Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Fights Voter Suppression in Georgia

The alumnae chapters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., including Savannah Alumnae, Stone Mountain-Lithonia Alumnae, Rome Alumnae, Marietta-Roswell Alumnae, North Fulton Alumnae, Douglas-Carroll-Paulding Counties Alumnae, Gwinnett County Alumnae, Henry County Alumnae, and East Point College Park Alumnae, have been actively involved in combating voter suppression for many years through their Social Action Committee’s “Right to VOTE Issues” movement. This year, they have organized a tour themed “One Delta-One Georgia” to raise awareness of this ongoing challenge to our democracy.

In their manifesto, they stressed the importance of their efforts, stating: “Today we set aside the intractable problems that undermine our democracy. These are the obstacles that hinder our progress and development, the injustices that continue unchecked. We are witnessing a disturbing decline in justice that affects many individuals and families in all walks of life. It is vital that we raise our voices to make these injustices a central issue in the electoral processes.”

Dr. Jamal Bryant, senior pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, emphasized in his words of comfort to voters: “Today we stand on the shoulders of our ancestors who fought so hard…”

Organizer Dr. Patricia W. Harris, a member of the National Social Action Commission of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., explained her reasons for holding the event, stating, “There may come a time when we have to fight for our rights again, so we have to take a stand.”

The event brought together community members of all ages to foster a deeper understanding of the critical importance of voting, regardless of political affiliation. President Candace Hull-Simon of the Stone Mountain-Lithonia Alumnae Chapter underscored the importance for youth, stating, “This resonates with our younger generation, and it is imperative that we amplify this message. Voter suppression is a real threat, subtle but pervasive, and particularly targets our college campuses.” She emphasized, “We need to shed light on this issue… Individuals can check and scan their voting QR codes to confirm their status… They can be active one day and inactive the next.”

During the program’s reflection on voting, Kemberlee Pugh, social action chair of the Marietta Roswell Alumnae Chapter, issued a call to action, stating, “I want to remind all of you of something. Some of your ancestors wanted to vote, but they couldn’t. Some of your founding fathers marched in the streets for the right to vote, and you can’t vote in every election… The polling places are open. So, don’t vote?”

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