After her brother was gunned down in 2012, Jessica Mejía and her mother wanted to legally migrate to the U.S. But like millions of migrants who want to move to the U.S., they discovered how difficult it is.
Houston
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Economy
As Texans struggle with housing costs, cities look for new ways to spur more home construction
In cities dominated by single-family neighborhoods, local leaders across Texas want a broader variety of housing to combat the affordability crisis.
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Public Education
Support for Houston ISD’s Spanish speakers has dwindled under state-appointed leader, parents say
For one reading class, Superintendent Mike Miles said instruction would focus on English, even if it meant risking state funding for dual-language programs. Parents say it goes further than that, adding that their kids are receiving no assistance in Spanish at all.
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Environment
Texas “Ike Dike” coastal barrier project could cost $57 billion with inflation, Army Corps says
The latest figure is 68% higher than an earlier estimate of $34 billion, and it’s unclear when — or whether — Congress will appropriate the money to build the massive system of gates intended to protect the Houston region from storm surge.
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The 2023 Texas Tribune Festival
Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles says he needs four to five years to turn the district around
Miles said he should be held accountable and be fired if the district doesn’t improve academically in the next two years.
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Immigration
Afghan soldier Abdul Wasi Safi, once detained at Texas-Mexico border, wins asylum
The solider helped U.S. forces in Afghanistan. As a refugee, he hoped to save his life by joining his brother in Houston.
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Energy
U.S. Rep. Randy Weber concerned Texas projects hurt amid Freedom Caucus budget fight
The far-right congressman from Friendswood still backs the conservative push to lower spending, but worries bipartisan Texas projects have been impacted.
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Environment
The summer’s record heat has caused costly damage to Texas water systems
As dry soils contract, underground pipes rupture and cities must fix thousands of water leaks, frustrating conservation efforts and highlighting the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to a warming climate.
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Higher Education
Essay: Fifth Ward, Houston, 1952 — One Girl’s Story
In this excerpt from her new memoir, “Up Home,” Ruth J. Simmons recalls moving to Houston at age 6 from rural East Texas. She would go on to serve as president of Smith College, Brown University and Prairie View A&M.
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State Government
Judge declares new Texas law that would erode cities’ power to enact local rules unconstitutional
A state law backed by Gov. Greg Abbott and business lobbying groups to stop cities and counties from passing progressive policies is scheduled to take effect Friday. A Travis County judge declared it unconstitutional.