The Politics of Access: What AfroTech can teach us about empowering innovation and equity
| November 14, 2025
At AfroTech in Houston, the energy was more than innovation. It was a call to expand power and access. Stacey Abrams’ powerful message about AI, democracy, and equity revealed why Texas’ tech future must serve everyone.
I’m a Texan. But I don’t know if I can be a Texas OB-GYN
| November 14, 2025
ABORTION | HEALTH | health care | HEALTHCARE | HEALTHCARE | maternal healthcare | TEXAS | women's health
'I worry that I won’t be able to provide certain types of care because of the laws. I worry about the moral distress I’ll feel if I’m unable to act in particular cases—like when a woman might need a termination, and the law says that you can’t do one. On the other hand, there is value in having a doctor who understands the culture.'
Houston plans new $16 million homeless resource hub
| November 13, 2025
Houston Mayor John Whitmire hosted a public walkthrough of a new facility that will provide shelter and services for individuals experiencing homelessness.
The facility at 419 Emancipation Avenue includes 225 beds. City officials said it will open in early 2026.
Do I need to add ‘preservce democracy’ to my to-do list?
| November 13, 2025
Ever wonder what’s keeping this whole thing—you know, America—from just totally falling apart? It’s not the folks yelling on TV or trolling online: It’s the quiet work happening in local communities like yours.
Subscribe to COURIER HTX at the link in our bio for ways you can do your part.
Here are just some of the free things to do inside the Texas Renaissance Festival
| November 13, 2025
Running through Nov. 30, the Texas Renaissance Festival has something for every budget. Come along with Houston Newsletter Editor, Sierra as she explores free things to do at the festival and subscribe to the COURIER HTX free email newsletter at the link in our bio to keep up with more Houston happenings.
Remembering Cleo Hearn: Visionary Behind Cowboys of Color Rodeo Dies at 86
| November 13, 2025
Cleo Hearn | Community | Cowboys of Color | CULTURE | DALLAS | DFW | DFW Lead Story | LIFESTYLE | rodeo | TEXAS | TEXAS HISTORY
Cleo Hearn, who was known for creating the Cowboys of Color Rodeo, has died at the age of 86. Here’s what you need to know about his life and legacy. Cleo Hearn, a legend in the Texas rodeo community, died on November 9 at the age of 86. He will be remembered, among many other […]
TX walk to bring attention to substance-use disorders
| November 13, 2025
Community | CULTURE | DALLAS | DFW | FAMILY | HEALTH | LIFESTYLE | mental health | shatterproof | shatterproof walks | substance abuse
Drug poisoning deaths have increased by 75% in Texas over the last five years. In hopes of ending the stigma surrounding substance-use disorders, hundreds of people are expected to gather in Dallas Saturday for a walk sponsored by the nonprofit Shatterproof. The Shatterproof Walk to End Addiction Stigma will bring together advocates, families and those in recovery who want to see addictions addressed with more compassion.
Everything you need to know about the Cowboys Thanksgiving game
| November 12, 2025
Community | CULTURE | DALLAS | dallas cowboys | dallas cowboys thanksgiving game | DFW | ENTERTAINMENT | HARDGATE | HOLIDAYS | LIFESTYLE | SPORTS | TEXAS | thanksgiving | THINGS TO DO
The Cowboys Thanksgiving game is a lovely tradition. Learn about the team’s Turkey Day history, what to expect this year, and the special treat the winners get.
New lung cancer report shows Texas below average in treatment, early diagnosis especially in Black communities
| November 12, 2025
Community | diversity | EQUALITY | HEALTH | health care | health insurance | HEALTHCARE | HEALTHCARE | TEXAS
The State of Lung Cancer 2025 found that Black individuals in Texas are the least likely racial group to receive surgical treatment. While the rate of Black people in Texas who are diagnosed with cancer is similar to the national average, the five-year survival rate and the treatment rate are both vastly different from the national average and the rates of white individuals.
Epstein email says Trump ‘knew about the girls,’ but White House says release is a Democratic smear
| November 12, 2025
The sex-offending financier Jeffrey Epstein wrote in a 2019 email to a journalist that Donald Trump “knew about the girls," according to communications released Wednesday, but the White House quickly accused Democrats of selectively leaking the emails to smear the president.
Christian Menefee, Amanda Edwards in runoff for US House seat in Houston
| November 12, 2025
Christian Menefee and Amanda Edwards, both Democrats, topped a field of 16 candidates for a US House seat in Houston and will now face one another in a runoff.
Harry Potter: The Exhibition: We made potions, fought Boggarts, & had a magical time
| November 12, 2025
CULTURE | DALLAS | DFW | DFW Lead Story | ENTERTAINMENT | HARDGATE | harry potter | harry potter: the exhibition | LIFESTYLE | TEXAS | THINGS TO DO
Harry Potter: The Exhibition in Dallas was jam-packed with spells, photo ops, and magical moments with my three kids.
