Community
Houston’s Emancipation Park Bubbles with Juneteenth Festival Excitement
Saturday, June 18, and Sunday, June 19, 2022. Sizzling temperatures rising to triple digits, humidity at its highest, and this spectacular Juneteenth festive celebration is on in Houston, Texas. Just the kind of vibe Houstonians needed to balance the heat. From memory lane to everyday sing-along lyrics, be it cultural, social, historical, or contemporary, Kool and the Gang, The Isley Brothers, Sheila Escovedo, aka Sheila E., and Maze, featuring Frankie Beverly all projected a dynamic type of energy and synergy that surpassed the heat.
Multi-colored flashing stage lights. Action begins with the world renown R&B group Kool and the Gang entering the main stage showing off their funky and jazzy appearance—old school/new school. Horns playing softly in the background, lead singer proudly welcomes the audience, then gives a brief historic account of their humble beginnings. Being the longest performing R&B group in history, and the most sampled R&B band of all times; JT naming each player as an original with the group, dating back to 1969 when they officially assigned their name as Kool and the Gang; group, album, and song all called Kool and the Gang. This high energy performance certainly reflects the message in their music. “Celebrate good times! Come on! It’s a celebration. Everyone around the world . . . Come on! Cel-a-bra-tion!” This signature line had the audience on their feet, rocking to the beat, and echoing every word.
Congress Woman, The Honorable Sheila Jackson-Lee, and Houston’s Mayor Sylvester Turner dancing to Kool and the Gang while celebrating good times on the VIP pavilion.
Like a shepherd with his staff tending to his sheep was Ron Isley with his cane entering the stage, capturing the crowd, singing their 1978 classic, Groove With You. And the audience swinging side-to-side, singing along, and . . . grooving. This epic old-schooler slows it down, calling out the “Choosey Lovers.”
Day 2—Sunday, June 19, 2022
But Houstonians were not only grooving with the musical artists, among many others was one political rock star, Beto O’Rourke -candidate for Texas Governor immersing in all the festivities at the Juneteenth Celebration at the Emancipation Park 150th Anniversary.
This multi-ethnic, multi-talented diva is ‘multi’ with a sense of ‘purpose’ from all angles; she sings, plays, and dances to multi-genre music. With the mic in her hand, rocking to the background instrumentals, Sheila educates the audience of her Mexican Indian father and Creole mother. Soaked in a medley of instrumentals, she signaled to the musicians to halt. She then commands the keys, and each musician strikes accordingly. As a woman of the Christian faith, not only did she sing, danced, and played the guitar and drum to secular and gospel music, she also gave a chilling testimony about surviving childhood molestation at the age of five. Her statement shows in her performance: “Music is love, God is love and God is music.” She talked about her faith in God. Being a believer who sings secular music, but loves Jesus, she said, “I bring church to the people. My ministry is ‘Abuse’.” She uses her voice to bring out the best in people. At 64 plus, going non-stop about 70 minutes in her performance decided to take the guitar off stage to engage directly with the audience. It was just about sunset and the temperature was cooling down when she asked everyone to stand in solidarity with her in ‘passing the love.’ In obedience to Sheila’s request, the audience stood up, and as instructed, each person telling as many around them, “I love you.” This sacred moment was followed by Sheila passing the love with the song “What the world needs now is love sweet love.”
Maximum security. Houston Police Department standing at attention at work.
Frankie Beverly greeting Houston with his favorite line: “Long time nuh see!”
The grand finale! With the volume pumped up, stepping on stage in style is the distinguished legend, Frankie Beverly starting off with one of his greatest hits, ‘Laid Back Kind of Girl’, then he serenades the ladies with “Southern Girl”, followed by “We Are One,” and the rest of the show was a rap. Pausing, Frankie in his rhythmic posture, dancing from within, points the microphone to the audience, drums, keys, strings, and chords on medium sound, and the audience on one accord becomes the loudest voice, singing to Frankie’s all-time classics. So then, what do you say about this artist who enters the stage with such an effect? Yes! Vintage, classical, and mystical is Maze/Frankie Beverly with countless recordings, performances, and awards on the global stage for more than 50 years.
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Interesting facts about Emancipation Park. November 7, 2007, a remarkable act took place when the Houston City Council declared the park a historic landmark after it voted unanimously. On April 24, 2019, United Nations Education Scientific Cultural Organization (UNESCO) designated Emancipation Park as a UNESCO Site of Memory.
Mission of Emancipation Park—To enhance Emancipation Park by preserving its integrity and enriching its heritage as a local, state, national, and international landmark. (For more information visit https://epconservancy.org)
In a brief conversation with Ramon Manning, Chairman of the Board of Directors, I asked, “What is the ‘Why’ behind this celebration?” Ramon responded, “This festive event goes beyond food, fun, fellowship. There is an educational aspect that educates generations about historic, cultural, and social issues that are embedded in American history. Often, there are stories about the struggles that the slaves encountered, but there were also countless untold victories, one of which is about the group of former slaves who pooled together the funding and purchased the property where the park is located.” Another question I asked was, “And what value does this all bring to the community?” He answered, “This community park is an asset to Houston, Texas, and American history. It stands significant to recognizing and acknowledging culture, history, and continuing education.”
♦The Guardian News would like to express sincere thanks to Michelle Kelly and Tara Hanney of Kelney Communications for such remarkable hospitality and accommodation
Today, I write with great joy and admiration to wish you, Prof. Chris Chinwe Ulasi, a delighted 70th birthday. It is a glorious milestone, and my family and I are honored to join friends and colleagues in celebrating this remarkable occasion with you here in Cancun, Mexico.
