Latest news with #AshleyShelton
Yahoo
28-04-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Voting rights groups to rally in Baton Rouge for fair housing, criminal justice reform
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — Black Voters Matter and over a dozen grassroots groups will rally at the Capitol steps on Monday. They want lawmakers to act on healthcare access, fair housing, voting rights and criminal justice reform. 'The State Capitol is our house. This is the people's house, and we need the people to really pay attention to the things that are happening,' said Ashley Shelton, president and CEO of the Power Coalition for Equity and Justice. Organizers said this year's BVM Day at the Capitol is important. Many Louisiana communities are struggling with big challenges in healthcare and housing. Advocates stress the importance of holding elected officials accountable. They also want to highlight the voices of marginalized communities in decision-making. 'You have to fight for your voice to be heard to make your community better,' Shelton said. 'Resources should be focused on the challenges and the problems that communities are facing.' Monday's event will feature a press conference. There will also be chances to talk directly with lawmakers. Black Voters Matter and its partners want to send a strong message: voters are watching and want action. Bill would penalize Louisiana gun owners if minors access unsecured firearms; most states already have storage laws 'There will be a series of different lobby days hosted by Black Voters Matter,' Shelton said. 'Power Coalition will have our day on Tuesday, and what we want to relay to our lawmakers is that it's critical they put people before politics.' Advocates worry about laws that they believe go against what voters want. 'Voters in March voted down four amendments, and now we're seeing all of those same bills come up again in our legislature — and they're moving through,' a Power Coalition representative said. Local grassroots groups and national organizations want to make sure that historically excluded voices are heard and lead the discussion about Louisiana's future. Voting rights groups to rally in Baton Rouge for fair housing, criminal justice reform 13-year-old boy dies after being hit by car while riding bike in Livingston Parish Suspect arrested in Homeland Security Secretary Noem's purse theft More than 100 immigrants detained at an illegal after-hours nightclub in Colorado Colleges and universities have billions stashed away in endowments; here's what they are Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
20-02-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Power Coalition partners with activists for Baton Rouge listening tour on constitutional amendments
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — The Power Coalition is partnering with political figures to educate and encourage people to use their voices through a Thursday listening tour in Baton Rouge. Ashley Shelton, CEO of the Power Coalition, is teaming up with activists Gary Chambers and Geno McLaughlin. The statewide town hall series focuses on the four constitutional amendments on the ballot for March 29. 'More importantly engage them about the totality of politics and kind of in a post-election environment,' McLaughlin, the moderator for the tour said. 'What are the ways we can help ourselves, save ourselves, so that when we do have to show back up to the polls we're more knowledgeable about the things on the ballot.' The Power Coalition wants to help Louisianans activate their voice and learn where and when to use it. With the ultimate push to encourage people to vote. The group aims to reach more people in the state, especially the river parishes. They want residents to understand why they should vote a certain way this election cycle. 'Often times we only think about the individuals in the large metropolitan areas… Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and even Shreveport. But what about the people in the river parishes? They are also impacted by the plants…. Somebody needs to be the voice for them and talk to them directly,' said McLaughlin. The event is at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20. The town hall starts at 6:30 p.m. and goes until 8:30 p.m. at The Valdry Center for Philanthropy at Southern University. The address is 589 Harding Blvd. You don't need to pre-register to attend. But, you can register on Eventbrite to save your spot. Krewe of Orion parade theme brings New Orleans to Baton Rouge McConnell won't seek reelection to Senate Creative control of James Bond franchise given to Amazon MGM President Donald Trump appoints Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry to Council of Governors Power Coalition partners with activists for Baton Rouge listening tour on constitutional amendments Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
