Things are certainly winding down here at Black Youth Vote, but that is only the beginning. After the Black Youth Vote Civic Leadership Training Conference held in November, participants helped to give direction to the future of the program as well as enlist themselves in the preparation of preparing recommendations to the Obama transition team/administration and the 11th Congress. We are currently working on that plan now. You will hear more soon.
If you are interested in helping to draft this very important document, do not hesitate to contact me at blackyouthvote@ncbcp.org.
Also, we are planning a Pre-Inaugural Black Youth Vote Mixer, if you will. We still haven't formally named the event, but it is sure to be a "not missed" opportunity to meet a few important people and be important yourself.
I look forward to seeing you there.
William
December 11, 2008
December 03, 2008
Sleeping Out for Victims and Survivors for Peace
Last night was the most amazing night of my life. After 24 years of trying to make sense of my mother and brother's deaths, I finally came to the conclusion that their deaths meant peace for the entire world starting with peace in my own local community.
The entire day of Tuesday, December 2, I simply could not wait until 8:00 p.m. when I was to start the "Victims and Survivors for Peace Sleep Out". I was not sure who would show up, but I knew I was. I arrived at 7:00 p.m. with my good friend and brother Tommy from Scotland. I laid my blanket down and propped my pillow on the wall, directly in front of a sign indicating that it was the John Wilson building. You may not know, but Wilson committed suicide during Sharon Pratt Dixon's term as mayor of the city. I knew this going into this movement and wanted to correlate Wilson's death with what is transpiring today and the need for bringing attention to violence, not just domestic violence.
I dialed into the Bev Smith Show and was elated to speak to such a dynamic person. She vowed her support for peace throughout our world and pledged that she would called Congressman Conyers this morning encouraging and requesting a hearing in Congress to show the impact of violence. She also mentioned that she would sit with me while testifying. I am forever grateful for her love and support.
There were more news trucks than I can count coming throughout the night to capture our movement. I was thrilled about getting the word out, but I cannot forget why we were there. When all of the crowds and cameras are gone, we are still here with our pain and grief. But, we have to turn this into resolve and that is what we are doing by holding sleep outs.
I am really thankful for all those who showed up to sleep out, who reached out, and the media for putting our story out there. Thank you to all.
Today, I report that there were no murders last night in the District of Columbia. This is certainly a good start to our peace movement.
The entire day of Tuesday, December 2, I simply could not wait until 8:00 p.m. when I was to start the "Victims and Survivors for Peace Sleep Out". I was not sure who would show up, but I knew I was. I arrived at 7:00 p.m. with my good friend and brother Tommy from Scotland. I laid my blanket down and propped my pillow on the wall, directly in front of a sign indicating that it was the John Wilson building. You may not know, but Wilson committed suicide during Sharon Pratt Dixon's term as mayor of the city. I knew this going into this movement and wanted to correlate Wilson's death with what is transpiring today and the need for bringing attention to violence, not just domestic violence.
I dialed into the Bev Smith Show and was elated to speak to such a dynamic person. She vowed her support for peace throughout our world and pledged that she would called Congressman Conyers this morning encouraging and requesting a hearing in Congress to show the impact of violence. She also mentioned that she would sit with me while testifying. I am forever grateful for her love and support.
There were more news trucks than I can count coming throughout the night to capture our movement. I was thrilled about getting the word out, but I cannot forget why we were there. When all of the crowds and cameras are gone, we are still here with our pain and grief. But, we have to turn this into resolve and that is what we are doing by holding sleep outs.
I am really thankful for all those who showed up to sleep out, who reached out, and the media for putting our story out there. Thank you to all.
Today, I report that there were no murders last night in the District of Columbia. This is certainly a good start to our peace movement.
November 21, 2008
Black Youth Vote! Teleconferences for Post Conference Agenda
The Post Black Youth Vote! Civic Leadership Training Conference Teleconference had 12 attendees discussing, planning and organising. The agenda involved introducing new ideas conceived since the conference, going over volunteer assignments in the areas of building and maintaining a strong foundation and infrastructure, gearing up for an external campaign to brand and expand Black Youth Vote! and prepare for the April legislative based conference in 2009.
BYV! is reignited and energised to prepare it's agenda/recommendations for the new administration and 111th Congress as well as State plans.
It is essential that we begin the work now and follow-through once our elected leaders take office. This is the beginning of a process and Black Youth Vote! is committed throughout the process.
If you are interested in assisting or joining our efforts please email me at blackyouthvote@ncbcp.org.
Let's not sit idly by while others plan our future. We must engage, engage, engage.
BYV! is reignited and energised to prepare it's agenda/recommendations for the new administration and 111th Congress as well as State plans.
It is essential that we begin the work now and follow-through once our elected leaders take office. This is the beginning of a process and Black Youth Vote! is committed throughout the process.
If you are interested in assisting or joining our efforts please email me at blackyouthvote@ncbcp.org.
Let's not sit idly by while others plan our future. We must engage, engage, engage.
November 14, 2008
Kevin Powell Visits the Black Youth Vote! Conference in DC
William Kellibrew: Let’s get right down to business. Young people are dealing with the question, “We voted, now what?” What do you suggest might be next steps to voting in this especially historic election?
Kevin Powell: Wow! I think that young people have to really make voting and civic participation as natural as breathing and brushing their teeth. You know, someone said that the local elections are really crucial between the presidential election every four years. That means that we have to become educated about who our local elected officials are, what they do or don’t do and when they are up for re-election and if there are other viable candidates for that particular position. I also think that young people have to be a member of at least one community based organization outside their religious institution, join something.
William Kellibrew: So, getting involved is important. I definitely agree with that. What does an African-American president mean to this country?
Kevin Powell: it means that there is a thing called possibility in America. It means that a progressive multicultural coalition in America can come together to affect change. I also think that it says this is the beginning of some real work.
That is the continuation of what we fought for in the civil rights movement. But we need to be clear that we are not a post racial or past racism society just because Barak is president. We still have systemic racism in our country. You see it in public school education funding in inner-city areas. You see it in the images in the mass media culture other than Barak and Michelle and you see it in the discrepancies around housing, healthcare and the record number of young people of colour in the prison pipeline. So Obama’s victory is a start, not the end.
William Kellibrew: You know you said some very important things that young people can take a hold of and propel themselves to organize. What are your next steps? I know you ran for Congress and that must be an honor to work so hard to serve the people. What’s next for you?
Kevin Powell: Running for Congress again (with an honest smile and chuckle). We haven’t stopped, the website is up. We are going to fundraise on Monday (chuckling). We are running for Congress in 2010. I say, “We” because we are a team. On top of that I just published my ninth book, The Black Male Handbook. We have to promote that with a national tour and a national college tour in 2009 and whole bunch of multi-media stuff with Apple. We will make a CD project around the book and really just carry the message around the country of the need to redefine black manhood. There is something called the employment project in Brooklyn. When I was running for Congress young people asked can they have a job. For young people civic engagement is tied to how well they are doing. We would go around the room and survey all the young people. Where are they now? Vocation, Trade School, college – a needs assessment in the projects is important. Number two, are you willing to take a basic entry level job to start a living or for a regular salary. A lot of people don’t have regular job experience. They have been out of the job market for a while. Number three, how to dress, how to sit and how to act.
William Kellibrew: It is always a pleasure to see you and an honor to speak with you. Black Youth Vote! wishes you much success. I wish you success personally and it was great seeing you in Tougaloo at the Nissan Student Government Executive Leadership Program where you really affected young leaders and glad to have you here at our Black Youth Vote! Civic Leadership Training Conference.
Kevin Powell: I love and appreciate you all and I want to continue this intergenerational work because we are leaders together.
William Kellibrew: Thanks Kevin.
Kevin Powell: Wow! I think that young people have to really make voting and civic participation as natural as breathing and brushing their teeth. You know, someone said that the local elections are really crucial between the presidential election every four years. That means that we have to become educated about who our local elected officials are, what they do or don’t do and when they are up for re-election and if there are other viable candidates for that particular position. I also think that young people have to be a member of at least one community based organization outside their religious institution, join something.
William Kellibrew: So, getting involved is important. I definitely agree with that. What does an African-American president mean to this country?
Kevin Powell: it means that there is a thing called possibility in America. It means that a progressive multicultural coalition in America can come together to affect change. I also think that it says this is the beginning of some real work.
That is the continuation of what we fought for in the civil rights movement. But we need to be clear that we are not a post racial or past racism society just because Barak is president. We still have systemic racism in our country. You see it in public school education funding in inner-city areas. You see it in the images in the mass media culture other than Barak and Michelle and you see it in the discrepancies around housing, healthcare and the record number of young people of colour in the prison pipeline. So Obama’s victory is a start, not the end.
William Kellibrew: You know you said some very important things that young people can take a hold of and propel themselves to organize. What are your next steps? I know you ran for Congress and that must be an honor to work so hard to serve the people. What’s next for you?
Kevin Powell: Running for Congress again (with an honest smile and chuckle). We haven’t stopped, the website is up. We are going to fundraise on Monday (chuckling). We are running for Congress in 2010. I say, “We” because we are a team. On top of that I just published my ninth book, The Black Male Handbook. We have to promote that with a national tour and a national college tour in 2009 and whole bunch of multi-media stuff with Apple. We will make a CD project around the book and really just carry the message around the country of the need to redefine black manhood. There is something called the employment project in Brooklyn. When I was running for Congress young people asked can they have a job. For young people civic engagement is tied to how well they are doing. We would go around the room and survey all the young people. Where are they now? Vocation, Trade School, college – a needs assessment in the projects is important. Number two, are you willing to take a basic entry level job to start a living or for a regular salary. A lot of people don’t have regular job experience. They have been out of the job market for a while. Number three, how to dress, how to sit and how to act.
William Kellibrew: It is always a pleasure to see you and an honor to speak with you. Black Youth Vote! wishes you much success. I wish you success personally and it was great seeing you in Tougaloo at the Nissan Student Government Executive Leadership Program where you really affected young leaders and glad to have you here at our Black Youth Vote! Civic Leadership Training Conference.
Kevin Powell: I love and appreciate you all and I want to continue this intergenerational work because we are leaders together.
William Kellibrew: Thanks Kevin.
November 04, 2008
Congratulations!!!
Black Youth Vote! would like to officially Congratulate Senator and President-elect Barak Obama. If we ever thought about giving up Senator Obama reminded us tonight that giving up is only something that can be discarded. We must claim and define ourselves. Thank you Barak for your unwavering lesson.
A Night to Remember
Tonight is certainly the night. Over 60 people are gathered here tonight at the National Council for Negro Women where Black Youth Vote!, a program of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation is holding our Command Center to monitor and support the staff and volunteers who are working on the ground. Most importantly, we are helping to protect the vote. There is so much to be concerned about in terms of voter suppression, etc. The night has just begun.
Illai's Conversations Via IM on Black Planet
NCBCP: Have you voted?
RobDee: yes
NCBCP: Great, how was it?
