City Hall, 300 N. Campbell St., and is open to the public.

You can watch council meetings live at the city’s YouTube channel. Find meeting agendas here, and sign up to speak at council meetings here.

Municipal court judges sworn in Monday include Michelle Morales, Kristin Romero, David A. Bonilla, Samuel Flores and Mike Herrera, as well as court of appeals Judge Maria B. Ramirez.

Here are some photos from Monday’s ceremony:

  • Newly-elected officials and judges for the city of El Paso applaud after the Star-Spangled Banner is sung, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Lily Limón is sworn in as city representative for District 7 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Ivan Niño is sworn in as city representative for District 5 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Cynthia Boyar Trejo is sworn in as city representative for District 4 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Deanna Maldonado-Rocha is sworn in as city representative for District 3 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Josh Acevedo is sworn in as city representative for District 2 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Alejandra Chavez is sworn in as city representative for District 1 at the Plaza Theatre, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Renard Johnson, accompanied by his daughters, Aviva, left, and Neveah, stands to sworn in as El Paso city mayor by County Judge Ricardo Samaniego, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego, left, congratulates newly-sworn in city of El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson and his family, Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)
  • Mayor Renard Johnson, left, and Ciudad Juárez Mayor Cruz Pérez Cuéllar embrace after Johnson's swearing-in at Plaza Theatre Jan. 6, 2025. (Corrie Boudreaux/El Paso Matters)

Several El Paso county officials were sworn into office in separate ceremonies over the past few days, including Oscar Ugarte as county sheriff; Christina Sanchez as county attorney; Jackie Arroyo Butler as Precinct 1 county commissioner; and James Montoya as district attorney.

This article first appeared on El Paso Matters and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

BEPV Staff
blackelpasovoice.com

Filed Under: #icymi, Community News, News & Information

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® Eta Pi Omega Chapter Hosts Founders’ Day Celebration

January 2, 2025 by BEPV Staff

The Eta Pi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® invites the community to join their annual Founders’ Day celebration on January 18, 2025, at the Centennial Banquet and Conference Center.

The “Pink Ice Affair” event promises an evening of elegance, fellowship, and entertainment.

Guests are encouraged to wear formal attire as they gather for this memorable occasion.

The highlight of the evening will be a keynote address by Dr. Kevin James, President of Morris Brown College and recipient of the prestigious HBCU President of the Year award.

Doors open at 7:08 p.m., with tickets priced at $70 per person. Attendees can secure their spots by visiting elpasoaka.org and navigating to the Events section. For additional details, call (803) 394-5222.

Join Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® Eta Pi Omega Chapter for a night of celebration, connection, and community spirit. Don’t miss this extraordinary evening!

BEPV Staff
blackelpasovoice.com

Filed Under: Community News, News & Information

El Paso’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration and Observance

January 2, 2025 by BEPV Staff

El Paso, TX — The MLK Committee of El Paso proudly announces its annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration and Observance, scheduled for Sunday, January 19, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Temple Mount Sinai, 4408 N. Stanton St., El Paso, TX 79902. This year’s event will be held both in person and online, ensuring accessibility for all.

Themed “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence 365,” this gathering will reflect on Dr. King’s enduring legacy and the collective responsibility to uphold his vision of equality and peace.

Keynote Speaker:
Pastor Joi Wilkes
Kingdom Full Gospel Ministries, Jonesboro, GA

Pastor Wilkes is a dynamic spiritual leader and social justice advocate known for her passionate commitment to equality and nonviolence. Her address will inspire action and reflection on advancing freedom, justice, and democracy.

Join us in honoring the life and legacy of Dr. King through an afternoon of meaningful dialogue, inspiring messages, and community solidarity. This observance is free and open to the public.

For more information, please contact:
MLK Committee of El Paso | mlkelpaso.org

 

BEPV Staff
blackelpasovoice.com

Filed Under: Community News, News & Information

El Paso Commission for Women Seeks Nominations for Women’s Hall of Fame

January 2, 2025 by BEPV Staff

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

El Paso Commission for Women Seeks Nominations for Women’s Hall of Fame

Honoring Outstanding Women in El Paso County

El Paso, TX – The El Paso Commission for Women is now accepting nominations for its esteemed Women’s Hall of Fame, an annual event that celebrates exceptional women in El Paso County who have made lasting contributions in fields such as civic leadership, education, military service, professional careers, athletics, and more.

The Hall of Fame Induction Banquet will take place on March 29, 2025, at the El Paso Community College Administration Building, 9050 Viscount Blvd. During the banquet, honorees will be recognized for their distinguished accomplishments, and their names will be permanently displayed at El Paso City Hall and the El Paso County Courthouse, joining a legacy of trailblazing women who have shaped the community.

This year’s Hall of Fame inductees include Dr. Manuela Gomez and Dr. Adeeba Raheem, who have been recognized for their remarkable contributions to education and professional leadership. Past inductees also include notable figures such as Congresswoman Veronica Escobar and County Attorney Jo Ann Bernal.

Nominations Are Open: Community members are encouraged to nominate outstanding women for this honor. Applications must be submitted by Friday, January 17, 2025.

Nomination Details: Visit elpasocommissionforwomen.org/nominate to submit a nomination.

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About the El Paso Commission for Women:

Founded in 1984, the El Paso Commission for Women was established as an independent organization to focus on the needs and achievements of women in the region. It originated as an extension of the Texas Governor’s Commission for Women and has since recognized hundreds of outstanding women for their contributions to the community.

Contact: Monica Tucker at elpasocfw@gmail.com

BEPV Staff
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