On April 13, 2023, the South Eastern Region of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated hosted AKA Day at the Capitol in Montgomery, Alabama. This year’s theme was “Soaring in Advocacy: The Power of Us at the Capitol”.
As a proud member of AKA, I admire the Sorority’s continued mission to be of service to all mankind. During our time at the Capitol, we met with elected officials and participated in a letter-writing campaign focusing on Black Maternal Health. These letters were addressed to the Governor of Alabama, Kay Ivey and hand delivered to her office.
And speaking of Black Maternal Health, members of Alpha Kappa Alpha are engaged in a number of advocacy initiatives that I think we should talk about more:
-we’ve rallied together in support of federal legislation: “Black Maternal Health Omnibus Act” (Momnibus Act). This includes advocating at the state level to ensure that appropriations and other federal funding, as well as service-based resources provided to states are appropriately distributed to the communities with critical needs.
The Sorority is also addressing the suicide crisis among Black youth by:
- supporting the passage of federal legislation: “The Pursuing Equity in Mental Health Act”
- advocating for funding, services, resources and research regarding the crisis of suicide (specifically in Black children)
- advocating for the creation of state and local government task forces.
Overall, the day was well-planned and beautifully executed. It was also a first hand example of “pulling up” when our communities need representation in large numbers. I can’t wait for next year!
I was also very proud of my Tuskegee brother, Senator Robert Stewart who came and addressed us after a special senate hearing.
