It is with both a sense of pride and deep sorrow that we reflect on the extraordinary legacy of Congressman Sylvester Turner, a trailblazer who has forever left his mark on the city of Houston and beyond. As one of Black Heritage Society's most cherished contributing sponsors and the founding member of the Juneteenth Parade in Acres Homes, Congressman Turner was a constant champion of Black heritage, culture, and community.

 For years, Congressman Turner’s generosity and dedication as a sponsor allowed us to better serve our community, ensuring that the stories, arts, and history of Black Americans are honored and celebrated. His support was not just financial; it was rooted in his passion for uplifting others and ensuring that our collective history is never forgotten. To him, contributing to the Black Heritage Society wasn’t just about giving—it was about ensuring that future generations would have a deeper connection to the legacy of Black excellence and perseverance.

Congressman Turner’s legacy as a founding member of the Juneteenth parade in Acres Homes speaks to his commitment to preserving the significance of this day. For him, Juneteenth was more than just a commemoration—it was a reminder of the struggles fought, the victories won, and the ongoing fight for freedom and equality. By bringing the parade to life, he ensured that the remembrance of Juneteenth would always have a place in the heart of Houston, keeping this vital piece of history alive for future generations.

We will deeply miss seeing Congressman Turner dancing joyously at our MLK Jr. Gala, riding proudly on floats in the parade, and walking the halls of City Hall with the grace and dignity of a leader who understood the weight of history. His final breath was taken while still fighting for the rights and benefits of all—making sure that the progress we’ve made would never be taken for granted, and that the fight for justice would continue long after he was gone.

As Mayor of Houston, Congressman Turner faced countless obstacles, yet he always stood resilient. His tenure was marked by an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Houston’s citizens, advocating for the underserved, and ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities were heard. His accomplishments, particularly in the areas of education, economic development, and social justice, are a testament to his dedication to creating a more equitable society.

Congressman Turner’s impact will never be forgotten. He has set a powerful example for all of us to follow—to never give up, to fight for what’s right, and to always remember where we come from. As we continue his work, we do so with a sense of gratitude and resolve, knowing that his vision will live on through the work of the Black Heritage Society and the countless lives he touched.

So, as we bid farewell to our beloved friend and champion, we do so knowing that this is not the end. His legacy will continue to inspire us, and we will carry his memory with us as we keep pushing forward in his honor.

Farewell, Congressman Sylvester Turner. Until we meet again.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Teresa Brewer

President

Black Heritage Society, Inc.

Martin Luther King Jr. Parade Foundation, Inc.