CINCINNATI(FinalCall.com)�The newly formed African American
Political Caucus (AAPC) held its first overwhelmingly successful rally
June 2 at Allen Temple AME Church here. Nationally syndicated radio
talk show host Bev Smith and internationally known activist Dick Gregory
were on hand to help kick off the event. More than 1,000
concerned Black citizens packed Rev. Donald Jordan�s church. Many had to
stand outside the doors and listen to the speeches. Former Cincinnati
Mayor Dwight Tillery spearheaded the formation of the AAPC, but he�s
quick to point out that this organization belongs to the people.
"The formation of this group by concerned citizens is
to provide a voice for African American citizens and businesses. It is a
means to harness the collective power of our community to have influence
on the political structures. It is a way to make sure that we hold
politicians accountable for what they do and that we are not left out,"
he said.
The AAPC presented Black media with awards of
appreciation for covering issues of concern to the Black community. The
Final Call newspaper was one of the media outlets recognized at the
rally.
Bev Smith, whose nightly radio show reaches millions
everyday, said she would take the message of the AAPC to the airwaves so
it could spread to every Black community in the country. She also
encouraged the audience to "recommit to the Black community" and had
them recite a "recommit pledge."
Dick Gregory also urged unity and expressed disgust
with the police brutality and white supremacy that hovers over the Black
community every day, during a delivery spiced with humor.
City council candidate Laketa Cole is the first
political candidate being endorsed by the new group. "I, as a candidate,
want to be held accountable. Not a lot of candidates are going to say
that. I want to know when I�m not doing my job. I want to be put in
check. It�s important that the AAPC bring the candidates back down to
the people," she said.
The non-partisan AAPC says it wants to organize the
Black vote and issue a quarterly report card on public office holders.
It also will organize committees for fundraising; research and polling;
voter education; public relations; and a training institute for
candidates for public office, among others.
Mr. Tillery said the AAPC steering committee consists
of about 15 people, including Minister James Muhammad of Muhammad Mosque
No. 5 in the city.
�Vincent Muhammad
