Vote IRL: Gen-Z Speaks Out

Resource tables @ 5PM <br>Panel conversation @ 6PM <br /><br />The upcoming midterm elections are crucial in determining which party controls Congress, and Gen-Z voters (ages 18 – 29) could have an outsized impact IRL (in real life) on the results. <br /><br />Hear from a panel of young leaders about their political participation, the hot button issues driving some to the polls — and the barriers keeping others away. What is at stake this November, in New Jersey and across the country? <br /><br />The Newark NAACP and the Divine Nine — the nine African American fraternities and sororities of the National Pan-Hellenic Council — are curating this first Standing in Solidarity program of the new season. All panelists represent the Divine Nine and their ongoing commitment to community progress. <br /><br />This month’s conversation is inspired by the film, Conscience of the Congress, the untold story of the Congressional Black Caucus. A link will be sent in advance to watch at home. Following the panel conversation, attendees will participate in facilitated small group discussions. <br /><br />In partnership with Dodge Poetry, the program will open with Brian Acosta Arya. Also known as Brian The Motel Guy, Acosta Arya is a New Jersey–bred artist, content creator and motel manager whose storytelling has attracted over 1 million followers. He is also a host of the Nuyorican Poet’s Cafe. <br /><br />Make your voice heard! Information on voter registration and polling sites, plus other resources, will be available from partner organizations starting at 5PM. <br /><br />Get hyped for a special stroll performance led by the Divine Nine at 5:30PM. <br /><br />Our conversation will be moderated by A’Dorian Murray-Thomas, Vice President of the Essex County Board of County Commissioners and Founder and CEO of SHE Wins, Inc. <br /><br />Our panelists include: <br>Wilbert “Wil” Davis, Lawyer at DLA Piper and member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. <br>Anthony Gray, Federal Consultant and member of Mu Gamma Gamma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. <br>Ever Mack, Digital Research Analyst at ISD US and member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Beta Alpha Omega Chapter <br>Jaylen Smith, New Jersey Collegiate Representative of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. <br /><br />