RobDee: It was a beautiful thing. The reason it was is because I know I'm voicing my opinion and it could be beneficial to my desires.
NCBCP: Awesome! Any other message?
RobDee: Anyone who has a belief in whatever it is in life should not be afraid to satnd for it. We're in the land of democracy and it should be utilized to the fullest!
RobDee: yes
NCBCP: Great, how was it?
RobDee: It was a beautiful thing. The reason it was is because I know I'm voicing my opinion and it could be beneficial to my desires.
NCBCP: Awesome! Any other message?
RobDee: Anyone who has a belief in whatever it is in life should not be afraid to satnd for it. We're in the land of democracy and it should be utilized to the fullest!
Shyne's Vote Story
Here is a conversation I had with a voter in Arkansas over Instant Message on Black Planet.
NCBCP: Have you voted?
Shyne: yes last friday as a matter of fact.
NCBCP: great how was it?
Shyne: it was great no problems voting i did see alot more young african american voters out voting early. :)
NCBCP: that is an awesome story!
NCBCP: Have you voted?
Shyne: yes last friday as a matter of fact.
NCBCP: great how was it?
Shyne: it was great no problems voting i did see alot more young african american voters out voting early. :)
NCBCP: that is an awesome story!
Faye Anderson reporting about the 1-866-MYVOTE1 Hotline
Calls are pouring into the voter assistance hotline, 1-866-MYVOTE1. The top five hot spots are Cook County (Chicago), Illinois; Harris County (Houston), Jefferson County (Birmingham), Broward County (Fort Lauderdale) and Orleans Parish (New Orleans).
Nia Robinson giving updates for Florida and Alabama
Yvonne Scruggs Leftwich reported from Florida that St. Petersburg is experiencing issues around vandalism. Car and home windows displaying Obama stickers or signs are being broken. Sheila Tyson reported from Alabama that in Birmingham lines have been long since the polls opened at 7AM. She also reported that voters who recieved thier absentee ballots after 5:00PM yesterday. They were told by poll workers that they were not allowed to cast their absentee ballots at the polling place. Sheila tried to assist the voters and sherrifs came and stopped her. She has alerted the lawyers
Nia Robinson giving updates for Florida and Alabama
Yvonne Scruggs Leftwich reported from Florida that St. Petersburg is experiencing issues around vandalism. Car and home windows displaying Obama stickers or signs are being broken. Sheila Tyson reported from Alabama that in Birmingham lines have been long since the polls opened at 7AM. She also reported that voters who recieved thier absentee ballots after 5:00PM yesterday. They were told by poll workers that they were not allowed to cast their absentee ballots at the polling place. Sheila tried to assist the voters and sherrifs came and stopped her. She has alerted the lawyers.
November 03, 2008
Heating up With No Days To Go
This election has certainly turned out to be one of the most historic elections we have on the books. For instance, the campaigns have raised record amounts of contributions and for the first time a nomination for an African-American man for the democratic spot and a femail for the Republican Vice President spot. The dynamics are historic and we just dont have to sit idly by and watch. We can vote.
With that, I voted early this morning at approximately 8:30 a.m. Although it only took me 15 minutes to vote, I stood in line since 7:00 a.m. I waited one and a half hour to be a part of the election process. In fact, this is my first time voting early or even considering it. I even slept on the floor because I simply refused to stand for 1 hour and a half. Would not you? There is no way we can miss the excitement.
With only less than a day to go, we are turning up the volume on everything we are doing. Our entire office voted early, we sent out 100,000 church fans across the country for Sunday morning worship service. Some even made Bible Study. We have knocked on thousands of doors and put door hangars on the doors reminding voters how they need to prepare to vote at polling locations and a host of other get-out-the-vote strategies.
More importantly though, is voter protection. Once we vote, we have to consider that our vote is protected. If you feel like your vote has been compromised or better yet, someone elses vote, dial our 1.866.MYVOTE1 hotline and file a complaint. This complaint gives us an opportunity to understand and strategically approach voter protection issues.
On the more positive end, I listened to Oprah today on a conference call and she mentioned that folks need to get their families out when they go to the polls tomorrow. She said, "Take someone with you." The most important thing she said though was that we need to "...celebrate the vote." Regardless for whom you vote, vote.
I will be blogging tomorrow about the issues and really would appreciate your comments. See you soon.
With that, I voted early this morning at approximately 8:30 a.m. Although it only took me 15 minutes to vote, I stood in line since 7:00 a.m. I waited one and a half hour to be a part of the election process. In fact, this is my first time voting early or even considering it. I even slept on the floor because I simply refused to stand for 1 hour and a half. Would not you? There is no way we can miss the excitement.
With only less than a day to go, we are turning up the volume on everything we are doing. Our entire office voted early, we sent out 100,000 church fans across the country for Sunday morning worship service. Some even made Bible Study. We have knocked on thousands of doors and put door hangars on the doors reminding voters how they need to prepare to vote at polling locations and a host of other get-out-the-vote strategies.
More importantly though, is voter protection. Once we vote, we have to consider that our vote is protected. If you feel like your vote has been compromised or better yet, someone elses vote, dial our 1.866.MYVOTE1 hotline and file a complaint. This complaint gives us an opportunity to understand and strategically approach voter protection issues.
On the more positive end, I listened to Oprah today on a conference call and she mentioned that folks need to get their families out when they go to the polls tomorrow. She said, "Take someone with you." The most important thing she said though was that we need to "...celebrate the vote." Regardless for whom you vote, vote.
I will be blogging tomorrow about the issues and really would appreciate your comments. See you soon.
October 30, 2008
5 Days To Go!
I cannot begin to tell you how busy it is at Black Youth Vote! We have been working tirelessly to prepare for our upcoming Post-Election Press Briefing on 12th November, 2008 at the National Press Club. We will have Jeff Johnson from B.E.T. who will moderate, Rev. Yearwood, Hip Hop Caucus, Kemba Smith, Kemba Smith Foundation, and many more young activists and mobilizers who will talk about the many issues that faced our election season as well as where do we go after election day.
We have to hold our leaders accountable after election and especially during the first 100 days in office. If they are going to make changes and do what they said they are going to do, it will be then - during the first 100 days. So, Black Youth Vote! encourages everyone to not only vote, but segway into high gear for post-election activity and participation.
Most importantly, make sure that you vote on 4th November. Make history!
We have to hold our leaders accountable after election and especially during the first 100 days in office. If they are going to make changes and do what they said they are going to do, it will be then - during the first 100 days. So, Black Youth Vote! encourages everyone to not only vote, but segway into high gear for post-election activity and participation.
Most importantly, make sure that you vote on 4th November. Make history!
October 23, 2008
Black Youth Vote! and GOTV
12 Days To Go!
It's crunch time and the Election of the century and possibly of all time is nearing on 4th November. We are pressing hard here at the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation. Part of our GOTV efforts are focusing directly on what you need to know before you go to the polls. You may have heard these before, but as I was reading The Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein, I could not help but notice my bookmark featuring five things you need to know before you go the polls. Well here they are one more time.
1. VERIFY your Registration Status BEFORE Election Day – Make sure you are listed on the registration roll by calling your local Board of Elections.
2. VERIFY your polling location before ELECTION Day. Call 1-866-MYVOTE1
(1-866-698-6831).
3. BRING YOUR I.D. Don’t Leave Home Without It! To be safe, bring your voter registration card, driver’s license, government issued photo ID. If you have problems voting call Election Protection @ 1-866-OUR-VOTE.
4. VERIFY the date and location to vote early or absentee in your state @ www.blackcampaign.org then VOTE FIRST!
5. Be a part of history – VOTE FIRST!
– After you cast your ballot, text “blackyouthvote” to 69302.
DON’T LEAVE YOUR
POLLING PLACE WITHOUT VOTING.
VOTE NOV. 4, 2008
I cannot stress enough how absolutely difficult it will be on election day to vote. I am preparing my absentee ballot because I will not be able to go to the polls on that day, I have my reasons. If you cannot get the polls, you need to either vote early or by absentee ballot. Consider it fast and check with your local Board of Elections or Secretary of State to get more information or visit our Election Center at www.ncbcp.org
It's crunch time and the Election of the century and possibly of all time is nearing on 4th November. We are pressing hard here at the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation. Part of our GOTV efforts are focusing directly on what you need to know before you go to the polls. You may have heard these before, but as I was reading The Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein, I could not help but notice my bookmark featuring five things you need to know before you go the polls. Well here they are one more time.
1. VERIFY your Registration Status BEFORE Election Day – Make sure you are listed on the registration roll by calling your local Board of Elections.
2. VERIFY your polling location before ELECTION Day. Call 1-866-MYVOTE1
(1-866-698-6831).
3. BRING YOUR I.D. Don’t Leave Home Without It! To be safe, bring your voter registration card, driver’s license, government issued photo ID. If you have problems voting call Election Protection @ 1-866-OUR-VOTE.
4. VERIFY the date and location to vote early or absentee in your state @ www.blackcampaign.org then VOTE FIRST!
5. Be a part of history – VOTE FIRST!
– After you cast your ballot, text “blackyouthvote” to 69302.
DON’T LEAVE YOUR
POLLING PLACE WITHOUT VOTING.
VOTE NOV. 4, 2008
I cannot stress enough how absolutely difficult it will be on election day to vote. I am preparing my absentee ballot because I will not be able to go to the polls on that day, I have my reasons. If you cannot get the polls, you need to either vote early or by absentee ballot. Consider it fast and check with your local Board of Elections or Secretary of State to get more information or visit our Election Center at www.ncbcp.org
October 22, 2008
Save-The-Date
Please Save-The-Date for the upcoming Black Youth Vote! Civic Leadership Training Conference in Washington, D.C. this November 13 - 15 as we deal with post-election issues and of course, a brand new president of the United States. No matter who that is, we are going to have to hold him or her accountable -- anything can happen to John McCain and Palin could also be the next president. The conference will kick-off with a Black Youth Vote! National Press Club Symposium on November 12, 2008 from 12-3 p.m. You will need to R.S.V.P. to blackyouthvote@ncbcp.org. Registration for the conference will be primarily on-line and will be available soon. I will keep you posted. Thanks for reading the blogspot and please leave a comment. Give yourself a voice on this BYV! blogspot.
October 16, 2008
Bow Wow Finishes Strong in Connecticut, Virginia Sees Surge in New Registrations
Bow Wow finished his Walk Across America Tour in Hartford, Connecticut yesterday. His 15 city tour included Washington, D.C., New York, Boston, Orangeburg, Richmond, Philly, Charlotte, and had a great launch in Atlanta at the CNN Center. Black Youth Vote! was on hand to vigorously support the launch and the overall tour. Thanks to the amazing partnership with Bow Wow, Black Youth Vote! continues to have a stake in the record registration of youth ages 18-35 in the United States.
