With Election Day rapidly approaching, national and local voting rights groups descended on Durham on Saturday in a spirited push to galvanize Black voters. The Bull City served as the latest stop for Black Voters Matter, a pivotal organization dedicated to amplifying Black voices at the polls year-round, not just during major election cycles.
“Black voters don’t just matter every two to four years, they matter every year,” declared Danielle Brown, the executive director of Black Voters Matter. The organization is in the midst of a whirlwind North Carolina tour, making stops in Wilmington, Greensboro, and concluding with an Election Day visit in Charlotte. Brown emphasized the urgency of voting, highlighting that crucial issues like health care, housing, and environmental justice are all at stake. “Here in North Carolina, everything is on the ballot,” she stressed, from administrative races to presidential elections.
The event was part community gathering, part rallying cry. Brown outlined their strategy to ensure the Black community is prepared to make their voices heard. “What’s your plan to vote on Election Day? What time are you going? Do you need a ride?” he asked, underscoring the logistics that can make or break voter turnout.
The day culminated with a town hall at North Carolina Central University, where students were energized about voting. For some, it marked a significant milestone—voting for the first time. “I think it’s important that we use voting as a way to make our voices heard,” shared student Mekaya Robinson, while fellow student Kelyce Johnson emphasized, “Voting for my body because it’s my body, it’s my choice at the end of the day, and I don’t want anyone telling me what to do with my body.”
The push for voter engagement extended across HBCU campuses, where students like North Carolina A&T University’s Jayden Seay underscored the sacrifices made for voting rights. “In our community, we’re always reminded of all those who gave their lives completely so that we could have the opportunity to vote,” Seay said.
At North Carolina Central University, students shared messages of empowerment. “Make sure you’re educated about the people running. There’s a lot on the ballot,” advised NCCU student Emmanuel Davis. Robinson added a rallying note, “Just get out and vote. It helps make a difference. Your vote matters.”
As of November 1, over 700,000 Black voters had already cast their ballots, roughly half of all registered Black voters in the state. The Bull City Citizen will continue to follow this pivotal movement and provide updates as Election Day approaches, capturing the impact and determination of Durham’s voting community.
