With deeply set roots in both South Minneapolis, MN and

the Historic Third Ward area in Houston, TX,

the Institute for Arts and Academic Leadership & Athletic eXcellence [AALAX], formerly the Frazier Foundation,  stands in solidarity with these communities that have reached a boiling point over the killing of an unarmed Black man, George Floyd, who called both places home. Bottled up racial tension has erupted and our communities are sick of being over-policed and underserved. The violence and destruction in many cities across America, as well as around the world, are loud cries of visceral pain, anger and fear. 

 

We acknowledge that today’s fear and trauma is layered on hundreds of years of historic and acute trauma as well as systemic economic oppression that Black communities have endured. We understand how important it is for Black people to be heard and understood rather than feared and hunted. AALAX is devoted to fostering generations of listening ears and understanding hearts. 

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Please take 8 minutes and 46 seconds

to experience this soul stirring video tribute to George Floyd by our dear friend, Country Music artist, Imaj - America's Sweetheart, with her song, "8:46 [I Can't Breathe]."  For booking information and to learn more about Imaj, check out her website: www.LoveImaj.com

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AALAX supports all communities in fighting for a just and transparent system - not one that benefits oppressors. We support our elder and younger community leaders in the fight against police brutality. All lives can’t matter until Black Lives Matter! With that being said, we will be doing our part to support the George Floyd Memorial Scholarship in both Minneapolis and in Houston, TX.

 

To learn more about the Minneapolis George Floyd Memorial Scholarship, see the following: George Floyd Memorial Scholarship at North Central Community College.

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To learn more about Texas Southern University [TSU] Foundation Board partnering with the Board of Regents at TSU in honor of the memory of George Floyd approving a fund to provide a full scholarship for Floyd’s beloved daughter, Gianna, see the following:  TSU Announces Scholarship Fund for Daughter of George Floyd.​

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To learn more about the 17 year old, Darnella Frazier [no relation], who filmed the footage that has changed the world's optics of racial bias, injustice, and police brutality click on the following: Justice for George Floyd

 

As we receive it, we will also disseminate more information on artists, civic engagement, resources, services, and programs. Check back often as this is an extremely fluid time in our history.

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Rest in Heaven, George Floyd.

You changed the world!

 

Sincerely Yours in Service!

Michael D. Lyle II

Chief Programs Officer

Team AALAX