SA JournalMaga

SCTAC
JULY 2019 - JUNE 2021
ADVOCACY
IN
ACTION
A Social Action
JournalMagazine

Voting is Power.
Your Vote is Your Voice!
A Social Action Review
from 2019 through 2021

DST

A news article discusses current or recent news Dr.
of either general interest (i.e. daily newspapers)
or of a specific topic (i.e. political or trade news SHERRYAbove
magazines, club newsletters, or technology news Text about the article photo
websites). would fit perfectly here.
TOWNSEND
A news article can include accounts of
eyewitnesses to the happening event. It can A news article discusses current or recent news
contain photographs, accounts, sta of either general interest (i.e. daily newspapers)
or of a specific topic (i.e. political or trade news
magazines, club newsletters, or technology news
websites).

A news article can include accounts of
eyewitnesses to the happening event. It can
contain photographs, accounts, sta

President Sherry C. Townsend

Page | 2

MARVA
MAPLES
So2c0ia1l 9A-cti2on02C1hair

A news article discusses current or recent news of either general interest (i.e. daily
newspapers) or of a specific topic (i.e. political or trade news magazines, club newsletters, or
technology news websites).
A news article can include accounts of eyewitnesses to the happening event. It can contain
photographs, accounts, sta

Marva Foster Maples

Page |3

Soci2al0A20ctio-n2C0o2-1Chair

TREVIA
CHATMAN

A news article discusses current or recent news of either general interest (i.e. daily newspapers) or
of a specific topic (i.e. political or trade news magazines, club newsletters, or technology news
websites).
A news article can include accounts of eyewitnesses to the happening event. It can contain
photographs, accounts, sta

Trevia Chatman

Thank you for your contribution and commitment to Social Action.
Tiffany Glover & Angela "Shea Kuykendoll | Social Action Co-Chairs | 2019 - 2020

Page |4

LACONNIE

TAYLOR JONES

Editor's Note

A news article discusses current or recent news of either general interest (i.e. daily newspapers) or of a specific
topic (i.e. political or trade news magazines, club newsletters, or technology news websites).
A news article can include accounts of eyewitnesses to the happening event. It can contain photographs, accounts,
sta

LaConnie Taylor-Jones

Page |5

N· ational voter reigsration day
·Hbcu
·Empowerment 2019
·Your voice is your vote 2019
S· ock it to me – jan 10,2020
Y· our voice is your vote – nov 14, 2019
G· un violence – Jan 7, 2020
S· elma sign making – feb 18, 2020
F· ree speech vs hate feb 7, 2020
Delta days at state capital 2020
D· elta days at nation capital 2020
S· troll to the polls
R· eal act
C· ensus Forum
H· ighest 5 winner
I·n the Red Zone
oFree speech

05 oGun violence
oVoting
P· ettus bridge – Selma to Montgomery
march – march 2020

08
11
17
26
33
49
56

SCTAC DST | SEPTEMBER 2019

From left to right: President Sherry Townsend, Lillie In the Red Zone, a live stream table talk to discuss
St.Clair. Marva Maples Voter Registration, Suppression and Gerrymandering

https://www.facebook.com/sctacDST/vid The purpose was to educate the community on the
eos/504526203443589/ importance of voter registration and mobilization.
Also, explaining your vote is your voice. There is an
effort to suppress your vote and re-drawn voting
districts to dilute your power.

The program goal was to have a great outreach by
live-streaming. As of 5/31/21 the live-stream video
post had reached 2,545 people and got 1.8k views
views.

This livestream session mobilized the community to
vote in the upcoming election on October 3, 2019.
This was an important election to vote for Memphis
Mayor, judges, clerk and commissioners.

The activity allowed us to communicate through
Instagram, Twitter and Facebook which are social
mediums that many people use to get their news and
information.

Page |7

SCTAC DST | SEPTEMBER 2019

2019

VOTER REGISTRATION DAY

NATIONAL

The National Social Action Commission asked chapters to participate by holding voter registration drives; educate
voters on the upcoming elections; and make sure citizens always know their voting status. The stakes are high in
every election cycle and we need to make sure that our community is engaged, educated and prepared to VOTE.

On Tuesday, September 24, 2019, Deltas, On Facebook we reach 782 people. The
family and friends strolled to the polls to goal was to march, vote and bring attention
vote during early voting period. There were to the need to vote.The community was
22 Deltas and 8 family and friends that reminded that if you're not able to vote
came to stroll to the polls. during early voting then make sure you vote
on election day which was October 3, 2019.
The purpose of the activity was to celebrate
National Voter Registration day and the The participants really enjoyed showing
importance of voting. There is a serious their pride and their excitement to vote. We
voter's apathy in Tennessee. The state ranks chanted, "Your Vote is Your Vote" and Fired
number 49 as the worst for voter turnout. up and ready to go."

