Early voting gets a rhythmic boost as the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) brings together Black Greek organizations and community members for a “Stroll to the Polls” on Sat., Oct. 26.
The event is open to residents of all backgrounds and affiliations.
Participants are encouraged to arrive at Brainerd High School, located at 1020 N. Moore Rd., by 9:30 a.m. The gathering, which will take place at 10 a.m., aims to combine cultural tradition with civic engagement as participants “stroll”–a synchronized walking style popular among Black Greek organizations–their way to casting their ballots.
“We believe in the power of voting and the strength of our community when we come together,” said Reginald Smith III, president of NPHC Chattanooga. “This event is about more than just casting a ballot–it’s about standing in solidarity and making an impact for the future of our city, state and country.”
The initiative comes as Hamilton County reports strong early voting numbers, with more than 8,800 voters participating on the first day, including absentee ballots–a 10% increase from the previous record set in 2020. The early voting period, which began on Oct. 16, continues through Oct. 31.
NPHC Chattanooga, also known as the Divine Nine, represents nine historically African American fraternities and sororities that trace their roots back to 1906: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.; Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.; Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.; Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.; Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.
The organization emphasizes that while its roots are in higher education, its mission extends far beyond campus boundaries.
“Nationally, there’s a big push to make sure our community is both educated about the processes and the various jurisdictions in which people vote, as well as pushing people to exercise their right as American people to actually vote,” Smith explained.
Voters are reminded to bring valid photo identification. Acceptable forms include a Tennessee driver’s license or photo ID issued by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Tennessee state government, or the federal government. Student IDs are not accepted under Tennessee law.
For more information about the “Stroll to the Polls” event, interested participants can contact NPHCChatt@gmail.com.