The Informed Voter and the Beloved Community

by Reggie White
R3 Contributor

I have very fond memories of my father. From him, I learned the values of hard work and diligence. He taught and continues to teach the treasures found in maximizing the moments, and providing myself the opportunities to achieve and flourish, using my talents and God’s grace. A vivid memory is when he taught me to tie a necktie. Through a series of folds and twists, he transformed a piece of fabric into a masterpiece. “The (Windsor) knot adds style to your suit,” he said, “But YOU provide the substance.” At first, I struggled terribly, twisting when I should’ve turned, or failing to give myself enough material to make the best knot. I tried again and again, watching my father’s example, until I found my problem. I’d been looking at the construction from my father’s point of view, and not my own. I changed my vision, and instantly his instructions made sense to me. I could tie a Windsor knot that would rival any businessperson’s in the world.

So it is with the fast approaching election. An empowered voter is an informed voter. Today’s technology can provide data, ad infinitum and with a few keystrokes one can be well aware of a candidate’s interests, intentions and integrity. However, the data we use must be seen through our point of view. I love my father, but our political views aren’t identical. Our views are born of different experiences, under different circumstances, at different times. We may arrive at similar decisions for our candidates, but we arrive through vastly different processes. There was a time when the African-American vote was overwhelmingly Republican, but one would be hard pressed to find a sizeable Black presence at Tampa Bay’s GOP Convention. We must take the time to research every candidate, both national and local. In fact, all politics is local, given the impact of decisions rendered by elected officials. A decision made today can tremendously impact the quality of our lives for years to come. This year’s elections may yield few straight-ticket voting. The arc of the ballot shall bend toward progress, but not necessarily bear a distinct red or blue shade. Independent candidates and an array of others may pique the interest of voters, but my prayer is we see our votes cast with a sound mind that seeks to build the “Beloved Community.” Our politics may not yield the same results, but they can and should seek to preserve the dignity of humanity.

I’m encouraged by the lesson my father taught me as a child. However, I am further inspired by the responsibility to not only look the part of an informed voter, but to elect the candidates that provide the substance necessary to move our communities onward and upward.