At the Democratic National Convention's Black Caucus event, a speaker's plea for good behavior sparked controversy, while others addressed the importance of Black unity and voter mobilization.
At the Democratic National Convention's Black Caucus event on Wednesday, a speaker urged the audience to "act right" for at least 70 days, until the election. Rev. Mark Thompson, the host of the "Make it Plain" podcast, told his compatriots that they must hold themselves in check until victory is secured.
"We got 70 days to act right, y'all. Now, after 70 days, we can go back to acting crazy, right?" he said.
Democrats Urge Black Voters to 'Act Right' for 70 Days
Thompson's comment sparked mixed reactions. Some interpreted it as a plea for unity and discipline in the final stretch of the election. Others criticized it as insensitive and condescending.
The controversy overshadowed a broader discussion at the event about the importance of Black voter mobilization and combating the spread of misinformation. Thompson expressed concern about the targeting of Black men on social media and the deliberate efforts to sow division between Black men and women.
Democrats Urge Black Voters to 'Act Right' for 70 Days
"We know we are the most targeted on social media for disinformation and misinformation. A lot of confusion, and there's a thing going on deliberately to pit Black men against Black women and vice versa," he said. "We gotta combat that."
Thompson asked the panel of Black leaders about their strategies for informing, educating, and mobilizing Black voters. He also solicited their insights on the challenges facing the Black community and urged collaborative efforts to overcome them.
Democrats Urge Black Voters to 'Act Right' for 70 Days
President of the NAACP, Derrick Johnson, and President and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, Melanie Campbell, spoke at the event, highlighting the contributions of Black history to American history. Johnson emphasized the importance of empowering Black voters and building a more just and equitable society.
Campbell urged attendees to "keep working, keep fighting, keep believing," and to be unwavering in their pursuit of social change. She stressed that Black history is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Black community.
Despite the controversy over Thompson's comments, the Black Caucus event served as a platform for Black leaders to address crucial issues facing the community and to galvanize support for Democratic candidates.
The Trump campaign seized upon Thompson's statement, suggesting that it exposed the "quiet part out loud" at the DNC. However, many Democrats denounced the remarks as inflammatory and an attempt to divide the Black community.
As the election enters its final phase, the debate over Thompson's comments is likely to continue, underscoring the tensions and challenges that Black voters face while also highlighting the importance of unity and collective action.