For instance, according to the Virginia State Board of Elections, "about 60 percent of the newly registered voters are under the age of 34." There are an additional 436,000 more registered voters than the previous election. Virginia now has a record 5m people registered, mostly in democrat strongholds. This is an example of not only an agressive campaign by candidates, but by "other outside groups to register new voters" reports the state Board of Elections of Virginia.
For instance, according to the Virginia State Board of Elections, "about 60 percent of the newly registered voters are under the age of 34." There are an additional 436,000 more registered voters than the previous election. Virginia now has a record 5m people registered, mostly in democrat strongholds. This is an example of not only an agressive campaign by candidates, but by "other outside groups to register new voters" reports the state Board of Elections of Virginia.
October 10, 2008
October 09, 2008
Bow Takes to the Road - Charlotte and Greensboro
Bow Wow is in Charlotte for a radio interview and will be in Greensboro, North Carolina at 12 Noon in the Student Center on the campus of North Carolina A&T. We will then visit Bennett College for Women at 2:00 p.m. Bow Wow is kicking off his pledge phase of his Walk Across America Tour for those who already registered. Bow Wow is asking that you do several things for your pledge commitment.
1) pledge to educate yourself to the best of your ability on the issues relevant to your community.
2) pledge to verify with your local Board of Elections that your voter registration information is updated and your name is on the voting rolls.
3) pledge to verify your poll location by calling 1.866.MYVOTE.1
4) pledge to VOTE on November 4th 2008
5) pledge to diligently monitor any election irregularities which may occur at my polling location and report them to 1.866.MYVOTE.1
Look out and ask for a Pledge Card when you see Bow today and along the Walk Across America Tour.
Folks, Election 2008 is serious and that's why Bow Wow is taking the time to visit over 13 states in order to bring awareness to the Election as well as get young people registered and pledging to vote. Let's make 2008 count.
1) pledge to educate yourself to the best of your ability on the issues relevant to your community.
2) pledge to verify with your local Board of Elections that your voter registration information is updated and your name is on the voting rolls.
3) pledge to verify your poll location by calling 1.866.MYVOTE.1
4) pledge to VOTE on November 4th 2008
5) pledge to diligently monitor any election irregularities which may occur at my polling location and report them to 1.866.MYVOTE.1
Look out and ask for a Pledge Card when you see Bow today and along the Walk Across America Tour.
Folks, Election 2008 is serious and that's why Bow Wow is taking the time to visit over 13 states in order to bring awareness to the Election as well as get young people registered and pledging to vote. Let's make 2008 count.
October 08, 2008
BYV! Busy in the United States
Black Youth Vote! is definitely busy throughout the United States. Jeff Johnson Birmingham, Alabama on October 6 and it was a great success. Jeff received a presidential welcome from the crowd there and from BYV! coordinators. Our hats are off to Sheila and LaTosha for leading the effort in Alabama.
Bow Wow will restart his campaign across America tomorrow by visiting Bennett and North Carolina A&T in North Carolina. I will be blogging from the tour as usaul. Again, for more information and some awesome videos, please check out princebow.com.
If you will be in the upcoming tour areas and want to volunteer please email blackyouthvote@ncbcp.org. Especially in Boston, Hartfor, Connecticut and New York City.
Talk to you soon.
Bow Wow will restart his campaign across America tomorrow by visiting Bennett and North Carolina A&T in North Carolina. I will be blogging from the tour as usaul. Again, for more information and some awesome videos, please check out princebow.com.
If you will be in the upcoming tour areas and want to volunteer please email blackyouthvote@ncbcp.org. Especially in Boston, Hartfor, Connecticut and New York City.
Talk to you soon.
October 06, 2008
Bow and BYV! in Mobile, Alabama's BayFest
The anticipation to Bow Wow's performance at BayFest was felt even in the hotel where we stayed. What we didn't know was that there were over 10,000 screaming fans waiting for Bow just two blocks away. When Bow took the stage his fans screamed to the top of their lungs and I hadn't seen anything like it from my direction. Bow wanted me to record his entire show while on stage. He performed for one hour and 15minutes. When he got to the end, he made the most awesome speech about voter registration and awareness of the approaching election on November 4. I know he inspired those in the crowd because I was totally ready to vote at that moment. To see this amazing speech just scroll down until you reach the video screen or go to princebow.com. We are uploading videos at least three times a day.
We are taking a couple of days off so that Bow can work on special projects and pick up our tour on Thursday in Greensboro, North Carolina. Until then, please register to vote if it is not too late. How will you know if it is late or not, go to ncbcp.org Election Center. The information is there for you.
I cannot wait to get back on tour to help spread Bow's message of getting out the vote. Talk to you soon.
We are taking a couple of days off so that Bow can work on special projects and pick up our tour on Thursday in Greensboro, North Carolina. Until then, please register to vote if it is not too late. How will you know if it is late or not, go to ncbcp.org Election Center. The information is there for you.
I cannot wait to get back on tour to help spread Bow's message of getting out the vote. Talk to you soon.
October 05, 2008
Richmond Takes Bow Wow Down Memory Lane on Walk Across America
I knew when we reached the 2nd Street Festival in Richmond it was going to be an historic walk. This festival had the remininsce of Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald. Their mark was indellibly left on 2nd Street and the city of Richmond. Bow Wow arrived at approximately 11:45 a.m. Things were just getting started. We actually made it earlier than the festival opened. Bow's mission was to get people up early and out to make a difference. We were also greeted by Black Youth Vote! Coordinator, Kemba Smith, her son Amani and a host of volunteers who were taking voter registrations.
Black Youth Vote! was able to get a few people registered on the spot. Bow's presence could not be mistaken for any other reason. He was there to bring awareness to those who would be voting in the November election that their vote counts. He spoke atop a stage that housed a jazz band that gave us a chance to make an announcement while they break. It was simply humbling.
Bow told the crowd of about 100 or so festival goers that registering to vote was important. Kemba told the audience that she could not vote because of her prior conviction, but even after receiving executive clemency from former president Bill Clinton she still could not vote. For the Kemba's story go to http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A46891-2000Feb13.html
Our next stop was the football game between St. Paul at Virginia Union University. We arrived just in time for Bow Wow to make the coin toss, but not before honouring our troops with the singing of the National Anthem. We were quickly in and out to make the game between North Carolina Central University and North Carolina A&T in Charlotte, North Carolina. We made the halftime game within eleven minutes just before Bow Wow and me were to address the crowd on the importance of voting. His reception in North Carolina was overwhelming. His fans were so appreciative of him showing up. He actually detoured from his original trip because he was supposed to go directly to Mobile, Alabama.
Well, here we are. We just arrived in Mobile, Alabama and it's 7:03 a.m. CST. Bow is performing this afternoon at the Bayfest Festival. See you there.
Black Youth Vote! was able to get a few people registered on the spot. Bow's presence could not be mistaken for any other reason. He was there to bring awareness to those who would be voting in the November election that their vote counts. He spoke atop a stage that housed a jazz band that gave us a chance to make an announcement while they break. It was simply humbling.
Bow told the crowd of about 100 or so festival goers that registering to vote was important. Kemba told the audience that she could not vote because of her prior conviction, but even after receiving executive clemency from former president Bill Clinton she still could not vote. For the Kemba's story go to http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A46891-2000Feb13.html
Our next stop was the football game between St. Paul at Virginia Union University. We arrived just in time for Bow Wow to make the coin toss, but not before honouring our troops with the singing of the National Anthem. We were quickly in and out to make the game between North Carolina Central University and North Carolina A&T in Charlotte, North Carolina. We made the halftime game within eleven minutes just before Bow Wow and me were to address the crowd on the importance of voting. His reception in North Carolina was overwhelming. His fans were so appreciative of him showing up. He actually detoured from his original trip because he was supposed to go directly to Mobile, Alabama.
Well, here we are. We just arrived in Mobile, Alabama and it's 7:03 a.m. CST. Bow is performing this afternoon at the Bayfest Festival. See you there.
October 04, 2008
How About That City o Brotherly Love - Bow Takes Philly By Storm
Wow! That's all I have to say. From the moment we arrived in Philly, the city was on full notice. Bow is consistently getting his message across that registering is not only important, but simply a civic duty. He continually mentions that he is 21 and a first-time voter. As the National Black Youth! Coordinator I could not agree with him more. The more I spend time with him helping to deliver his message across America the more I am committed to being more innovative in how we get that message out there to our youth and hopefully the youth are getting it to the parents, etc.
Bow started his day by going to a few radio stations and then he went to Sneaker Villa on 56th and Market Street. You can see his trip there by going to princebow.com or scrolling down on this blog spot and looking at his direct streaming footage as he travels -- Kyte, new technology. We will talk about that later -- what an interesting device.
We were able to register a few people at Sneaker Villa. Now, although we did not register many people, this is my take. If we register just one person that is one more than we had before. If we take a look at Florida which was decided by very few votes, I believe 387 or something like that for president of the United States. Don't tell me one doesn't count. We have to register as many as we can. That's been Bow's message. His life has taken on new meaning and that meaning is something that has inspired young people to get up and get registered.
To close down Philly, Bow went on Radio One and then closed down the Fox News 29 -- Last Word show. I could not help but notice how articulate he was on that show and the more he knows everyday as he relays his message.
Now, we are headed to Richmond where we will be visiting Virginia Union and the 2nd Street Festival. I hope that we will see you there.
Next Stop Richmond and then Charlotte.
Bow started his day by going to a few radio stations and then he went to Sneaker Villa on 56th and Market Street. You can see his trip there by going to princebow.com or scrolling down on this blog spot and looking at his direct streaming footage as he travels -- Kyte, new technology. We will talk about that later -- what an interesting device.
We were able to register a few people at Sneaker Villa. Now, although we did not register many people, this is my take. If we register just one person that is one more than we had before. If we take a look at Florida which was decided by very few votes, I believe 387 or something like that for president of the United States. Don't tell me one doesn't count. We have to register as many as we can. That's been Bow's message. His life has taken on new meaning and that meaning is something that has inspired young people to get up and get registered.
To close down Philly, Bow went on Radio One and then closed down the Fox News 29 -- Last Word show. I could not help but notice how articulate he was on that show and the more he knows everyday as he relays his message.
Now, we are headed to Richmond where we will be visiting Virginia Union and the 2nd Street Festival. I hope that we will see you there.
Next Stop Richmond and then Charlotte.
October 03, 2008
Walk Across America Visits Claflin and South Carolina State
Claflin and South Carolina State University was simply amazing. Thanks to so many people on our team who made our visit to these two universities a success. On the Black Youth Vote! side, thanks to Deven Anderson, BYV! Coordinator in North Carolina. He is a graduate of SCSU and did not hesitate to help us out by contacting all of his friends and confidants to make sure we arrived with support for Bow Wow's Walk Across America tour. A special shout out to Julian Pettus and Jake Kale with Declare Yourself for their advanced lead and to all of those BYV! volunteers who helped to set up registration on both campuses. You truly understand that our vote is more important now more than ever. Lastly, thanks to everyone at those two campuses for giving breath to this great cause.
