Empower is the Theta Zeta Lambda Chapter’s voter education and awareness Initiative designed to empower African-Americans residing in Washtenaw County, Michigan, to exercise their fundamental right to vote. This initiative is aligned with the Voteless People is a Hopeless People national program of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and it aims to promote civic engagement, informed decision-making, and active participation in the democratic process.
African-Americans in Washtenaw County have a rich history of contributing to their communities and shaping the course of the nation. However, there is a need to ensure that all eligible voters within the community are aware of their rights, informed about important issues, and actively involved in the voting process. The Empower Initiative seeks to address this need by providing essential voter education and awareness resources.
Program Objectives:
1. Increase Voter Registration: Encourage eligible African-American residents in Washtenaw County to register to vote and maintain up-to-date voter registrations.
2. Promote Civic Education: Educate participants about the importance of voting, their rights as voters, and the impact of their votes on local, state, and national levels.
3. Inform about Local Issues: Provide information about relevant local issues, candidates, and ballot measures, enabling participants to make informed decisions at the polls.
4. Empower Communities: Create a network of informed and engaged citizens who can lead voter education efforts within their communities.
5. Increase Voter Turnout: Increase voter turnout among African-Americans in Washtenaw County through awareness campaigns, voter mobilization, and community events.
Program Components:
1. Voter Registration Drives: Collaborate with local organizations and community partners to host voter registration drives and provide resources to streamline the registration process.
2. Civic Education Workshops: Organize workshops and seminars to educate participants on the electoral process, the importance of voting, and how to access reliable information about candidates and issues.
3. Community Forums: Host community forums where residents can engage with local leaders, candidates, and experts to discuss pressing issues and hear about their plans and solutions.
4. Voter Mobilization Campaigns: Develop voter mobilization campaigns using a combination of digital and grassroots strategies to encourage voter turnout.
5. Outreach and Advocacy: Promote voter education and awareness through various communication channels, including social media, flyers, and local media outlets.
Community Involvement:
Empower encourages community members to actively participate in shaping the program. It seeks volunteers, community leaders, and local organizations to collaborate on voter education initiatives and voter registration drives.
Program Evaluation:
The success of the Empower is measured through voter registration numbers, increased voter turnout, participant feedback, and the level of community engagement. Regular assessments will be conducted to refine and improve program strategies.
Bro. Don Adams
Program Director
