What Black Voters Should Know About Texas GOP’s 2024 Legislative Priorities
The Texas Republican Party finally released its 2024 legislative priorities, highlighting eight pressing issues. Before heading to the polls, Black voters should pay close attention to these priorities to understand their potential effects on their communities.
One major priority is the creation of a Texas Department of Homeland Security to intensify immigration policing. This move could exacerbate racial profiling and increase tensions within diverse communities.
The GOP also aims to restrict mail-in and early voting options, measures that historically benefit Black voters by providing more flexibility to cast their ballots. Limiting these options could reduce voter turnout in marginalized communities, making it harder for Black voters to exercise their rights.
Another priority is monitoring children’s education for sexual content. While ensuring appropriate educational materials is important, such policies often lead to the censorship of comprehensive sex education, which is crucial for the well-being of all students.
Additionally, barring Democrats from chairing legislative committees could further polarize the political landscape. This exclusionary tactic could stifle diverse perspectives and hinder legislative progress that benefits Black Texans.
Hot-button issues like abortion, hemp, and marijuana legislation, and Bible lessons in schools did not make the cut. However, the absence of these topics does not diminish the importance of scrutinizing the GOP’s current priorities.
As the 2024 elections approach, we need Black Texans to engage in the political process, advocate for their rights, and ensure their voices are heard.
Will Smith doesn’t owe us an apology?
Stephen A. Smith is “standing down” after receiving backlash for saying Will Smith needs to publicly address the Black community regarding him slapping Chris Rock at the 2022 Academy Awards. Credit: Photo by Joshua Sammer/Getty Images for Sony Pictures
Will Smith’s slap at the Oscars sparked outrage, but does he owe an apology specifically to Black America? Sports commentator Stephen A. Smith suggested Smith’s box office performance suffered due to a lack of explanation, implying Black audiences were unforgiving.
However, facts paint a different picture. “Bad Boys” did well commercially. While Smith’s actions were wrong, he apologized and reportedly contacted Chris Rock privately.
Public figures deserve scrutiny, but relentless criticism hinders growth. Will Smith acknowledged his mistake and took steps to make amends. Black America likely shares this sentiment. Constant public discussion adds nothing. If Smith needs to make amends with the Black community, it’s likely happening in private conversations, not on award show stages.
Single Motherhood shouldn’t be a stigma anymore
Real Housewives of New York City alum Eboni K. Williams announced that she is expecting her first baby, whom she conceived through a sperm donation and in vitro fertilization. Credit: (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)
Eboni K. Williams’ decision to pursue motherhood via IVF highlights a growing trend: choosing single parenthood. Should this be viewed negatively? Absolutely not.
For some, waiting for a perfect partner might mean missing the window for having children altogether. Women like Williams and Naomi Campbell demonstrate that a loving, stable home doesn’t require a two-parent dynamic. As long as a woman is financially and emotionally secure, there’s no reason to believe she can’t raise a well-adjusted child.
Single mothers face challenges, but they’re not insurmountable. Our society should celebrate their strength and resilience, not judge their choices. Many single-parent households thrive thanks to strong support networks, family involvement, and access to childcare.
Ultimately, the decision to become a single mother is deeply personal. It requires careful consideration but shouldn’t be seen as a last resort. These women are not giving up on motherhood but embracing it on their terms. And for their children, a loving, secure single-parent home is far better than an unstable two-parent situation.
