Local Democrats call for 'Souls to the Polls' Oct. 30
"Souls to the Polls". The Davidson County Democrats are once again encouraging "Souls to the Polls".
This event will take place across the county on 30 Oct 2022 between the hours of 1pm and 4pm.
"Souls to the polls" as an idea trace back to the civil rights movement. The Rev. George Lee, a Black Mississippi entrepreneur, was assassinated by white supremacists in 1955, after he helped nearly 100 Black residents register to vote in the town of Belzoni.
The cemetery where Lee is buried has served as a polling place.
"There was a statement that he once made advocating voting rights: 'Don't cry for my mama and my daddy. They're already gone. You need to cry for your children that will come along,'" said Wardell Walton, Belzoni's first Black mayor, who served between 2005 and 2013.
Lee's memory should "inspire us to continue to move forward despite the obstacles," said Walton, 70.
www.arkansasonline.com/news/2020/oct/17/soulsto-thepolls/?news-national
"Souls to the Polls" was a way for black voters to go and vote as a group to help reduce or eliminate intimidation and fear. Members found confidence and security in the group. "Souls to the Polls" continue to give Black Americans a sense of protection and encourages them to navigate the gauntlet of rules, restrictions and voting requirements presented at the various polling locations.
Within Lexington NC there are numerous churches participating in this year's event. Some of the churches participating are Files Chapel, Union Baptist, New Life Worship Center, Lexington Christian Fellowship, St. Stephens United Methodist Church, Smith View Grove Baptist Church, and New Faith Full Gospel Fellowship Center.
Rev. Les Smith stated that he expects numerous churches from across the county to participate in this effort. Rev. Smith also stated that several churches are preparing to assist voters on Saturday, 29 Oct 22 who lack transportation to get to their polling locations. This service will be available free of charge to all citizens regardless of their political affiliation. The churches believe that there service isn't about supporting one political party over another; it is about assisting all citizens in the county to overcome this barrier in order to exercise this wonderful privilege and civic duty...voting!
Any individual or church desiring to participate on 30 Oct 2022 are invited to be a part of this great movement. If you need any additional information about your church planning for Souls to the Polls, please give Rev. Smith a call at the number listed below. Individuals desiring to vote and are in need of transportation to their polling location on 29 Oct 2022 can contact Rev. Les Smith by phone at 336-705-1141 to schedule a time for transport.
