Empowering Black Voters: The Importance of Participation
TEMPE, Arizona — “My vote doesn’t matter.” This is a sentiment commonly heard during election seasons, especially among minority communities. However, one national organization is on a mission to change this perception and emphasize the power of Black voters.
Hamilton Grant, a representative of 100 Black Men of America INC, has been traveling to cities across the country since March to rally Black men to not only register to vote but to actively participate in all elections.
Recently, in Tempe, a group of about two dozen individuals gathered to discuss key issues affecting their community and the significance of voting. Panelist Atllas Hopkins highlighted the historical struggle for voting rights among minorities and stressed the importance of exercising this right.
The discussion covered various topics such as housing, education, crime, and the upcoming presidential election. However, Grant emphasized that the goal was not to dictate how individuals should vote but to encourage engagement in the democratic process at all levels.
According to Grant, the focus should extend beyond national elections to local positions like school boards, city councils, and county councils. Every vote counts, and it is essential for Black men to be active participants in shaping their communities.
“We need to be talking about who represents you on the school board, the city council, the county council,” Grant underscored.
Ultimately, the message is clear: participation is key. Merely registering to vote is not enough; individuals must follow through by casting their ballots. As Grant aptly puts it, “If we’re registering people at record rates, it means nothing if the people we register are not coming out to actually vote.”
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