The goal was to livestream our march to the The goal was achieved to raise awareness
poll to vote. and remind the community to vote. "Your
vote counts."
Page |8

SCTAC DST | SEPTEMBER 2019

2019

VOTER REGISTRATION DAY

NATIONAL

From left to right: Renee Meeks, Demetric Davis, Erika Fairley, Lai Brooks, LaConnie Taylor-Jones, Marva Maples,
President Sherry Townsend, Vernice Savage, Vickie Brown, Pondora Washington, Dayatra Covington | Not
pictured: Tonya Saulsberry, Rita Green-Bibbs, Valenta Nichols

VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE
SEPTEMBER 3, 2019

LAST DAY FOR ABSENTEE REQUEST
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2019
EARLY VOTING
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 –
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2019
ELECTION DAY
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2019

CITY OF MEMPHIS MUNICIPAL ELECTION POSITIONS
MAYOR; CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 1 THROUGH 8; POSITION 1 & 2 – CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 8; POSITION
1,2 & 3 CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 9; POSITION 3 MEMPHIS MUNICIPAL JUDGE; DIVISION 1 & DIVISION 2 –
MEMPHIS MUNICIPAL JUDGE; DIVISION 3 MEMPHIS COURT CLERK.

Page |9

SCTAC DST | OCTOBER 2019

Whitehaven Empowerment Expo

On October 3, 2019, the Shelby County (TN) Alumnae
Chapter (SCTAC) and Memphis Alumnae Chapter (MAC) of
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. executed a Joint Voters
Registration Drive @ Whitehaven Empowerment Expo.
Shout out to our 1st VP, Delta Traci Towsel on a job well
done!
The purpose was to begin the education early on the
importance of voting. If you make it a habit to vote at a
young age you're more likely to vote in election throughout
your adult life.
SCTAC and MAC registered 62 students. These students will
be eligible to vote in the next election on March 3, 2020.
The goal was met because we provided education and
performed voter registration. The community will gain
additional productive citizens that will know the importance
of exercising their rights and making their voice heard.
The students were excited about registering to vote. They
were glad we came to them and helped them complete a
proper voter registration form. The community will gain by
increasing the voter roll. You not get to participate in
democracy.
Page |10

SCTAC DST | OCTOBER 2019

Save Our HBCUs

FUTURE ACT (FOSTERING
UNDERGRADUATE TALENT, BY
UNLOCKING RESOURCES FOR
EDUCATION)

https://www.facebook.c
om/voiceofscs/videos/2
838441376175432/

1.1k views

Call your senator, The President signed H.R.5363 into law
Lamar Alexander to vote on December 19, 2019.

S1279/HR2486 The final bill permanently authorized a $255
out of committee. million mandatory funding for Historically Black
Local - 901.544.4224 Colleges and Universities and other Minority
Nashville - 615.736.5129 Serving Institutions.
D.C. 202.224.4944

On October 28, 2019, 88.5, the @voiceofscs,
entered the Red Zone to discuss the
importance of attending and saving our
HBCUs.

Visit the SCS 88.5 Facebook or SCTAC’s FB to
listen to the recording. SCTAC has been invited
to do monthly table talk on 88.5.

Senator Alexander has another proposal that From Left to Right: Marva Maples, Traci Townsel,
is well intended and would increase funding
but is a piece-meal approach to higher Venytra Harris, Shunta Tidwell
education that fails to promote economic
security and equity for millions of students Page |11
with low income. There was a call to action for
Senator Alexander vote on bill so that it would
be moved to the Senate floor.

SCTAC | OCTOBER 2019

The REAL Act ID

Deadline: May 3, 2023

The REAL ID Act of 2005 establishes minimum security
standards for license issuance and production and
prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for certain
purposes driver licenses and identification cards from
states not meeting the Act’s minimum standards.
Beginning May 3, 2023, all persons must have a REAL ID
license for accessing certain Federal buildings, entering
nuclear facilities, and boarding commercial flights within
the United States according to the TN Department of
Safety and Homeland Security.

REAL ID Credential Standard ID Credential

Page |12

SCTAC DST | NOVEMBER 2019

You Vote is Your Voice
November 14, 2019 | District 1 and 7

Election Run-Off
The City council acts as a check against the
power of the executive branch, the mayor. The
council is responsible for approving city budget,
making land use decisions, and approving,
amending, or rejecting other legislative
proposals. If you don’t vote then your voice
can’t be heard.

The October 3, 2019 election result facts for
District 1 and 7:Approximately 45,000
residents in each district are eligible to vote.
Less than 10,000 eligible voters casted a
ballot in each district for the October 3
election.
Not one candidate received more than 30%
of the vote.

