By Garry Blanson
A Former Slave and One of the Founders of Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
During my regular research activity online, I came across an article about a lawsuit against the NASCAR association that included former NBA basketball star Michael Jordan. What I found interesting about the lawsuit is that it centered around reckless rules, which are similar to some of the LHSAA rules. Some even referred to the NASCAR rules as “monopolistic practices.”
After Michael Jordan testified in court on the matter, NASCAR decided it was best to agree to a settlement. Please note, while NASCAR realized its error and agreed to change its rules, the LHSAA has yet to do the same. Even after a lengthy investigation by a Louisiana State Congress committee—and the committee’s recommendations for the LHSAA to operate differently—the organization boldly rejected those recommendations.
At one point, during a hearing held at the Louisiana State Capitol on September 23, 2025, Louisiana State Representative Yehmi Jahi Chassion became so frustrated with members of the LHSAA that he hinted he might look into starting a different Louisiana sports association. Now that the LHSAA has shown the Louisiana State Congress committee that it has no intention of carrying out those recommendations, what will the legislature do next to address the stress and unrest surrounding the rules, policies, and practices of the LHSAA? Let that marinate for a moment.
Now, on to this week’s Black pioneer, Henry Demas.
Henry Demas was born into slavery on April 16, 1848, in St. John the Baptist Parish, Louisiana. He went from being enslaved to fighting in the Union military, to being elected as a Louisiana constable in 1870, to serving two terms as a Louisiana legislator, and then becoming a Louisiana state senator. What an astounding accomplishment following such a grotesque period as the American Civil War.
Other notable roles Henry Demas held within the state included co-founding Southern University in Baton Rouge; being appointed as a captain in the state militia in 1874; serving as parish treasurer; serving on the parish school board; and receiving an appointment from Senator Mark Hanna and President William McKinley to the New Orleans Naval Office. That appointment created such a stir that some say it contributed to the deaths of both Henry Demas and President McKinley.
Sadly, on April 19, 1900, while living in New Orleans, Louisiana, Henry Demas succumbed to a disease known as Bright’s disease. He was laid to rest in Edgard, Louisiana.
