Anthony Obi Ogbo
The “Food Not Bombs” Saga – Feeding the Homeless With Politics and Conspiracies
“It is unlawful to challenge a statute by arrogantly violating it. Moreover, it is insensitive to use the needy as a shield for a pugnacious political vendetta”
—Anthony Ogbo
So, this motorist wanted to drop a token for the panhandler. He stopped abruptly in the middle of a bustling intersection while the traffic light was green. This resulted in the near collision of multiple vehicles. Furthermore, he blocked a lane while the panhandler reluctantly walked up. It was a mess. Obviously, there is nothing wrong with giving to roadside beggars, but how, when, and where people do this matters—especially when it constitutes risks and lawlessness.
The above-referenced real-world analogy illustrates the over-published feud between the City of Houston and Food Not Bombs, a volunteer group that feeds the homeless. For the last 15 years, Food Not Bombs has been serving the homeless outside the Houston Public Library downtown, dishing out vegetarian meals four nights a week at this location by the corner of McKinney and Smith streets. However, on March 1, the group received a citation from the City of Houston for violating a city ordinance.
This ordinance was actually enacted in 2012 under the previous regime of Mayor Annise Parker. The law makes it “unlawful for any organization or individual to sponsor or conduct a food service event on public or private property without the advance written consent of the public or private property owner or other individual with lawful control of the property.”
Food Not Bombs is not permitted to hold its distribution outside the library. It might be understandable that the volunteer group may have initially violated this law because it was unaware of the regulation. But what might be underhandedly political is why they remained in that location, proudly collecting multiple citations from the city, shedding crocodile tears, and using them to generate cheap publicity and attention from the mainstream media.
Currently, Food Not Bombs spends more time documenting and litigating violation tickets than the very cause they are supposed to be undertaking. On August 3, eight of the 47 tickets were dismissed because the HPD officers that issued them did not show up for court. The group vowed to fight, but the city insisted on its enforcement. In its release, the city maintained that it “intends to vigorously pursue violations of its ordinance relating to the feeding of the homeless,” vowing to “refile cases dismissed without prejudice.”
From all indications, Food Not Bombs does not like this ordinance, but rather than challenge it lawfully, it chose a civil disobedience route. Even as the city offered it an alternate location less than half a mile away to hold their feedings, the group stubbornly decided not to move.
During an August 8 City Council meeting, Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner said the city doesn’t have an issue with volunteers feeding the unhoused population but does have a problem with it being at the Central Library. According to Mayor Turner, “Can we provide food for those who need assistance and also maintain the library for the greater community, even those who are homeless, to utilize those services? The answer is yes.… You just don’t have the right to choose where you want to be at the expense of everybody else in the city. So, the citations will continue because you can’t just do this and then try to engage in a PR campaign to make it seem like the city is being insensitive to those who are homeless. No, that is not the case.”
Mayor Turner was absolutely right about the intent. The whole thing is a PR operation by radicals hiding under a charitable cause to promote tasteless conspiracies against the local government. Only a fool will buy that theory – that the city is insensitive to the homeless. These laws are not meant to discourage or criminalize kindness but to protect general safety, and guarantee the rights of citizens against abuses by other people, organizations, and the government.
There are many ways to protest local ordinances, and trading a charitable cause for civil disobedience is not one of them. Justice is not stupid. Indeed, it is unlawful to challenge a statute by arrogantly violating it. Moreover, it is insensitive to use the homeless as a shield for a pugnacious political vendetta.
♦ Publisher of the Guardian News, Anthony Obi Ogbo, Ph.D. is a visiting professor at the Texas Southern University. He is on the Editorial Board of the West African Pilot News, and the author of the Influence of Leadership (2015) and the Maxims of Political Leadership (2019). Contact: anthony@guardiannews.us
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“It is truly disheartening to witness Sylvester Turner running in an election against candidates who have been his dedicated campaign volunteers and supporters since childhood, and throughout his entire political career.”
—Anthony Ogbo
Earlier this week, the children of the late Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) officially endorsed former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner (D) as a candidate for their mother’s House seat. This endorsement confirms that Former Turner is indeed one of the candidates vying for the position. In a statement, Jackson Lee’s children, Jason Lee and Erica Lee Carter, expressed their support for Turner to carry on their mother’s legacy in the seat.
