GWC area residents learn about election process, community organizing from Foot Soldiers Park

Residents of Selma’s GWC area recently participated in a civics lesson courtesy of the Community Engagement Corps of Foot Soldiers Park.

Before the Aug. 26 municipal election, Community Engagement Corps held a two-day mock election at the GWC Community Center to give residents an in-depth study of the election process. The goal was to strengthen voter turnout and community organizing there.

On the first night, event goers learned about civil rights history, followed by a mock election for the city council, mayor and school board. Attendees worked together to help their mock candidate create their platform speeches.

After the candidates gave their speeches, elections were held. Jakayla Hill was elected to the city council, Santana Lee was elected to the school board and Latalia Rivers was elected mayor. Jamya Winston, Tameka Dirton and Latonya McGraw are block captains inside of their community.

Winners of the mock election returned to the community center on the next day so participants could practice organizing campaigns.

After the real municipal elections are decided, the mock candidates will meet with the actual city official. The point of these meetings will not be for a “photo op” (although pictures will be taken). The meeting will give the GWC leaders a chance to discuss the issues of the community with municipal leaders.

The CEC will continue to work with GWC leaders in their organizing efforts.