Chairman, Blackdems
Over 40 years have passed since the Voting Rights Act of 1965 outlawed racial disenfranchisement at the voting booth. However, there is a large segment of the black population who are still disconnected from understanding the political process and knowing the resources that it takes to motivate change. As the chairmen of the Blackdems, James Robertson Jr, has hopes to educate people politically and establish leadership in the black community.

“Our goals is to educate, empower and energize,” Robertson says of the Houston-based organization. “We want to bring the issues that are important to black Americans to [the] forefront, so that working-class Americans get what they deserve by bringing themselves up, teaching self-responsibility and economic prosperity.”

The Blackdems is the largest black political organization in the state, with 300 members. Robertson, Alysa Minor, Lenard Polk and Terrance Shanks are responsible for being the creative minds behind the Blackdems. Along with instilling political education, the Blackdems have sponsored several workshops and participated in numerous community events around Houston.

“Some of the things that we’re working [diligently on is] reaching the underprivileged and those in poverty,” he says. “We’re trying to reach those who want a way out and realize that the government can’t do it by itself.”
With the Blackdems gaining power, Robertson wants more individuals to join the team.

“My advice is just to get involved and don’t be scared of leadership,” he stresses. “I’m proud of the organization and our members because we want to cultivate the idea that we all can achieve if we just have to step out on that faith.”
-amir shaw