June 1, 2022

Thomas Cole speaks about Texas Civil Rights History

Thomas Cole, PhD, recently presented a talk on No Color Is My Kind, a book he authored about the life of the late Eldrewey Stearns and Houston’s desegregation movement. Hosted by the Bullock Texas State History Museum, Cole’s talk shared…


February 28, 2022

Thomas Cole publishes essay about Eldrewey Stearns

Thomas Cole, PhD, recently published an essay in the Houston Chronicle about Eldrewey Stearns. Dr. Cole recounts his first meeting with Stearns, during which Stearns referred to himself as the “original Texas integration leader.” Cole would become close with Stearns,…


January 8, 2021

Eldrewey Stearnes’ passing mourned by Thomas Cole, the McGovern Center

Civil rights activist Eldrewey Stearnes passed away on December 23 at the age of 89. Stearnes was known for leading sit-ins and demonstrations to desegregate Houston. A recent piece in the Houston Chronicle about Stearnes includes comments from Thomas Cole,…


June 12, 2020

Thomas Cole makes remarks about racism and segregation at UTHealth Town Hall

On June 10, 2020, UTHealth hosted a Town Hall to listen and discuss how the university can continue its commitment to fairness, equity, and respect for all. Joined by leaders across campus, Center director Thomas Cole, PhD, shared a historical…