By Dawn Michelle Laguerre
Congressman James Clyburn Visits People AME Zion Church in Syracuse to Highlight the Importance of Voting in the Upcoming Presidential Election
Syracuse, NY — Congressman James Clyburn, one of the longest-serving members of Congress and a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, delivered a powerful address at the historic People AME Zion Church in Syracuse on Sunday. The event, attended by over 300 congregants and dignitaries, including New York State Assemblywoman Pamela Hunter, the only veteran in the state legislature, and representatives from 100 Black Men of Syracuse, emphasized the critical importance of voting in the upcoming November Presidential election.
Representative Clyburn was accompanied by Dr. Clemmie Harris, distinguished Professor and Director Africana Studies and Public Affairs at Utica University. Clyburn represents the 6th District of South Carolina. He is the son of a preacher and beautician. He earned his BA in history and was previously a History teacher.
During his remarks, Congressman Clyburn, the former House Majority Whip, reflected on his historic vote in 1972 when he supported Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm’s nomination for President at the Democratic Convention. He shared with the audience how he visited Chisholm’s grave before coming to Syracuse, drawing inspiration from her legacy as he made an impassioned plea to the congregation to help elect Kamala Harris to the office of the President.
Clyburn stated, “I am no stranger to setting a precedent for nominating women for the highest office. In 1972, I cast my vote for Shirley Chisholm, and today, I stand here asking you to make history again by supporting Kamala Harris.”
However, Clyburn also cautioned that electing a President alone is not sufficient to safeguard democracy. “Electing the President is not enough,” he warned. “You have to have a supporting staff. That’s why I am throwing my support behind Senator Joseph Mannion. A former teacher, Senator Mannion will ensure that Project 2025 does not dismantle the Department of Education.”
Addressing the broader implications of the upcoming election, Clyburn highlighted the dangers posed by Project 2025, an initiative that, according to Dr. Clemmie Harris, threatens to undo the hard-fought gains of the Reconstruction era and the foundational principles of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as enshrined in the Declaration of Independence.
“Project 2025 seeks to unravel the progress that so many generations have fought to secure,” said Dr. Clemmie Harris. “We are in a historical moment where the unresolved themes of our nation’s past are resurfacing, and we must be vigilant in protecting the rights that are inherent to us all.”
Clyburn reinforced this by emphasizing the limited powers of the presidency. “A President can’t pass laws; they have no Constitutional authority to do so. They can recommend, but all money bills originate in the House of Representatives,” Clyburn explained. “Faith without work is dead. Churches, community organizations, and fraternal groups need to use the Voter Activation Network (VAN) to get every voter to the polls. Utilize phone banking and canvass neighborhoods to protect our democracy.”
The event, which filled the church to capacity, served as both a rallying cry and a call to action. The presence of Assemblywoman Pamela Hunter, a key figure in the state legislature and a vocal advocate for veterans and underrepresented communities, added weight to the proceedings. Her participation highlighted the importance of local leadership in the broader struggle for justice and equity.
The gathering also featured members of the 100 Black Men of Syracuse, an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life within communities and enhancing educational and economic opportunities for all African Americans. Their involvement in the event reinforced the critical role that community organizations play in mobilizing voters and advocating for meaningful change.
Clyburn’s message deeply resonated with attendees, including Aaron Woodman, the Civic Engagement Chair from Utica. “I was reinvigorated by his message,” said Woodman. “In fact, I plan to provide a workshop to SUNY students on the importance of voting and civic engagement.”
As the election draws nearer, Congressman Clyburn’s visit to Syracuse stands as a reminder of the power of the vote and the necessity of civic participation. The message from People AME Church was clear: the time to act is now, and every vote counts. Clyburn concluded by stating, “This will be one of the most consequential elections since Abraham Lincoln.”
