Faithful Central Bible Church’s Voter Education Forum Offers a Final Clarion Call to the Community
Shannon Lawrence moderates the Politics Primary Season Forum at Faithful Central Bible Church, where community members gathered to learn about candidates, ballot measures, and voter participation ahead of the June 2, 2026 Primary Election. Photo by Gloria Zuurveen.
By Dr. Gloria Zuurveen
Today is Election Day.
The months of campaigning, debates, mailers, television commercials, endorsements, and political promises have all led to this moment. Now the power belongs to the people. That was the overriding message that emerged from the recent voter education forum held at Faithful Central Bible Church in the city of Inglewood under the leadership of Pastor John Foster, hosted by Elder Cedric Penix and Shannon Lawrence, with special thanks to Pam Bell for helping make the event possible.
The church was filled with voters who came seeking knowledge, understanding, and clarity before casting their ballots. Many arrived with ballots in hand, determined to learn more about the candidates, the initiatives, and the issues that will shape the future of their communities. What made the forum so important was that it focused on voter education rather than political persuasion. It reminded everyone that democracy works best when citizens are informed and engaged.
Shannon Lawrence moderates the Politics Primary Season Forum at Faithful Central Bible Church, where community members gathered to learn about candidates, ballot measures, and the importance of voter participation ahead of the June 2, 2026 Primary Election. Photo by Gloria Zuurveen.
During my presentation, I shared the history of PACE NEWS and spoke about the importance of valuing our vote. I reminded attendees that our vote is like silver and gold. It is one of the most valuable possessions we have as citizens because it gives us a seat at the table where decisions are made about our schools, our neighborhoods, our public safety, our taxes, and our future.
Photo captured of Dr. Gloria Zuurveen during the political olf by Chiquita Melvin
Our vote matters.
Shannon Lawrence and his panel guided the audience through an informative discussion about the Voting Rights Act, the Equal Protection Clause, local and county initiatives, school bonds, tax measures, and the candidates seeking office. The conversation was thoughtful, educational, and timely.
Shannon Lawrence moderates the Politics Primary Season Forum at Faithful Central Bible Church, where community members gathered to learn about candidates, ballot measures, and the importance of voter participation ahead of the June 2, 2026 Primary Election. Photo by Gloria Zuurveen.
The forum also served as a reminder that voting is not the end of civic engagement—it is the beginning. We must remain involved after Election Day. We must continue to attend meetings, ask questions, hold elected officials accountable, and stay informed about the issues affecting our communities.
Today, however, there is one responsibility that rises above all others.
Vote.
If you have not yet cast your ballot, make the time to do so. Encourage your family members, neighbors, friends, church members, and co-workers to do the same. Every election is important, but every voter is equally important. Throughout history, many people fought, marched, sacrificed, and even died to protect the right to vote. Their struggles should never be forgotten. The best way to honor that legacy is to exercise the right they worked so hard to secure.
The message from Faithful Central Bible Church was clear: educate yourself, understand the issues, know the candidates, and then make your voice heard at the ballot box.
Election Day is here.
Do not sit this one out.
Your vote is your voice.
Your vote is your value.
And today is the day to use it.
