Does the upcoming election have you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain? Have you been told to simply wait and see what happens? The frustration and powerlessness you're experiencing from this approach is completely understandable. It's time to take back control and make proactive preparations for the election. Let's explore effective strategies to empower yourself and your community amidst the uncertainty of the upcoming election.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Identify strategies and tactics through a comprehensive SWOT analysis for effective election preparation.
• Harness the power of community support to navigate uncertainties and engage meaningfully in the electoral process.
• Discover the crucial benefits and opportunities of voting early in the election process.
• Connect with local organizations that provide essential support and resources for the election period.
• Develop practical methods for managing election day anxiety and participating confidently in the democratic process.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Connect with the Black Remembering podcast and the Black Appalachian Coalition on social media to engage in the ongoing dialogue and share your thoughts and feedback.
• Find and connect with local organizations in your community that are doing the hard work and supporting your community, such as the Appalachian Promise Alliance and the Future Bristol Leaders Coalition
• Take actionable steps to support your community during the election, such as accompanying friends to the voting polls if you feel unsafe, and making a plan to stay connected with loved ones on election day and in the days afterwards.
• Consider early voting to ensure your voice is heard and use your excess energy to support others in your community on election day, such as joining local organizations for watch parties, meetings, or potlucks.
• Remember that the real work starts the day after the election and continues for the next four years, so focus on engaging with your community and supporting local organizations to make a difference beyond just the election day.

The mission of the Black Appalachian Coalition (BLAC) is to build a multi-state campaign that amplifies black voices, dismantles the colonized narrative of Appalachia, and uses story-based strategies and solutions that center the voices and lived experiences of Black Appalachians.

For more stories and information about The Black Appalachian Coalition please visit www.blackappalachiancoalition.org.

Welcome to another episode of BLAC Re-Membering. On today's episode We are in conversation with Pheonix Berry, a Kentucky Black Appalachian Organizer. As a committed community organizer with a background in naturopathy, Pheonix's journey reflects a deep-rooted connection to the Appalachian history and culture, influencing their approach to advocacy and mutual aid. Their insights, particularly from the Kentucky policy summit, shed light on the importance of collective power and uncovering truths for policy change. Pheonix's involvement in Project 2025 and their stance on the current political landscape offer an invaluable perspective, making them an influential force in driving change within the community.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Explore the transformative impact of the Black Appalachian Coalition on regional empowerment and representation.
• Discover the pivotal role of community organizing in effecting positive change and amplifying marginalized voices in the Appalachian region.
• Embrace the power of mutual aid as a crucial tool for driving activism and fostering solidarity within the Appalachian community.
• Uncover the essential truths necessary for influencing policy change and addressing systemic issues in the Appalachian region.
• Engage in the vision of Project 2025 and its significance in driving political involvement and shaping the future of the Appalachian community.

The mission of the Black Appalachian Coalition (BLAC) is to build a multi-state campaign that amplifies black voices, dismantles the colonized narrative of Appalachia, and uses story-based strategies and solutions that center the voices and lived experiences of Black Appalachians.

For more stories and information about The Black Appalachian Coalition please visit www.blackappalachiancoalition.org.

How can you create a space for healing and resilience in your community? Discover the solution to achieving this empowered support system and personalized care as we delve into the impactful role of legacy storytelling and self-care strategies for black women.

Meet our special guest Tina Ford

Tina Ford, a native of Clairton, Pa, brings over 20 years of experience as a CNA worker and is the founder of Moms of Murdered Sons, established in 2019. Her work not only reflects her dedication to serving the community but also her commitment to preserving the legacy of the individuals impacted by urban redevelopment. Through her group, Tina encourages mothers to share their stories, recognizing the importance of storytelling in creating lasting social impact. Her insights into self-care strategies for black women, particularly in the face of adversity, offer a valuable perspective for community leaders and social workers. Tina's leadership and advocacy embody an empowered support system and personalized care, contributing significantly to the ongoing dialogue around these critical issues.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Empower mothers of murdered sons through personalized care and support systems.
• Elevate community care with the crucial role of CNAs in fostering well-being.
• Explore the profound impact of urban redevelopment on communities for informed decision-making.
• Engage in legacy storytelling for healing and preserving cultural narratives.
• Discover self-care strategies tailored to the unique needs of black women.

Empower Mothers of Murdered Sons
Supporting mothers of murdered sons is crucial for healing and resilience in communities like Clairton. Tina Ford's work with Moms of Murdered Sons highlights the importance of creating a supportive village for these mothers. Empowering these mothers to share their stories and advocate for their children's legacies is a key step in promoting healing and community support.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Moms of Murdered Sons - A group founded by Tina Ford in 2019, providing support and resources for mothers who have lost their children to violence. (Link: [Moms of Murdered Sons](https://www.momsofmurderedsons.com))
• School of Social Work Report - Referenced in the conversation, this report highlights the average life expectancy of black women in Pittsburgh and the challenges they face. (Link: [School of Social Work Report](https://www.socialwork.pitt.edu))
• Community Support - Encouraging listeners to support and create spaces for mothers who have experienced loss, and to engage in community-building efforts. (Local community organizations and support groups)
• Policy Change - Advocating for policy changes to address the challenges faced by black women and their families, particularly in relation to violence and community support. (Local government representatives and advocacy groups)
• Self-Care - Emphasizing the importance of self-care and seeking support when needed, promoting mental health resources and self-care practices. (Local mental health resources and support groups)

The mission of the Black Appalachian Coalition (BLAC) is to build a multi-state campaign that amplifies black voices, dismantles the colonized narrative of Appalachia, and uses story-based strategies and solutions that center the voices and lived experiences of Black Appalachians.

For more stories and information about The Black Appalachian Coalition please visit www.blackappalachiancoalition.org.