Two media outlets are partnering to provide voter awareness to the community and have combined their capacity to launch the “Vote like Your Life Depends On It” campaign.
The Apollo Theater and Black Entertainment Television Networks recently announced the collaboration that kicks off on Sept. 17 with a free, town hall forum and panel discussion.
Beginning with a discussion focusing on issues impacting the presidential election — from Supreme Court nominations and health care to voter suppression tactics and access to education — organizers claim that millions of African-Americans are not yet registered to vote.
The discussion is intended to encourage its audience to embrace and participate in their civic duty on election day, in November.
The event also marks the launch of the Apollo’s new series – Apollo Uptown Hall which is designed to track every aspect of the election process and inform the nation about the issues that matter most to the African-American community.
“Since its inception, the Apollo Theater has served as a ‘town hall’ for local community residents as well as people from all across New York City,” Jonelle Procope, president & CEO of the Apollo Theater said.
“Uptown Hall is a natural extension of the role we have always played, and creates a platform for us to more regularly engage the community in conversations that matter.”
Moderated by TJ Holmes, BET Networks host of the new show “Don’t Sleep!” the panel will include Rev. Al Sharpton, activist and TV commentator, Michael Eric Dyson, author and academic, Elinor Tatum, publisher, New York Amsterdam News, Keli Goff, political analyst and author and James Braxton Peterson, associate Pprofessor of English at Lehigh University.
Plans to host additional election year related events will be announced later.
Allegedly, the 2012 campaign will provide multi-phase political coverage for the elections, focus on voter suppression, voter rights and rally the community around the important policies that directly affect them with issues-based content and comprehensive political analysis.
“This year’s election is developing into yet another historic presidential race and we are continuing to make a dedicated effort to mobilize the significant voting block of unregistered African-Americans to sign up and get to the polls,” Debra L. Lee, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, BET Networks said.
“Now more than ever issues that affect our community and our votes will impact the political outcomes of several states on election day. BET will be the source to provide a comprehensive voting information experience on-air and online from an African-American perspective. Our votes are going to make a real difference in this election.”
Non-registered New Yorkers will be able to register to vote on-site.
FORMER COP COULD BE FIRST BLACK PRESIDENT…OF BOROUGH
Former NYPD captain and current New York State Senator Eric L. Adams could elevate his profile by replacing Marty Markowitz as the next Brooklyn Borough President.
On a recent radio show, the lawmaker more than hinted his bid to take the position in 2013. He said next year he plans to throw his hat in the ring for the position which champions Kings County.
If Addams successfully claims the seat, he would be the first of his race to occupy the coveted position.
Addams is a Democrat who represents the 20th Senate District, which comprises Flatbush, Crown Heights, Park Slope, Windsor Terrace and Prospect Heights.
Prior to elective office SS Addams served with NYPD for 22 years. He co-founded 100 Blacks in Law Enforcement Who Care, an out-spoken advocacy group of Black police officers.
Catch You On The Inside!
