Get up, get out and go vote

Ellise A. Smith “You need git up, git out and git something How will you make it if you never even try You need to git up, git out and git something ‘Cause you and I got to do for you and I” OutKast’s lyrics on their song “Git Up and Git Out” was a lyrical alarm clock that echoed through speakers during the early 90’s. Their words reminded our communities to find their hustle and muscle to make change. This dynamic duo spoke about the value of trying even when all we have is the will to try.  In 2024, these lyrics still signal a wake-up call. We must get up and go out in our communities to make change. As we navigate this current election season, we have watched everything be presented from slanderous terms, outrageous remarks and the reminder that we must take the impact of voting seriously. But I offer us a push to do more. We have school board meetings that go unattended. Community and neighborhood board meetings are attended by a few seasoned saints who have fought for their communities with no successors — and once their legacy is gone, development companies move in...