According to early voting data, the run-off
election on November 14, 2019: Less than
50 people have voted so far and there were
approximately 45,000 people eligible to
vote in each district.
Voter apathy exist and there is no urgency
being communicated by the media.

Shelby County Election Run-off Dates
Early Voting | October 25, 2019 – November 9,
2019 (Voting Location is 157 Popular from Oct
25th to 31st)

Download “Govotetn” app to confirm you’re in
this district and your voter eligibility.

Absentee Ballot Request Cut-off
November 7, 2019

Election Day – November 14, 2019

Page |13

SCTAC DST | JANUARY 2020

SCTAC rocked the "Sock It To Me"
sock drive. We collected over 2,000
pairs of socks to support children at
the Youth Villages.

The Youth Villages' Volunteer &
Development Manager, Patrick
Hampton expressed gratitude for the
generous donation we delivered
during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Below from left to right: Erika Fairley, Tedral Harris, Brandi Cox, Jennifer Ware, Rica Davis, Tonya Saulsberry, Marva Maples, Tameko Toliver,
Shamille Jones, Tamara Jones, Dayatra Covington | Youth Villages: President Sherry Townsend, Marva Maples, Jamillah Norrells

On April 22, 2018, DeEbony Groves was two SCTAC DST | JANUARY 2020
months away from graduating from Belmont
University. She was a Resident Assistant, held Today, we're deficient in conflict resolution. We
multiple jobs, a dancer, and an active member need to encourage people in the community to
of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. DeEbony's store their guns in a safe location and use gun
mom was in church when she received the call. locks to ensure safe keeping from children.
On her way to the hospital she reflected on the There are many guns that are considered
end of a dream for a future wedding, weapons of mass of destruction that should not
grandchildren, and other life milestones be allowed to be sold. When someone is killed
by gun violence the loss impacts the families of
In May of 2019, Shirl was invited to attend a both the victim and the perpetrator.
Trayvonn Martin's Circle of Mothers group Shirl emphasized, "Make yourself available for
retreat. She stated, "we prayed, rejoiced and family time because it is important. Tomorrow is
we didn't have to explain what we were going not promised. Speak with your child(ren) and
through." Thirty days later, after she returned understand what is going on in their lives. If you
home from the retreat, Shirl was inspired to don't talk to them, someone else will that may
start a non-profit support group to restore not be a positive influence."
hope for the future by serving mothers in the One of Delta's initiatives is gun control. Since
Tennessee area who lost child(ren) through this radio broadcast, Tennessee passed a bill to
tragic circumstances. Shirl stated, in the midst allow gun carry without a permit. Also,
of weeping she quoted Acts 1:8 "But you will Tennessee is ranked in the top 10 for highest
receive power when the Holy Spirit comes rates of violence.
upon you. Prayer, faith and giving back is how
she rises from the depth of darkness. Shirl Groves-Baker, Marva Maples, and John Best

There is approximately 326 million US citizens https://www.facebook.com/voiceofscs/videos/641807709898000
and there are approximately 393 million guns Facebook - 953+ views
owned by US Citizens.
Page |15 Shirl receives continued support from the
community and in return wants to help other
mothers in Tennessee. You can support the
DeEbony Groves Foundation by visiting a local
Regions Bank or sending your donation to the
following address: The DeEbony Groves
Foundation, P.O. Box 1023, Gallatin, TN 37066.
If you have any queries, please email:
[email protected] or you may visit
deebonygrovesfoundation.org

SCTAC DST | FEBRUARY 2020

Tracey Branch, Marva Maples, John Best
https://www.facebook.com/503386576/videos/10

156617982691577
We entered the Red Zone to discuss the table talk
topic called, "Drawing a Line: Free Speech vs. Hate
Crimes." Our special guest FBI Agent, Delta Tracey
Branch and Brother John Best of 88.5 FM The Voice
of SCS discussed that the First Amendment gives you
the right to free speech. You may say offensive
language against anyone but when the speech
includes a threat against another race, gender,
gender identity or religion it is called a hate crime.
Hate crimes cannot be predicted or profiled. A
hate crime may occur to anyone and anywhere
because it is random and sporadic. If you feel
you're a victim of a hate crime, please call 911 or if
it's a federal hate crime call the 24 hotline
901.747.4300.

SCTAC DST | FEBRUARY 2020

Your Vote
is

Your Voice

Calling all Greeks to Stroll to the
Poll. On February 15, the Deltas of
the Shelby County (TN) Alumnae
Chapter strolled to the polls for
early voting in Shelby County, TN.
We didn't wait for election day. We
are active participants in
democracy and we express our
voice with our vote.

