The Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People (DCABP) has announced its newly elected officers, marking a significant shift in leadership for the 2025-2027 term. The general body meeting on December 5 drew an enthusiastic, standing-room-only crowd, despite the frigid weather, as members participated in shaping the future of this nearly 90-year-old institution.
Among the most notable changes, Durham’s first Black woman mayor, Elaine O’Neal, has been elected Chair of DCABP’s influential Political Action Committee (PAC). She is joined by Donald Hughes as Vice Chair, a Durham native and former school board candidate, who emphasized their shared commitment to the city’s legacy and future.
In a social media post following his election, Hughes reflected on the honor, stating:
“From the West End to East Durham, our commitment to our hometown isn’t about using the positions as stepping stones. We have a respect for Durham and its people that we intend to bring to these roles. I look forward to working with our chair and DCABP members to rebuild Black political power in Durham and throughout the state.”
Outgoing PAC Chair Cassandra Stokes faced criticism during her tenure, particularly regarding the 2024 election cycle. Stokes was accused of not fully supporting the DCABP-endorsed slate, allegedly due to personal conflicts and efforts to influence outcomes in her favor. Reports surfaced that Stokes sent text messages to members urging them not to vote for the official slate because she was unable to secure approval for current County Commissioner Wendy Jacobs during the internal voting process. This internal discord left many members questioning the unity and effectiveness of the PAC during her leadership.
Chairman Walter A. Jackson acknowledged the challenges but praised the dedication of the members who turned out in record numbers to vote. “Our meeting last Thursday night showcased the strengths of the Durham Committee. We got the job done, and we are well-positioned to continue to build on the work of our great organization,” he said.
The newly elected leadership includes Veronica Robinson (Assistant Executive Secretary), Shanetta Burris (Recording Secretary), Keith Bishop (Treasurer), and Tammie Hall (Finance Committee Chair), alongside an impressive roster of committee chairs and vice chairs across civic, political, economic, health, education, housing, and legal redress sectors. Notably, several long-vacant positions have been filled, reinforcing DCABP’s capacity to tackle pressing community issues.
Dr. Wanda Boone (Health and Public Safety Committee Chair), Stella Adams (Housing Committee Chair), and Jonathan Wilson (Legal Redress Committee Chair) are among the prominent community leaders taking on key roles.
Mayor O’Neal and Hughes bring a vision of revitalizing Black political power not only in Durham but throughout the state. Hughes captured this sentiment, declaring: “Let’s get to work!”
The new leadership team will officially assume their roles in January at the DCABP’s annual meeting, which remains open to the public. With a strong foundation and a renewed sense of purpose, the Durham Committee is poised to continue its mission of advocacy and empowerment for Durham’s Black community.
Disclaimer: Photos featured in this article were sourced from Donald Hughes’ official Facebook page and other official websites.
