Campaign 2024 Briefing on Black Men & 2024 Election : CSPAN : August 16, 2024 1:12am-2:51am EDT : Free Borrow & Streaming : Internet Archive (2024)

c-span's washingtonournal. join in the conversation live o c-span friday morning on c-span, c-span now or onlinat c-span.org. >> friday on c-span. ohio senator and 2024 republican vice-presidentialominee j.d. vance is campaigning in wisconsin. we will be live in milwaukee starting at 12:00 eastern. at 2:45 p.m. eastern, our campaign coverage continues with vice president kamala harris giving an economic speech at an event in raleigh, north carolina. that state represents 16 electoral votes. it was won by former president trump in the last two elections. also a reminder all of our coverage can be viewed on the c-span video app or online at c-span.org. a group of historically black fraternites spoke about issues affecting black men heading into the 2024 election. they discuss health care

disparities, voting rights and workforce development. we are 82m november 5, and two years before the 250th birthday of this nation. so as black men we see this as a zenith of hope and inspiration, not fear or desperation, and that's why we are here this morning collectively along with our friends to discuss matters that are important to black men in this country and to discuss where we want to see the country go on november 5, 2024. at this time it's my pleasure to introduce dr. david marion, the chairman of omega network for action who will guide us through this morning's program. >> good morning.

i'd like to introduce the panelists that we have here this morning. first, to my left is dr. everett ward, he is chairman of the alpha political action committee. next to him is the chairman of the crimson political action committee. next to him as frederick bell, and frederick's chair of the sigma pack. next to him as mr. ej jackson. he is the vice chairman of the executive board for -- social fellowship. next to him as mr. jerzy mcclendon, and of course you just met mr. walter fields, who is chairman of the brown and gold pack. this is our panel for today. we are excited to be here to talk about the issues as it

relates to black men in this election. we'd also like to take a moment to talk about this collective five, we thank them for joining us in their solidarity for this moment for this important issue, but we did want to spend a moment to talk about our relationship because a lot of times it goes unnoticed. we've been together since 2020 working on this particular issue about raising the importance of the african-american male voting block and we've done a lot of things. we feel successful during that time together and we been talking strong since february 2023 about this particular election up and down the ballot is how we look at it. because we think all of the election up and down the ballot are important. so we've been working together. us fiber members of fraternities

and are fraternities founded our c4 packs. we want to make a differentiation between the two and be very clear that are fraternities have had 100 years of doing voter registration, education, mobilization, and they are very good at it. we are very good at getting out the vote, fraternities are. but the fraternities are nonpartisan. they don't weigh into partisan politics. we do. our fraternities don't endorse candidates, we do. so there is a clear distinction, they are separate organizations, for us to be able to do the work that we do that's important. and again we've been doing this very hard work together. i think that's important because a lot of us, the fraternities have mandates to do the work

that i just talked about. so we know it's going to get done. but oftentimes we do it in silos. it's important for us to say that to you today. so we are excited about this particular panel discussion where we talk about what we have found issues that are important to black men that often aren't talked about, as we see the election season unfolding, and we think it's important for us to go on the record to let everybody know that these are issues, if you want our support, these are the issues you want to be talking about. the first person i want to bring up is again walter fields, and is going to talk about k-12 education. >> thank you, dr. marion. we know that in order to create

strong black men, we have to have strong black boys. so k-12 education is a critical issue for black men in this country. as you may know, there's a plan float to eliminate the department of education if one candidate happens to win this election. and we find that to be very alarming. if you look at the progress of black people in this country, it is built upon the foundation of education. so this morning we just want to cover a few issues that need to be on everyone's radar as we go into this election season. one of the first is the disproportionate suspension of black boys in our schools. the data shows that black boys are targeted. they are often targeted for reasons that other students are given a pass, so we believe that the department of education has to focus on this issue of the disproportionate suspensions and expulsions of black boys from our public schools.

what we find her that black students in general and particularly black boys do not have access to advanced level courses or advanced placement courses which puts them on a trajectory toward high school completion and college admission. then there's the issue of the absence of black male teachers in our classrooms.

you can go across his country and walk into any public school and there is a scarcity of black men at the front of the classroom. for those of us who had the benefit of having black men as teachers in our schools, we know the difference that makes. one someone that looks like us is in front of the classroom. right now, given the issues of the pool of teachers period, we believe a special effort has to be made, to recruit black men into the classroom. that starts by going to places we can find young black men like historically black colleges and universities. we also believe there has to be enforcement of the civil rights act of 1964 title six. that is the title that provides legal protection for children in her schools. in project 2025 and project 45, which is the imagination of donald trump, if it becomes reality, not only will the

department of education with her away, but enforcement of those provisions of the civil rights act will do so likely. that's why we have to make sure we strengthen the office of civil rights so that we have a litigation department that is ready to take on these issues in local school districts across the country. i want to close by saying we have to remember that education is the foundation of everything. we can talk about generating black wealth, growing healthy black families, unless we have educated black men in our community. at this time, i will conclude, and certainly i hope that as we continue these discussions going into november, that we make education a priority because it is on life-support right now. there are people in this country whose intent is to eliminate public education and no matter what your station in life, middle-class, working-class, if public education is eliminated, it will be a deathknell for the

black community. >> next will have dr. everett ward talk about higher education. >> good morning. thank you, dr. marion, and to mr. school board member, mr. walter fields. i think it's important to note that you have before us men who bring a high level of expertise to this discussion. on july 22, 2024, the alpha pac proudly endorsed vice president kamala harris for the office of president of the united states. one of the reasons they endorse the vice president is because she is a battle tested public servant leader with a proven

record as a champion for higher education and other critical issues impacting hard-working americans. education, particularly higher education, serves as a pathway for upward economic mobility to the american middle class and beyond. for african-american men, historically a college degree has been our pathway for increased financial security. in fact, according to the national center for education access to higher education expands career options and earning potential. therefore voting on november 5 for candidates like vice president harris and governor walz and others who are committed to expanding access to higher education is a direct correlation to closing the wealth gap and the education gap

among african-american men and other persons of color. as college-educated men, african-american men recognize that closing both the educational and wealth gap in american society is a significant priority for the african-american community. therefore we believe higher education is on the ballot in november. mobilizing african-american men along with other community partners to vote against the organized, and i repeat, the organized assault on american higher education led by right wing extremists serves as a clarion call to preserve our american universities. this is particularly important now more than ever before. we must preserve the unique opportunity that our colleges and universities provide for

people to think critically and analytically about affairs of our society in the environments that invite scholarly discourse in a friendly and safe environment. it is for this reason that the mobilization of black males to elect federal, state, and local candidates who are unapologetically committed to racial equality in higher education is an election day priority for all of us. candidates requiring universities to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion , higher education programs must be defeated on november 5. let me repeat that. any candidates who are proposing to end diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in higher education must be defeated.