From left to right: Marva Maples, Jason Reaves, Teri Seaton Reaves, Cynthia Jackson, Dayatra Covington,
Miracle Roberts, Demetric Davis, Carol Smith

SCTAC DST | FEBRUARY 2020

Tennessee's Chapter Presidents

Our Chapter in Great Numbers

SCTAC DST | FEBRUARY 2020

SCTAC DST | FEBRUARY 2020

In the Social Action arena, there were back to From left to right: Tia Stokes, Marva Maples, Tonya
back events: DDAC, DDNC, Selma, and support Saulsberry
of the tornado relief in North Nashville. There
are some hardworking dedicated Deltas in Delta Days at the Nation’s Capital (2/22/20 -
Tennessee. 2/25/2020 in which 13 chapter members were in
attendance. We attended workshops and sessions:
We were charged during DDNC to not just be Ground Game, Faith In Action/Social Justice, Food
great Deltas but to move and lead our local Desserts/Food Insecurities, Public Policy to Law
communities to use their voices - Be Counted and Crown Act, Grassroot Organizing, Criminal
(CENSUS) To Vote (All Elections) To Protect Justice Reform/Voting Rights/Re-entry.
(voting rights and civil rights).

Our National President, Beverly Elaine Smith
charged the National Social Action Commission,
Regional Leadership, and State Social Action
Coordinators with specific guidance on ways to
be more effective. Our State teams will now
include: A member of National Social Action
Commission (Honorable Brenda Gilmore),
Regional Social Action Chair (Machelle Kyles),
Regional Social Action Co-Chair (Jasmin Minor)
State Social Action Coordinator (Yolonda,
Beverly and Maya), All Social Action Chairs and
Chapter Presidents.

This is to make sure as Rapid Response or Urgent WE ARE SOCIAL ACTION!
Call information that may come through Social
Action Channels can also have the chapter support From top to bottom: Tammy Sneed, Marva Maples,
to get accomplished, tracked and reported back up Stacy Alexander, Lillie St.Clair, Necole Jones, Shirley
when completed. Page, Tia Stokes, Tonya Saulsberry, Traci Townsel,
Angela Kuykendoll, Tiffany Glover

SCTAC DST | MARCH 2020

SCTAC DST | MARCH 2020

SCTAC DST | MARCH 2020

Tonya Saulsberry, Tomeka Toliver, TiKisha Cook-Johnson,
Teri Seaton, Traci Townsel

On March 1, 2020, Deltas showed up and showed Queen Barnes, Brenda Davis, Mary Overton Jackson,
out in massive numbers. SCTAC had over 75 Carolyn Sanford, Shirley Page, Granderson, Lexsee
members marching across the Edmund Pettus Waterford
Bridge. We were featured on the Southern
Region’s social media platforms. It was an
emotional day to march across the Edmund
Pettus Bridge as we remembered Bloody Sunday
and the people who sacrificed their lives for
justice and civil rights.

The Membership Services and Social Action
collaborated on a joint trip to Selma, Alabama. The
weekend kicked-off with a shopping trip, dining
and preparing our protest signs on Saturday and
on Sunday, we were ready to march for justice and
to remember the past.

On Sunday, we began our morning boarding a bus Jessica Pollard, Maya McBride, TBD
to attend the Selma to Montgomery march rally. At
the time, we didn't know that the Democratic
Presidential candidates were in attendance at the
Brown Chapel AME Church. We watched the
church service on a jumbo screen.

SCTAC DST | MARCH 2020

Brown Chapel AME Church The Brown Chapel AME Church
played a pivotal role in the
Selma, Alabama, as it was the
meeting place before any
marches. On March 7, 1965,
despite the ban on protest
marches by Governor George
Wallace, about 600 black
protestors gathered outside
Brown Chapel to march from
Selma to the state capital in
Montgomery. The protestors
were met with violence by
troopers. Less than 5 months
later, President Johnson signed
the Voting Rights Act. On March
1, 2020, black women showed
we are a galvanizing force and
movement for change.

SCTAC DST | APRIL2020

Census Kick off - Census 2020

Census 2020 – If you missed the kick-off on April 1st, it’s not too late
to complete your Census 2020 form via phone, mail or online. The
new deadline date is August 14, 2020. But don’t wait for tomorrow
for what you can do today!
Action #1 – Tell us why you think it is important to complete the
Census
Action #2 – Share this post to make sure everyone is know they
should be counted! #DSTUcount #becounted #census2020
#theSCTAC #sctacDST

https://www.facebook.com/624921934200417/videos/880780752349351
347 views

It's Census Tuesday with DST: Here's
Tuesdays' Update. Can we count on you?
Be counted or you may be counted out.

