The Alabama Republican Party (ALGOP) on Thursday announced that it had formed a leadership team implement and execute outreach strategies in an effort to communicate the party’s message to minority communities.
Over 20 conservative minority leaders gathered at the steps of ALGOP’s headquarters in Hoover in a display of support for the party’s new initiative.
In announcing the outreach coalition, ALGOP chairman John Wahl challenged what he sees as the Democratic Party’s false narrative surrounding the minority vote.
“I am here to tell you that the Alabama Republican Party is proud to support and encourage minorities,” advised Wahl. “The Democrat Party wants you to believe that all minorities share their liberal views, but we are here today to challenge that false stereotype. There are thousands of conservative people in minority groups across this state, and they deserve to be recognized.”
State Rep. Kenneth Paschal (R-Pelham) made history earlier this year as he became the first black Republican since Reconstruction to be elected to the state legislature. Paschal will serve as director of the coalition and oversee the team’s operations in the Birmingham Metropolitan Area.
The lawmaker believes the vision of Alabama civil rights champion Dr. Martin Luther King came to fruition in Paschal’s election, saying his constituents elected him due to his principles rather than race.
“The voters in House District 73 have all but shown evidence that Dr. King, his dream is alive in Shelby County and in Alabama.” said Paschal. “Their votes were not based on the color of my skin. They cast their votes because they saw a God-fearing man with integrity, who protects and defends the Constitution, who served his country and is proud to salute the flag, recite our pledge, and sing the national anthem in a voice that is loud and firm, and even sometimes off key.”
Joining Paschal was Belinda Thomas, who will serve as the coalition’s co-director. Thomas was the first black woman elected to the Newton City Council. Her role includes oversight of coordination efforts in the east central portion of the state.
“This is an honor. I’m hoping we can come together and right Alabama’s history,” said Thomas. “I’m hoping we can come together and reach as many people because our country needs it… we need [it] is as individuals. We don’t want to lose any battles. We don’t want to lose any wars. And I’m determined with everything that’s in me to make sure that I do my part in uplifting, educating, and supporting.”
Rounding out the coalition’s coordinators include seasoned GOP grassroots leaders George Williams for South Alabama, William Green for West Central Alabama and Chris Horn for North Alabama.
Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL
