Souls To The Polls Black History Celebration

The Falls County Democratic Party sponsored a “Souls to the Polls Black History Celebration” Sunday, Feb. 20, at the BTW Alumni building. The program opened with the singing of the National Black Anthem, “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” led by Ethelene Green.

LaTonja McCullough Taplin, Precinct Chair, presented the origin of Black History Month. Former President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976 allowing opportunities for Black Americans to honor both past and present accomplishments. Elizabeth Richardson, President of the Marlin Chamber of Commerce, and a Precinct Chair, presented a broad stroll down memory lane of African American entrepreneurs in Falls County. Charleen Prince, Falls County Democratic Party Chair, presented an overview of historical African American Falls County elected officers.

Candidates on the ballot were introduced including Falls County Adrienne Luster Rias, Commissioner, Pct. 4 and Cedric Davis, Texas House District 13 and Janet Dudding (Comptroller of Public Accounts). Through Zoom State Democratic 22 Chairwoman Tammie Hargroves introduced additional candidates: Joy Dias (Governor), Dana Huffman (Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 5) and Robert Johnson (Judge, Court of Criminal Appeals, Place 6).

Attendees were reminded that democracy is on the ballot and the importance of getting the community out to vote. Transportation vans will be available at the St. Paul AME Church, Rev. Eddie Ellis, on Park St. Linda Jan Lewis, Waco NAACP Political Engagement Chairwoman, advised that individuals are allowed to take no more than six people at a time for curbside voting.  Early voting ends Friday, Feb. 25. Primary election is Tuesday, March 1, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

Charleen Prince, FC Democratic Party Chair thank the program participants and attendees for their support. Mr. Howard Moore, 95 years old and Mrs. Jewline Mayes, 91 years old, were the oldest attendees present. Heaven or hell refreshments were served.