Texas Standard: Thanksgiving Day 2024 Celebrations in Texas
The Lone Star State of Texas is abuzz with a myriad of stories on this Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024. From initiatives supporting Black farmers to coral relocation projects and artistic endeavors, the Texas Standard has captured the essence of the state’s diverse and vibrant culture.
Supporting Black Farmers in Texas
KERA’s Elizabeth Myong shed light on the Texas nonprofit dedicated to increasing the representation of Black farmers in the state, where they currently account for only 2% of all U.S. farmers. This nonprofit’s efforts are crucial in fostering diversity and inclusivity in the agricultural sector, paving the way for a more equitable future for Black farmers in Texas.
Operation Coral Rescue: Protecting Endangered Coral
In a collaborative effort between researchers from Florida’s Nova Southeastern University and Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, 300 coral fragments have been relocated to the Texas coast as part of the “Operation Coral Rescue” initiative. Led by Keisha Bahr, assistant professor of marine biology at Texas A&M Corpus Christi, this conservation project aims to safeguard endangered coral species and preserve marine biodiversity in the Gulf of Mexico.
The ‘Honey Island General Store’: A Visual Journey
The folk band Little Mazarn’s nostalgic song, “Honey Island General Store,” has been brought to life through a captivating video. Delving into the creative process behind this visual masterpiece, the Texas Standard uncovered the inspiring story of the student animator and teacher who collaborated to make the ‘Honey Island General Store’ video a reality.
Artistic Resilience at the Dallas Museum of Art
Despite the devastation caused by the destruction of priceless artwork in 2022, the Dallas Museum of Art has triumphed with the debut of three new pieces by a resilient Caddo artist. This artistic comeback serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and resilience in the face of adversity.
Sheng Wang: From Netflix Success to Comedic Homecoming
Following the success of his Netflix standup special, “Sweet and Juicy,” Houston native Sheng Wang has garnered widespread acclaim in the comedy scene. As he prepares for a comedic homecoming, Wang’s journey from local talent to international stardom exemplifies the power of humor to transcend boundaries and bring people together.
Jon Muq: Bridging Cultures Through Music
Uganda-born musician Jon Muq has found a home in Austin, Texas, where his debut album, “Flying Away,” blends Ugandan and Western musical influences. With production from Black Keys guitarist Dan Auerbach, Muq’s music transcends boundaries, uniting diverse cultural elements into a harmonious blend of sounds that resonate with audiences worldwide.
Honoring Excellence in Photojournalism
Texas-based visual journalist Tamir Kalifa was recognized with the prestigious American Mosaic Photojournalism Prize for his outstanding coverage of communities affected by gun violence, including Uvalde. This $100,000 grant highlights the importance of independent journalism in shedding light on pressing social issues and amplifying marginalized voices in society.
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