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Houston's Journey Towards Social Justice & Economic Equity.
The Houston Fund for Social Justice and Economic Equity takes immense pride in announcing its inaugural event: The HEF Distinguished Lecture Series. This pivotal event heralds a milestone in Houston's journey towards fostering genuine trans- formation in communities that need it the most. Spotlight on Houston's Torchbearers
In a time when the global pandemic was at its peak and the world grappled with pressing racial issues, Houston's visionaries saw a chance to sow seeds of positive change. At the heart of this transformation lies the dedication of the Houston Equity Fund. Comprising stalwart Houston leaders, the fund is a beacon of hope, dedicated to fortifying the under-represented non- profits and small ventures of Houston, especially those championing the Black community.
Why The HEF Matters More Than Ever:
• Economic Disparity: Wealth plays a pivotal role in dictating quality of life. In Houston's major counties, Black house- holds, unfortunately, earn 50% less than their White counterparts.
• Education: A stark contrast exists in educational qualifications with 26% of Black residents holding a Bachelor’s degree or above compared to 47% of White residents.
• Economic Segregation: Houston ranks among the top five cities in the U.S. with high economic segregation.
• IT Employment: Black individuals constitute a mere 8% of the core IT workforce in the U.S.
• Philanthropy: A scanty 2% of Houston's philanthropic contributions are directed towards institutions representing people of color.Explore More About Houston's Economic Landscape
• Literary Luminaries: A Confluence of Stories Join us to immerse yourself in enriching narratives brought to life by two distinguished authors:
• Victoria Christopher Murray: Celebrated as one of the nation's leading African American authors, Victoria boasts a readership spanning over 3 million. Her acclaimed work, "The First Ladies," paints a vivid tableau of the camaraderie between First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and civil rights stalwart Mary McLeod Bethune. This masterpiece, which delineates an unlikely alliance that sculpted history, has earned the title of Target’s 2023 Book of the Year.
• Pamela Wilson: "Lemuel's Legacy" traces the riveting tale of eight siblings, descendants of slaves, and their tryst with adversities in both the North and the South. Wilson, a progeny of Lemuel, lends authenticity to the narrative by harnessing the potency of 'generational memories.'
Details of the Event:
• Venue: Emancipation Park,
3018 Emancipation Ave, Hou., TX.
• Date: November 15, 2023
• Time: 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 pm
Houston, let's converge, connect, and catalyze change. The Houston Equity Fund invites you to be a part of this transformative journey.