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Voter Engagement Discussion Focuses on Education and
Importance of Voting
By Tricia Hall
Sojourner’s Truth Reporter
Dozens gathered to hear guest speaker Derrick Clay,
president and CEO of Visions Group, LLC, present information
and lead a discussion on integrating community empowerment
on Thursday, April 28, 2016 at the African America Legacy
Project headquarters on Collingwood Blvd.
Clay opened his presentation by outlining milestones
achieved by Republican and Democratic Party presidents.
“President Nixon influenced foreign affairs and established
the war on drugs. Reagan’s economic development was
established through tax cuts, and the voter rights act was
signed in 1965,” said Clay. “Bush senior signed the
Americans with Disabilities act, and increased taxes after
he promised he won’t. Bush junior created the Patriot Act,
Homeland Security, and suffered failed FEMA rescue attempts.
Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act, which was the greatest
piece of legislation. Carter created the federal energy
department, and transportation regulations for passengers.
During Clinton’s presidency, 22 million jobs were created,
welfare reform occurred and the most alarming rate of
African Americans were locked up. Obama established
Affordable Care Act, which provides medical coverage for
millions of Americans and improved Cuban relations.”
Clay encouraged audience participation and accepted audience
questions about various topics including: why African
Americans should care about the upcoming presidential
election, and best practices for voter engagement.
“President Obama’s campaign provides an example of a
well-organized voter campaign. He cleaned up voter
registration lists, utilized technology, and looked at
transportation concerns,” explained Clay.
Clay is a Toledo native and Macomber-Whitney alumnus. He has
received recognition by Ebony Magazine as a leader under the
age of 30, Business First Magazine as top business leader
under 40, and Smart Business Magazine as one of its Smart
Leaders. The group invited Clay to assist in unveiling this
organization by sharing his insight into vital issues that
are at stake in the Toledo community during the upcoming
election cycle. |
Derrick Clay
Robert Smith. African American Legacy Project President
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Visions of Integrating Community Empowerment Socially, also
known as Voices, is a group of Toledo young
African-American professionals dedicated to giving “voice”
to a range of community issues. Their mission is about
connecting agents for social change through active
engagement to empower and uplift our neighborhoods and
community.
“Today’s discussion is about voting. It’s important to
educate voters, not just about local issues but all issues.
Periodically we will have different events that impact our
community,” explained Minister Rashieda Timpson, Voices
member who focuses on special interest in community
empowerment and health wellness.
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