der programs contribute to increasing the number of african-american and other marginalized communities of color in ongoing initiatives to increase the number of american scientists, physicians, attorneys, engineers, and other stem professionals that reflect american society. the overall health of our nation and the global intellectual prominence of the united states depends on a diverse human capital. secondly, the november 5 ballot must serve as a directive and destructive weapon against the censorship of classroom instruction and academic freedom. banning books, monitoring course syllabi, and attacking tenure are foundational attacks on american democracy.

accomplished educators, not maga extremist, most -- must guide american universities. as a two-time hbcu graduate and a former hbcu university president, i know firsthand the importance of electing public officials committed to preserving hbcu's. the preservation of historically black colleges as national educational treasures benefits all americans. it benefits all americans. as a part of this administration, vice president harris has delivered more than $16 billion to invest in historically black colleges and universities.

more than any administration in the history of this nation. that is fact. we must elect candidates willing to support federal and state appropriation that will expand pell grant funding, reduce the continuous increase in university tuition, support the bipartisan ignite infrastructure bill. expand work-study opportunities and apprenticeship programs and correct disproportionate state funding for both state and private hbcu's. with all of this in context, i'm asking that we take the following three actions between now and november 5. it was said earlier, 83 days. number one, mobilize for record turnout throughout the nation.

your vote, our vote as black men, is the true equalizer. on election day, all americans are equal, no matter your financial status or your economic qualifications. prior to casting your vote and before encouraging others to vote, carefully evaluate each candidate's voting record and campaign platform related to higher education. third, determine each candidate's position regarding their legislative support for advancing historically black colleges and universities. on this, the 70th anniversary of the brown v. board of education of topeka, kansas, vice president harris and governor walz are advancing, advocating all-american have access to

quality education. while donald trump is proposing to close the u.s. department of education, take america back and make america great again removes federal standards, educational oversight, and financial support for millions of children. the good old days of states rights is an antiquated approach to education. to educate american children, we must not go back to the days of old when education was unfairly administrated in a segregated society. so on this, the 70th anniversary of the brown decision and as we approach a critical election, we must make higher education a priority for all citizens, but especially for african-american men and women.

>> thank you, dr. ward. next we will have martin rexton talk to us about criminal justice. >> thank you. good morning. i'm the president and ceo of the crimson pac. i'm happy to also say that we have wholeheartedly endorsed vice president harris for the nomination for the president of the united states. as we are discussing criminal justice, she has a criminal justice background and history. as a former prosecutor and attorney general in the state of california and has served with distinction in those areas.

a lot of my data will be pulled and extracted from a study in of the national social equity initiative for social justice that was published in 2024. it has been common practice in the united states that felons are not eligible to vote. the practice helped establish criminal disenfranchisem*nt as early as the 1790's. with the passage and increase in incarceration among black americans after the passage of the 13th amendment which abolished slavery, those convicted of crimes were placed into involuntary servitude as punishment. this practice along with the history of discriminatory legislation demonstrates the

negative impact on the current criminal justice system. as recent as 2022, one in 81 black adults in the united states are serving sentences in state prisons. 38.7% of inmates in federal prisons are black. several states in the united states, blacks make up more than a half of the population in prison. these disparities are as high as nine in one in many states. this in tune leads to where blocks of voting ages are more than 3.5 times than other nationalities not eligible to vote. despite comparing only 14% or compromising or comprising only

14% of the population in america, black people account for 53% of all individuals falsely accused and convicted of several and serious crimes according to a 2022 national registry of exonerations. for drug cases, blacks and african-americans are 19 times more likely to face wrongful convictions. in 2024, 5.8 million americans are expected to be disenfranchised and again, this is unreal. 40% of felons will not be able to vote. so voting right restoration should be taken into serious consideration for those who have served time in the penal system.

americans incarcerated still have the obligations to pay taxes and the tax dates are still required upon release. thus, they should also be allowed the ability to have their rights to vote and have those votes to be restored. studies have shown that the ability of one to vote positively impacts the ability in the community's economic status. while relatively new in the united states, the concept has been successfully implemented where populations have the right to retain the ability to vote while enacting policies that restore voting rights to disenfranchised and formerly incarcerated individuals. only 32% of the republicans think that voting is a fundamental right while 78% of

democrats believe that it is. let me go on record and say i believe that it is a right and that voting is a god-given right to all adult citizens of the united states. so in summation, the crimson pac and others recognize the need for criminal justice reform in the united states. the denial of voting rights of black felons require recognizing the importance of everyone's voice in the election process. our community calls for african-american males to take the lead for our values and ensure we can do everything we can to help ensure the rights of the citizens of the united states and ensure that they have the opportunity to vote when they have served their time. the magnitude of our community depends on our voices and

proportionally, this will help improve and enhance the lives of our families and communities where we live and serve. thank you. >> next we will have jerzy mcclendon speak to us on workforce development and wealth creation. >> good morning, everyone. i come to you as co-vice chair of the brown and gold political action committee. this is crucial to our mission. i want to talk to you about workforce development. in order to know where we want to be, we need to know where we are. as of right now, the employment rate gap as of 2022, the

employment rate of prime age black men is eight percentage points lower than that of white men. wage inequity. the median age comparison, in 2022, the median hourly wage of black workers was $19.60, which was below the 40th percentile for all workers, which is $19.88. several challenges facing black men in the american labor market. this includes an overall scarcity of jobs, low job quality, and reduced access to various occupations. in one of the strongest economies over the last decade, employment among prime age black men today stands almost eight percentage points behind that of white men. with an employment gap that has been widening since the 1960's. however, such a disparity cannot be attributed to economic forces alone.

