Another opportunity is before us to exercise another facet of the American dream: that of voting, helping to elect our public officials.

On Nov. 4, we will elect an Adams County Youth Court Judge. If you don’t vote, you don’t count.

There are six candidates campaigning for the office, only one is female and is an African-American.

We must scrutinize them closely; their character, educational makeup, track record of work ethics, community involvement and supporting issues across the board.

The question that always comes to my mind is, what has the candidate done to deserve the office or my support to vote?

Most of the candidates don’t know you or recognize you until they need your vote. You get phone calls, handshakes and even church visits. I suspect some don’t have a church home. Some people seeking public office must be made to realize we deserve to be acknowledged and respected as a person, community; irrespective of our color or social states.

African-Americans and other races of people have suffered together, the run of the gamut to get us to a position of recognition and the admission and guarantee to vote.

My fellow voters as you observe; inspect and reflect on the candidate’s resume; be wise; don’t be fooled by smooth talk and a few dollars.

Think with me. We needed someone and some bodies to take on the insults and onslaughts of the powers that were; denying us our freedom to experience the American Dream…..which one of the candidates was there?

Surely you don’t need to be a rocket scientist or a George Washington Carver to figure this one out.

Now, let us not be complacent, lazy, lethargic, unconcerned or hoodwinked to the facts before us. This is a very important election for Adams County Youth Court Judge.

The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. declared authoritavely, boldly, and crystal clearly: “I have a dream that justice and equality will be realized in America for the negro.”

Please, sirs and ma’ams, don’t squander this golden opportunity to participate in this great election; you may never get another chance.

Stand up and be counted; make your voice heard also vote.

Jesus said to His disciples on one occasion: “And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” (St. John 8:32 KJV).

God said it, we believe it and that settles it.

Give thanks to the almighty God for your claim to freedom and vote.

Let freedom ring again, loud and clear — vote.

 

Rev. Clifton E. Marvel Sr.

Natchez resident