CHARLOTTE, NC — BET and the National Urban League, a historic civil rights organization teaming up for National Black Voter Day – a day to mobilize black voters ahead of the election.
“So black voter day is about encouraging, motivating and educating people so we can reclaim our power and maximize our influence,” National Urban League president Marc Morial said.
The non-partisan initiative informs voters on important information such as how to register to vote and also encourages them to get informed on the issues.
“They should educate themselves on the platforms and plans of all the candidates, and then choose the one that’s most aligned with your thoughts and your views,” Morial said.
The day highlights the importance of voting especially for a community that has historically been disenfranchised.
“Your vote is your power, and if you’re not there voting, then someone else is going to make the decisions for you,” BET executive vice president Tiyale Hayes said.
Black voters could play an important role in determining the outcome of the 2024 presidential election, as 34 million black Americans will be eligible to vote.
Leaders of the National Urban League said that’s why the black vote is so critical.
“So 27% of all eligible African Americans have historically voted in the last three elections, 41% of white Americans
. So if we just equalize the participation rates, it would represent far more power,” Morial said.