Image collage: sources below
“The International Day of Democracy is an opportunity to reinforce the importance of upholding free speech, civil liberties, and the rule of law; ensuring accountable institutions; and protecting and promoting human rights”.
– UN Secretary-General António Guterres
Democracy, over time, has proven to be the best form of governance as a result of its capacity to offer every individual an opportunity to have their interests and concerns protected through adequate representation by elected leaders.
From the emancipation proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, to the emergence of Hiram Revels, the first African American congressman, all the way to the continued civil rights movement and freedom marches, African Americans have always fought to not just have their voices heard, but to also contribute to the advancement of the United States which today continues to remain touted as the biggest democracy in the world.
In Philadelphia, the “City of Brotherly Love”, the fight for representation and equality stretches far back to the underground railroad movement, to the creation of the Pennsylvania Abolition Society (PAS) in 1775, where the likes Richard Allen (1760-1831) and James Forten (1766-1842), and many others were in the forefront of the abolitionist struggle.
Today, and with so many battles fought to ensure that African Americans in Philadelphia have a representation in the democracy in the United States, Black Philadelphians are beginning to occupy political positions that allow them to shape policies that address the concerns of not only their ethnic group but the whole Philadelphia community. Take a look at some of the Black political leaders making an impact in their communities;
Sharif Street – State Senator
Representing the third senatorial district of Philadelphia, Senator Sharif, an attorney by profession is committed to the reformation of the criminal justice system, job creation and the funding of public schools, investing in technology, and tackling the rights of all who live in Pennsylvania.
Austin Davis – Lieutenant Governor
Image Source: Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Making history as the first Black lieutenant governor in Commonwealth history and the youngest in the country, Lt. Gov. Austin Davis is passionate about tackling the menace of gun violence after having witnessed the damaging effect of such violent acts at an early age. A member of several committees and boards, Lt. Gov Austin Davis is at the forefront of championing the cause of the people who feel neglected while also pushing for the interests of the working class.
Darrell Clarke – President, Philadelphia City Council
Image Source: Facebook | Darrell Clarke
Representing the 5th council district comprising of Yorktown, North Central Philadelphia, Fairmount, Brewerytown, Spring Garden, etc, Darrell Clarke’s legislative policy agenda is focused on the need to increase available housing, ensure public safety, create jobs, and foster neighborhood development
Darrell Clarke holds strongly to the opinion that the role of government is to level the playing field at all levels which would guarantee that the people and communities will continue to thrive.
Curtis Jones Jr. – Majority Leader, Philadelphia City Council
Image Source: City Council Philadelphia
Representing the 4th District of Philadelphia and Pennsylvania comprising Belmont village, Manayunk, Overbrook Park, and Roxborough among others, Curtis Jones Jr is an advocate for education and the environment. As a council member, he was actively involved in the legislation process that created the Citizens Police Oversight Commission to provide oversight to the Police Department. He was also instrumental in the Good Cause Eviction Bill and the Red Flag Laws. Councilmember Curtis is a firm believer in criminal justice and an advocate for reforms targeted at ensuring public safety.
Dwight Evans – Member of Congress
Image Source: Representative Dwight Evans
Representing Pennsylvania’s 3rd Congressional District comprising Northwest and West Philadelphia, South, North, and Center Philadelphia, Congressman Evans is the first African-American to occupy the Chairmanship seat of the House Appropriations Committee as a state representative.
Congressman Evans remains at the forefront of the fight to expand access to educational and economic opportunities for all Philadelphians. His position on the Ways and Means Committee allows him to judiciously leverage the tax code to improve housing opportunities, refurbish infrastructure, and deepen the social safety net.
As we recognize International Day of Democracy, we must continue to acknowledge the profound impact it has had in fostering the progress of Blacks in places like Philadelphia and all over the world, helping them overcome centuries of struggle and the fight for equality and social justice.
The Tenets of democracy as expressed in the quote by UN Secretary-General António Guterres continue to remain the pillars upon which a justifiable and equitable society is built.
Okechukwu Nzeribe works with the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and loves unveiling the richness of African cultures. okechukwu.onicima@gmail.com
