NABJ forum connects community, candidates

By Margaret Bailey
Diversity Institute Fellow

07.27.02

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The Nashville Association of Black Journalist decided July 15 to sponsor a forum to allow candidates for vice mayor to speak to the North Davidson community, a largely African-American section of the city.

The forum is set for July 28 at 5 p.m. in the YMCA, 3700 Ashland City Highway.

"Some people are not aware that there are five candidates," said Lelan A. Statom, president of the association, making reference to the more widely known three Metro Council members who are in the race.

This forum will give the community a chance to hear and understand what exactly the vice mayor does, and the community will have an opportunity to ask questions about each candidate’s agenda.

The association is an affiliate of the National Association of Black Journalists, an organization of journalists, students and media-related professionals that provides support programs and advocates on behalf of black journalists worldwide. It also sponsors various social and community projects in local cities where chapters exist.

The Nashville chapter made the decision to host the forum at its monthly meeting. Dwight Lewis, a columnist and editor at The Tennessean, will moderate the meeting expected to last up to 2 hours. Cards will be placed by the entrance so attendees can write out questions to be read by the moderator.

All five candidates have agreed to participate in the forum. They include councilors Chris Ferrell, Howard Gentry and Phil Ponder, along with environmental activist Bruce Wood and political newcomer Pat Dooley. The candidates will be given time to explain their candidacy and respond to questions.

Statom said the association seeks to fulfill its watchdog function by sponsoring events that keep the minority community abreast of important issues.

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