a more profound and systemic problem are at play that have excluded black men from full participation in the workforce for centuries. furthermore, the quality of jobs available to black men is over. the overall median wage of black workers have remained flat. hovering around 80% of the overall median salary. wages for black men have fallen relative to their peers since the 1970's. the continuing inequity foretells broader inequities within our economy. so now, i move on to where we want to be. as leaders and advocates within the brown and gold committee and other committees as well, we should challenge bold, transformative polities -- policies that begin to address these injustices. first, subsidized employment and targeted development programs should be for those specifically

grappling with joblessness. such initiatives are crucial to establishing short-term alleviation and any chance of enduring economic development for black people. we demand a raising of the federal minimum wage. black workers are disproportionately represented in low-wage work, such as an increase in minimum wages would no doubt improve many of their economic circ*mstances. facilitating workers' abilities to unionize and bargain collectively, would allow black men to bargain for higher wages and better working conditions. third, we need to increase antidiscrimination policies in terms of hiring. the racial discrimination that has disadvantaged black men from getting employment remains high. even considering the progress we have made, we need to make sure these policies are in place and actively being put into practice to close the employment gap between black and white workers.

finally, occupational segregation must be addressed. through job diversity black men. this would involve relevant education and training, active recruitment and mentorship into underrepresented fields and instigating policies that ensure racial inclusion and diversity across all sectors. in conclusion, the problems of black men in the workforce are deep, but not impossible. it has a robust platform and a moral duty for the political action committee to advocate for policies that will make tangible differences in the lives of black men across the country. by concentrating on job growth and upgrading and opening up a far greater variety of occupations, we can help break down systemic barriers that for generations have held back too many. let us be the voice calling for action and the compelling change. leaders standing unwavering in

our commitment to justice and equity, our elected officials must recognize this. the time for transformative workforce developing policy is now. thank you. >> next is me. [laughter] i'm speaking on health and wellness. and what a great subject for us as black men to talk about. i thought about when i was growing up, i was around a lot of people that believed going to the doctor was the death sentence. they remembered tuskegee experiment and they felt there were some tricks going on up there.

there were some discriminatory practices at the doctor's office. unfortunately, when they finally did go, it was time to go. one of the things that is interesting to me is that wonderful quote that i found from martin luther king. he said out of all forms of inequity, injustice in health care is the most shocking and the most inhuman. just think about that for a moment. out of all the forms, injustice in health care is the most shocking and the most inhuman. research has gone on for decades. about the disparities, when it comes to black men's health compared to others. we seem to just kind of put it under a rug and dismiss it. that reminded me of ellison's "the invisible man."

the story of migrating from the south to the north, he wasn't talking about someone that was literally invisible, but the fact that as he made this travel, there were folks who refused to see him. what i find is folks refused to see the data as it relates to the health disparities of black men. they refuse to see that we are high up with folks to get diabetes when you look at us compared to white men. cardiovascular disease. when you look at even strokes. when you look at those who die after having a stroke. when you look at cancer rates. they are all high with african-american men.

it is just all dismissed and minimized. even the cancer rates. when you look at this, the reason becomes, why would that be so? why did we see health disparities in terms of morbidity or mortality? why do we see health disparities as it relates to life expectancy? the burden of disease is different for black men than others. why do we see disparity when it comes to uninsured or underinsured. you could happen -- you can have insurance and it means nothing if you have a high deductible or co-pays you cannot afford. why did we see this disparity as it relates to access to health care? we had obamacare in 2010 and 14 years later, we still have 10 states that have not expanded medicaid. when you see these practices, they all work against us.

you have heard dr. ward talk about educational disparities. you heard mcclendon talk about economic disparities and all of that affects black men's health. along with social injustice and of course systemic racism. and so, the question becomes, why not look at these particular things and try to figure out ways to be helpful? we think if we bring the spotlight back to these issues, we think that it will go a long way in terms of remedying them with people that really have a sincere desire to remedy them. because often times, we also know because of the history, that there is a hidden agenda sometimes to not fix these disparities. i will let that linger in the room a minute. we have to have candidates that

are serious about our health and talk to us about our health. so in conclusion, they may not see us, but we see them. november 5, we will vote for those folks interested in black men's health. next, we have frederick bell who will speak to us on voting rights. >> good morning, ladies and gentlemen. thank you so much for that, brother marion. my name is frederick bell. i'm a proud member, but i'm here today in my capacity in a political action committee dedicated to uplifting underserved communities across this country. i'm proud to stand here today

with my fellow divine nine leaders and committee leaders as we celebrate this historic moment, but also demand accountability for those who lift black men in this country and therefore black communities across this country, and therefore all communities throughout this country. first, i want to tell you a brief story. during the height of the civil rights movement, a man marched across a bridge in selma, alabama, he knew the dangers. he believed so deeply in the right to vote that he risked his life for it. that day, he was brutally beaten by state troopers. his skull was fractured, but his spirit never wavered. he went on to dedicate his life to the fight for justice and equality, inspiring generations

to stand up and fight for their rights. his name was john r. lewis. brother lewis once said you have to make good trouble. as we reflect on his legacy, we must record highs that american -- recognize that american democracy is a grand experiment. it is not guaranteed a 249th. our democracy requires constant vigilance, care, and courage to sustain. it is the thing that makes everything else work in this country. we are at a critical juncture where the very principles that define our nation or under siege. from restrictive voter id laws and voter roll purchases and a reduction of holding places

-- polling places resulting in longer lines and voter apathy. these are not just bureaucratic hurdles. they are deliberate efforts to silence voters, particularly in communities that have long been marginalized. disinformation campaigns, barriers to mail-in voting and extreme partisan gerrymandering and i'm thinking about my home state of louisiana, and alabama, where courts had to mandate that the states and -- end that kind of practice and we see that there are new congressional seats being added to those states that allow african-americans to have a a better shot elect -- electing the representative of their choice.