74-year Jackson Lee, a prominent figure in Houston politics, passed away last week after revealing her battle with pancreatic cancer earlier this year. She had represented the 18th Congressional District since 1995, earning a reputation for her unwavering dedication and frequent presence at community events within the district.
Among the declared and potential Democratic candidates vying for Jackson Lee’s seat are former Houston City Council member Amanda Edwards, former Houston City Councilman Dwight Boykins, Second Vice President for the Harris County Department of Education Erica Davis, State Rep. Jarvis Johnson, Texas State Representative Christina Morales, Houston City Council member Letitia Plummer, and businessman Robert Slater.
Recently, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott officially announced the special election to fill this position, which will take place on the same day as the general election. The special election will determine who will serve the remainder of Jackson Lee’s term, ending in January. Simultaneously, the general election will decide who will serve the next term, beginning in January and concluding in January 2027.
Houstonians are surprised by the news of Turner potentially considering a congressional position. There is uncertainty and speculation among his community supporters, with concerns about the impact on his physical well-being as a 69-year-old who recently battled bone cancer. Turner is a seasoned attorney, activist, and politician who ended his term in office due to health concerns, including surgery and radiation therapy for his jaw cancer.
There is currently a discussion surrounding the potential for Turner to assume a new role in Congress because his health issues cast doubt on his capacity to fulfill the responsibilities of this position. This has elicited a range of emotions among observers, with some expressing concern about his ability to effectively manage the demands of the role. Despite his experience and dedication to public service, concerns linger about his physical stability and capacity, to effectively represent constituents in a more demanding political arena.
Turner’s consideration to vie for Sheila Jackson Lee’s congressional seat also reveals a poignant irony. Jackson Lee tragically passed away while juggling the demands of her congressional responsibilities and battling a deadly form of cancer. Despite undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer, she tirelessly worked to support her constituents during the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl. For over two weeks, Jackson Lee stood up for the thousands of individuals in her district who were left vulnerable without power.
Some members of the community believed that Jackson-Lee should have retired after her cancer diagnosis. However, her passing could serve as a lesson to other long-serving public officials who would neglect their health in pursuit of power and public service.
To me, Sylvester Turner should cancel his bid for this seat. It is truly disheartening to witness Sylvester Turner running in an election against candidates who have been his dedicated campaign volunteers and supporters since childhood, and throughout his entire political career.
The impact of politics on physical, psychological, and social health is a reality that cannot be denied. Recently, President Joe Biden decided to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race after facing intense pressure, speculation, and internal turmoil within his own Democratic Party. Concerns about his health, both physical and cognitive, have been a constant focus in recent weeks, especially his lackluster performance at the June 27 presidential debate. This situation highlights the toll that politics can take on individuals at the highest levels of government.
Public officials need to prioritize their health and well-being, as neglecting it can have serious consequences. Serving the public is a noble calling, but it should not come at the expense of one’s own health. Jackson-Lee’s passing should remind all public servants of the importance of retirement. It serves as a sobering reminder that life is precious and unpredictable and that it is essential to prioritize self-care and well-being to enjoy a fulfilling retirement after years of dedicated service.
Ultimately, Jackson-Lee’s passing should inspire Turner to take proactive steps toward sustaining his happy and healthy retirement. He should reconsider his bid for Jackson Lee’s Congressional Seat. At this point in his career, it may be more beneficial for him to contemplate retirement and offer his support those candidates who have long been supporters of his campaign during his political career. Running an election alongside those mentees might be seen as a selfish but insatiable appetite for office?
♦Publisher of the Guardian News, Journalism and RTF Professor, Dr. Anthony Obi Ogbo, is on the Editorial Board of the West African Pilot News. He is the author of the Influence of Leadership (2015) and the Maxims of Political Leadership (2019). Contact: anthony@guardiannews.us
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- Haitian immigrant group calls for arrest warrants for Trump and Vance in Ohio - September 28, 2024
“In the criminal court of public opinion, every Nigerian is a suspect.“ —Anthony Ogbo
Nigeria is currently in a state of tension as a highly anticipated national protest unfolds, aimed at addressing issues of bad governance, economic hardship, and inflation. Hundreds of protesters, many of them young people, have gathered in central Nigeria with placards criticizing the government’s policies. A week-long nationwide protest was scheduled to begin tomorrow, Wednesday, Aug. 1.
