Harris urges court expansion in Atlanta

Former Vice President Kamala Harris spoke at Elizabeth Baptist Church in Atlanta on Thursday during the NAACP’s “We The People” town hall. Harris called for structural changes in the U.S. government, specifically naming the expansion of the Supreme Court.

“The pain is real and we can look at the most recent behaviors and actions or inactions coming out of our nation’s capital,” Harris said. She added that voters must do more than just cast ballots and that structural work is required.

The event featured several local and state leaders. Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP, Gwenette Westbrook, President of the Georgia State Conference NAACP, and Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens also addressed the crowd. Westbrook urged the audience to get people to the polls, while Dickens described the current moment as challenging with democracy at stake.

Congressman Nikema Williams and Jeremiah Florence, Georgia NAACP Youth and College President, also spoke. Williams told voters they are voting for issues and policies that impact their everyday lives. Florence emphasized the unique power Georgians have to shape the state’s future through organizing and voting.

Voters received practical advice on how to navigate the upcoming election. Organizers encouraged attendees to make a plan for where and when they will vote, to educate themselves on ballot issues, and to ensure their voices are heard. The group highlighted the need for structures that compel people to participate in the democratic process.

Harris closed by stating that Georgia has created a roadmap for a new voice in the South. She said that if the current level of activism continues, certain people will understand that the South must be invested in.

Early voting in Georgia ends on Friday, Oct. 30. Election Day is scheduled for Nov. 3.