Can I Count On You? Self-Response https://www.facebook.com/624921934200417/videos/291254148661399
Deadline - October 31, 2020 865 views
You may go online, phone or mail your
Census 2020 form. Keep tabs on our response rate across the country, state and
locally at https://2020census.gov/en/response-rates.html
Online (Census ID#):
https://my2020census.gov/login
Online (No Census ID#):
https://my2020census.gov/app/intro
/state
Call 1.844.330.2020
Mail your Census form

SCTAC DST | MAY 2020

On May 5, 2020, Shelby County (TN) Alumnae
Chapter hosted a "Census 2020: Virtual Block Party
via Facebook Livestream. The purpose of the virtual
forum was to encourage people to complete their
census form as it is important to name just a few to
receive funds to build/repair roads, support
community initiatives involving legislation, build
new homes and revitalize old neighborhoods.

Article I, Section 2 of the US Constitution mandates
that an apportionment of representatives among
the states must be carried out every 10 years. The
framers of the Constitution of the United States
chose population to be the basis for sharing
political power, not wealth or land. Nevertheless,
we know that the people who hold political power
control who gets access to wealth and land.
Another manner to control political power is the
apportionment process of dividing the 435 seats in
the US House of Representatives among the 50
states, based on the state population counts that
result from the census every 10 years.

Our chapter educated the public
on the importance of the census
by infusing music, dance, and
census facts. DJ Zoom took us on
a musical journey through the
decades while Census Rep.,
Terrence Fluker conveyed census
facts throughout the evening. This
was a safe manner to encourage
census form completion and
being counted so that we can https://www.facebook.com/624921934200417/videos/2565977800310607

advocate and flex our political 128 Likes/438 Comments/3.4k Views
power.

SCTAC DST | JUNE 2020

On June 19, 2020, we celebrated JUNETEENTH. On June 19, 1865, when enslaved
people of Texas, then, the most remote region of the confederacy, finally learned

slavery had been abolished and that they were free. #dstfreedom

https://www.facebook.com/624921934200417/videos/293648908676613 363 views

Chapter Sorors supported businesses across Shelby County, TN.

SCTAC DST | MAY/JUNE 2020

We asked Sorors to join the Poor People’s On Saturday, June 20, Shelby County (TN)
Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival and Alumnae Chapter joined Deltas worldwide for a
the call for a digital Mass Poor People’s Day of Solidarity by hosting a peaceful protest
Assembly and Moral March on Washington on to show that we stand with our community
June 20, 2020, at 10:00 am EST and 6:00 pm ET. during these turbulent times and demand
change in this country.
GEORGE FLOYD JUSTICE IN POLICING ACT OF
2021 is the first-ever comprehensive approach We called Sorors to wear your letters and move
to hold police accountable, end racial profiling, to ACTION on Saturday, June 20, 2020 between
change the culture of law enforcement, 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. ET to join PEACEFUL
empower our communities, and build trust marches, rallies, protest in your local
between law enforcement and our communities communities; post on social media; email
by addressing systemic racism and bias to help elected officials; register folks to vote; fill-out
save lives. census forms; and pray.

We asked for you to choose...Just ACT! As Sorors
planned their involvement we restated, please
be reminded of the Social Action Do's & Don'ts.
SCTAC is hosted a peaceful, virtual protest.

1. Created a protest sign out of a sheet of paper
2. Took a picture holding a protest sign
3. Sent image to [email protected]

Power in Your Voice: Move to action and show
your support by marching, attending rallies or
donating to a worthy cause. #powerinourvoice
#dstsouthernregion
#sctacdst #thesctac

SCTAC DST | JUNE 2020

SCTAC DST | JULY 2020

On July 11, 2020, Shelby County (TN) Alumnae Chapter was awarded the "Highest of
Five" attainment award at the 47th Southern Regional Conference. This award recognizes
one of the most innovative programmatic execution related to Delta Sigma Theta's Five-
Point Programmatic thrust. Also, this award recognizes the "Best of the Best" and
chapter size is not considered. Let's congratulate the Social Action Team (Political
Awareness and Involvement)!

SCTAC DST | AUGUST 2020

https://www.facebook.com/sctacDST/posts/4686219821403921
Request your mail-in ballot now. On June 4th, the Tennessee court ruled that anyone of voting age
may also request a mail-in ballot now. Prior to the court ruling only registered voters 60 years and
older could request a ballot. Deadline to request a ballot is July 30, 2020.
ELECTION INFORMATION
Early Voting Period – Friday, July 17, 2020 - Saturday, August 1, 2020
Absentee Ballot Request Deadline – Friday, May 8, 2020 - Thursday, July 30, 2020
Election Day – Tuesday, August 6, 2020
Social Action Policy Reminder and Call To Action

SCTAC DST | SEPTEMBER 2020

National Voter Registration Day

September 22, 2020

The community was encouraged to schedule a date and time to vote (early or
on election day) and take at least 2 people with you to the polls.

