Reflections on legacy, political advisory role, and historical activism

 From the Desk of Ray / RC Jones

President, North-side Political Action Group

What goes around comes around no matter how powerful you are, when death knocks on your door, your time on earth is finished. So, whether people speak well or badly about you, it does not matter. The saying is true, what goes around comes around.

With that being said, please do not call me in an attempt to dictate what Mr. Aubrey Taylor should or should not write. He is a reporter, and I happen to be one of his political advisors. I have spent over 50 years engaged in Black politics in Harris County, working with nearly every elected official in office today in some capacity. I appreciate your understanding.

My political journey began in the 18th Congressional District, where I worked and campaigned for the late Barbara Jordan. If you have concerns, direct them to Mr. Aubrey Taylor. I receive many calls with positive remarks and others with criticism regarding Sylvester Turner. To those with concerns, I encourage you to speak with Black business owners in Houston and Harris County. I also urge you to revisit the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey and observe how many blue tarps still remain on rooftops today.

Now, let me tell you about myself. If it weren’t for Rosa Parks, I might not have been one of the first Black individuals to integrate the City of Houston’s bus service as a driver, then known as Rapid Transit. I also took a stand at the lunch counters of Kress, Grants, and Woolworth until the decision was made that Black individuals could no longer be denied service. This is just a glimpse of how long I’ve been involved in the fight for civil rights and political activism.

One thing I can say about Mr. Aubrey Taylor is that he is a genius when it comes to analyzing political data. Many candidates hire campaign managers who lack this skill, but Mr. Taylor and I work with investigators who conduct thorough research before we report on any issue. I personally appreciate him for allowing me to use his platform to amplify the political concerns of the North-side Political Action Group.

If we had made the right decision in replacing Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, we would not have to wonder what Governor Abbott will do regarding a special election. We should have flipped the script allowing Sheila Jackson Lee’s daughter to serve out the remaining two years of the term.

Black people, it’s time to wake up. The political game is being played, and you are not on a team because you are allowing a select few to speak on your behalf. Don’t complain when things don’t turn out as you want them to.

When it comes to voting, you should be able to vote with your own conscience. As you review the list of individuals considering running for the 18th Congressional District, I can already identify the top two candidates in that race. I evaluate their performance and examine their past records to assess their credibility. It’s time to be informed, engaged, and strategic.

I would also like to invite everyone to listen to an inspiring sermon by Rev. Jerry Black, titled "A Trip to Job’s House." You can find it at the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZ-l5MaDDZo

Rev. Jerry Black - A Trip to Job’s House

May this message bring encouragement and strength to all who hear it.

Sincerely,

Ray / RC Jones

President, North-side Political Action Group