the fact that they had to do that is truly a sad state of our democracy. charges like that further erode our trust, making it harder for everyday americans to participate in the democratic process. we are committed to making the good trouble by protecting and advocating for change. we are dedicated to educating and mobilizing voters. ensuring that they have the knowledge and confidence to exercise their rights. this is not just about winning elections. it is about preserving the very integrity of our democracy. that's why we are calling on the next congress to pass the john r lewis voting rights advancement act. this crucial legislation would restore and strengthen protections against discriminatory voting practices, ensuring that every eligible american can participate in our democracy without fear or obstruction. that is why we were proud to endorse some pro-democracy candidates.

i was excited to join my colleagues here in endorsing vice president harris and governor tim walz as president and vice president of the united states. and so many other candidates across the country who believe in our democracy. these leaders embody the values of justice and integrity in moving this country forward. our work does not stop there. democracy is not a spectator sport. it requires us to be active participants to stand up against injustice. and to hold our leaders accountable. we must continue to fight for fair and free elections just as brother lewis once did. we must organize, educate, and mobilize, because the future of our nation depends on it.

the right to vote is not just a privilege, it is a responsibility. we must do our part to ensure our democracy not only survives, but thrives. in the spirit of john r lewis and his call to make good trouble, let's protect the right to vote for every american and let's ensure this grand experiment democracy continues to flourish so that 248 years from now, future generations can look back and say we stood on the right side of history. to learn more sigmapac1914.org. thank you so much. god bless you. >> next we have ej jackson and he will speak on community impact.

>> thank you. good morning. >> good morning. >> my name is ej jackson, i'm the vice chairman of the executive board of directors. each collective of men represented today are involved in community engagement across the country. we have seen firsthand the powerful impact of the black male vote has in shaping our communities. we have also witnessed how disinformation campaigns target our community, spreading falsehoods that can lead individuals to forfeiting their leverage in the election process. these tactics not only distort the truth but also jeopardize the very foundation of our democracy by playing public

opinion through fear and manipulation. as we engage as black men across the u.s. from educators to government employees, from tradesman to the underemployed or returning citizens. it is clear that while we are not all monolithic, we do share common challenges. whether in affluent neighborhoods or marginalized areas, we care deeply about a few things. our children's education, the cost of groceries right now. equity in the administration of justice across the country. workforce and career development and our overall health and well-being and the costs associated with that. these shared concerns unite us and it is essential that we use the leverage we have as an influential voting bloc to

address these issues directly. every topic you have heard described today is not just an election issue, it is a quality-of-life issue we have to contend with. when we think of how we can positively impact our quality of life in our respective communities, it starts with leading by example individually. where i'm from, our motto is the standard of excellence in education for life. it means we set that standard and we live by that vigilantly. most importantly for the young men that will become our next generation of leaders, we have to expose them to what possible looks like. it is critical for those of us in this room and of a certain age to lead by that example. they need something to follow. many of us needed something to follow what we could ultimately be and it is imperative that we do so. them seeing us in passing at the grocery store or here in

this room or on their instagram reel feed is probably the best way to connect with the young folks, it has an impact and oftentimes it's immeasurable. on a larger scale, voter registration and campaign efforts especially in underserved areas have a positive impact as well. for example, groove in conjunction with swing phi swing social fellowship launched our vote aimed to inform our communities about the importance of voting and the significant role it plays in shaping our collective future. the mission is to safeguard the voting rights of african americans and people of color by educating our communities on critical issues in providing essential information about voting. through this and similar efforts, we will raise awareness, encourage voter registration and foster community engagement to empower individuals with knowledge and

resources to exercise their right to vote but most importantly to make an informed decision. finally, education -- education is critical. a clear understanding of the proposed amendments or referendums and the impact that they have on our quality of life is integral. many understand how to identify -- how a candidate's position aligns with their desired outcomes especially at the federal level. let's be honest, the president's race is pretty sexy. we're all talking about it, right? but how does one compare local keeps who aren't on our screen as much? even fewer venezuela strategies direct influences,producing a st allows the black man to have a complete understanding of what or who is being proposed creates the opportunity to make those

informed decisions. when we are informed, we're confident. when we participate and all of us participating that creates a voice that's undeniable. i look forward to have everybody on november 5th at the pole. thank you very much, ladies and gentlemen. >> next, we'll have a summation of this event by dr. edward ward. dr. ward: thank you. let's give all of our panelists a round of applause. [applause] our packs are united in purpose. united in punch and what you've

heard this -- this afternoon are some of the critical issue that is we believe as black men are confronting this nation that are critically important for us to address as we move into the november 5th election. but from this moment until that time and even beyond, the issue that is we will address. you heard criminal justice reform. 14% of the population is african-american. but 53% represent the convicted persons in the criminal justice system. you also heard about the importance of having formerly incarcerated men have the right to vote return to them as american citizens. that is a charge that unites us all in purpose. you heard the call for addressing health disparities that address our communities but

in particularly african-american men. the assault on higher education we discussed. you heard the importance of addressing with all united force intentional, deliberate acts to voter suppression in certain communities. so that, in fact, there are certain precinct that is -- precincts that are identified, there are certain individual who are purged from the pole who look like us and who have no notification. you heard the issue that is young black boys face in k through 12 education. overexpulsion, oversuspension, misplaced course placement. those are issue that is we mustards from the top of the

ticket all the way down. we are very fortunate that among us are two elected officials. men who are currently serving. school board, county commission and also and in dr. mar ron an expert and scholar in mental health. so each of these men -- and also frata bell who is working day-to-day in voter registration and i love your term you used and that was electing pro democracy candidates. that's what we're talking about, pro democracy candidates. and we certainly appreciate hearing about groove phi groove and swing phi swing talking about our voice, our hope and how important that is moving into this election. so you heard the issues. we know what the issues are. but now the charge is upon all of us to leave this facility and

to go out and do the hard work that we have been doing collectively for several years. we have a master plan that we have developed and we will be working from. but regardless of what the polls say -- regardless of what the media europe lists will say, it's what we will say on election day that will determine this election. we are determined that on november 5th, we will not take any backward steps. and we will not return to the good old days of trying to make america great again. america is already great. we just want to ensure that she becomes greater by addressing the issue that is we have identified here today as a collective power of menu nighted in purpose. and with that, we'll turn it back over to dr. merritt.

