A Voteless People is A Hopeless People

Since its inception in the 1930s, the A Voteless People is a Hopeless People program has been a critical component of Alpha Phi Alpha’s efforts to promote civic engagement and political awareness in the African American community. Recognizing that the right to vote is a fundamental cornerstone of democracy, this program was initially launched during an era when voter suppression tactics such as poll taxes and literacy tests disenfranchised many African Americans. Today, the program continues to be relevant as it seeks to address contemporary issues related to voter disenfranchisement, such as gerrymandering, voter ID laws, and the purging of voter rolls.

Through this initiative, Alpha Phi Alpha focuses on voter education, voter registration, and voter participation. Chapters across the nation organize voter registration drives, educate community members on their voting rights, and advocate for policies that make voting more accessible. In addition to direct action, the fraternity works to raise awareness about key political issues that affect African American communities, including criminal justice reform, economic inequality, and healthcare. Alpha Phi Alpha brothers also provide transportation to polling places and volunteer as election workers to ensure that voting is as smooth and inclusive as possible.

An important element of the A Voteless People is a Hopeless People program is its emphasis on youth engagement. Fraternity members often visit schools and universities to educate students on the history of voting rights in the United States, particularly the Civil Rights Movement, and the importance of participating in every election, from local to national. This initiative serves to empower individuals to become informed voters who are actively engaged in shaping the policies that impact their communities