Hollywood and Washington intersected at Johnson C. Smith University on Tuesday to encourage young adults to become politically active.
Political leaders joined Emmy Award-winner Alfre Woodard to announce an interactive forum titled “UFuture – A Summit for Innovative Young Thinkers” during the Democratic National Convention in September.
The forum, sponsored by JCSU and the Congressional Black Caucus Political Education and Leadership Institute, will be held on Sept. 4 at Biddle Hall. Woodard and actor Hill Harper will host.
Organizers expect 450 students and educators from surrounding colleges to interact with national, regional and local officials during the DNC.
Woodard highlighted people as the foundation of UFuture. She also said that instead of young people only using social media skills, she said they also need to stand up and speak up.
“Change ain’t easy. It ain’t magic,” she said. “We need your young hand, your feet to get the word out to young people that it’s not only a process, but it’s the way of life.”
Also on hand for the announcement were N.C. Sen. Malcolm Graham, U.S. Rep. Melvin Watt (D–N.C.) and JCSU President Ronald Carter.
“Politics is a selfish sport – really politics is about self interest,” said Watt, who represents the 12th congressional district that includes Charlotte. He is also co-chair of the CBC Institute.
When it comes to young people getting involved in politics, he encouraged them to make sure they know the value of their self-interest.
“Think of this as a selfish thing,” Watt said. “What is your interest in politics?” Full Article