dr. merritt: and so we've had a good time, right? we're going to close out with dr. phil doing the q&a. dr. phil: first, i want to thank all of our panelists again. the slide you're looking at is very personal to me in 1989, i was in my first year graduate school in new york university. at that time, donald trump ran a full page ad as we have december played here calling for bringing back the death penalty. november 5th is all about hate vs. hope. and we need to understand that clearly. if someone shows you who they are, believe them. in 1989 donald trump showed us who he is. i can tell you as a 28-year-old in new york city, it was very

frightening the type of environment that was created because of that ad. so today, we heard all of these issues. i want you to think of the young men who were implicated in a central park case. losing your voting rights because you're incarcerated. not being able to go to school because you're encarcerated. affecting your mental health because you're encarcerated. we need to know what's at stake on november the 5th. so we have come together collectively as the five divine nine political action committee for our fraternities and with our friend groove phi groove socialist incorporate rated but the five d nine social action committees are united for harris and tim walz. [applause] we are going to do everything

conceivable as black men to make sure vice president harris becomes our next president of the united states. just three weeks ago collectively, we release a statement about the attacks on vice president harris as a black woman. and other black women leaders. we are not going to sit on the side lines as we attempt to move forward in a progressive way. so we close with that not. and we will open it up for questions for those in the audience. i do believe we have a member in the press. if you have a question, we'll take it now. and if not, we'll go to our audience. yes? >> good morning. >> good morning. dr. merritt: you can come up to this microphone and use this

microphone. oh, ok. let's be brief in our questions. >> my name is dave hidrick member of phi kapa fraternity. i apologize for my dress. part of me is my fitness. i wept from 240 to 178. so it works. but i'm here as -- representing political action committee. it was founded in 2009. and it consist of denying organizations, divine nine organization. we were founded because of several things that you all discussed and the reason why we have these individual packs today is because we needed to do something collectively. and there was an alpha man named roman martin who made the statement at the conference.

what do you all do collectively? we couldn't answer. we talked about our mentoring program and our get out the vote but we didn't have anything we did collectively. i'm glad that we're up to the point what we're doing. inclusion means that we have to keep the sororities involved as well. the purpose was to bring us all together. we are in a need right now. -- to have an alliance with president direct being the possibility of being the first divine nine member to be at the highest office in this country and as a matter of fact in the world. and we have the responsibility is collectively getting together to support that. so i am asking you all to support -- we're going to have fund raisers. is it possible that you can team up with unit tie nine packet for the next 60 day that is we can do a collective fundraiser in

the month of september, november and the first week of november to make this happen as we reach out to all of our divine nine organizations? dr. merritt: we are -- we want to make it clear that we are going to work with any organization that is aligned with our interests including our sorority members in the national panelitic council. we're going to be reaching out to every black organization in this country. because as one of my friend said, it's nation time. it's time to get together as black men no matters what letters you wear on your chest, no matter what colors you bare, this is about black menu nighted. so we will be working with all groups as we move forward to november. any other questions?

>> hi, my name is -- omega sy phi fraternity. everything behind the messaging is very important. one of the things that has often concerned me is when i hear this notion that black men are so disenfranchised that they don't understand or feel any different when one administration changes to another. so they get upset at this whole process because they feel so disenfranchise. they don't see how these issue that is you raised impact them and how it impacts their lives. this is a message that needs to get out. those communities of people need to hear this message. heard dr. ward mention at the end of his summation a master man

can you speak to that master plan particularly as it relates to messaging and some of the resources that this collective has brought together to get the message out, particularly in ways currently that -- that -- that -- in which people receive messaging via social media and such? dr. merritt: first, let me say it that has been politically designed to create a narrative that african-american are not engaged in the political process because in fact, we are and have been for a number of years. and many of our organizations were founded around public service and voter education and voter awareness. we're take it to the next level. the plan that we discuss and -- and implementing will deal with messaging, working with media outlets, also understanding the need to go to social media because that 18-45 age group of

young folk, you know, we all in that group at one time, but we have to understand also, concise messaging that really hits the facts is something that we'll be doing with social media, and we'll be collectively talking about how do we make sure that messaging is factual and counters the narrative that is being put out intentionally i believe to disencourage us to participate in the political process. if you'll look at those messages, it's very clear. but we want to indicate that the record speaks for itself. if you want to know the difference between rhetoric and reality, we're going to talk to you about issues. it's not enough for a candidate to conveniently bring someone and have them sitting beside them at a national convention

who looks like us, but when their voting record and their public policy is counter to the interest of our community. black men are politically sophisticated enough to know the difference between a certain friend, someone you just encountered for friendship yesterday, versus a voting record that we can look to see what your voting record has been for a number of years just as frata fields just mentioned where he was in new york as a graduate student. that's reality. that's the facts and we are going to show the sharp contrast between rhetoric and reality. >> yes. >> i was just going to add this quickly. so serving as a candidate myself, one of the things that i will say is we've got go with the people are. and you heard the term canvassing. so we've got to go knock on

doors. we've got to go to the barber shops, to the beauty salons. we've got to go where our community and the population is to say succinct, to stay on message and again as frata, you know, said, you know, in regards to stand with the younger adults. we've got to understand what that social media platform looks like. as dr. ward said, i may not understand tiktok or instagram, but i need to work with our community and with our youth that do because they have a language, and we have to speak to their language and in terms that makes sense to that demographic and that population. >> question? >> good morning. -- or afternoon, i don't know we are in time. i want to reiterate what the brother said in front of me. the information that's been provideed is information overload. once again, it's like add eating

a good meal. but as i was coming down the 95 coor, do i was listening to a podcast related to black men engaging other black men who are supporting the nondemocracy platform of candidates. and what that conversation would look like. and i found myself challenged in knowing and understanding as a knowledgeable african-american not only in our historical foundation here in this country but also what we face as men of color -- educated men of color and trying to uplift our communities. what my conversation would be like with that fellow african-american male that is for the nonforward progressing democracy platform, and soy pose that question to you. what was that feedback, that comment that conversation look like as we don't want to echo or past.