Registration wasn't the only important issue though. Everyone wanted to know about the tee-shirt and paraphernalia business. This is what we told them. It is important to know the laws in your state. It is best not to wear clothes that can be confused with campaigning for a candidate. Poll workers could very well try to deny you entrance into a polling station. It is better to be safe than sorry though. Wear your shirts either before or after you vote at your polling station. This is what Bow Wow's tour is about - awareness and Black Youth Vote! as a part of a national coalition supports this message. Educate yourself. Go to www.ncbcp.org or call 1.866.MYVOTE1 and ask the attorneys. It only takes a few moments.
Until next time.
Registration wasn't the only important issue though. Everyone wanted to know about the tee-shirt and paraphernalia business. This is what we told them. It is important to know the laws in your state. It is best not to wear clothes that can be confused with campaigning for a candidate. Poll workers could very well try to deny you entrance into a polling station. It is better to be safe than sorry though. Wear your shirts either before or after you vote at your polling station. This is what Bow Wow's tour is about - awareness and Black Youth Vote! as a part of a national coalition supports this message. Educate yourself. Go to www.ncbcp.org or call 1.866.MYVOTE1 and ask the attorneys. It only takes a few moments.
Until next time.
Ride Through America to Walk Across America with Bow Wow
It's Will Kellibrew again. Obviously, some of this trip we cannot walk. We had a pretty good ride so far. We left Atlanta, Georgia around 1:00 a.m. and we are moving right up the road. Now, we are in Raleigh, North Carolina with the Bow Wow team. Bow just happens to be slightly sleep right now, but getting rest because Philly is going to be simply busy. A few minutes ago, a few of us woke up to the morning cold that has seeped its way onto the bus. But, that wont stop us. This will be our third city where Bow is working hard to spread the message about the importance of voter registration as well as Getting Out The Vote (G.O.T.V.).
I was wondering how Bow became so informed about what is happening in our country though and why he is so passionate about his Walk Across America. What makes someone want to walk across this country when he can put his message out there in so many other ways? Well, one good reason is CNN has been on all night long. We have been listening to the political pundits and reporters assess the vice presidential debate. At 21, he realizes that now more than ever, who we elect as our leaders will actually affect our lives in some way. How do I know? Well, he talks about it constantly. He is concerned. Bow Wow actually informed his manager one day that he wanted to make a difference in this election. He proposed to walk across America and that's all his manager Michael Mauldin needed to hear. Michael ran with Bow Wow's vision and here we are just a few weeks later - Walking Across America.
We will see you in Philly soon and thanks for tuning in. I will be sure to keep you updated with the trip. Bow Wow will definitely be giving updates not only on this blog spot, but on his website, www.princebow.com.
For more information about this election go to our Election Center at www.ncbcp.org and get more civically engaged by understanding your vote. Again, see you soon in Philly. We are out!
I was wondering how Bow became so informed about what is happening in our country though and why he is so passionate about his Walk Across America. What makes someone want to walk across this country when he can put his message out there in so many other ways? Well, one good reason is CNN has been on all night long. We have been listening to the political pundits and reporters assess the vice presidential debate. At 21, he realizes that now more than ever, who we elect as our leaders will actually affect our lives in some way. How do I know? Well, he talks about it constantly. He is concerned. Bow Wow actually informed his manager one day that he wanted to make a difference in this election. He proposed to walk across America and that's all his manager Michael Mauldin needed to hear. Michael ran with Bow Wow's vision and here we are just a few weeks later - Walking Across America.
We will see you in Philly soon and thanks for tuning in. I will be sure to keep you updated with the trip. Bow Wow will definitely be giving updates not only on this blog spot, but on his website, www.princebow.com.
For more information about this election go to our Election Center at www.ncbcp.org and get more civically engaged by understanding your vote. Again, see you soon in Philly. We are out!
October 02, 2008
Special Guest - Bow Wow!!!
This is William again with Black Youth Vote! I have a special guest with me. Actually, I am his guest. We are on his tour bus as a part of his Walk Across America Tour. We just left Claflin University and South Carolina State University where Bow Wow walked both campuses to influence his peers to register to vote, protect their vote by understanding the laws and then Vote! So, I will proceed with a brief discussion with Bow Wow.
William: First Bow, how do you feel about what you are doing to influence your peers?
Bow Wow: I feel really good and I feel like this is something I should really be doing because I am a voice and a leader for the youth; therefore, I am taking initiative to take on the responsibility. This is coming from the heart.
William: As I travel with you I have really been amazed at how receptive your fans are. They have really come out to support you. Have you been surprised about the outpouring of support you have received?
Bow Wow: Crazy! lot of fun going to these universities. Turnouts have been massive, students are grabbing hold to every word I am saying. The reaction on the campus, students and others showing a lot of love - definitely taking all my advice in. It's just been a very humbling and exciting experience talking with my peers. We are going to keep on rocking and rolling along the journey.
William: I just have one more question Bow since I like to keep these blogs pretty short and sweet. What is one thing that you want your fans and those who you influence to remember about you as you travel the country on your Walk Across America Tour?
Bow Wow: That Bow Wow took the time out of his schedule to think about us and to share his opinion. It shows that he really cares. It's not just about the movies and music, but making a difference. This is my own dime and my own time with the help of organisations like Black Youth Vote and Declare Yourself. Go Vote!!!
William: Thanks a lot for the exclusive interview. I am privileged to be sitting here with you on this historic movement. Brother, you are definitely keeping it real and doing the right thing. Let's keep it moving.
William: First Bow, how do you feel about what you are doing to influence your peers?
Bow Wow: I feel really good and I feel like this is something I should really be doing because I am a voice and a leader for the youth; therefore, I am taking initiative to take on the responsibility. This is coming from the heart.
William: As I travel with you I have really been amazed at how receptive your fans are. They have really come out to support you. Have you been surprised about the outpouring of support you have received?
Bow Wow: Crazy! lot of fun going to these universities. Turnouts have been massive, students are grabbing hold to every word I am saying. The reaction on the campus, students and others showing a lot of love - definitely taking all my advice in. It's just been a very humbling and exciting experience talking with my peers. We are going to keep on rocking and rolling along the journey.
William: I just have one more question Bow since I like to keep these blogs pretty short and sweet. What is one thing that you want your fans and those who you influence to remember about you as you travel the country on your Walk Across America Tour?
Bow Wow: That Bow Wow took the time out of his schedule to think about us and to share his opinion. It shows that he really cares. It's not just about the movies and music, but making a difference. This is my own dime and my own time with the help of organisations like Black Youth Vote and Declare Yourself. Go Vote!!!
William: Thanks a lot for the exclusive interview. I am privileged to be sitting here with you on this historic movement. Brother, you are definitely keeping it real and doing the right thing. Let's keep it moving.
Black Youth Vote! Walks With Bow Wow
Wow! What a turn out! Black Youth Vote! Georgia knows how to organize. I must say that I was truly impressed with LaTosha and Helen for turning up the heat and mobilizing here in Atlanta. This is my first time organizing on this level for any election. These veterans showed me a thing or two. My hat goes off to them. For those who do not know, LaTosha and Helen represent the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation in Atlanta. Black Youth Vote! is an amazing program within the Coalition. We could not do what we do without being a coalition. (For more information on the coalition go to www.ncbcp.org. Don't forget to visit our Election Center.)
Kicking off the Walk Across America Voter Registration Initiative was definitely "hot". Black Youth Vote! young volunteers showed up in great numbers ready to walk. Everyone was anticipating Bow Wow to show up at any moment. There he was, across the street, on the horizon. Pretty cool. He did a few television and radio interviews and then the walk began.
We made stops at Georgia State led by Grace, a student, who showed us where the student hot spots were. It was pretty amazing to see folks being registered there. Grace grabbed the megaphone and just started chanting and encouraging students to register to vote. Bow Wow sat on a railing and just talked to students as if he attended the institution. It didn't take long for students to come over and get involved. We left on the next leg of our trip.
We stopped through to Georgia Tech where Matt led us through the campus. It was a huge campus and we lost our police escort. So, naturally, we used the bullhorn to make siren sounds. We met up with our escort again and Bow Wow thought of something cool, Tacos. We ate tacos and chips along the way. We finished at the CNN Center where we began about 8 miles earlier. We were off to Clark Atlanta from there.
By later afternoon, Clark Atlanta, Morehouse and Spelman were "jumpin". Jordan met us at the corner of MLK and James P Brawley Drive. Bow Wow did his usual - interviews. He let the public know that he was walking to bring awareness to the issues in our country as well as encourage voter registration and the importance of voting early. Georgians were voting yesterday in an amazing move to vote early.
The walk through Clark Atlanta was definitely memorable. Students received Bow Wow extremely well. This walk was the slowest. With so many people interested in his cause, we could hardly walk fast. We arrived at Morehouse to attend Hump Wednesdays - where students from all three schools were gathered to listen to a DJ spin and get valuable information about upcoming events, etc. It was time to introduce Bow Wow, so Michael instructed me to grab the mic and get the party started. For those who do not know, Michael is truly the hardest working man in the business. What business? Any business. My hat goes of to Michael Mauldin too and Billie Bragg is not far behind him.
We gave a shout out to CASA, an activities group responsible for putting on the event every Wednesday. It was great seeing the comraderie and a good friend Christian Perry who heads up the event.
After talking about Declare Yourself and Black Youth Vote! it was time to introduce the guy with the vision - Bow Wow. This guy is totally humble. He doesn't want to take credit or disrupt the party. He simply wants to bring awareness. We can all respect that. He sat behind me and told me to let everybody know that we just finished walking 8 miles. That was important. We just did not show up at the AUCenter without putting in some work. Bow Wow grabbed the mic, spoke about his message and stayed around for an informal dance competition or showcase. After a few photos taken with CASA and a few high school students who walked with him, we were off.
The excitement for the day was great. We looked back on the day with a complete smile, but definitely 8 miles later we were all exhausted. I can speak for myself. But, I would not have changed one thing about yesterday. See you in South Carolina as we visit Claflin and South Carolina State University.
Kicking off the Walk Across America Voter Registration Initiative was definitely "hot". Black Youth Vote! young volunteers showed up in great numbers ready to walk. Everyone was anticipating Bow Wow to show up at any moment. There he was, across the street, on the horizon. Pretty cool. He did a few television and radio interviews and then the walk began.
We made stops at Georgia State led by Grace, a student, who showed us where the student hot spots were. It was pretty amazing to see folks being registered there. Grace grabbed the megaphone and just started chanting and encouraging students to register to vote. Bow Wow sat on a railing and just talked to students as if he attended the institution. It didn't take long for students to come over and get involved. We left on the next leg of our trip.
We stopped through to Georgia Tech where Matt led us through the campus. It was a huge campus and we lost our police escort. So, naturally, we used the bullhorn to make siren sounds. We met up with our escort again and Bow Wow thought of something cool, Tacos. We ate tacos and chips along the way. We finished at the CNN Center where we began about 8 miles earlier. We were off to Clark Atlanta from there.
