The Richland and Lexington County Chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (AKA), including Gamma Nu Omega, Upsilon Omega Omega, Omega Gamma Omega and undergraduate chapters of Mu, Psi, Theta Gamma, and Upsilon Zeta are proud to present the Soaring to Justice Public Policy Forum. This critical event, designed to revive culture, redefine community, and reclaim power will take place on Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the Chappelle Auditorium on the campus of Allen University. For attendees that are unable to attend in person, this event will be held in a hybrid format, with the option to tune in virtually via Facebook Live (@Live)to Gamma Nu Omega, Upsilon Omega Omega, and Omega Gamma Omega.
As we approach election season, the “Soaring to Justice” forum aims to provide invaluable information and resources to ensure every community member is informed and motivated to participate in the democratic process. This event will feature a panel discussion with esteemed guests, voter registration opportunities, and exciting door prizes. Panel Discussion
The forum will be moderated by Holli Holiday, a prominent figure who advocates for Black women’s political empowerment and president of Sisters Lead Sisters Vote, and feature a dynamic panel of influential voices in politics and social justice, including:
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Annie McDaniel: Serving the South Carolina House of Representatives for the 41st District, McDaniel is a champion for education, healthcare, and economic development. Her insights will be invaluable to understanding the current political landscape.
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Brandon Brown: First African American to win the Democratic nomination for SC’s 4th Congressional District and former Senior Vice President of Paine College, and current US Senate candidate, Brown will convey a message centered on faith, family, and restoration opportunities for working class families across South Carolina.
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Senator Russell Ott: Serving the South Carolina State Senate from District 26, Ott brings a wealth of knowledge and rich history to the political arena. He is the former SC House of Representative serving the 93rd district. He prides himself on supporting businesses and workers, making healthcare more affordable and accessible, and improving
the education system.
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Courtney Waters: Serving the South Carolina House of Representatives for the 113th District, Waters is a change agent for education – as the state’s Teach for America director and former Charleston County School Board member. She is a life-long public servant whose focus is not only education, but affordable housing, child care, abortion access, and the environment.
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Antjuan Seawright: A political change agent and founder and CEO of Blueprint Strategy LLC, Seawright has led a number of grassroots and strategic efforts for political clients at the national, state, and local levels. A former advisor on Hillary Clinton’s 2008 and 2016 presidential campaigns, he continues to advise the Democratic National Committee. He currently hosts “Insights with Antjuan Seawright,” a weekly public affairs radio show based here in SC, and is the co-host of “Hot Button Mondays” segment with Rev. Al Sharpton’s national radio show.
Voter Registration
In collaboration with local organizations, the forum will provide on-site voter registration, ensuring that attendees have the opportunity to register to vote and verify their registration status. This is a vital step in preparing for the upcoming elections and making sure every voice is heard.
Importance of Voting
In every election year, the importance of voting cannot be overstated. Voting is a fundamental right and a powerful tool for shaping the future of our community. It is essential that we elect leaders who reflect our values and priorities. The “Soaring to Justice”
forum aims to highlight the impact of voting and encourage maximum voter participation.
Event Details
The event will take place on Thursday, October 2, 2025 from 6 PM – 7:30 PM. It will be held at Allen University’s Chappelle Auditorium, 1530 Harden Street, Columbia, SC 29204
This event is a collaborative effort by the Richland and Lexington County AKA Chapters: Gamma Nu Omega, Upsilon Omega Omega, and Omega Gamma Omega and undergraduate chapters of Mu, Psi, Theta Gamma, and Upsilon Zeta. Together, we are committed to fostering civic engagement and ensuring our community is well-informed and empowered to vote.
We invite all community members to join us in person or tune in virtually via Facebook Live (@Live)for this informative and empowering event. Engage with our panelists, register to vote, and take part in the conversation about our future. Let’s come together to make a difference.
For more information about the event, please get in touch with the Public Relations Committee of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated®, Richland & Lexington Chapters at RichLexAKAs@gmail.com.
About the Richland and Lexington County Chapters
Gamma Nu Omega, Upsilon Omega Omega, Omega Gamma Omega, Mu, Psi, Theta Gamma, and Upsilon Zeta chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. are active in the Richland and Lexington Counties. Through various programs and initiatives, they strive to positively impact individuals and empower them to achieve their full potential.
