The Student Government hosted a Black in Politics Forum in partnership with the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion program at Drew in honor of Black History Month on Feb. 17.
The officials answered many questions involving topics such as the major adversities they face as people of color in politics, their greatest accomplishments in their field and why they believe representation is important. The audience heard their stories about getting involved in politics and why doing so is so important for young kids especially.
The panelists included Council President Joyce Watterman, Sen. Angela McKnight, Mayor Dahlia Vertreese, Assemblyman Antwan McClellan, Councilman Frank Gilmore and Councilwoman Ruby Cotton.
The Student Government President, Zaire Wright (‘25), as well as the Program Coordinator of Diversity, Muthoni Githinji (C’ 24), worked tirelessly to have local state and federal elected officials in attendance. The event had a positive turnout as well as a welcoming, upbeat atmosphere.
While students gathered, there was an optimistic energy in the room. Students were engaged during the event and afterward indulged in a variety of food.
Drew students and young leaders alike were encouraged to take action in local and national politics in order to strengthen communities and to be further involved in decision making.
Vertreese said, “I need you guys to step up and have those conversations, learn how your government works, watch how they’re spending your money and what they’re voting for.”
As the mayor of the Township of Hillside, New Jersey, Vertreese understands how important getting involved in politics truly is, especially when young.
The officials mentioned how vital representation is for marginalized communities in order to encourage others and to speak for those who are unable. When asked about such topics, Watterman said, “Be a voice for people who are not heard.”
Watterman has had many great successes pertaining to advocacy for those who are often marginalized and silenced or simply not represented when it comes to community issues.
At the forum, the panelists discussed major adversities they face in not only political climates but in daily life. Such topics included double standards, especially pertaining to Black women and hair discrimination, as well as the inability to achieve certain things when not part of a group.
When the audience members were petitioned for questions for the members, Drew student Aniya Gordon Ellis (‘27) asked Vertreese about facing such challenges in political climates, especially in regard to her career. To that, Vertreese said, “If it was easy, everyone would do it … you have to constantly work your base.”
Another piece of advice that was given to the audience was about educating oneself on topics of interest, current political events and different cultures in order to spread such knowledge to others.
The officials listed their major accomplishments in politics and overall careers. Some included advancements in fighting hair discrimination and the strengthening of minority communities in aspects of education and daily life.
Sen. Cory Booker, who could not be in attendance, created a video message highlighting the importance of celebrating Black History Month.
To end Black History Month on a positive note, Drew Student Engagement is hosting a festive event, A Touch of Soul, which will feature food and other chances to win prizes tonight, Feb. 28, from 8 p.m. to midnight in Crawford Hall.
Casey Bush is a First Year student who is undecided on her major.