By later afternoon, Clark Atlanta, Morehouse and Spelman were "jumpin". Jordan met us at the corner of MLK and James P Brawley Drive. Bow Wow did his usual - interviews. He let the public know that he was walking to bring awareness to the issues in our country as well as encourage voter registration and the importance of voting early. Georgians were voting yesterday in an amazing move to vote early.
The walk through Clark Atlanta was definitely memorable. Students received Bow Wow extremely well. This walk was the slowest. With so many people interested in his cause, we could hardly walk fast. We arrived at Morehouse to attend Hump Wednesdays - where students from all three schools were gathered to listen to a DJ spin and get valuable information about upcoming events, etc. It was time to introduce Bow Wow, so Michael instructed me to grab the mic and get the party started. For those who do not know, Michael is truly the hardest working man in the business. What business? Any business. My hat goes of to Michael Mauldin too and Billie Bragg is not far behind him.
We gave a shout out to CASA, an activities group responsible for putting on the event every Wednesday. It was great seeing the comraderie and a good friend Christian Perry who heads up the event.
After talking about Declare Yourself and Black Youth Vote! it was time to introduce the guy with the vision - Bow Wow. This guy is totally humble. He doesn't want to take credit or disrupt the party. He simply wants to bring awareness. We can all respect that. He sat behind me and told me to let everybody know that we just finished walking 8 miles. That was important. We just did not show up at the AUCenter without putting in some work. Bow Wow grabbed the mic, spoke about his message and stayed around for an informal dance competition or showcase. After a few photos taken with CASA and a few high school students who walked with him, we were off.
The excitement for the day was great. We looked back on the day with a complete smile, but definitely 8 miles later we were all exhausted. I can speak for myself. But, I would not have changed one thing about yesterday. See you in South Carolina as we visit Claflin and South Carolina State University.
October 01, 2008
Let the Walk Begin
Today is the first leg of Bow Wow's Walk Across America Voter Registration Initiative. He will begin his walk in Atlanta, GA on October 1st, Walk Across America will take Bow Wow and other citizens who are excited about the 2008 elections to cities across the United States in an effort to encourage people, especially the youth, to participate in the contests happening this November and the political process overall. For more information go to Bow Wow's website www.bowwow87.com.
September 30, 2008
Bow Wow Partners with Black Youth Vote!
Alright BYV! This is my first post. I will keep it short and sweet. This is Will Kellibrew, your brand new BYV! National Coordinator. Special thanks to Melanie and Lisa for bringing me on board to serve the ultimate cause - influencing our youth ages 18 - 35 to make a difference by registering to vote, protecting their vote and voting on Election Day 2008 and Beyond!
Today, Atlanta could not be more beautiful. Bow Wow is preparing for his Walk Across America to bring awareness to the importance of voting. His Walk focuses on voter registration and BYV! is right there to lend a helping hand. Our BYV! Coordinators will be assisting the efforts by mobilizing our teams in each state Bow visits and registering our youth to vote as they gear up for Election 2008.
Thanks to Bow, we are now partners in this amazing effort. You can be a part of the action by making sure that you are registered. Visit www.ncbcp.org and go to our Election Center where you will be able to register on the national federal registration form. It's time to be counted!!!
Just a little history - Bow made an announcement on CNN yesterday morning that he will be walking in a multitude of states to bring awareness to the importance of voting. BYV! will be registering young people to vote at each stop. Bow will start at the CNN Center in Atlanta, Georgia at approximately 12 Noon on Wednesday, 1 October, 2008 and walk until he reaches the AU Center - Clark Atlanta University and Morehouse where BYV! will be on hand to get people registered to vote. He will be making stops in Columbia, South Carolina, Philly, Richmond, Virginia, Mobile, Alabama, Nashville, Tennessee, New York and a host of other cities.
Join BYV! along the trail. Perhaps we will have a special guest blogging along the trail. You never know. Stay tuned!
Today, Atlanta could not be more beautiful. Bow Wow is preparing for his Walk Across America to bring awareness to the importance of voting. His Walk focuses on voter registration and BYV! is right there to lend a helping hand. Our BYV! Coordinators will be assisting the efforts by mobilizing our teams in each state Bow visits and registering our youth to vote as they gear up for Election 2008.
Thanks to Bow, we are now partners in this amazing effort. You can be a part of the action by making sure that you are registered. Visit www.ncbcp.org and go to our Election Center where you will be able to register on the national federal registration form. It's time to be counted!!!
Just a little history - Bow made an announcement on CNN yesterday morning that he will be walking in a multitude of states to bring awareness to the importance of voting. BYV! will be registering young people to vote at each stop. Bow will start at the CNN Center in Atlanta, Georgia at approximately 12 Noon on Wednesday, 1 October, 2008 and walk until he reaches the AU Center - Clark Atlanta University and Morehouse where BYV! will be on hand to get people registered to vote. He will be making stops in Columbia, South Carolina, Philly, Richmond, Virginia, Mobile, Alabama, Nashville, Tennessee, New York and a host of other cities.
Join BYV! along the trail. Perhaps we will have a special guest blogging along the trail. You never know. Stay tuned!
April 28, 2008
Indiana Upholds Photo ID Law....
Supreme Court upholds photo ID law for voters in Indiana
By MARK SHERMAN – 51 minutes ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court ruled Monday that states can require voters to produce photo identification without violating their constitutional rights, validating Republican-inspired voter ID laws.
In a splintered 6-3 ruling, the court upheld Indiana's strict photo ID requirement, which Democrats and civil rights groups said would deter poor, older and minority voters from casting ballots. Its backers said it was needed to prevent fraud.
It was the most important voting rights case since the Bush v. Gore dispute that sealed the 2000 election for George W. Bush. But the voter ID ruling lacked the conservative-liberal split that marked the 2000 case.
The law "is amply justified by the valid interest in protecting 'the integrity and reliability of the electoral process,'" Justice John Paul Stevens said in an opinion that was joined by Chief Justice John Roberts and Anthony Kennedy. Stevens was a dissenter in Bush v. Gore in 2000.
Justices Samuel Alito, Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas also agreed with the outcome, but wrote separately.
Justices Stephen Breyer, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and David Souter dissented, just as they did in 2000.
More than 20 states require some form of identification at the polls. Courts have upheld voter ID laws in Arizona, Georgia and Michigan, but struck down Missouri's. Monday's decision comes a week before Indiana's presidential primary.
The decision also could spur efforts to pass similar laws in other states.
Ken Falk, legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana, said he hadn't reviewed the decision, but he was "extremely disappointed" by it. Falk has said voter ID laws inhibit voting, and a person's right to vote "is the most important right." The ACLU brought the case on behalf of Indiana voters.
The case concerned a state law, passed in 2005, that was backed by Republicans as a way to deter voter fraud. Democrats and civil rights groups opposed the law as unconstitutional and called it a thinly veiled effort to discourage elderly, poor and minority voters — those most likely to lack proper ID and who tend to vote for Democrats.
There is little history in Indiana of either in-person voter fraud — of the sort the law was designed to thwart — or voters being inconvenienced by the law's requirements. For the overwhelming majority of voters, an Indiana driver license serves as the identification.
"We cannot conclude that the statute imposes 'excessively burdensome requirements' on any class of voters," Stevens said.
Stevens' opinion suggests that the outcome could be different in a state where voters could provide evidence that their rights had been impaired.
But in dissent, Souter said Indiana's voter ID law "threatens to impose nontrivial burdens on the voting rights of tens of thousands of the state's citizens."
Scalia, favoring a broader ruling in defense of voter ID laws, said, "The universally applicable requirements of Indiana's voter-identification law are eminently reasonable. The burden of acquiring, possessing and showing a free photo identification is simply not severe, because it does not 'even represent a significant increase over the usual burdens of voting.'"
Stevens said the partisan divide in Indiana, as well as elsewhere, was noteworthy. But he said that preventing fraud and inspiring voter confidence were legitimate goals of the law, regardless of who backed or opposed it.
Indiana provides IDs free of charge to the poor and allows voters who lack photo ID to cast a provisional ballot and then show up within 10 days at their county courthouse to produce identification or otherwise attest to their identity.
Stevens said these provisions also help reduce the burden on people who lack driver licenses.
April 21, 2008
Philly event on Sunday brought Hip Hop folks out
Rap power to vote
By DAMON C. WILLIAMS
Philadelphia Daily News
williadc@phillynews.com 215-854-5924
JUST AS THE MTV generation helped rock the vote two decades ago, organizers of yesterday's "National Hip-Hop Team Vote Campaign" hope the rap generation has the same impact on the current political landscape.
The Hip-Hop Summit Action Network, which has led youth voter drives in the city before, hopes to pull at least 10,000 new voters into this year's election by way of an event yesterday in North Philadelphia's Liacouras Center as well as others like it throughout the country.
"Two days before the Pennsylvania primary, there is no better place to be," said Dr. Benjamin Chavis, co-chairman of HSAN. "Philadelphia's young people are into hip-hop, and they feel the media hasn't paid too much attention to them."
"Young people want to get out of poverty, and they want more access to getting a good education," Chavis said. "Hip-hop has brought back that entrepreneurial spirit, with the Jay-Z's and Diddy's of the world, and the way for these young people to get money is through their vote."
But it's one thing to have a mission; it's an entirely different matter to get young people to come out to hear it. So to that end, HSAN invited many of today's best-known celebrities - rappers T.I. and Flo-Rida, BET host Terrance J and newcomer O'Neal Alexander, to name a few - to perform and offer comments, hoping that their presence and words will leave an impression on the minds of young voters.
"I want to encourage the youth to take advantage of the opportunity to vote," T.I. said. "We already know where not voting gets us, and a lot of people don't take the time to vote."
"If you give up your right to vote, you also give up your right to complain," T.I. continued. "This is the most important election in hip-hop's lifetime."
T.I., a rapper who has dug himself out of a recent arrest on gun charges, said he is hoping to rehabilitate his image.
Chavis thought it a good idea that T.I. is on board with this effort.
"T.I. has gone through a lot of trials and tribulations, and he's someone the streets look up to," Chavis said. "Street cred in hip-hop is real, and T.I. has that. He's willing to say, 'I made those mistakes, and God has given me another opportunity to go on the right path.' " *
By DAMON C. WILLIAMS
Philadelphia Daily News
williadc@phillynews.com 215-854-5924
JUST AS THE MTV generation helped rock the vote two decades ago, organizers of yesterday's "National Hip-Hop Team Vote Campaign" hope the rap generation has the same impact on the current political landscape.
The Hip-Hop Summit Action Network, which has led youth voter drives in the city before, hopes to pull at least 10,000 new voters into this year's election by way of an event yesterday in North Philadelphia's Liacouras Center as well as others like it throughout the country.
"Two days before the Pennsylvania primary, there is no better place to be," said Dr. Benjamin Chavis, co-chairman of HSAN. "Philadelphia's young people are into hip-hop, and they feel the media hasn't paid too much attention to them."
