Memphis Divine 9 Chapters Lead Voter Mobilization with “Roll to the Polls” Initiative

In a powerful show of unity and civic engagement, the Memphis Metropolitan area’s National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) chapters came together to promote voter mobilization by hosting a historic “Roll to the Polls” event. On October 24, 2024, local Divine 9 chapters coordinated an event that saw thousands of members and community supporters gather to cast their votes. Central to this initiative was a custom-wrapped public transit bus that symbolized their commitment to encouraging voter turnout in a state where participation has historically been low.

The effort was spearheaded by the Social Action Committee, led by Chair Markesha Walker of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (Alpha Alpha Gamma Omega Chapter). The committee’s leadership team included Vice-President Nikki Dixon of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (Memphis Alumnae Chapter), Financial Secretary Calvin Walker of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. (Tau Iota Sigma Chapter), and Technology/Public Relations Chair Elisha Winter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. (Omicron Sigma Alumnae Chapter). Tori Mason, Social Action Chair of the Memphis Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, also played a crucial role under the leadership of NPHC Memphis President Anthony Sledge.

The initiative mobilized thousands of Divine 9 members, proving the committee’s effectiveness in activating voter participation. Their collective efforts were bolstered by support from key community partners, including Memphis Area Transit Authority, AARP of Tennessee, Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church, Greenwood Church, CME, Top Ladies of Distinction of Memphis, Sanitas Medical, T-Mobile, the Bluff City Cluster of The Links, Inc., Gleam Team Solutions, Bass World Music, Grind City Private Service & EMS, and the 901: GoVote Coalition.

The “Roll to the Polls” event marked a significant milestone in increasing voter participation and empowering the community through action. By transforming voter mobilization into a collective experience, the Memphis Divine 9 chapters demonstrated the power of unity and the impact of grassroots efforts to drive change.