we don't want to seem adversarial. i agree with groove phi groove, we get so caught up in the vice president and president that there are so many other candidate that is we need to consider. how do we have that conversation without cause add very say amongst ourselves? >> i was reminded that when they come for one, they come for all all. they're not going to check what candidate you support or political party you belong to. they're certainly not going to check what fraternity you belong to. it's why i refer to that central park jogger case. police in new york city didn't care that i was an nyu graduate

student. all they saw was a young black man. even more black men who are supporting the nondemocracy candidate, they need to understand that there will come a time when the question is called. and they will not have protection simply because they happen to vote a certain way. and think we have to have this very real conversation with our brothers in our community. because it's all right if you're a black republican. it's all right if you're a black conservative. the reality is that we all come to this from different stations in life, from different perspectives. but that history -- this is why history is important. we need to understandat history is the seeds of our survival. and that when we understand that, we move forward as a people, and when we don't, we move backwards.

so that's the conversation i've been trying to have with people on that side of the fence. >> something i would like to add to that is is understanding the context of where you are and where you were. a lot of folks would say under the previous administration life was better. you know, we had stimulus checks, the whole nine yards. but understand why we got into that conversation -- situation was the covid-19 pandemic. if we took the necessary measures there would not be as big of a pandemic in the united states. why did we get a stimulus? because everything was shut down. everything was shut down why? because there were missteps along the way. and also empowering people to know that the power that they have in each level of government. i tell people all of your votes are important but the closer they are to your home the more important it is to you. so city council member if you

feel like cars are speeding down your street, and you want speed bumps, call your city council members. if there are potholes, deer on the road, call your state rep. if you feel like there is not enough federal funding for snap, call your congress member. i work in ohio -- i work in ohio state legislature. i remember i got a phone call from a constituent. they said, hey, there's a pothole on the on-ramp. i called odot at 1:00 p.m. by 3:00 p.m. it was filled. if whoever is there doesn't answer the phone call for you, you have the power to remove them if they do, you have the power to keep them there. understand it that way. understand who serves you. >> yeah, i was going to say that i'm always interested in the purpose of conversations. so if the purpose of my

conversation with someone who is a black republican or a black conservative is to try to persuade him to my point of view, then for me that kind of is a waste of my time. so we can have general discussions just about our difference of opinions, but he has the right to vote just like anybody else. and i think that's what is missing is decorm in our conversation with folks that ard think differently. i don't have a problem with that at all. and also think that part of our discussion with young people -- i just came from a conversation the congressional black caucus in tunica, mississippi. and these young people are on tiktok some of now i know i'm thinking facebook. all that stuff is gone now with

these young folks, you know? i want to go back to something that we said. we will never forget our sisters. soy want to be very clear about that. omega network for action two weeks from today teams with delta sigma theta to do a virtual town hall two weeks from today. and so we're always working together. the purpose of this conversation is that we have understood that the african-american male voting block has been ignored and dismiss. and we're letting folks know that we see you. we see you doing that. and so if you want our vote, you're going to have to talk about the issue that is are important to us -- issues that are important to us. every time i see clyburn, throughout the years, this is the most important election of our lifetime.

i'm waiting on him to come with it. he said the same thing. he said this is the most consequential election of our lifetime. that this election can have lasting consequences for generations to come. and so kind of mirroring what our town hall two weeks from now is going to be about which is democracy is on the line. that's what he was talking about. and as far as these folks thinking about whether their vote matters, you should let him tell you about weatherford b. haste was voted in by one vote and jim crow full speed ahead so their vote is important on all levels. politics is local. if you want to feel politics you have to be voting up and down

that ballot on the local race. >> what i want to add to what dr. marion said, when you look at that rutherford b. haste decision, immediately after the union soldiers were removed from the south as a part of that compromise, assault on education, assault on the voting rights of black men, that was the agenda. and that is the same agenda that is happening today. you have to understand history understand to understand what's happening today. now we're going to have to craft it with most young folks don't know about the ruther b. heys decision. but black officials were removed from state legislature from these positions and from our elected offices the moment

rutherford b.hay,s was put in the presidency. so that's why we've got to know and teach history. the other part of this conversation also is that young people are engaged politically. you go to these university campuses, there are student organizations and student leaders who are activists on their campus and doing great work. they just are not affiliated with the political party. but they are moving. and we've got to be listening to the students and hear what their issues are. >> i tell you, that's why i love hanging out with these gentlemen because there will always be a history lesson. [laughter] >> >> just a quick question before i go to the next one. dr. marion said not to try to persuade or change anybody's mind but just to give my perspective. i often talk about love of country because i love this country. i think we're up here because we love our country, we love our demock schism our two-party

system as chaotic and complex as it is, i find a hard time joining a party -- being a part of a party that members of the k.k.k., neo nazi and -- neonazis find safe harbor in. how do you balance that? on the other side of the ledger looking at a party that is interested in investing and people who look like us informing in our communities. and yet the work of government is slow and grinding but as stacy abrams once said, it's like exercising and working out. you don't get results after one session in the gym, you have to have months and years of work, of hard work. and unfortunately, think my generation, we're instant gratification. that's what we're interested in and the tiktok results. it takes little bit longer than that to get to see the results

and the work. that's what i encourage you to think about >> before we go to another question, i just want to point out that while you are looking at this panel of political action committees that our members have been at work now for several years of making our voices heard in washington, d.c. and i want to call on brother keenan hale from p-- phi theta sigma is a product of our organizationsing coming together every year to make our voice heard during our fraternity days on capitol hill. why don't you explain the intent behind that and what we're trying to do to affect public policy? >> as you can see the -- all five fraternities we're here to gather on capitol hill. i believe this was in 2022.

