FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SHREVEPORT, LA, August 4, 2023 —A new mural commissioned by the Power Coalition for Equity and Justice, titled “The Power of the Ballot” by local muralist KaDavien Baylor will be unveiled at the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity House in Shreveport on August 16, 2023, at 6:00 PM. This piece of art pays tribute to local and national civil rights leaders who pioneered the battle for African American voting rights in Shreveport, providing a significant reminder of past struggles and progress achieved.
In celebration of its 25th anniversary, Cultural Crossroads, a non-profit committed to preserving and promoting BIPOC cultural and artistic expression, hosted the Artspreneur: The Business of Art Conference in Baton Rouge last March. The Power Coalition for Equity and Justice granted four artists micro commissions themed “Your Voice, Your Vote, Your Power.” The awardees selected by conference attendees were KaDavien Baylor of Shreveport, David Jones II of Baton Rouge, Natalie Spencer of Lafayette, and Cherice Harrison-Nelson of New Orleans.
“‘The Power of the Ballot’ mural project enables historically oppressed communities to reflect on the triumphs of civil rights and voting, cultivating a sense of ownership in underserved neighborhoods and providing inspiration,” said Baylor.
Ashley K. Shelton, Founder, President, and CEO of Power Coalition for Equity and Justice, added, “Power Coalition is proud to support community-based organizations and trusted community leaders throughout Louisiana. Culture Bearers hold such an important role and voice in communities throughout Louisiana. We believe that investing in artistic expression and cultural art practices continues a long-standing relationship between Art, voice and building power. KaDavien’s work speaks to the long fight for voting rights in this country as we celebrate the 58th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act (VRA) this month and the United States Supreme Court’s recent decision to uphold Section 2 of the VRA in June.”
The mural unveiling will take place at the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity House, located at 3132 Greenwood Rd, at 6:00 PM.
Contact: Billy Anderson
Northern Louisiana Organizer, Power Coalition for Equity and Justice
Email: banderson@powercoalition.org
Phone: 318-990-9617
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