This week, a series of tweets from Charlane Oliver, The Equity Alliance's co-executive director, became an opinion article for Tennessee Lookout.
Reflecting on a history of manipulative, racists tactics in Tennessee, she first dropped gems about decades old and recent actions taken against competent, forward moving Black leadership. Then she explained how it directly leads into the targeted financial takeover of Mason, TN and our responsibility to unite against it.
Here's a snapshot of her commentary:
- The way our state bullies Black leaders is rooted in this notion that we are incapable and incompetent of managing million-dollar budgets, negotiating deals, leading institutions, and knowing what’s best for our people. Institutionalized racism and authoritarianism is running rampant.
- Mason, Tenn. is just the latest casualty in their crosshairs. But Black people have always seen it for what it is and the community has their back. Organizing on the ground and shining light on this hostile takeover is how we win and keep Mason intact for them to govern themselves.
- These same white supremacist bullies turn a blind eye to corruption in their own party and state government because they’re too busy being racist. The white leaders who caused Mason’s financial woes didn’t have to clean up their own mess. Black leaders are being blamed for what they inherited.
- Mason is on the cusp of booming economic growth in the form of a Ford Motor electric vehicle site. We must empower— not remove or scapegoat—Black leadership as they work to right the wrongs done by previous corrupt administrations prior to Mason’s first Black mayor, Gwendolyn Kilpatrick, taking the helm in 2015.
- This is why it’s so important to be politically engaged. Mason should not have to fight this battle alone. Picking on the little guy is an abuse of power and government overreach.
- The Equity Alliance will obstruct, disrupt and call out those who stand to benefit from Mason’s plight.
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We appreciate every individual and organization that showed up in support of last weekend's Mason door-to-door canvass efforts, including the Memphis Coalition Against the Pipeline which was not previously mentioned in error.
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From voter registrations to event support, to phone and text banks, there are plenty of opportunities for you to make a difference throughout Tennessee as a member of our volunteer TEAm.
Ready? Set. Sign up to attend the next virtual volunteer orientation on Tuesday, April 5 at 7-8pm CT.
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It's an all hands on deck situation - especially if you believe in community. Let's stand up for East Nashville, support a strong CBA at RiverChase, and set the precedent for equitable development for all of Nashville.
Rally for RiverChase on Tuesday, April 5 at 5pm CT, Nashville Public Square Park.
📍 1 Public Square, Nashville, TN 37201
Parking garage: 101 James Robertson Parkway, Nashville, TN 37201
Food and entertainment will be provided.
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Don't miss your chance to hear from candidates in the Davidson County District Attorney race at Cocktails with the Candidates on Wednesday, April 6 at 6-8pm.
📍Yay Yay's on Jefferson Street
1821 Jefferson Street, Nashville, TN 37208
The event will include complimentary food, cocktails, good vibes and valuable information to help you vote with confidence.
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The Black Women's Empowerment Weekend is bringing together some of the top things women love... our girls, a dope brunch, shopping, leveling up and Black Girl Magic!
Shout out to the Nashville Black Market for powering our vendor market during Saturday's Summit.
For only $250, vendors will receive:
- A vendor booth with a table, two chairs and printed business nameplate
- Listing in the printed program
- Social media promotional post
If you've been waiting on an opportunity to showcase your business, this is it!
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You know we're all about securing the bag and saving money at the same time! So on that note, don't let the early bird deadline of April 15 pass you by.
The Equity Alliance's 3rd annual Black Women's Empowerment Weekend will take place Saturday, July 9 and Sunday, July 10. We're bringing an abundance of laughter, inspiration, knowledge, vendors, entertainment, and a delicious brunch and celebration!
Tell your sistagirls, sorors, church friends, neighbors and 'nem to head to www.theequityalliance.org/women to purchase early bird tickets.
Ticket options:
- VIP Package - $300
- Early Bird Weekend Pass - $135
- Early Bird Brunch Ticket - $85
- Early Bird Summit Ticket - $60
- Pay It Forward Ticket - $100
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