Millions of Americans will go to the polls this election to cast their vote for the next Commander-in-Chief. Rev. Ray Whitely, founder of Black Votes Matters, says while the national elections get lots of turnout, more needs to be done to drive black voters to the polls for municipal elections. “Local elections have such a low turnout. Most people don’t even know when local elections go on. We have to create more of an awareness to bring voters to the polls,” said Whitely. “This movement is not about telling people who to vote for,” added Whitley. “But, rather to educate the black community that their vote does matter.”

Representatives will be traveling throughout the state and across the country to bring awareness to the Black Votes Matter Campaign.

I have real people ready to talk on each of these points. Call me to set up an interview.

Story ideas for coverage:

1. THE MISSION:

• To Mobilize. Education. Empower black voters.

• Primary focus is on local elections – Many black voters are not aware of when local elections happen.

• Express the need to engage in local elections.

• Hold local candidates accountable to your direct needs.

• Make your community relevant.

• Have voter registration at every event public event.

• Hand out 10- point plan pamphlet at every event.

2. CHANGES AT THE CHURCH: As with every election, politicians head to local church pulpits to bring their message to the black congregation. A Boynton Beach pastor says it’s time to revamp that practice and he’s making the change first. Apostle Tommy Brown of New Disciples Worship Center is calling on other ministers to stop allowing politicians to get in front of your audience without vetting them first.

3. LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS: Mobilizing the voter registration. Mostly white, so why are they behind Black Votes Matter? The group wants to help make people educated decisions on the issues. It’s not a color issue, but a push to make sure voters are educated on issues that impact their diverse communities.

4. THE EDUCATED VOTER vs STATUS QUO: It’s no longer accepted to just vote the Republican ticket if you or your family’s been doing that for decades. Mr. Dan Calloway, well into his late 70s, is a pioneer in the City of Riviera Beach and he still remembers not being able to go to certain areas as a kid. He remembers when blacks could not vote. Mr. Calloway says Black Votes Matter is more than just bringing awareness.” “It’s also about asking the black community to get educated on the issues that affect their community so they can cast an educated ballot,” said Calloway. After casting a ballot, the focus then becomes about holding your elected officials accountable on the platform on which they’re running.

5. EXPANDING THE MESSAGE Thirty-year-old Bo Barber, an entrepreneur, says to reach out to the younger black voter, the delivery of the message need to be expanded. Social media is key because it’s what the younger generation relies on for information.

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