Nonpartisan America and the Black Vote forum at Riverhead Library Feb. 25

A nonpartisan forum titled "America and the Black Vote" will bring civic leaders, attorneys and advocates to the Riverhead Free Library to examine how Black political participation has shaped American democracy and local policy. The Riverhead event, presented as part of Black History Month programming, is scheduled to begin at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 25 and is scheduled to run until 7:30 p.m., though organizers recommend confirming the end time.

Organized and sponsored by the African American Educational and Cultural Festival, the forum is described in promotional materials as "bringing together civic leaders, attorneys, and advocates to discuss Black political participation and its impact on American democracy." Event copy adds that "The forum will explore the historical significance of the Black vote, current challenges to voter participation, and the role of civic engagement in strengthening democratic institutions." Organizers say the program is “intended to foster open dialogue and promote understanding across diverse communities.”

Panelists scheduled to participate include Frederick Brewington, Esq.; Alyson Bass, Esq.; Phil Andrews of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce; Colette Morgan, chairperson of the Brookhaven Women’s Caucus; Godson Michel, president of Blue Surge Marketing Agency; and Terry Wildrick, co-president of the League of Women Voters of the Hamptons, Shelter Island and the North Fork. A special musical performance by reggae recording artist Winston Ire will follow the panel.

Admission is free, but seating is limited. The library is located at 330 Court St., Riverhead; for reservations or more information call the Riverhead Free Library at 631-727-3228. Event registration is offered through the Eventbrite listing for the forum, and organizers encourage attendees to reserve seats early.

The forum arrives amid a week of local Black History Month programming that includes screenings and discussions across Suffolk County. The Riverhead Library is screening a documentary in the "Black History on Screen: Media Mavens" series at the Suffolk Theater, 118 East Main St., on Friday, Feb. 20, 1:00–2:15 p.m.; call 631-727-4343. Mattituck-Laurel Library hosts a PBS documentary "Zora Neale Hurston: Claiming a Space" on Monday, Feb. 23, 1:00–3:00 p.m.; call 631-298-4134 to register. On Thursday, Feb. 26 the Suffolk Theater will honor Thema Ponton with a screening of "Mr. Soul," doors at 6:30 p.m., discussion at 7:00 p.m., screening at 7:30 p.m.; tickets are $10. The Riverhead Free Library will also screen the film Amistad on Friday, Feb. 27, 1:00–3:30 p.m.; admission is free and concession stand snacks will be available.

For Suffolk County residents, the Riverhead forum links civic participation to outcomes that affect health, housing, and social services funding. Local organizers frame the conversation as a chance to discuss barriers to turnout and to strengthen civic engagement that shapes policy and resource allocation. Residents interested in attending should reserve seats early, confirm the final panel lineup and schedule with the library or AAECF, and note that the evening includes a post-panel musical performance by Winston Ire.