At 76 years old, Phillip Barker has witnessed the ever-evolving landscape of North Carolina, from desegregation to the impacts of climate change. One thing that remains steadfast for Barker is his unwavering dedication to voting, instilled in him by his mother at a young age.
- Commitment to Voting:
- Barker emphasizes the importance of exercising one’s right to vote, regardless of political affiliations.
- He recalls his mother’s words, "you gonna vote," which have stayed with him through the years.
Barker, a Black farmer from North Carolina, finds himself at the forefront of this year’s presidential election in one of the seven swing states, where his vote could be pivotal. Both parties are actively seeking support from Black men like Barker, highlighting policies and past actions that directly impact this demographic.
- Political Appeals to Black Men:
- Democrats focus on policies benefiting Black men and remind them of past racial tensions under the Trump administration.
- Republicans send Black GOP lawmakers to engage with Black men, attempting to sway their vote in favor of Trump’s accomplishments.
As a Black farmer, Barker has faced discrimination firsthand, particularly when applying for government loan programs. While compensation for past discrimination is welcomed, he laments for those farmers who did not live to see justice served.
- Economic and Political Concerns:
- Barker critiques Trump’s policies favoring big corporations and large farmers, neglecting the needs of small independent farmers like himself.
- He expresses skepticism towards the GOP candidate for governor and finds Vice President Harris to be a promising choice for the first Black woman president.
On the other hand, Ian Burris, a young entrepreneur and restaurant owner in Raleigh, assesses the upcoming election through a lens of personal experiences and economic concerns.
- Personal Perspectives:
- Burris reflects on the racial tensions of the Trump era and values a leader’s seriousness and integrity over policies.
- Rising costs in the economy prompt Burris to prioritize issues of racial justice and personal safety in making his voting decision.
While Burris acknowledges the positive aspects of some Republican-run cities, he weighs the overall impact of leadership on his quality of life. Despite leaning towards Vice President Harris, he remains open to exploring her policy stances before casting his vote.
In the midst of political shifts and changing dynamics, both Barker and Burris embody the diversity of perspectives within the Black male electorate, highlighting the nuanced considerations that drive their voting decisions. As the election approaches, their voices capture the complexity and depth of individual experiences shaping the electoral landscape.
