By Jamal Thomas
Throughout the course our nation’s history, there have been grassroot efforts to get people more engaged in the political process. Today, one effort in particular has evolved into a movement here in Montgomery. Since its implementation two years ago, Rolling to the Polls has focused on increasing voter education and engagement.
“During the last Presidential Election people were misinformed and disengaged with the political process” said Rolling to the Polls visionary KM Brown as she explained how voter turnout was lower in Black and low-income communities. “I wanted to make communities more knowledgeable and give them information encouraging them to vote.”
Rolling to the Polls has five components: Voter Registration, Voter Education, Voter Engagement, Voter Rights Restoration, and Election Day Services which helps provides transportation to the polls.
Brown is the Political Awareness Chair for Montgomery Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. In this role, she was able to start the Rolling to the Pools initiative. Now, almost 20 organizations have partnered with Rolling to the Polls including fraternities, sororities, churches, and the Southern Poverty Law Center.
Rolling to the Polls has been making a great impact in the community. The initiative played a huge role in getting information out about the Special Elections last December. Brown says that many people didn’t understand that there were two races with two ballots; one for U.S. Senate and the other for Alabama Senate District 26.
Brown currently works for a professional organization for educators. She is a native of Montgomery and graduated from Jeff Davis High School. Brown has degree in Public Administration from Auburn University.
For more information about Rolling to the Polls contact 334-625-0758 or visit www.montgomeryalumnae.org
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