and we thought of this because all of us previously have been doing this work -- one of the things that i was interested in as a former congressional staff member for congressman al green is that we have unity. we can talk to all members of congress. they have to listen to you. and so if we're just having one person as opposed to having 50 or 500 people saying the exact same thing it real -- really turns the dial up and causes them to look what they're going to do to say you know what, we have these stakeholders in front of us. we're not going away who are activating in every single state around the country. who have the ability to shape local races, state race and beyond. and so when we talk about the intent from gathering all of us

together, that is what we wanted to show. and that was a prelude leading up to everything else that we have moving forward and the master plan that was brought up here. this was all part of t. but we started this years ago. we needed to show that unification, the solidarity which is a very important aspect of us as black men in showing the rest of our community that, yes, although we may have different colors representing different models we industrial the same values. and that's what's important us to. >> thank you. that's work that happens in between this gathering that is important. it is why we collectively have been meeting on a regular basis over the last couple of years. this is not an overnight development because we have an election approaching. we have decided that there has to be some consistency and messaging consistency and

organizing amongst ourselves and our organizations. and that is what we are committed to because november 5th, will come and go. but there's a reality after novemberat. and so then we have to make -- november 5th. and so we have to make sure that we're raising the stakes on accountability so that all of the issue that is we raised that are holding our new white house administration accountable to all of the issues discussed today. that's why this is an important discussion because there's a perception in america that black men are not united. and we want to kill that perception. we -- we may come from different areas. we may come from different stations in life, but we all look in the mirror every day and we know who we see. and that's the most important value that all of us car rim another -- another question -- all of us carry. another -- another question? >> so between now and the election as you can imagine, the misinformation and

disinformation machine is increasing its activity levels. what is the most effective mechanism for someone like myself who is the leader of the largest chapter or fraternity to point and direct its members and his family and others in his network to sources of fact like we've heard today or additional messaging to help counter some of the disinformation that we know is coming? >> so one of the things that in the state of georgia, we have a unity group where we are respected by all of the divine nine organizations. and we meet every tuesday. and this was formed to help to insure that senator rafael warner was elected. and in that opportunity and it's our call that we do every week. it's an opportunity for us to

get data points, speaking points, to get facts to get data so we can fed rate that out and share that amongst our chapters, province, our region so they have the most up to date current information information that can be shared and to do away with the misinformation that you're going to hear on these commercials that you're going to hear on twitter, now x and some of these other platforms. so that's how we can get engage by being involved, taking the information back not only to our fraternities and sororities but to our churches, to our barber shops, to our network, other organizations, other groups so they can balls engaged and be informed and then we then can be that conduit to say if you have questions, come to us. come to us. we're here. we're available.

we'll readily send communications. we typically have some form of communication where anyone can subscribe to to get newsletters, to get weekly update to hear what are the facts so we can desuede those that are being led by misinformation. >> i think what he's saying is that people are rightfully skeptical of overtly political people coming to them. that's why it's important that we have trust community valladay or thes, people that it's not their job to dispute talk points. but just to share factual information because you can share the "new york times" article that has been checked times over and these other news source. that's why you see an effort often the work of anti-democracy candidate is to attack the press so they can further erode trust amongst the people. that's why it's important that, you know, share as many data points as you want but you have to be able to communicate your

personal story to these individuals and i think that's what has been successful in communities across the country. but it's increasingly difficult. >> our organizations have the most structured infrastructure of any organizations in this country that represent our community. we are organized regionally. we organize by states and we are organized locally. we have our local media platforms through our website, newsletter. so we have the infrom structure to communicate with our membership and that's what we're going to have to use as a backbone. we have organization that is have the greatest diversity in terms of age. we have members who are college students. we have member who are 90 years old and who are still engaged. so we crossed the age spectrum too. i think what we haven't realized in the past is what we have in our hands. we have a powerful machinery

that can talk to our community on the drop of a dime. and as a director of communications prior to the fraternity, i know how easy it is to talk to our members. press a button, it goes out, right? we have text messaging. we have all the capable that we're going to unleash in the fool make sure we educate our own members and carry that education over into the community and that's what i'm excited about, about all of us working together because we can do that collectively and find a unified message that all of our members are serving across the country. and you're talk a lot of people. >> chicago would like to add is that we all -- something i would like to add is communication. constant clear communication is very important. i've worked on a few campaigns.

something they learned, we need three points of contact for someone to remember you. but three points of contact for someone to remember something. six points of contact for someone to go to the polls and seven points to them to vote for you, right? so if you have clear, concise messaging whether it's your personal story, facts, fission or data, if you can clear concise multiple times that will help beat, you know, misinformation and the have punch in the facts, the truth to people -- >> think there's a level of credibility because the messaging is coming from your organization members, right? that brotherhood, that bond that we have all within that organization. i think that opens up the opportunity for folks to be open to the messaging, to the information that you're receiving and not be as resistant. i'm not going to a plumber about my dentistry. one of my frat brothers is like, hey, this is whey know. you'll probably want to check it

out. i'll be more likely to listen and inquire on my own. let's keep that in mind. >> one of the things that i would like to encourage to really have tangible information that's fact will have driven is go to the sources like the congressional black caucus foundation which gives out true information about the voting record of -- of individuals and also about critical issues impacting our community also the joint center for the political and economic studies. those are trusted organizations that consistent of scholars and individuals and public policy people who have no agenda other than looking at the facts and doing scholarly comparison of the pros and con -- cons. i strongly encourage those organizations to fact find what the issues are around those -- >> and i was going to say just

to kind of eco-- echo what frata bell was talk about and fraata fields, don't underestimate the power of the chanters in their community. you are a trusted servants. you heard him use the term "community validators." they watched you give out scholarships and programs to youth. they've watched you work. and so when that chapter kind of can give out information or direct them the resources, that's huge. i also add don't underestimate the power of one. you know, there are some people that if you go to them and say, this is what i would suggest -- this is how you vote on this local election. , this is who i'm voting for. they're going to vote for them

just because you said. so we never want to underestimate your own power. you know how that works in o mechanic are mega politics? -- in omega politics. we think of it as a contact sport because of how it comes to people, how we seen it come as the vice president. it's also a contact sport because each of us needs to touch somebody and say hey, let me tell you how you should do on this one, let me tell you how i know. that's impactful. >> let's take one question because we are running out of time. >> i want to thank you for this opportunity because as organizations we always talk about serving underprivileged and underserved communities. but i always look at it from what happens when you talk to individual who are underengaged. and you've done that going forward. in that being said what unique