Since I first met you in 2005 at Texas Southern University (TSU), Houston, Texas, you have consistently demonstrated that you are a true Nwannedinamba—a brother from Anambra State, Nigeria. As both a colleague and a friend, you have been a source of inspiration to all who have crossed your path.
Shortly after I joined TSU, a colleague informed me that I had a “brother” in the School of Communications. That brother was you. Not long afterward, we co-presented a training seminar for Akwa Ibom legislators, accompanied by their then-Governor, Akpabio, who now serves as Senate President of Nigeria. I vividly recall how your training manual immediately impressed me with its depth and clarity. From that moment, we became not only colleagues and friends but brothers in every sense of the word.
You are a bona fide poet whose work resonates deeply with those privileged to read it. Your poems, carefully crafted and rich in meaning, often reflect the pressing issues of the time. I read them more than once to fully grasp their layered insights. They remind me of my younger days, poring over Dele Giwa’s columns in The Concord newspaper, pen and paper in hand, collecting new vocabulary. Thankfully, with the aid of modern technology, deciphering your poetic expressions has become more accessible, though no less profound.
Beyond your academic scholarship, you are a respected public intellectual. Through your efforts and those of your colleagues, you revived the West African Pilot News as co-publisher and executive editor, initially founded by Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. I still recall when you invited me to join the editorial board and contribute op-eds. Initially hesitant—declaring myself a criminologist, not a journalist—you quickly convinced me that the goal was to elevate Ndigbo voices. You were right: too often, the positive narratives of Ndigbo are overlooked. Since then, the Pilot has become a vital platform for scholars and writers across disciplines to express optimistic, forward-looking visions of Nigeria and Africa. This is a tremendous legacy—one that you and your team should be proud of.
Your academic and professional accomplishments speak for themselves. You are a Professor of Radio, Television, and Film, the Dean of the School of Communication, and Chair of the Department of Radio, Television, and Film at TSU. With over three decades of teaching, research, and creative work—and more than 25 years of leadership experience—you have distinguished yourself as an educator, scholar, administrator, and cultural leader. Beyond the classroom and administrative offices, you are a dynamic force in the world of media and literature. A talented screenwriter, producer, director, and poet, you have used your voice and platforms to shape narratives and inspire change. You have been a journal and book editor of the Journal of Nigerian Affairs, formerly COMPO REVIEW. Since 2000, you have proudly served as University Marshal at TSU—another testament to your enduring leadership and commitment.
Your leadership in the Houston community is equally outstanding. The more than 200 people who traveled to Cancun to celebrate you are a testament to your enduring impact. As Chairman of the People’s Club of Nigeria International, Sugarland chapter, your leadership has been exemplary. At Our Savior Anglican Church (OSAC), you oversee communications and have trained younger members to manage the system with excellence, even in your absence. You also serve as Dean of the Diocesan Conference, a role appointed by the Bishop, and are a valued member of OSAC’s governing board. Your dedication has contributed significantly to the growth and unity of the church.
Moreover, in the broader community, you once served as Chairman of the Ndi-Ichie Igbo Cultural Club and now lead its annual cultural celebrations in Houston. These events showcase the richness of Igbo heritage—culinary delights, traditional dances, language, and youth involvement—with elegance and pride.
Nwannedinamba, I could fill many more pages with your accomplishments, but allow me to share a personal story. When I lost my beloved brother, Prof. Ebere Onwudiwe (may his soul rest in peace), you traveled all the way from Nnewi to Isunjaba, Imo State, accompanied by a musical group and heartfelt gifts, including Nkwu Elu. I shared that special palm wine only with members of the Onwudiwe family. Your presence in our family compound remains unforgettable. While we danced to the Ogene music you brought, you engaged in deep dialogue with my traditional ruler about the origins of Isu. My Eze later insisted that you visit the palace, where he intended to present you with archival records on Isu’s history. One day, we will fulfill that promise.
Prof. Ulasi, you are not only a distinguished colleague and scholar but also a cherished friend. We are deeply grateful for your friendship and all you have done for us and the broader community. We also thank your wonderful wife for her unwavering support, love, and understanding.
As we mark this milestone with you, we are reminded that true greatness lies not just in titles held or accolades received, but in the lives touched, the values modeled, and the legacy quietly built each day. You exemplify this kind of greatness. May your 70th year be a continuation of your influence, your light, and your unwavering commitment to building a better, more just, and culturally vibrant world.
As you celebrate your 70th birthday, we wish you continued health, joy, and fulfillment. May the years ahead bring even greater blessings. Thank you for being the exceptional person you are, Nwannedinamba.
With warmest regards,
Prof. I. D. Onwudiwe
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■ Dr. Onwudiwe, a Professor of Criminology at Texas Southern University, is on the EDITORIAL BOARD of the WAP
Community members are invited this Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Alief Community Center in Houston, Texas, for an impactful workshop aimed at supporting African and Black immigrant communities on their journey to naturalization and citizenship. This empowering event will offer crucial guidance on the naturalization process, legal rights, and available resources. The event starts at 2.00 pm.
Immigration service providers will be present to evaluate eligibility for fee waivers and assist with naturalization applications. Participants in need of support must register and complete the legal pre-screening form.
This workshop presents an opportunity for attendees to connect with fellow community leaders and access free legal resources on Know Your Rights, naturalization, and citizenship. Additionally, a thought-provoking panel discussion on Black Immigrant Voices on Rights & Belonging will be held, moderated by Edidiong Obot. Community leaders and advocates will share personal stories, obstacles, and triumphs in their efforts to secure their rights and foster a sense of belonging.
While this event is free, registration is mandatory. Those unable to attend in person can still explore further resources and discover upcoming naturalization and citizenship events in Houston by visiting NaturalizeNowHouston. Event registration link: >>>>
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