The necessity of this event is evident as the cost of living has skyrocketed since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu took office in May of last year. Hardship has only worsened following the removal of a controversial fuel subsidy and the implementation of other reforms. The prices of essential goods have soared, access to reliable electricity remains a distant dream, and long queues for fuel are a common sight in a country that is one of the world’s top oil and gas producers. The economic situation in Nigeria at present can only be described as dire.
Protests are a legitimate and powerful means of expressing dissent in a democratic society, allowing people to voice their grievances and influence political decisions. However, if not managed properly, protests can have negative consequences such as property damage, disruptions to daily life, and the potential for violence. The 1989 anti-Structural Adjustment Program protest in Nigeria, for example, spiraled into chaos and violence, causing harm to civilians. Similarly, the End SARS protest in 2020, initially against police brutality, was marred by vandalism and violence when hijacked by criminals, resulting in the tragic deaths of innocent protesters.
There are concerns that this protest may face challenges since the organizers and the regime could not agree on the demands. Omoyele Sowore, a former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) and one of the protest’s organizers, has shared these demands with the media. Upon objective analysis, some of the demands may not be feasible and could hinder any potential compromise. For example, the protesters are calling for the regime to abolish the Senate arm of the Nigerian legislative system, retain the House of Representatives, and make lawmaking a part-time public service. How?
This proposal is not in line with democratic principles, as the executive branch does not have the authority to alter the structure of the legislative branch. The separation of powers is a fundamental aspect of democracy, ensuring that each branch of government has its own responsibilities and limitations. So how would this be implemented by President Tinubu?
Again, while the demand to suspend the 1999 constitution and replace it with a people-facilitated Constitution through a sovereign National Conference and a National Referendum is a valid point, it raises questions about President Tinubu’s constitutional authority to implement such changes.
The very foundation of the Nigerian system is built upon deceit and dishonesty.
Additionally, the call for a probe into past and present Nigerian leaders who have engaged in corruption, recover their stolen funds, and allocate them to education, healthcare, and infrastructure is commendable. However, it also highlights the potential conflict of interest among the leaders and stakeholders of the protest who may have been involved in similar activities. Every leader, past and present is corrupt. In the criminal court of public opinion, every Nigerian is a suspect. Throughout history, leaders (past and present including the protest leaders) have been plagued by corruption. In fact, the very foundation of the Nigerian system is built upon deceit and dishonesty.
Without a doubt, the upcoming protest faces challenges due to conflicting demands and questions about the feasibility of certain proposals. It is essential for all parties involved to engage in constructive dialogue and seek common ground to address the issues at hand effectively.
Given the current state of affairs in Nigeria, it is evident that there is a pressing need for some form of protest to exert pressure on the current administration. The economic and social systems in Nigeria are in disarray with Tinubu’s regime being plagued by widespread corruption, eroding trust in government institutions, and impeding economic progress. Income inequality is rampant, with a small elite class hoarding wealth while the majority of the population struggles to survive. High unemployment rates, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to quality education and healthcare further compound the country’s challenges, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and instability.
It is imperative for all stakeholders to come together to effect meaningful change and foster a more just and equitable Nigeria. This collaborative effort should involve individuals, communities, governments, businesses, and organizations working in unison to address systemic issues such as poverty, discrimination, and inequality.
As previously mentioned, some of the demands set forth by the organizers appear to be unrealistic and lacking in feasible solutions, leading to suspicions of hidden agendas. For instance, the call for the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu (MNK) and the “demilitarization” of the South East appears to be a strategic move to capitalize on the emotional ties of the Igbo community, particularly in the East where Kanu hails from. Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is currently detained on terror-related charges.
It is evident that the organizers are attempting to leverage the Igbo community’s strong political sentiments to bolster their cause, despite opposition from many Igbo leaders. This tactic raises questions about the true intentions behind the protests and underscores the need for transparency and accountability in their pursuit of social change.
The decision to protest or not can hinge on specific interests or potential benefits, as different communities stand to gain or lose depending on the outcome. Unfortunately, the average business owner often finds themselves as the primary victims of the looting that can occur during these protests. It is concerning that protesters have not adequately addressed how to protect the hundreds of businesses in Abuja, Lagos, and other major northern cities that are frequently targeted and damaged during such events.
While political protests are undeniably powerful tools for advocating change, amplifying voices, and challenging the status quo, it is essential to consider the potential consequences. Protests have historically been powerful catalysts for change, shaping the course of history and driving progress. However, when lacking clear objectives, they can devolve into mere displays of violence and destruction, serving only to garner superficial attention on social media.
