We DID IT! After all of the hard work, dedication, perseverance and passion. The election is finally over. We motivated people, moved communities to exercise the rights that people lost their lives to pass along to future generations. Not only was America in a position of extreme distress, but also the issues and concerns of ancient injustices are still prevalent in today’s society. Our issues as Americans run so deep that we have been and are currently still affecting the world in a major way. While America has had a long history of being a super power that set a standard for other countries based on our past leadership we have lost the respect of others.

Moving Forward Barack Obama is now the future President of the United States. I along with the majority of America have extreme faith in his leadership abilities. The humility, diligence and integrity among many other attributes that he possess are all the qualities that have set a new tone for many Americans. With the economic struggle and disconnect between the people and government people have attached themselves to all that President Elect Barack Obama stands for. His cool temper and desire for change are exactly what is needed to mend relationships with foreign nations. His relatable background is the exact reason why people feel so connected to his journey and support him to fulfill his future position.

The Hip Hop Caucus a non-partisan organization that promoted political involvement vigorously over the past few weeks. While we never promoted any particular candidate I can say for myself that having an active role in encouraging people to vote in an election that remains one of the most historic moments ever. My hope is that people will not be so excited about the presence of an African-American man in office that they lose track of their responsibility to this country. Continue to stay educated on legislation that is being passed, work hard in your communities, and make your voice heard! Politicians work for you!

Detroit, Michigan was our final stop on the Respect My Vote Campaign trail. Our last day was filled with just as much power and enthusiasm as we had the first day that we all began this crusade of political empowerment. Please enjoy the video footage provided below:

As we rode through neighborhoods offering rides to and from the polls we had a overwhelming response from community members who had never experienced such a in your face organization that was caring and passionate enough to go the extra distance and actually come to those neighborhoods that needed a little motivation.

Everyone has been waiting for TODAY! November 4, 2008 is now marked in our history books and honestly regardless of the outcome (I will reserve my personal candidate choice…who is the only option for reform in America) this entire presidential campaign has been ground breaking. The impact that this process has made on the world is unlike anything many people have every experienced. Early on in this process we were introduced to a woman who was brave enough to take on the challenge of leading our country, this presidential campaign also introduced us to a powerful man of color that has revived a sense of community and stands for many things that mirror the general population of America. Candidates aside, Americans are struggling! Families are hungry, Gas is expensive, and Students are going uneducated because they can’t afford tuition, people are losing their lives as a result of no healthcare or lack of income to buy medication, and the grocery list of issues goes on. However, today will change all of that. We are not defined by our past or our current situation. America has all the potential in the world to heal our past of racism, to mend our practices of injustice and to simply move forward with a fresh approach to a better America.

Please GO VOTE TODAY!!!! While speaking to a community group in Ohio, Rev. Yearwood stated, “If you don’t vote that cancels out my vote”. On behalf of myself, the Respect My Vote campaign team members and countless other Americans, don’t cancel us out! GO VOTE TODAY! America desperately needs a change today more then ever.

Yesterday in St. Louis, Missouri we were involved in a political rally that I must say was one of the most moving crowds we have encountered along the road. Politically involved Missouri residents were charged up and eagerly attentive to each speaker and artist that came out to stimulate the people.

Dr. Ben Chavis spoke on the importance of understanding the political process and staying involved, not just during election time.

Reverend Yearwood shared the experiences of the campaign trail with St. Louis Artist Chingy.

Chingy hit the stage!

The picture below is one of the most powerful pictures we have taken along the road so far. The prominence of the VOTE sign with the RESPECT MY VOTE modestly present along with the fullness of the photograph with a community that has band together for the sole purpose of changing the world empowers me. It gives me confidence and a renewed strength in my country. Hope is not lost when you experience moments like these that reflect on the genuine moments in life in which people come on one accord for a positive impact.

FAMU homecoming concert was the next stop on the campaign trail. TI performed this year for the festivities ,but prior to his performance he took time to stress the importance of voting. With only a few critical days until this monumental election ,and especially now that TI himself has cast his first ballot for the presidential election he absolutely knows how it feels to be hands on in making a change.

T.I.P made it clear to the crowd by saying “you stand in line for shoes! Stand in line to change our country” “Politicians will listen to those who cared enough to vote for them…if they get in office and don’t put money into your community…its because you didn’t vote.”

Dr. Ben Chavis also came out to share is support and to encourage the young hip hop community to make their voices heard.

“RESPECT MY VOTE”