"Young people want to get out of poverty, and they want more access to getting a good education," Chavis said. "Hip-hop has brought back that entrepreneurial spirit, with the Jay-Z's and Diddy's of the world, and the way for these young people to get money is through their vote."
But it's one thing to have a mission; it's an entirely different matter to get young people to come out to hear it. So to that end, HSAN invited many of today's best-known celebrities - rappers T.I. and Flo-Rida, BET host Terrance J and newcomer O'Neal Alexander, to name a few - to perform and offer comments, hoping that their presence and words will leave an impression on the minds of young voters.
"I want to encourage the youth to take advantage of the opportunity to vote," T.I. said. "We already know where not voting gets us, and a lot of people don't take the time to vote."
"If you give up your right to vote, you also give up your right to complain," T.I. continued. "This is the most important election in hip-hop's lifetime."
T.I., a rapper who has dug himself out of a recent arrest on gun charges, said he is hoping to rehabilitate his image.
Chavis thought it a good idea that T.I. is on board with this effort.
"T.I. has gone through a lot of trials and tribulations, and he's someone the streets look up to," Chavis said. "Street cred in hip-hop is real, and T.I. has that. He's willing to say, 'I made those mistakes, and God has given me another opportunity to go on the right path.' " *
April 18, 2008
Pennsylvania primary in 4 days!
The PA primary is in 4 days y'all!! (April 22)
Black Youth Vote had a debate watch party on Wed. april 16, in Pittsbugh and in Philly, and the turn out was off the chain. More folks that we expected showed up, to watch the debates and throw in their own 2 cents/sense on the issues and the election.
BYV is also passing out literature throughout the week, in the form of bookmarks, providing the 5 Things You Need to Know Before Election Day to Protect Your Vote:
1. TAKE YOUR PHOTO ID WITH YOU. First time voters and voters voing in an election district for the first time mush show ID in Pennsylvania. If you moved and are voting for the first time at a new poll location, you MUST present your ID.
2. VERIFY your registration status Before election day--make sure you are listed on the registration rolls with you local board of elections office.
3. VERIFY your poll location Before election day. Call 1-866-MYVOTE-1 to find out.
4. YOU HAVE A RIGHT to request help from poll workers. If you are at the wrong polling place, ask an election official for your correct polling place.
5. DON'T LEAVE YOUR POLLING PLACE WITHOUT VOTING! If you need legal assistance call 1-866-OUR-VOTE.
Black youth in PA will most definitely be showin up to the polls, and vote HARD, and you know this, mannn!!
Black Youth Vote had a debate watch party on Wed. april 16, in Pittsbugh and in Philly, and the turn out was off the chain. More folks that we expected showed up, to watch the debates and throw in their own 2 cents/sense on the issues and the election.
BYV is also passing out literature throughout the week, in the form of bookmarks, providing the 5 Things You Need to Know Before Election Day to Protect Your Vote:
1. TAKE YOUR PHOTO ID WITH YOU. First time voters and voters voing in an election district for the first time mush show ID in Pennsylvania. If you moved and are voting for the first time at a new poll location, you MUST present your ID.
2. VERIFY your registration status Before election day--make sure you are listed on the registration rolls with you local board of elections office.
3. VERIFY your poll location Before election day. Call 1-866-MYVOTE-1 to find out.
4. YOU HAVE A RIGHT to request help from poll workers. If you are at the wrong polling place, ask an election official for your correct polling place.
5. DON'T LEAVE YOUR POLLING PLACE WITHOUT VOTING! If you need legal assistance call 1-866-OUR-VOTE.
Black youth in PA will most definitely be showin up to the polls, and vote HARD, and you know this, mannn!!
ALL BLACK DEBATE TEAM NATIONAL CHAMPS!!
First team of African-American debaters to win a national championship honored in Annapolis
by Simone Johnson
Baltimore Times
Originally posted 4/18/2008
Towson University students win the Cross Examination Debate Association's 2008 National Tournament
The first team of African-American debaters to ever win a national debate championship was honored by Governor Martin O'Malley this week. Towson University students Deven Cooper and Dayvon Love won the Cross Examination Debate Association's 2008 National Tournament, held March 20-24th at Wichita State University in Wichita, Kansas. Nearly 200 teams from colleges and universities across the nation participated in over 90 debates during the competition. Adam Jackson and Deverick Murray, also Towson students, were also winners: They were double-octofinalists, losing to the team that Cooper and Love beat in the final round.
This year, the debate topic was titled “The United States' constructive engagement with the Middle East.” During the final round of the competition, Cooper and Love presented their argument with a unique, outside-of-the-box strategy: Instead, they criticized the practices of the debate community that they believed “purveyed white supremacy” and instructional inequalities in society. They also presented to the competition judges what they felt were disadvantages debaters face when they separate their own sentiments from their arguments and solely rely on academic authors.
“We talk about specific practices that the debate community engages in, and our argument is that until we fix those practices, then we can't have effective conversations about Middle East policy,” Love explains. “And that's why we used hip hop and personal experience as another way to legitimize claims.”
Chris Baron, a co-coach of Towson's debate team, describes the win as groundbreaking.
“It's sort of an exclamation mark on their win,” says Baron. “They broke records, but they did it in a way that challenged prevailing methodology. So, to me, this is kind of a breakthrough in debate, itself.”
Both Cooper, a senior political science major, and Love, a junior philosophy major, have been debating since their high school years. Cooper, a graduate—and valedictorian—of Lake Clifton High School in Baltimore, says a free trip to Atlanta to attend a debate camp at Emory University fueled his interests in joining the debate team at Lake Clifton.
“I had a lot of fun there,” Cooper says. “In the camp, there was a tournament, and I won 5 out of 6 rounds.”
During his senior year of high school, Cooper became the top speaker in Baltimore Urban Debate League. He attended the University of Louisville before transferring to Towson University on a scholarship.
Love says he developed an interest in debating by accident. “A friend of mine kept telling me to join the debate team,” he says. “I kept telling him no. Forest Park had practices in the morning. I went in one morning, met my coach and started debating.”
At Towson, Cooper and Love meet with their debate team for two hours, two days a week. Outside of their meetings—and between classes and homework—they find creative ways to prepare constructive arguments and a skeleton of ideas for their debates.
“There's a lot of reading that goes into preparing,” Love says. “We talk about a lot of personal experiences in debate rounds. “
Cooper uses not only real life experiences but also hip-hop music to prepare for his speeches. “I'm the first speaker (on the team), so my speech has to be the most creative.”
Describing the win as a team effort, Baron says Cooper and Love received a lot of support from the entire Towson University Debate Team, which consists of 20 debaters.
“Students are kind of in charge of their own learning and direction,” Baron says. “They ultimately decide what needs to be done. So a lot of people right now are very interested in where we are going next as a result of this win. They see it as significant from a symbolic perspective, that we may be kind of facing a turning point in the practices of debate, which, to me, based on the impact that the debate activity has on the larger world, has a potentially large ramification, which is very exciting.”
by Simone Johnson
Baltimore Times
Originally posted 4/18/2008
Towson University students win the Cross Examination Debate Association's 2008 National Tournament
The first team of African-American debaters to ever win a national debate championship was honored by Governor Martin O'Malley this week. Towson University students Deven Cooper and Dayvon Love won the Cross Examination Debate Association's 2008 National Tournament, held March 20-24th at Wichita State University in Wichita, Kansas. Nearly 200 teams from colleges and universities across the nation participated in over 90 debates during the competition. Adam Jackson and Deverick Murray, also Towson students, were also winners: They were double-octofinalists, losing to the team that Cooper and Love beat in the final round.
This year, the debate topic was titled “The United States' constructive engagement with the Middle East.” During the final round of the competition, Cooper and Love presented their argument with a unique, outside-of-the-box strategy: Instead, they criticized the practices of the debate community that they believed “purveyed white supremacy” and instructional inequalities in society. They also presented to the competition judges what they felt were disadvantages debaters face when they separate their own sentiments from their arguments and solely rely on academic authors.
“We talk about specific practices that the debate community engages in, and our argument is that until we fix those practices, then we can't have effective conversations about Middle East policy,” Love explains. “And that's why we used hip hop and personal experience as another way to legitimize claims.”
Chris Baron, a co-coach of Towson's debate team, describes the win as groundbreaking.
“It's sort of an exclamation mark on their win,” says Baron. “They broke records, but they did it in a way that challenged prevailing methodology. So, to me, this is kind of a breakthrough in debate, itself.”
Both Cooper, a senior political science major, and Love, a junior philosophy major, have been debating since their high school years. Cooper, a graduate—and valedictorian—of Lake Clifton High School in Baltimore, says a free trip to Atlanta to attend a debate camp at Emory University fueled his interests in joining the debate team at Lake Clifton.
“I had a lot of fun there,” Cooper says. “In the camp, there was a tournament, and I won 5 out of 6 rounds.”
During his senior year of high school, Cooper became the top speaker in Baltimore Urban Debate League. He attended the University of Louisville before transferring to Towson University on a scholarship.
Love says he developed an interest in debating by accident. “A friend of mine kept telling me to join the debate team,” he says. “I kept telling him no. Forest Park had practices in the morning. I went in one morning, met my coach and started debating.”
At Towson, Cooper and Love meet with their debate team for two hours, two days a week. Outside of their meetings—and between classes and homework—they find creative ways to prepare constructive arguments and a skeleton of ideas for their debates.
“There's a lot of reading that goes into preparing,” Love says. “We talk about a lot of personal experiences in debate rounds. “
Cooper uses not only real life experiences but also hip-hop music to prepare for his speeches. “I'm the first speaker (on the team), so my speech has to be the most creative.”
Describing the win as a team effort, Baron says Cooper and Love received a lot of support from the entire Towson University Debate Team, which consists of 20 debaters.
“Students are kind of in charge of their own learning and direction,” Baron says. “They ultimately decide what needs to be done. So a lot of people right now are very interested in where we are going next as a result of this win. They see it as significant from a symbolic perspective, that we may be kind of facing a turning point in the practices of debate, which, to me, based on the impact that the debate activity has on the larger world, has a potentially large ramification, which is very exciting.”
April 09, 2008
Guest Blog: Stefanie Brown
Living the Dream – Our History, Heritage and Hope
Perhaps you have heard that there is a presidential election taking place in a few months. From Fox News and CNN to bossip.com and urbanconservative.com, every news outlet and self-proclaimed journalist has an opinion about this year’s elections. Oftentimes the key issues being discussed are the Iraq War, economy, healthcare and education; the so-called hot button topics. Unfortunately, what is not being asked of the candidates themselves are their solutions to the underlying race and class-related aspects behind these key issues. For instance…
Senator McCain – you pride yourself on fighting terror, but how will you address the domestic terrorism in the form of police brutality and racial profiling that plague Black and Latino communities?
Senator Clinton – you often taut your stance on healthcare, but what are you going to do about the inadequate presence of quality healthcare facilities in rural and urban communities?