♦Publisher of the Guardian News, Professor Anthony Obi Ogbo,PhD, is on the Editorial Board of the West African Pilot News. He is the author of the Influence of Leadership (2015) Maxims of Political Leadership (2019) and The Situation Room (2024). Contact: anthony@guardiannews.us
- Amanpour: Melania Trump’s ‘mainstream media’ remark is ‘dangerous’ - September 28, 2024
- Hurricane Helene kills at least 44 and causes havoc across the Southeast - September 28, 2024
- Haitian immigrant group calls for arrest warrants for Trump and Vance in Ohio - September 28, 2024
“It is worth considering whether Trump’s assassin would have been treated differently if he were Black.“ —Anthony Ogbo
On Saturday, July 13, a gunman, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, armed with an AR-15 assault rifle, brazenly carried his killer weapon to the rooftop from a short distance to the podium where the former President, Donald Trump was addressing a political rally. Unchallenged, he fired up to eight shots toward the stage, with one shot hitting Trump’s right ear. Tragically, one rally-goer died, and two others were critically injured before the assailant was taken down by a Secret Service sniper. The shooter was identified as white.
Just a few days later, on Tuesday, five Columbus police officers in Milwaukee shot and killed a homeless man outside the security perimeter of the Republican convention. The man was waving knives at others, and residents reported that he had been living in a tent. To be precise, this incident took place about 1 mile from the convention in a residential neighborhood that included a large homeless encampment. The homeless man was Black.
Since the incident involving Trump, investigators have been diligently working to determine the cause of the attack and prevent future occurrences. They have explored various theories and possibilities as they come to terms with how the individual was able to conveniently carry out such a heinous act.
Attendees at the event had alerted local police about the shooter heading towards the rooftop. However, authorities failed to communicate this information to security personnel, potentially jeopardizing the safety of the former President. A Homeland Security law enforcement memo revealed that the shooter had recently purchased ammunition, received hazardous material shipments, and had improvised explosive devices in his car and home.
It was also reported that before the would-be assassin aimed at Trump, attendees reported they saw him pacing and behaving strangely. Crooks was not shot, rather, local police officers began pursuing him on foot. During the pursuit, the U.S. official said, local police told the Secret Service they were looking for a suspicious person near the event. Furthermore, the U.S. official said the Secret Service was told of a suspicious person before local police discovered Crooks on the roof of a nearby glass research company’s building. That discovery occurred shortly before Crooks opened fire, according to law enforcement sources.
The timing of these events raises concerns about whether additional precautions could have been implemented to prevent Crook’s actions. It is worth considering whether this assassin would have been treated differently if he had been Black. Comparing both events can provide insight into potential biases and disparities in treatment based on race.
The fact that the suspect in Trump’s assassination attempt in Pennsylvania was White and was handled with such reluctance and oversight, while the Black homeless man in Milwaukee was shot and killed instantly by police, highlights the disparities in how individuals of different races are treated by law enforcement. This raises questions about whether race played a role in how both incidents were handled and whether there are underlying biases that need to be addressed within the criminal justice system.
Authorities claimed that the fatal shooting in Milwaukee was not connected to the convention. However, this incident sheds light on larger concerns regarding the use of external law enforcement for events such as conventions. Furthermore, it is important to examine these cases closely and consider how systemic racism may be influencing outcomes in similar situations. By acknowledging these disparities, we can work towards creating a more just and equitable society for all individuals, regardless of their race.
Despite efforts to address systemic racism and improve police-community relations, recent events such as the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Daunte Wright have highlighted the ongoing challenges and injustices faced by Black Americans at the hands of law enforcement. These incidents serve as a stark reminder that there is still much work to be done to achieve true equality and justice for all individuals, regardless of race. It is clear that while progress has been made in some areas, the reality on the ground continues to show that racial disparities and police brutality remain pervasive issues in America.
♦Publisher of the Guardian News, Professor Anthony Obi Ogbo,PhD, is on the Editorial Board of the West African Pilot News. He is the author of the Influence of Leadership (2015) and the Maxims of Political Leadership (2019). Contact: anthony@guardiannews.us
- Amanpour: Melania Trump’s ‘mainstream media’ remark is ‘dangerous’ - September 28, 2024
- Hurricane Helene kills at least 44 and causes havoc across the Southeast - September 28, 2024
- Haitian immigrant group calls for arrest warrants for Trump and Vance in Ohio - September 28, 2024
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