#United States #Atlanta #Georgia Black Women #People's Agenda #Dr. Martin Luther King

Empowering Voices: Georgia Black Women's Roundtable Takes Action

On January 17, 2025, over 200 passionate Black women came together at the Georgia Capitol under the banner of the Georgia Black Women's Roundtable (GA BWR) for an event named BLACK WOMEN U3 UNITED. UNAPOLOGETIC. UNSTOPPABLE. This pivotal gathering sought to amplify their collective voice and influence legislative agendas that impact Black families across Georgia. As the event kicked off, attendees were greeted by a live broadcast of WAOK's morning show, The Wake Up with Dee, setting the stage for a day of impactful discussions and initiatives.

A Historic Gathering

The convener, Helen Butler, who is also the executive director of the People's Agenda, highlighted the significance of timing for the event, coinciding with Atlanta's celebratory week honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. Butler emphasized, “Black women across Georgia are standing together, making it clear to legislators and stakeholders that we are united, unapologetic, and unstoppable.” This sentiment resonated throughout the day as women voiced their commitment to prioritizing justice and equity.

Unveiling the Georgia Black Women's Agenda

The heart of the event was the unveiling of the Georgia Black Women's Agenda, a report outlining critical challenges faced by the Black communities in Georgia. This comprehensive agenda was crafted after consultations and feedback sessions that involved numerous women focusing on matters that are of utmost importance to them. Among these issues are economic empowerment, health and wellness disparities, education reform, and robust advocacy for women’s rights.

Dr. A. Lois Keith, the national chair of the National Council of Negro Women, expressed pride in aligning the local agenda with national goals. “We are here to address fundamental issues such as education, women’s rights, and human trafficking,” she stated, reiterating the collective urgency for actionable solutions.

Focus Areas of the Agenda

The GA Black Women's Agenda has identified key focus areas that are essential for fostering a better future.

1. Economic Development: There is a pressing need for increased investment in education, particularly in underfunded schools, to elevate Georgia's education standards.
2. Public Health: The agenda confronts systemic health disparities affecting Black women, particularly concerning maternal mortality rates and reproductive rights.
3. Environmental Justice: Concerns regarding environmental policies and their impact on Black communities were raised, highlighting the rollback of climate actions and consequent pollution issues.
4. Voting Rights: As concerns around voter suppression continue to grow, the agenda emphasizes the significant role of Black women in mobilizing voters and enhancing democratic participation.

Andrea Young, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Georgia, reminded attendees of the stakes involved, urging them to mobilize and understand the power of their vote as each election bears profound consequences for their communities.

Looking Ahead

GA BWR, as a part of the People’s Agenda and aligned with the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, is continuing its advocacy efforts. In March 2025, they plan to present their comprehensive agenda at the 14th Annual Black Women’s Roundtable National Conference in Washington, D.C., aiming for national visibility and support for their local initiatives.

The women of GA BWR have made it clear that their pursuit of justice and equity will not waver. Through collaboration, activism, and a relentless resolve, they are committed to driving change and ensuring that the issues affecting their communities are prioritized at every legislative session.

For more information, or to connect with the Georgia Black Women's Roundtable, visit the People’s Agenda at their website or their social media platforms.