Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University will host a panel discussion titled “The Future of Black Politics in America” as part of its Black History Month celebrations. The event, organized by the Department of Africology and African American Studies, is scheduled for Monday, February 3, 2025, from 12 to 2 p.m. It will take place in Room 310A of the Student Center on EMU’s campus and is open to the public at no cost. Light refreshments will be provided.

Victor Okafor, chair of the Department of Africology and African American Studies, expressed that "this event provides an opportunity for the EMU community to engage with a panel of thought leaders who are contributing to the conversation about Black political influence and the fight for social justice." He added that they hope attendees gain "a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead in the pursuit of equity and representation."

The panel features several notable figures: Mark Fancher, Esq., a civil rights attorney; Eric Brown, a public affairs commentator; Charles Simmons, professor of Africology and African American Studies; and Robyn McCoy, Esq., an attorney focused on social justice advocacy. Discussions will cover topics such as voter suppression, systemic inequities, representation issues, and strategies for achieving a more equitable future. Historical aspects like the Voting Rights Act of 1965 alongside contemporary challenges such as gerrymandering and voter ID laws will also be addressed.

Attendees are encouraged to participate in a Q&A session following the discussion. The event qualifies for student credit. Further details can be found on Eastern Michigan University's website.

Founded in 1849 as Michigan's second oldest public university, Eastern Michigan University currently enrolls nearly 13,000 students across various degree programs including undergraduate through doctoral levels across multiple disciplines. The university is recognized nationally for its commitment to excellence and diversity in education.