The Read heard around the Internet
Whew. Remind me to never end up on the wrong side of Quanell X and Candice Matthews because babbbbyyyy… the way they verbally dismantled attorney Michael Phillips belongs in the “Read for Filth Hall of Fame.”
The confrontation has gone viral after allegations surfaced that Phillips used a racial slur toward a Black attorney during court proceedings in Brazoria County. A video of the heated exchange went viral on social media, sparking debate over professionalism, accountability, and whether public shaming still has a place in modern activism.
And listen… whether you agree with Quanell and Candice’s delivery or not, one thing is undeniable: They came with smoke and a deep sense of protection for their community.
At one point, Quanell dared Phillips to repeat the slur toward him directly, declaring, “I’m gon’ make you taste my ancestors.” Now look, I don’t know if that’s scientifically possible. But in that moment? Quanell almost had me believing ancestry could, in fact, become a physical experience.
Humor aside, beneath all the viral clips and internet commentary is something much deeper: Frustration. Black communities are exhausted by constantly being told to remain calm, measured, and polished in the face of disrespect, while others are granted the freedom to offend, provoke, and dehumanize without consequence.
No, the confrontation wasn’t pretty. Activism rarely is.
But throughout history, every movement has needed different kinds of fighters. Some negotiate quietly in boardrooms. Some organize strategically behind the scenes. And some stand flat-footed in front of cameras, making sure people understand there will be consequences for disrespect.
You may not always agree with the method. But you’ll never have to wonder where they stand.
Trump…the disrespect knows no end
Donald Trump has once again reminded America how quickly Black women in journalism become targets when they dare to question power.
ABC News correspondent Rachel Scott was doing her job when she asked Trump why he was focused on cosmetic projects in Washington while tensions with Iran continued to escalate. Instead of answering directly, Trump called her question “stupid,” mocked her publicly, and appeared to call her a “b*tch” as the exchange ended.
Sadly, none of this is surprising.
Black women journalists have long been held to impossible standards: Be sharp, but not “aggressive.” Ask tough questions, but don’t make people uncomfortable. Rachel Scott stood in that room and did exactly what journalists are supposed to do: Hold power accountable. And for that, she became the latest target.
These attacks are not just personal. They are attempts to undermine credibility, silence scrutiny, and intimidate those bold enough to ask the questions others avoid. Maybe one day our political leaders will remember and respect that.
Houston’s moment to shine
In just one month, Houston will welcome the world as the globe’s largest sporting tournament arrives in our city. And beyond the matches themselves, Houston is preparing to make a lasting impression.
Downtown streets are being repaved, sidewalks expanded, and international flags will soon line the city. Businesses are preparing for thousands of visitors, while organizers work to ensure Houston is ready for its global spotlight.
This moment is bigger than sports. For years, Houston has fought against tired stereotypes while quietly becoming one of the most diverse and culturally rich cities in America. Now the world gets to see what we already know: Houston is resilient, welcoming, and built on community.
What’s most encouraging is the intentionality behind the preparation. Leaders aren’t simply hosting games. They’re creating an experience that showcases the city’s culture, accessibility, and pride. And Houston deserves this moment.
Between the construction crews, train schedules, and downtown upgrades is something deeper: a city preparing to introduce itself to the world on its own terms. Humanity loves waiting until the spotlight arrives to appreciate what’s been there all along. Strange habit. But we’ll take it.
For once, the world won’t just pass through Houston. It’ll finally stop long enough to see us.