challenges do you face might influence the actual turnout and support? and what can we adopt do as a selective to have a bigger impact? >> that's a great question. because i think that one of the things we have to battle is a sense of hopelessness. if you're a black man in america, no matter how well you have done professionally, you hit a wall because reality of the heaviness of being a black han in the society wears on you. we have to touch our brothers and give them hope so that they see that it is critically important that they go to the poll on november 5th. we have to talk to them as black fathers. i am a black father. my daughter is in the room. we have to talk to them as black grandfathers, as black sons, as

uncles because this is the time where we have to operate as a family. i think one of the biggest threats to our electoral participation is this notion of hopelessness and december pair. we have to give hope to our brothers in the community that the work that we're doing today will benefit them in the long run. and if not them personally, someone in the next generation. we always talk about generational wealth. we values to talk about generational wellness because there is a sense that we need to heal our community. i understand it when i talk to a black man, a brother who says, man, it doesn't matter if i vote. and i always relay the conversation that on my office wall at home is the civil war certificate of my great, great grandfather was a union army

soldier. when i go to the national african-american civil war memorial and i see my great, great grandfather's name, i know that that was only 160 years ago. we have people who are 100 years today. that was yesterday. and i think we have to talk in very real terms about what it means to be a black man in america. and what our responsibility is because all of us in the room are standing on the shoulders of somebody. we may not even know their name. i think this is a time for real conversations with our brothers in the community. sometimes we try to have these sophisticated conversations. now is the time for a family conversation about what's at stake. the consequence of november 5th. i posted on -- on -- on facebook a while back that, there's going to be no makeup exam on november

5th. you need to understand the assignment. you get one shot. and if we fail this test, we will suffer. trust me, there are people who are ready to emasculate the black community. and so it's time to be real about where we are in america and what is at stake on november 5th. and i hope. and i'm glad dr. marion talked about our chanters. we're on the ground. we don't have to create anything. we are there already. let's have those conversations. >> and then one of the things that i'll say also how we can help lead is that finances. we need to invest. we need to give -- i love to say this. you can run a train on go -- on coal but a campaign on go. but we have to insure that we're financialsly investing in those candidate that is are aligned to our core values and core mission

that's going positively bring back results to the communities where we live and serve. so it's ok for us to float checks. it's ok for us to invest. and guess what? we hold those candidates elected accountable. and if they do not serve and they do not perform in the manner that they have said they would, then we fire them by not reelecting them. so that's another great equalizer that we as men can get financially involved and financially engage with the political action communities and those organizations to insure we have some fine candidates. i call myself a mutual if i have a mutual fund of about 40 candidate that is are out standing. and we have a return of investment because we hold those candidates accountable. and each and every one of us have those same types of stories and those same type initiatives. so i cannot underestimate the financial giving and investing

in great candidate that is are goings to uplift the policy that is we manufacture. >> i was going to say on that note that what we do at omega network for action, we have a training action for candidates. because we don't want you to running. we want you to win. some people just run. that's a waste of time and money. they just graduated last week at the c.b.c. institute. you know what i found -- it's been a wake-up call with young folks. i don't want to say that they done care about their history. but that old line that i used that grandma ma died for your right to vote, doesn't move them. when i saw it didn't move them, i first got angry. you need to show your history. if you only -- but you really have to shift and there will be opportunities to teach your history. but you have to come up with

other tactics to show them how your vote impacts who chooses judges, how your vote determines how laws are passed in congress that can impact you. how your vote locally can impact your vote? and one of the things they talked about is we're going to have to sleep in shifts. we all can't just go to sleep at 10:00 and wake up at 7:00 in the morning because folks are working 24 hours on this thing. we can't sleep on this one right here. you know, we know what the data tells us that we're getting close to that year where the minority becomes the majority. so we know voter suppression is going to increase more and more and more. but the one thing that defeats voter suppression tall time is

voter -- all the time is voter turnout. so if we can turn out the vote no matter what suppression tactics there are, we can win. >> amen. >> i would like to discuss having a voter plan. have a plan for when you get to the poll. how are you going to get there? are you going to take the bus? are you going to wide a friend? -- ride with a friend? make sure pocket preparation prevents poor performance. so you need to make sure you have a plan on how to get there. plan on who you vote for and how you're going to tell other people. in ohio, i have i voted stickers. what my fraternity, the gama nu chanter in toledo is show your sticker. whoever showed their stick, we had a party, you get in free if you voted. that was something we did. that's something that undergreat

graduate chanters could pick up. or other initiatives. have a plan encourage people to vote. that's how we can get around this voter suppression. >> one last thing as we're wrapping up here, i like to share this because i heard it from mr. michael blake out of new york. i think it's important that we all understand -- think of an area of your life. any area of your life and tell me that politics doesn't impact it. politics impacts every area of your life. do not give that power to anyone else. >> one of the things that i would encourage us to do between now and the election, every day that we wake up, it's about this election. i know that there are -- i'm a president of alpha fraternity. but this is not about the colors that we wear. this is about every day we need

to be doing something to get meme -- people to the polls on november the 5th. so group picnics sound good. but this summer it's not time for greek picnics. we could have a greek picnic next summer. everything we do. every activity we have, every function we go to has got to be about voter awareness and getting the vote out. if we're not doing that between now and november 5th, you're wasting your time because if we lose this one, we're going to have hell to pay. and as it was already said earlier, as a student of political science, just listen to what he's saying.

it's crystal clear. so there's no gray area if you go in the department of education, that's clear, concise, you can take it home and de deposit it in the bank. if you close the department of education that is the question we got say back to our young folk because it was through the department of education we got standards. some of us old enough to remember. i campaign against jesse hamms. jesse hamms and donald trump are the same folk, just born a year or two later. [laughter] i'm not talking for my other pack members. i'm talking for every ward and the a pa pack. i can sing the -- the hyn. but right now, i don't have time

to sing the hynm. so everybody hold on so we can get elected in november. >> on that note, [applause] i want to thank all of my distinguished colleagues who present today i want to thank the members of our audience. we have work to do. thank you. [applause]

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