Senator Obama – you say that you believe in a quality education, but how will you address the lack of equality in truth being taught in our public school systems; including the extreme misrepresentation and oftentimes no representation of the Black, Hispanic, Asian and Native American contributions to America?
In fact, do any of you Presidential candidates have a plan to help the 13 million children living in poverty or those citizens who make up “lower class” America? Please quit going on and on about how you plan to strengthen the middle class! Instead, tell us how you will help the family that no longer relies on hope but is waiting for help!
In actuality, my friends, the question is not what are they going to say but what are we going to do?
The first thing we need to do is to STOP LIVING IN A DREAM! As a country we must realistic face the fact that our past experiences and perceptions will have a great impact on how we act today. We cannot run away from conversations and enacting solutions to combat racism, sexism, classism or homophobia. We must not be afraid to challenge the status quo and ask questions; to question the things of life is not an automatic rejection, but a way to learn, grow and seek truth. In addition, we must get off our soapbox and actually give a damn about each other! Everyone was so hyped up about the Jena 6 situation, but now most folks can’t even remember the names of those boys. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, “a social movement that only moves people is merely a revolt. A movement that changes both people and institutions is a revolution”.
Lastly, we must hold our leaders accountable and not reward those who don’t speak to us or for us with continued support. But most importantly, we all must hold ourselves accountable. Black people can’t blame white people for all their problems and white people can’t blame everybody else for theirs. Together, we can learn from our history, embrace our heritage and realize our dreams through hope and action.
-Stefanie Brown
NAACP College and Youth Division
April 07, 2008
BYV! BLOG IS OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED!
Welcome to the Black Youth Vote 2008 BLOGSPOT!
My name is Diallo Brooks, and I am the Co-Chair of the Black Youth Vote! Advisory Board. My sista in the struggle, BYV! Co-Chair Chancee Lundy, will be blogging on Saturday, April 12th to close out our official 12th Anniversary of Black Youth Vote!/BLOG LAUNCH WEEK. BYV! came to be a program of the National Coalition On Black Civic Participation in April 1996 because of a great need to give young black voters a collective voice, and a space to train to become political leaders.
Since 1996, hundreds of young people have been a part of BYV!, strengthening our movement in every election cycle, increasing turnout of black youth and the number of black elected officials nationwide. Additionally, BYV! continues to increase its presence in the black community, as more and more inspired young black folks reach out to us asking: "How can I get down? How can I bring Black Youth Vote to my area?"
So here we are in 2008, and it seem more than ever before that young black people are motivated because of the pressing issues in our community. Efforts of blatant racism seem to be restless across America, and the media has proven only to perpetuate it. Incidents of injustice continue to spur across northern and southern states, while presidential candidates largely ignore the problems of a flawed and at times racist justice system. We're in an economic recession (but black folks have been in an economic recession for much longer) that is affecting people of color disproportionately. Gas prices are off the charts and sadly, on the 40th anniversary of Dr. King's assassination, pundits continue to attack our most sacred institution, the Black Church.
Given all that is happening in the world, young black people still have power. With a political landscape shaped by the 2008 elections, the world's eyes are focused on our community. Historically our civic influence has changed the face of government and the politics of the country. So to commemorate our 12th anniversary along with Dr. King's assassination, we are officially launching our BLOGSPOT by publishing guest commentaries all week on Race, Politics, and the Youth Vote. Our guest bloggers will share their unique perspectives, and hopefully engage people worldwide in the discussion on the political and cultural significance of the POWER of young black people at the polls. The schedule:
4/7 Monday: Diallo Brooks, Black Youth Vote! Co-Chair
4/8 Tuesday: Hill Harper. Actor, "CSI NY" and Activist
4/9 Wednesday: Stefanie Brown, National Director of NAACP College and Youth Division
4/10 Thursday: Dr. Joe Leonard, Executive Director of Congressional Black Caucus
4/11 Friday: TBA SPECIAL GUEST
4/12 Saturday: Chancee Lundy, Black Youth Vote! Co-Chair
So stay tuned in! Please feel free to join us regularly from now on, comment on blogs that spark your interest, and holla at your folk! We've got many more great things to come.
In Solidarity,
Diallo Brooks, Black Youth Vote! Co-Chair
March 19, 2008
An Appeal to the Real'
As I sat there listening to Barack Obama's speech on Tuesday, I realized about 10 minutes into it, that I would remember this event for a very long time, possibly the rest of my life. It was an historical moment in politics--I think that goes without saying. But as an "80s baby", it was truly my first experience witnessing a major political figure engage in the politics of race in America--while knowing that the rest of the world was watching with me (or would be watching clips on youtube later). This is not an endoresment for Senator Obama. This isn't even about Obama. (Black Youth Vote! is a a program of NCBCP, a non-partisan 501(c)3 organization.) I bring his speech up because because it captured the spirit and underlying mission of many young black political activists I work and grind with on the day-to-day.
That mission, I believe, is to move past the racial disparities in America. People of color are tired of talking about racial problems just like many white Americans may be tired of hearing about them! But Black, Latino, Asian, and Indigenous people will not move past those racial problems until they are dealt with by the larger American community-- not as subset issues on a grand agenda, but as a priority issues given wide and critical attention by national leaders. Will our generation be ready to overcome the deep-seated resentment instilled in us by our elders? This, I pose, SHOULD BE the greatest challenge of the "Millenial Generation." And while it may be popular rhetoric, I'm not convinced that we ALL see issues like poor schools, growing prison populations, closing public hospitals, youth crime, drug abuse, affordable housing and immigrants rights as AMERICAN PROBLEMS and not "other" people's problems.
If so, it would be a radical change from the American tradition. Too many times throughout history have Black people reached out to groups for assistance and acceptance and been given a REAL chilly shoulder. Or, instead, had their efforts co-opted, deceptively used to serve a separate agenda, or half-heartedly supported just to gain the trust of black voters. Still, there is no denying the fact that when we sincerely work together cross-racially--the results are off the chain. A hero among American journalists, Ida B. Wells traveled across the country, and even to Europe to enlist support for her grassroots campaign against the lynching of Blacks in America. Their willing support increased awareness abroad, and produced embarassment of their relatives in the US. Likewise, the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), a black inception, engaged white students early on in its work in the civil rights movement. The support of these white students fostered the growing support and empathy of the black struggle during that period of change. Lastly, the appointment of our many strong, unapologetically Black members of Congress, and other elected officials, prove to be proud products of cross-racial organizing at its best.
What is unique about the hip hop or "Millenial" generation, I believe, is that many of us do indeed see great potential in the idea of a Multicultural America--A place where we can walk our hoods and not be constantly reminded of the tragic racial inequality that exists. We are eager to gain perspective from others' struggles, and share our own with the world without shame.
We are coming up in the game. The next 50 to 60 years are in our hands, ya'll. We must break out of the habit of allowing racial discourse to occur strictly during times of media spectacle, and force it onto the table as a topic of importance despite who is running for office, who is on trial, or who is up for the grammys at the time.
WE ARE NOT VICTIMS. Contrary to popular belief, young Black people especially are tired of being victimized. This is not our cause. However, it is our history that is our essence; and to deny or forget about that history and the fight of our parents, grandparents and elders would be a sign of ingratitude and great disrespect of the collective Black struggle. I believe this is also the case for other disenfranchised groups as well. AND, until these histories are recognized, appreciated, and their problematic manifestations of today justly dealt with, our generation will make NO PROGRESS, and play no significant role in world history.
Is larger society ready to deal with our issues for real?
Is there really a significant difference between the millenial generation and the baby-boomers?
Who is already incorporating this solution into their work?
Will the outcome of the election in November 08 determine people's readiness and excitement to make these changes happen?
PLEASE SHARE YOUR COMMENTS!
That mission, I believe, is to move past the racial disparities in America. People of color are tired of talking about racial problems just like many white Americans may be tired of hearing about them! But Black, Latino, Asian, and Indigenous people will not move past those racial problems until they are dealt with by the larger American community-- not as subset issues on a grand agenda, but as a priority issues given wide and critical attention by national leaders. Will our generation be ready to overcome the deep-seated resentment instilled in us by our elders? This, I pose, SHOULD BE the greatest challenge of the "Millenial Generation." And while it may be popular rhetoric, I'm not convinced that we ALL see issues like poor schools, growing prison populations, closing public hospitals, youth crime, drug abuse, affordable housing and immigrants rights as AMERICAN PROBLEMS and not "other" people's problems.
If so, it would be a radical change from the American tradition. Too many times throughout history have Black people reached out to groups for assistance and acceptance and been given a REAL chilly shoulder. Or, instead, had their efforts co-opted, deceptively used to serve a separate agenda, or half-heartedly supported just to gain the trust of black voters. Still, there is no denying the fact that when we sincerely work together cross-racially--the results are off the chain. A hero among American journalists, Ida B. Wells traveled across the country, and even to Europe to enlist support for her grassroots campaign against the lynching of Blacks in America. Their willing support increased awareness abroad, and produced embarassment of their relatives in the US. Likewise, the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), a black inception, engaged white students early on in its work in the civil rights movement. The support of these white students fostered the growing support and empathy of the black struggle during that period of change. Lastly, the appointment of our many strong, unapologetically Black members of Congress, and other elected officials, prove to be proud products of cross-racial organizing at its best.
What is unique about the hip hop or "Millenial" generation, I believe, is that many of us do indeed see great potential in the idea of a Multicultural America--A place where we can walk our hoods and not be constantly reminded of the tragic racial inequality that exists. We are eager to gain perspective from others' struggles, and share our own with the world without shame.
We are coming up in the game. The next 50 to 60 years are in our hands, ya'll. We must break out of the habit of allowing racial discourse to occur strictly during times of media spectacle, and force it onto the table as a topic of importance despite who is running for office, who is on trial, or who is up for the grammys at the time.
WE ARE NOT VICTIMS. Contrary to popular belief, young Black people especially are tired of being victimized. This is not our cause. However, it is our history that is our essence; and to deny or forget about that history and the fight of our parents, grandparents and elders would be a sign of ingratitude and great disrespect of the collective Black struggle. I believe this is also the case for other disenfranchised groups as well. AND, until these histories are recognized, appreciated, and their problematic manifestations of today justly dealt with, our generation will make NO PROGRESS, and play no significant role in world history.
Is larger society ready to deal with our issues for real?
Is there really a significant difference between the millenial generation and the baby-boomers?
Who is already incorporating this solution into their work?
Will the outcome of the election in November 08 determine people's readiness and excitement to make these changes happen?
PLEASE SHARE YOUR COMMENTS!
March 06, 2008
Speaking the Truth!
