My Truth: Three Things!

By Cheryl Smith
Publisher 

In a conversation with esteemed publishers of the Black Press, the topic of voting was raised. Specifically, someone asked about what is being done to get out the vote. Good question. It’s a never-ending battle and challenge.

Which brings me to my truth.

I would love to have the formula that would encourage folks to do several things. I’d like for all households to complete the Census 2020 form. It is critically important that the form is completed so that much-needed resources can be allocated. And in addition to the good that comes out of completing of the form, there are also jobs available.

I received a note from a Census 2020 exec that I know should be of assistance to some: “There is a big recruiting effort going on due to COVID-19. Many people that were hired had start dates delayed and consequently decided to either look elsewhere or changed their mind. There is also a huge employment opportunity with the Census Bureau for those who have been laid off, furloughed or lost their jobs due to COVID-19.”

Just look at that. There are people who want to work and here’s an opportunity with jobs paying in the range of $22 an hour! Now, I say, if you didn’t complete the form, you don’t need to be eligible for employment! Find out more information at https://2020census.gov/ Then there’s social distancing, wearing a mask and gloves, while also taking precautions to avoid spreading or catching the coronavirus. Unfortunately there are those who are not taking the virus seriously and it is no wonder when you consider all the misinformation that is being presented.

What we must understand is that as more and more tests are conducted, information we received initially is changing. Since we’re constantly receiving new information; it is imperative that we are not reckless, that we don’t take chances. Instead we must err on the side of caution. Now last week, activist Rae Lewis Thornton celebrated her 58th birthday and 37 years living with HIV/AIDS. She has traveled the country stressing the importance of safe sex as one way to prevent the spread of the virus.

We must realize that almost four decades later, there is still no cure for HIV/AIDS. Many didn’t listen and still, in 2020 we are reporting new cases. So are you optimistic enough about there being a cure for COVID-19 in a few months? When will we learn? Good question. You’d better dial back and pay attention to those who know what they are talking about.

Now back to that discussion. In case you forgot, there’s an election soon. That’s right, on July 14, 2020, we need all eligible voters to go to the polls for the run-off election. And yes, you are expected to return to the polls on November 3, 2020 for the general election. Actually not only expected: urged, begged, threatened, coerced, encouraged; everything but bribed. Despite the declarations that your vote doesn’t matter or your candidate is not on the ballot. Your vote does count and is very important. If you really want to see the power of the ballot, vote and fill out the census form.