The Equity Alliance, a statewide non-profit focused on the civic and economic empowerment of the Black community, will host a series of events in Chattanooga this weekend focused on Black men called “I’m Black and I Vote.”
“I’m Black and I Vote” includes voter pledge events and a panel discussion featuring Chattanooga political and business figures about the modern political trends among Black men. The events are part of the organization’s statewide tour running through Oct. 17.
The Equity Alliance leadership said Chattanooga is a touchstone for Tennessee when discussing the Black community going to the polls.
“Chattanooga is always an important city when discussing social justice and the Black vote in Tennessee,” said Charlane Oliver, co-founder and co-executive director of The Equity Alliance. “It is imperative that during the most important election of our lifetime that Chattanooga voters are registered and prepared to exercise their franchise.”
The “I’m Black and I Vote” events include:
“I’m Black and I Vote” Mixer and Happy Hour
Friday, 6-8 p.m.
Chattanooga Cigar Bar
1518 Market St.
Networking opportunity where participants will be asked to pledge to vote in the upcoming election
“I Am A Man: Black Men and Civic Engagement Through an Equity Lens" Brunch & Panel Discussion
Saturday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Blue Orleans
1463 Market St.
Moderator: Channel 3 Reporter Travis J. Cummings
Panelists:
State Rep. Ysuf Hakeem
Tony Boston, Community Activist and Businessman
Brother Kevin Muhammad, local Nation of Islam representative
A panel discussion on issues of equity in access to polls and voting.
Limited to 30 attendees.
theequityalliance.org/chattanooga-brunch
“Our statewide tour is designed to raise awareness of the importance of the Black vote in Tennessee during this crucial time in our nation’s history," said Tequila Johnson, co-founder adn c0-executive director. "The Black community must make its voice heard at the polls in November, and Chattanooga is critically important to that happening.”
All events are open to the public and media. Social distancing and masks will be required at all events.