The North Carolina Democratic Party is launching “Chop It Up NC,” a series of virtual and in-person events focused on engaging men of color across the state through meaningful conversations about issues that affect black and brown communities. In 2020, voter turnout among men of color was 62 percent compared to 75 percent statewide. 

“I am thrilled to be kicking off this critical program nearly a year and a half before the midterm election,” said State Representative Zack Hawkins. “Diverse communities, particularly men of color, are critical to the Democratic coalition in North Carolina and we must do all we can to listen and address their concerns in an authentic and consistent way in order to build relationships and move our Democratic values forward.”

“With Chop It Up NC, we are creating a trusted space for diverse communities across the state to talk about the most pressing issues of the day,” said NCDP First Vice Chair Floyd McKissick Jr. “This series will serve as an opportunity to listen to folks where they are, raise awareness about issues impacting our daily lives, and increase voter engagement next fall.”

“As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am proud that Chop It Up is also committed to creating an open dialogue about the intersectionality of race, gender, and socio-economic realities,” said NCDP Second Vice Chair Matt Hughes. “People of color have consistently shown up for Democratic campaigns and candidates, and we want to make clear that we are interested in their voices, not just their votes.” 

The series will kick off on Thursday, July 8th, with a virtual discussion, emceed by Antjuan Seawright, a political strategist, founder and CEO of Blueprint Strategy LLC, CBS News political contributor, and a Senior Visiting Fellow at Third Way. Attendees will hear from Congressman GK Butterfield and Chop It Up co-chairs, NCDP First Vice Chair Floyd McKissick Jr., Second Vice Chair Matt Hughes, and Rep. Zack Hawkins. Other speakers include: 

• State Senator Mujtaba Mohammed, NC Senate District 38
• State Representative Charles Graham, NC House District 47
• State Representative Terry Brown, NC House District 92
• State Representative James Gailliard, NC House District 25
• State Representative Abe Jones, NC House District 38
• State Representative Ricky Hurtado, NC House District 63
• State Representative Raymond Smith Jr., NC House District 21
• Allen Thomas Jr., Hoke County Commissioner
• John Verdejo, DNC Member

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