Voter Registration Deadline
Monday, October 5, 2020
Early Voting Period

Wednesday, October 14, - Thursday, October 29, 2020
Absentee Ballot Request Deadline

Wednesday., August 5, – Tuesday, October 27, 2020
Election Day

Tuesday, November 3, 2020

SCTAC DST | SEPTEMBER 2020

Political Candidate
Flip Books

Political Candidate Flip Book Political Candidate Flip Book How did we stay REV'ed up
Part 1 - QR Code and Link Part 2 - QR Code and Link (Registration, Education and Voter
https://online.anyflip.com/dxk https://online.anyflip.com/dxkq Mobilization) during a pandemic?
q/vtth/mobile/index.html /zmrn/mobile/index.html You must be creative and don't
accept the mindset of it's not
possible to register, educate and
mobilize people to vote. The Shelby
County (TN) Alumnae chapter
communicated the importance of
voting and provided information on
Delta's legislation priorities and non-
partisan campaign information on
all candidates running for office in
Shelby County, TN from the local
school council to the federal level,
President of the United States.

The Social Action team assembled a
140 page political candidate flip
book to make it easier to learn about
each candidate's platform, office
seeking, political experience, political
party and other pertinent
information about contacting and
accessing more information about
each candidate. The flip books made
it easy to review candidate's profiles
prior to voting. Often, you vote on a
candidate with no prior knowledge
of their voting record on issues that
impact you and your community.

A special thank you to the Social Action team for your The outcome of providing this
research on 2020 candidates. information highlighted the number
of open seats with no candidates
running or career politicians that
often don't have a challenger which
allows them to win their office they
are seeking with ease. In the future,

this type of information will be
provided in a addition to hosting a
voting forum.

SCTAC DST | OCTOBER 2020

https://www.facebook.com/624921934200417/videos/506498470306548 446 views | 12 shares | 17 likes

How to Fill Out Your TN Absentee Ballot

A 1 minute and 16 seconds mini-video to market a safe and effective way to vote during the pandemic.

Use a Blue or Black Ink Pen (do not use a Once completed, place the yellow ballot
red pen or a pencil envelope into the white pre-addressed
Fill in and darken all ovals for your envelope provided.
elections Place one first class stamp in the upper
Once all elections have been made, fold right-hand corner of the envelope
and seal your ballot in the yellow ballot Mail your ballot
envelope. Please note that absentee ballots must be
Do not detach the flap from the envelope mailed. Hand delivered ballots will not be
Sign your name on the signature line counted.
If someone has assisted you in voting, Make sure your ballot arrives on or before
they along with a witness must sign and election day. Ballots received after
address the envelope election day will not be counted.
If there are multiple voters in the Check the status of your vote at:
household, make sure you sign the ballot tnmap.tn.gov/voterlookup
personal to you and place the ballot into Make your voice heard...VOTE!
its individual envelope.
Your ballot will be disqualified and not
counted if multiple ballots arrive in a
single envelope

SCTAC DST | SEPTEMBER 2020

https://wreg.com/news/local-sorority-chapter-encourages-people-to-register-to-vote-as-deadline-looms/

SCTAC DST | OCTOBER 2020

To see the video click here -
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=800211564144735

SCTAC DST | OCTOBER 2020

Read more on Black organizations make big push to get out and vote at
https://www.wmcactionnews5.com/2020/10/23/black-organizations-make-big-push-get-out-vote/

SCTAC DST | OCTOBER 2020

"Did You Vote Yet?"
VOTING SONG GOES VIRAL

https://www.facebook.com/624921934200417/videos/800211564144735
708 Likes | 185 Comments | 32.4k views (32,400+)
"Did you vote yet?" was written by songwriter and
chapter member, Soror Jamille Hunter and the video
production was done by chapter member, Soror
Brittani Moncrease. Soror Hunter was inspired by a
social action meeting discussion about educating
yourself on voting laws, election rules and how to
reduce voter apathy and increase voter engagement.
It was not long before the lyrics and the music
formed a "Get Out to Vote" effort in the final month
before the November 3, 2020 election.
"Pictured to your right, is President Towsend and
Soror Jamille Hunter interviewed on Local Memphis 24
news by Soror Annette Peagler. The viral song
afforded the chapter an opportunity to bring
awareness along with a catchy tune to motivate you
to cast a ballot.

