HAMILTON COUNTY REPUBLICAN AFRICAN AMERICAN CAUCUS
Samuel Richmond, County Chair Rev. Dr. Shirley Ray, Vice Chair
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January 30, 2011
Thoughts of a Black Republican
I felt privileged to attend the Hamilton County Republican Re-organizational Convention, this Saturday, at the Marriott Convention Center in spite of missing out on the beautiful 65 degree weather. I had an opportunity to be a delegate and vote to elect officials to make a difference in the lives of generations to come. Why would I give up such a beautiful Saturday to come to the convention center instead of spending the day with my wonderful wife? The answer is simple. I have a hope that by me being there, I can somehow make a difference with my vote.
While I sat there, amazed and overjoyed at the number of fellow republican delegates that showed up, I believe about 222, it hit me. Out of such a huge number only about 5 African Americans or less than 3% were represented in that number and 3 were from our organization the Hamilton County Republican African American Caucus. I began to think to myself. Why such a small percentage? Is it because as African American Republicans we do not share the same values or beliefs as the Republican Party? This is not so! We also desire job creation, low taxes and less government as Senator Bo Watson so eloquently pointed out in his nomination speech for Elect Hamilton County Republican Chair Marty Von Schaaf. We believe in family, faith, and community as well, popular Republican views. Then why such a low turnout from people of color? Perhaps I can shed some light.
I began to think of the many conversations that I have had with individual like myself over the years as I explained to them the reason why I chose to be a Republican. The general consensus was the same "why would you be part of that party," they said "they don't care about black people." It is no secret that among African Americans the Republican Party is not seen in a favorable light,. This is mainly because of a lack of trust and faith in the party. In addition, some black Republicans leave the party after sensing that they are not wanted in it. The ones that are left, like so many of our Caucus members, are forced to be closet Republicans, waiting for when it's safe to come out.
As the Hamilton County Republican African American Chair, it is my desire to support the Republican Party in any way I can and raise awareness in the black community. The task that lies before me is a difficult one especially when blacks don't feel that they can hold elected positions in the party to effect change in their communities or have their voices heard. There is a saying that says something to the effect of "I want to go where I am celebrated not tolerated." In other words we don't want any special treatment or to be patronized, we simply want our voice to be heard and feel like we are part of the decision making process instead of part of a show, being the one fly in the bowl of buttermilk, as our National Chair Dr. Hill would say. So if there are going to be more people of color to join this party, then the Hamilton County Republican Party is going to have to transcend beyond mere words and take action in making people of all races feel welcome and know they also can be full participants at the local level.
Samuel Richmond
HCRAAC Chair
423-650-8933
423-521-4294 office
hcraacsrichmond@gmail.com
423-521-4294 office
hcraacsrichmond@gmail.com
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