“The only way the city‘s essential assets can be saved is through the synergy of the black youth‘s vote and activism!”
- Brandon Norris, BYP100 Organizer
Montel pledges to vote with Organizer Myra Lee
A city that has seen success and distress, Detroit, MI is no stranger to the impact political officials can have on the livelihood of constituents. As Detroit undergoes economic trajectory changes, this year’s elections, especially the upcoming Michigan gubernatorial race, can potentially determine the financial future of Detroiters. There is a lot at stake for the city that holds an 82 percent black population, and BYP100’s I’m Young, I’m Black & I VOTE campaign is making sure young, black voices are heard. BYP100’s local organizers, Myra Lee and Brandon Norris are leading street teams in communities and on campuses to talk with registered, black voters between the ages of 18-35. The goal is to provide these young voters with resources they need to make an informed vote on Election Day. These efforts are in partnership with Detroit Voices.
Detroit Street Team member Dawon counting his voter pledge cards
BYP100 Organizer Brandon Norris and his team have been successfully communicating with young Detroiters and are greatly aware of what’s at stake for them. When asked what issues youth of color face in Detroit, Brandon explains the backlash of gentrification, the resurrection of policies that legalize criminalization of black people and the “continuous deprivation of sufficient education for Detroit Public Schools.” He believes that although wealth and new jobs are being brought to Detroit, the increase of cost of living and the influx of outside workers will continue to disenfranchise Detroit natives. Brandon believes that “the only way the city’s essential assets can be saved is through the synergy of the black youth’s vote and activism”
If you are interested in joining the BYP100 I’m Young, I’m Black & I VOTE movement and helping Brandon, Myra & the Detroit street team get out the young, black vote, please email vote@BYP100.org.
The post What’s at Stake for Detroit’s Young, Black Voters This Election? appeared first on BYP 100.