SCTAC DST | OCTOBER 2020

https://www.facebook.com/624921934200417/videos/425055671821247
119 Likes | 167 Comments | 2.4k Views

The purpose was to facilitate a voter readiness forum to engage and
educate voters virtually about the 2020 election. On October 27, 2020,
the Social Action team facilitated an "In the Red Zone Table Talk:
Voting in 2020," via Facebook live-stream. The topics of discussion
were voting in a pandemic, importance of voting, candidate research
and voting for issues that impact you and your community.

From left to right beginning at the top: Jil Greene. Marva Maples, Kimberly Davis, Terri Miller, Trevia Chatman, President
Sherry Townsend, Keneisha Fountain, Lai Brooks, Shirley Page, Brittani Moncrease, Alexus LaBoo, Lillie St.Clair

SCTAC DST | NOVEMBER 2020

Early Voting & Election Day

https://www.facebook.com/624921934200417/videos/2720650442429556
40 Likes | 777 Views

SCTAC DST | NOVEMBER 2020

Dearest Soror,
The hard work is just beginning. In the
wake of receiving official news that
President-Elect Joe Biden will be sworn
into office in January, my feelings about
the next steps of our country coming
together are still uneasy. In my state of
Georgia, the entire country is watching
us. Will we be even more disconnected
on issues that affect us all? Will these
senate seats really make a difference?
How long will the Senate outcome take?
These are all the questions that are
now surfacing my brain after a long
push for our general election that has
passed. One must keep in mind that
with the fight for our voice to be heard,
any and every opportunity to vote
should and will be used. So, no matter
the outcome, I will press forward and
make sure my voice is heard again on
the runoff election on January 5, 2021.

Yours in Service,
Soror Ima REaDy

P.S. Are you ready? Ima REaDy !

SCTAC DST | DECEMBER 2020

The NAACP Memphis Branch is hosting their annual membership drive. There
will be a live broadcast by WDIA radio personality, Bev Johnson, food trucks
and a drive-thru membership drop box to keep everyone safe while still
supporting our local NAACP organization. For ease and safety first, you may
pay your membership online. Complete the membership form and click the
"Make Payment" button. Don't forget to add "DST-101" in the solicitor field so
that SCTAC will get the credit.
By mail: NAACP Memphis Branch - 588 Vance, Memphis, TN 38126. Download
and complete the membership form and don't forget to include "DST-101"
Click here for the membership envelope..

SCTAC DST | DECEMBER 2020

Dearest Soror,
It’s getting near the end of the 2020 year
and Ima REaDy is taking time to reflect on
all that’s happened during this pandemic.
She is beyond grateful for her many
blessings: health, faith, family, finances,
and her sorority. Since she has been so
fortunate this year, she wants to make a
charitable contribution to a 501(c)(3)
organization before December 31st.

She remembered reading in the Red Alert
that she does not have to itemize her
taxes to take advantage of the charitable
deduction (up to $300) for cash
contributions paid in 2020. Also, she
recalls that her employer will match her
workplace giving and the Delta Research
and Educational Foundation (DREF) is one
of the approved charities on her list. Ima
is REaDy to donate to DREF so she can
give a gift of possibilities!

Yours in Service,
Soror Ima REaDy

P.S. Are you ready? Ima REaDy !

SCTAC DST | JANUARY 2021

https://www.facebook.com/624921934200417/videos/207149341056016 206 Likes / 88 comments / 2.8k views

Because of the 22...

IOnCtveerrhna1apt,t0ieor0nsa0lly

More Than 300,000 Members

SCTAC DST | JANUARY 2021

Dearest Soror,
Sister, I do not know about you, but there is
something in the air. “Change”. Even in great
change there comes an even greater understanding
of accountability.
On Wednesday, January 6, 2021, we saw an
openness of hate and disdain for equality on full
display. When does it stop? One thing for sure and
two things for certain Soror, We Cannot and Will
Not sweep this under the rug!!
I will be making my calls and emails to our Senators
and Representatives to hold all lawmakers
accountable. We must follow-up with pushing our
representatives to hold the standard of truth,
honor, and justice for all.
I just finished writing and calling my state
representatives using my 5CALLS
WWW.5CALLS.ORG app on my phone to use the
most powerful gift that we have and must never
forget we have, Our Voice.
Yours in Delta,
Soror Ima REaDy
P.S. Are you Ready? Ima REaDy

