ATLANTA — Two generations are now spearheading efforts to safeguard the Black vote in Georgia.
Inspired by the actions of iconic figures like C. T. Vivian, who marched for the right to vote nearly 60 years ago, Julius Thomas and Remington Role are leading a grassroots organization named The People's Uprising.
This organization, born in the wake of the murder of George Floyd in 2020 by police, has evolved into a force dedicated to social justice.
One of their notable initiatives, Votelanta, is a nonpartisan concert where attendees gain entry by registering to vote.
C.T. Vivian: Atlanta civil rights icon for voting rights
"I think we calculated at our very first event ever, close to 3,000 people who registered to vote for the first time," Thomas said. "We're not telling people who to vote (for), Democratic or Republican or independent, but we just want you to exercise your vote."
The mission's importance becomes apparent when considering the voter turnout in Georgia's last general election. With more than 2 million registered Black voters, only about half showed up to the polls, as reported by the Georgia Secretary of State's Office.
Reflecting on the historical context, Al Vivian, son of the late C.T. Vivian, highlighted the persistent challenges faced by African Americans in Georgia.
"In 1877, the state of Georgia initiated its first massive voter suppression to stop African-Americans from voting," he said.
Despite the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965, threats and intimidation persisted, especially in rural areas.
"People would threaten you, threaten your life," Al Vivian said. "Employers would deny you. You say they would take away your job if you voted."
Al Vivian stressed the importance of the younger generation's activism, urging them to continue the mission, which is just what Thomas and Role are doing.
"We cannot afford to take the foot off the gas pedal and really continue to push the message and push the point to continue to drive change," Thomas said.
As Georgia looks to another presidential election in 2024, it grapples with its history and the current issue of voter suppression tactics such as gerrymandering, when politicians draw voting lines to help one group or party win more easily.
But the torch is being carried forward, and leaders like Thomas and Role are determined to ensure that every voice is heard in the democratic process.
Watch the full interview with Al Vivian below
11Alive invites you to embark on a journey of unapologetic stories that have shaped Atlanta's past, present and future this Black History Month. Check out our collection of stories: "DREAM x DISRUPT: Black Atlanta's Bold Movement" at 11alive.com/blackhistory.