Saturday Morning gathering featured panel of academics, voting advocates and community activists
The NAACP Long Beach Branch, in partnership with Hannibal Media Group, hosted a lively and thought-provoking community town hall meeting on Saturday, November 1, bringing together residents, scholars, and activists for an in-depth discussion on Proposition 50 and its potential impact on California communities.
Held at Blu’ Arts and Wellness Gallery in Downtown Long Beach, the event drew a diverse yet distinctly African American audience eager to engage in dialogue about civic responsibility, political reform, and equity in governance. The midday program featured a distinguished panel of academics, political activists, and community observers, moderated by local journalist Jackie Rae.
Panelists included Dr. Anthony Samad – Executive Director Mervyn Dymally African American Economic and Political Institute, Community strategist Friday Jones; the League of Women Voters’ Maggie Drizzell; political science professor Dr. Jerome Hunt; Together, they unpacked the nuances of Prop 50, whether for or no, exploring its implications for current day political ethics and accountability among elected officials.
“The importance of understanding the measures we vote on can’t be overstated,” said Greg Johnson, CEO of the Hannibal Media Group. “Town halls like this help bridge the gap between policy and the people it affects. This is what we hope to achieve when we say, we strive to inform and inspire the people”
Moderator Jackie Rae expertly guided the discussion through key questions about how Prop 50 aligns with broader issues of justice, representation, and public trust. Committy members were invited to participate in a Q&A session, offering perspectives that reflected both local and statewide concerns.
NAACP Long Beach Branch President Dr. Sharifa Batts emphasized the importance of community engagement in shaping public policy. “The townhall was a powerful reminder that informed communitiees are empowered communitiees. Proposition 50 has real implications for our democracy and it’s vital that every voter how it impacts accountability and transparency in government. The NAACP remains committed to making sure every voice is heard and every vote is counted”.
The event concluded with an informal networking reception, allowing attendees to connect with panelists and local vendors including Revelations of Nature healing teas and Kalimba Song Coffee Company. Guests also received information on Blu Arts and Wellness Gallery’s various events and programs.
For more information on upcoming forums or to get involved with the NAACP Long Beach Branch, visit Long Beach Branch NAACP.