Two days before the "Texas Two Step," nearly 150 Dallas residents were able to participate in a community forum at Paul Quinn College sponsored by Black Youth Vote! At the community forum held on March 2nd, attendees were motivated and called to action with inspirational messages brought forth by Carl B. Mack and Jeff Johnson. Residents were able to speak directly with their city councilman Tennell Atkins and Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Dwaine Carraway who were both in attendance at the event. They questioned the lack of economic development in the southern sector of the city and the educational state of the Dallas Independent School District. In addition with the assistance of other panelists, students from Paul Quinn College and community members learned about the voting process in Texas clarifying the primaries and the caucuses. Attendees won give-aways ranging from CVS Pharmacy Gift Cards to an Apple Ipod donated by Texas Instruments.Black Youth Vote appreciates its partners in this event:
-Paul Quinn College
-Urban League of Greater Dallas Young Professionals
-Equal Justice
-Hip Hop Government
-Metropolitan Dallas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta
-97.9 The Beat
BE THE CHANGE! - Speak Out!
March 03, 2008
BYV Marches in Prairie View, TEXAS
Black Youth Vote! Takes Part in the March Against Student Voter Disenfranchisement in Prairie View, Texas .
check out the videos!
Black Youth Vote! Texas – Protecting the Vote http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlh03PMr63c
Black Youth Vote! Texas – Power in numbers http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvDAiWWuvRg&feature=related
Congressman Al Green marches with PVAMU students http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zRAaSvt99T4&feature=related
TSU students join PVAMU students to march for voting justice http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWfUP2FFGoQ&feature=related
First early voter after 7.2 mile march http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTmt8PcZouQ&feature=related
check out the videos!
Black Youth Vote! Texas – Protecting the Vote http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jlh03PMr63c
Black Youth Vote! Texas – Power in numbers http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvDAiWWuvRg&feature=related
Congressman Al Green marches with PVAMU students http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zRAaSvt99T4&feature=related
TSU students join PVAMU students to march for voting justice http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWfUP2FFGoQ&feature=related
First early voter after 7.2 mile march http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HTmt8PcZouQ&feature=related
February 11, 2008
UPCOMING BYV! EVENTS--February and March
Black Youth Vote! Sponsors Screening of CHICAGO 10 in Washington DC!
7:00pm
February 19, 2008,
Gallery Place Theater
In partnership with Participant Productions, Black Youth Vote! offers a special screening and discussion of the new release CHICAGO 10. With a special post-discussion led by Stefanie Brown, NAACP College and Youth Division Director.
Limited seating is available, so get there early!
RSVP to blackyouthvote@ncbcp.org
Contact Jordan Thierry at (503) 544-3493 for more information.
7:00pm
February 19, 2008,
Gallery Place Theater
In partnership with Participant Productions, Black Youth Vote! offers a special screening and discussion of the new release CHICAGO 10. With a special post-discussion led by Stefanie Brown, NAACP College and Youth Division Director.
Limited seating is available, so get there early!
RSVP to blackyouthvote@ncbcp.org
Contact Jordan Thierry at (503) 544-3493 for more information.
March Against Student Voter Disenfranchisement
Prarie View A&M University - Student Center
Prarie View, Texas to Hempstead, Texas (Waller County)
February 19 2008, 9:00 am
Four years ago, 5,000 students marched seven miles from their Prairie View AMU campus to the Waller County Courthouse to demand the right to vote without intimation, and to ask the State of Texas to intervene in the matter. In the 2006 election, hundreds of newly registered students were turned away from the polls and forced to vote with provisional ballots because their names were never added to the Waller County voter registration rolls.
Recently the Waller County Commission decided to eliminate six early voting locations in the county including the one adjacent to campus. Presently, the United States Department of Justice has failed to reject the County's polling elimination change, thus requiring PVAMU students to drive or walk 7.3 miles to vote in an adjacent town, Hempstead, TX. Waller County covers 525 square miles and has only 1 polling site for early voting this year.
Thousands are expected to participate in this historic march against student voter disenfranchisement. Students have a right to vote, and students will fight for that right!
The March and Rally is sponsored by the PVAMU Student Government Association and Black Youth Vote! Texas. Organizers are inviting community organizers, and students from other colleges, universities, and high schools to join in supporting PVAMU student efforts to stop intimidation and disenfranchisement of young voters.
JOIN US!
For more information on how you can participate feel free to contact Christina Sanders at christinadsanders@gmail.com or via phone at 713.899.0737.
Prarie View A&M University - Student Center
Prarie View, Texas to Hempstead, Texas (Waller County)
February 19 2008, 9:00 am
Four years ago, 5,000 students marched seven miles from their Prairie View AMU campus to the Waller County Courthouse to demand the right to vote without intimation, and to ask the State of Texas to intervene in the matter. In the 2006 election, hundreds of newly registered students were turned away from the polls and forced to vote with provisional ballots because their names were never added to the Waller County voter registration rolls.
Recently the Waller County Commission decided to eliminate six early voting locations in the county including the one adjacent to campus. Presently, the United States Department of Justice has failed to reject the County's polling elimination change, thus requiring PVAMU students to drive or walk 7.3 miles to vote in an adjacent town, Hempstead, TX. Waller County covers 525 square miles and has only 1 polling site for early voting this year.
Thousands are expected to participate in this historic march against student voter disenfranchisement. Students have a right to vote, and students will fight for that right!
The March and Rally is sponsored by the PVAMU Student Government Association and Black Youth Vote! Texas. Organizers are inviting community organizers, and students from other colleges, universities, and high schools to join in supporting PVAMU student efforts to stop intimidation and disenfranchisement of young voters.
JOIN US!
For more information on how you can participate feel free to contact Christina Sanders at christinadsanders@gmail.com or via phone at 713.899.0737.
Justice Speak Out! Rally in Dallas, Texas
Paul Quinn College Gymnasium
Sunday, March 2, 2007 3:00-6:00pm
Black Youth Vote! will host its 5th Justice Speak Out! event of 2008 at Paul Quinn College on March 2, 2007. All students and surrounding community members are invited to come and speak out about the pressing issues in their community, and what needs to be done to fix them!
Sponsored by Black Youth Vote! and Paul Quinn College Student Government Association.
Featured Speakers:
Chancee Lundy, Black Youth Vote Advisory Board Co-Chair and Carl B. Mack, Executive Director of the National Society of Black Engineers.
Voting Rights Information Provided!
FOOD AND MUSIC PROVIDED. COME JOIN US!!
For more information contact Chancee Lundy at clundy@chancee.com or call Jordan Thierry at (202) 659-4929.
Justice Speak Out! Rally in Houston, Texas
Texas Southern University
Monday, March 3, 2007
Students in Houston gear up for the Primaries taking place Tuesday, March 4th 2008, with a rally the day before at Texas Southern University! Exact time is TBA.
Voting Rights Information Provided!
Food and Music Provided!
For more information please contact Christina Sanders at 713.899.0737
COMING SOON….
Black Youth Vote-Operation Big Vote Training Academy!
April 10-13, 2008
Miami, Florida
Email Jordan Thierry at blackyouthvote@ncbcp.org for more information.
January 29, 2008
MEDIA ADVISORYFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Jan. 28, 2008Contact: Edrea Davis: 818.613.9521/202.659.4929
BLACK YOUTH VOTE! JUSTICE SPEAK OUT FEATURING BET’S JEFF JOHNSON , V-103’S MISS SOPHIA AND REP. ALISHA THOMAS MORGAN
Forum seeks to motivate Black youth to vote in the upcoming primary Atlanta, GA – After successfully galvanizing young voters for the South Carolina primaries, the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation's (NCBCP) youth division, Black Youth Vote (BYV) will host a Justice Speak Out Wednesday, January 30, 2008, on the campus of Clark Atlanta University. The town hall type forum is designed to mobilize young voters issues that impact them and ultimately increase youth participation in the Feb. 5 primary. The Black Youth Vote! Justice Speak Out Tour kicked-off last week in Orangeburg, SC and will move on to Alabama after galvanizing Atlanta youth. The event is free and open to the public.
WHO: Participants include: Jeff Johnson of the popular Jeff Johnson Chronicles and a moderator of the informative BET panel discussion “Hip-Hop Vs. America;” Diallo Brooks, National Co-Chair, Black Youth Vote; Kevin Parker, Chief Operating Officer, NCBCP; Rep. Alisha Thomas Morgan; Miss Sophia, V-103 radio personality; Yemayah Bourdain-Stallworth, BYV Georgia; and SGA Presidents from Clark Atlanta University, Spelman College and Morehouse College. Co-Hosts: NCBCP, BYV Georgia, Coalition for the Peoples’ Agenda, SGA Clark Atlanta University, Spelman College & Morehouse College, Center for Citizen Participation at CAU, Georgia Youth, college chapters of NAACP, and AUC Pan-Hellenic Council.
WHERE: Clark Atlanta University Student Center - Multi Purpose Room 223 James P. Brawley Drive (next to parking deck)
WHEN: DATE: Wednesday, January 30, 2008 TIME: 11 AM –2:00 PM ET CONTACT: This is a FREE event. The public and the media are invited to attend. Media RSVP to Edrea Davis 818.613.9521 or edmedia@dogonvillage.com.
Black Youth Vote!, (www.ncbcp.org/byv) the youth division of the NCBCP, is a national grassroots coalition of organizations and individuals committed to increasing political and civic involvement among Black men and women aged 18-35. Founded in 1996, the youth led organization educates young adults about the political process and trains them to identify issues and influence public policy through participation. BYV! has been instrumental reversing the downward spiral among young voters and educating voters who are increasingly disenfranchised from the electoral and legislative process.
Police Officer shot and Killed in New Orleans
(From the New Orleans Agenda) NEW ORLEANS -- Officer Nicola Cotton was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a rape suspect in a parking lot off of Earhart Boulevard. She had responded to the location after being informed by dispatch that the suspect was there. As she attempted to put a handcuff on the man, who was twice her size, he pulled away and began to struggle. During the struggle she lost control of her radio, but was able to recover it and called for assistance. As the struggle continued the suspect was then able to gain control of her duty weapon and shot her several times. Responding units arrived at the scene approximately two minutes after she was shot and located the suspect still holding her service weapon. He was taken into custody by the responding officers. Officer Cotton had served with the agency for 2 years.
January 11, 2008
Gearing up for the Primaries South Carolina Style...
BE THE CHANGE
Black Youth Vote! Presents…
The Justice Speak Out!
A 3-City National Tour Sponsored by the
National Coalition on Black Civic Participation
Feat. Jeff Johnson aka “Cousin Jeff” from BET’s
Jeff Johnson’s Chronicles, Rep. Bakari Sellers (Dist. 90),
and Chancee Lundy, National Co-Chair of Black Youth Vote!
South Carolina State University
“On the Plaza”
Adjacent to the KWG Student Center
Orangeburg, South Carolina
1:00pm Saturday, January 19
Sponsored by: The National Coalition of Black Civic Participation, Black Youth Vote!, SC State University SGA, Voorhees College SGA, and the SCSU Chapters of the NAACP, Campus Progress, and the SCSU Pan-Hellenic Council.
For more info about this event and South Carolina Black Youth Vote!
Contact Deven Anderson at (803) 378-4404
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