Breaking Down Barriers to the Ballot
The Arkansas Journal of Social Change and Public Service proudly presents its Annual Symposium, “Breaking Down Barriers to the Ballot.” This full-day event centers around voting access, representation, and advocacy, emphasizing dismantling barriers that disenfranchise marginalized groups. Through engaging discussions, interactive workshops, and collective action, participants will work together to analyze and develop strategies to address issues impacting Arkansas voters, promoting collaboration and community partnerships.
This community event welcomes all at no cost. To attend, kindly fill out a registration form for each event you intend to participate in. If you’re joining us for both events, please complete the form for each day. For those wishing to attend Saturday’s event via Zoom, please indicate your preference on the registration form, and we will send you the Zoom link before the event. If you have any questions, contact us at socialchangesymposium@gmail.com.
Pre-Symposium Dinner and Discourse
Date: Friday, March 29, 2024 | 7:00 p.m.
Location: Red & Blue Events Venue
This panel discussion will serve as a prelude to the community event scheduled for Saturday and will focus on existing and previously proposed state legislation and policies related to ballot access.
Register for the pre-symposium dinner here.
Symposium
Date: Saturday, March 30, 2024 | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: William H. Bowen School of Law, Friday Courtroom
The Symposium will take place on our campus and will be a full-day event aimed at exploring various issues that impact Arkansas voters and provide resources and insights to improve the voting experience. It will feature keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities.
Register for the symposium here.
Agenda:
9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.: Check-in and breakfast
10:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.: Welcome Address
10:15 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.: Unpacking Barriers: Challenges and Solutions with Atiba Ellis
11:00 a.m. – 11:10 a.m.: Morning Break
11:10 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.: The Power of Representation: Why Diverse Leadership Matters in Local Government with panelists Honorable Alex Guynn, Margarita Solorzano, Tom Masseau, and Kwami Abdul-Bey
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.: Networking lunch
1:00 p.m. – 2:10 p.m.: Interactive Workshops
Workshop 1: Engaging the Next Generation: Youth Voter Mobilization with panelists Micha Wallace, Mar’Tavius Proctor, and Michele Barraza
Workshop 2: Building Bridges: Fostering Inclusive and Equitable Voting Practices with panelists Christian Adcock, Ashley McBride, and Irvin Camocho
2:10 p.m. – 2:20 p.m.: Afternoon Break
2:20 p.m. – 3:15 p.m.: Empowering Democracy Through Civic Engagement with Joyce Elliott
3:15 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.: Advocacy in Action: Building Solutions Together a community dialog session
3:45 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.: Closing Collective Action