MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – The Holiday Inn in downtown Mobile hosted this year’s annual community summit focused on voter rights.
“We launched this event last year to unite the community and address important issues,” said Deanna Fowler, Executive Director of Alabama Forward.
Titled “Democracy: Now or Never,” the event was organized by Alabama Forward.
“We’re a network of organizations focused on civic engagement and voting rights,” Fowler explained. “Our goal is to protect and expand access to the ballot, ensuring that every Alabamian has the opportunity to have their voice heard.”
Day one featured multiple panel discussions covering a range of topics. Within the first hour, discussions included the Allen v. Milligan Supreme Court case, which led to the establishment of Congressional District Two, efforts to boost voter turnout, and issues related to voter suppression tactics such as absentee ballot challenges and intimidation.
Local and state leaders actively engaged in voter mobilization were in attendance, including representatives from the Alabama and Mobile branches of the NAACP and the nonprofit organization Stand Up Mobile.
As the November general election approaches, the summit also focused on key issues:
– The importance of knowing the candidates on the ballot before going to the polls
– The significance of voting for candidates who will advocate for change in predominantly Black communities
– The need to support candidates dedicated to reducing Alabama’s infant mortality rate
The summit will conclude with a festival and vendor expo in Mardi Gras Park tomorrow, from 2 to 9 p.m., featuring several state-wide organizations.