All the places in Houston where you can take your workout outdoors
| November 12, 2025
Community | CULTURE | HARDGATE | HEALTH | HOUSTON LEAD STORY | HTX | outdoor workouts | outdoors | recreation | TEXAS
From outdoor fitness classes to running trails and park workouts, fall is the perfect time to discover Houston’s best spots for exercising al fresco.
Spend less time in the kitchen and save some bucks with these Houston Thanksgiving feasts
| November 10, 2025
Community | CULTURE | food & drink | food and drink | HARDGATE | HOUSTON LEAD STORY | HTX | LIFESTYLE
Turkey, stuffing, pies, cranberry sauce, rolls, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes…Thanksgiving suppers can not only get lengthy, but also pricey with all you need to buy.
Car-dominant Texas needs more public transit to meet mobility demands, TxDOT report says
| November 10, 2025
A draft of the first-of-its-kind Texas Department of Transportation plan released in October outlines the need for boosted public transportation in rural and smaller urban areas as well as a greater array of travel options, including rail, between the state’s major urban centers.
Political Videos
Government shutdown threatens Houston classrooms
Jasmine Crockett: Republicans use trans people, immigrants to divide Black voters
Jasmine Crockett on fighting GOP free speech attacks: ‘Snatch our power back’
Gov. Greg Abbott would have you rat out your family
Texas has banned over 500 books. That’s why we’re launching the Texas Banned Book Club.
Attacks on academic freedom spread across Texas universities
James Talarico reflects on free speech attacks
4 Democrats eyeing newly drawn US House district in North Texas
Lina Hidalgo on 7 years leading Harris County: ‘I’m most proud of this community’
Texas lawmakers want to honor Charlie Kirk by investigating free speech on college campuses
THINGS TO DO
LOCAL STORIES
The American Black Film Festival will be in Dallas this weekend. Here’s what you need to know
| November 14, 2025
American Black Film Festival | arts | Community | CULTURE | DALLAS | DFW | ENTERTAINMENT | LIFESTYLE | TEXAS
The American Black Film Festival is holding a two-day event this weekend at AMC NorthPark 15. Here are all the details.
The Politics of Access: What AfroTech can teach us about empowering innovation and equity
| November 14, 2025
At AfroTech in Houston, the energy was more than innovation. It was a call to expand power and access. Stacey Abrams’ powerful message about AI, democracy, and equity revealed why Texas’ tech future must serve everyone.
Remembering Cleo Hearn: Visionary Behind Cowboys of Color Rodeo Dies at 86
| November 13, 2025
Cleo Hearn | Community | Cowboys of Color | CULTURE | DALLAS | DFW | DFW Lead Story | LIFESTYLE | rodeo | TEXAS | TEXAS HISTORY
Cleo Hearn, who was known for creating the Cowboys of Color Rodeo, has died at the age of 86. Here’s what you need to know about his life and legacy. Cleo Hearn, a legend in the Texas rodeo community, died on November 9 at the age of 86. He will be remembered, among many other […]
TX walk to bring attention to substance-use disorders
| November 13, 2025
Community | CULTURE | DALLAS | DFW | FAMILY | HEALTH | LIFESTYLE | mental health | shatterproof | shatterproof walks | substance abuse
Drug poisoning deaths have increased by 75% in Texas over the last five years. In hopes of ending the stigma surrounding substance-use disorders, hundreds of people are expected to gather in Dallas Saturday for a walk sponsored by the nonprofit Shatterproof. The Shatterproof Walk to End Addiction Stigma will bring together advocates, families and those in recovery who want to see addictions addressed with more compassion.
New lung cancer report shows Texas below average in treatment, early diagnosis especially in Black communities
| November 12, 2025
Community | diversity | EQUALITY | HEALTH | health care | health insurance | HEALTHCARE | HEALTHCARE | TEXAS
The State of Lung Cancer 2025 found that Black individuals in Texas are the least likely racial group to receive surgical treatment. While the rate of Black people in Texas who are diagnosed with cancer is similar to the national average, the five-year survival rate and the treatment rate are both vastly different from the national average and the rates of white individuals.
WIC benefits remain secure for now as SNAP delays continue during federal shutdown
| November 7, 2025
As Texas heads into its second week of Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits being delayed, recipients are unsure if they will receive even a portion of their usual payment to help cover groceries. Meanwhile, another crucial nutrition program—WIC—is holding steady, though officials warn a prolonged federal shutdown could put it at risk.
More Than a Prayer Hall: Houston’s New Ismaili Center Offers Community Spaces for Everyone
| November 7, 2025
Community | CULTURE | EDUCATION | HARDGATE | HTX | Ismaili Center | Jamatkhanas | LIFESTYLE | prayer halls
The first Ismaili Center in the US is set to open in Houston next month. Here are all of the details.