SCTAC DST | FEBRUARY 2021

Environmental Racism

A Billion-dollar corporations Valero Energy and Pipeline companies have a long history of leaks
Plains All American Pipeline company are and spills, which are exceedingly expensive and
planning to build the Byhalia Connection Pipeline difficult to clean up. Plain’s representatives have
through our community of Southwest Memphis. said that well maintained pipelines can last for
The proposed Byhalia Pipeline would cross the decades without issues, but the Pipeline and
Davis Wellfield, which MLGW uses to supply Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
drinking water to several residential areas in (PHMSA) has recorded over 4,000 oil and fuel
southwest Memphis and potentially endangering spills just since 2010. Spills could occur for any
the water of the entire Greater Memphis Area. number of reasons, including faulty construction,
Along with many other community members, we defective materials, poor maintenance, seismic
are greatly concerned about this because of the activity, or someone simply digging in the wrong
ones who are blatantly being targeted and being place without calling first. What is even more
affected by environmental racism, environmental alarming is that the proposed route lies within a
hazard (including health hazards) and the known earthquake zone, yet the companies STILL
potential economic threat it poses to our local plan to construct an underground pipeline
community, particularly the Black communities through black residential areas over a crucial
like Southwest Memphis. There are residents drinking water source.
being threatened and being sued by this
company to take their land. We rely on clean Plains All American touts the economic upside of
water to operate and to drink. the pipeline, but in actuality, its potential cost to

SCTAC DST | FEBRUARY 2021

Environmental Racism

UPDATE – To date the Memphis City Council has
voted twice unanimously (2 readings) to NOT sell
the Memphis Sand Aquifer to Plains All American
pipeline company. A general ordinance must
receive three readings to stop the land sell.
Deferred until Tuesday, July 6, 2021 @3:30 PM.
Memphis City Council Watch
live:https://www.memphistn.gov/government/city
_council

Kathy Robinson (left), and Kizzy Jones, friends for 27 years, City council members in Memphis, Tennessee,
are now fighting together against the proposed Byhalia have delayed a vote on an ordinance that could
Connection Pipeline that would be built near where they make it more difficult for a company to build an
grew up. (Brad Vest/Special to The Daily Memphian) oil pipeline over an aquifer that provides clean
drinking water to 1 million people

our community far outweighs any financial Next fiscal year: Keep the pressure on the
benefit. Byhalia Pipeline is extremely proud of Memphis City Council and draft a plan to
their $1 million in donations to Mid-South collaborate with MMAPHC. Elevate the Byhalia
organizations, but that pales in comparison to Pipeline and environmental racism conversation
how much money they are making at the risk of amongst our community to produce widespread
Memphis’ drinking water. According to a Plains awareness of the issue and communicate
senior project manager, the Byhalia Connection progress. Stand in solidarity with the Memphis
could generate over $7 billion in revenue every Community Against the Pipeline (MCAP), a
year for partners Plains and Valero. Meanwhile, grassroots movement organized by Black
they reference one-time donations totaling $1 community leaders to stop the Byhalia
million as evidence of their generosity and Connection Pipeline.
neighborliness, while the cost of a potential oil
spill cannot even begin to be covered by such an
amount.

Call to Action Pictured: Kizzy Jones
Contact the Memphis City Council members and
voice your opposition to the pipeline plan and
issuance of permits to Byhalia Pipeline
Connection developers to national, state, and
local government leadership.

SCTAC DST | MARCH 2021

On March 21, 2021, our TN State Coordinator facilitated a kick-off
meeting to discuss legislative bills, expectations for virtual legislators
meetings and to close the week with a virtual Delta Days.

SCTAC DST | MARCH 2021

On Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at 6
p.m., we hosted a virtual non-partisan

joint collaboration with Memphis
Alumnae Chapter, our sister chapter
called the Pearls & Politics: Meet Your
Legislators. We conducted an
afternoon and evening Zoom sessions
to speak with legislators from both
sides of the political aisle. In
attendance there were approximately
75 Sorors.

Post event feedback to conduct once a
quarter a meet your legislators so they
know our priorities and that our voice
must be heard.

CALL TO ACTION

Contact the legislatures and
re-instate our position on the
bills we support and oppose.
Include a “Thank You” in your
letter or email
Continue to follow-up on
these bills and other bills that
impact our community at
capitol.tn.gov

SCTAC DST | APRIL 2021

https://www.facebook.com/624921934200417/videos/1104144480091693 156 comments and 2.1k views
https://youtu.be/KxTdsj5c65c

On April 4, 2021, the Shelby County (TN) Chapter produced a "I Have a Dream" Commemorative
to bring awareness about Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's., speech that was delivered at the
March on Washington on August 28, 1963. The dream is still being realized by continuing to
fight for job opportunities, equality, freedom, civil rights, economic rights, and a dream to end
racism.

This film serves as a tribute to all who have fought in the past and for those in the present. It is a
reminder that there is still more work to be done.

Today, there is still racism and prejudice toward groups of people. Dr. King's speech reminds us
that we all deserve freedom. We all deserve equality.

What am I doing today to make Dr. King's dream a reality?

The Charge
Be! Go! Do! The work to realize the dream.