
North Omaha and People of Color Convention look to build on historic vote and momentum
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Based on data provided by the Douglas County Elections Commission, over 21,000 North Omaha residents cast their votes in November, the highest total in the last four election cycles.
The vote total was even higher than the number that turned out when President Barack Obama was elected.
The People of Color Convention, which was planned and hosted by a number of organizations in the Voter Registration, Education and Mobilization Collaborative (VREM), seeks to build on that momentum, not only in North Omaha, but around the city.
“We know we had a historic vote here in North Omaha. It’s vitally important that we participate at the same level in the city elections,” said Precious McKesson, president of the North Omaha Neighborhood Alliance and the host moderator for the event.
“Local elections are very important and impact all of us instantly. We want to have the same level of success going forward as we did last fall when we were able to elect people up and down the ballot.”
The event attracted current elected officials and provided the platform for candidates to share their vision, goals and plans virtually to the 300 plus in attendance through Zoom and Facebook Live.
All candidates were invited to submit videos highlighting their priorities. Participating City Council candidates for District II included Ben Gray, Jonathan Lathan and Cornelius Williams. Cammy Watkins running to represent District 3 also shared a video. Naomi Hattaway, Candidate for District 6, was also in attendance.
Mayoral candidates Jasmine Harris, Kimara Snipes, RJ Neary and Mark Gudgel also shared their platforms via video presentations.
State Senators Terrell McKinney and Tony Vargas provided important updates on a number of legislative bills that are under consideration at the Nebraska Unicameral. Both advised attendees to stay informed and engaged by connecting with them on Facebook and tracking the bills on the state website.
Brad Christian-Sallis, with Civic Nebraska reminded everyone of the importance of their vote and reaching out to elected officials.
“State Senators are state senators. They don’t just represent their district…reach out to them all,” said Christian-Sallis.
He also spoke about the importance of stopping the disenfranchisement of ex-felons by restoring voting rights immediately instead of the current two year waiting period. “We are over represented in these systems, so when we are not allowed to vote, it’s hurting our community.”
Another critical topic discussed was the number of attempts nationally to restrict voter participation. Republican lawmakers across the country, including in Nebraska, are attempting to reduce voter participation with a series of bills and legislation. It appears to be in response to the outcome of the national election and highly focused on reducing the impact of the black and brown vote in urban communities.
“The issue in 2021 is voter suppression,” said Preston Love, Jr. of 4Urban.org and Black Votes Matter.
“There are 43 states, who have legislation, over 200 pieces of legislation to suppress the vote, that includes Nebraska. In Nebraska, there are a number of voter suppression bills and others that are trying to make voting easier and more successful.”
The convention included breakout sessions where attendees could interact with key leaders and elected officials on topics including criminal justice, education and advocacy.
Breakout panelists and speakers included: Edward Ventura – Nebraska Education Association; Lisa Fricke – State Board of Education; JaKeen Fox; Chris Carithers, Douglas County Election Commission; Preston Love, Jr., Krystal Fox; Mark Foxall; Alex Mitchell; Dr. Franklin Thompson; and others.
McKesson took time to recognize the lead organizer behind VREM, Barry Thomas, and the heroic work going on behind the scenes by many organizations.
“The goal is to educate our community locally so that we are recognized as a political force to be respected and adhered to throughout,” said Barry Thomas, Political Action Chair for the Omaha NAACP.
Thomas continued, “We have too many examples, in the modern republic and throughout all history, to ignore the power possessed when the fingers realize they are actually on the same hand. And that hand is a needed part of the body. North Omaha and the Black community can become the fist that powers change for our people.”
McKesson recognized a number of organizations including the Heartland Workers Center, led by Sergio Sosa.
Gabriela Pedroza, community organizer representing the Heartland Workers Center, had this to say: “This is an amazing collaboration. We are working to get out the vote, increasing voting in areas where we see voter turnout is low. We are phone banking and we will start canvassing when the weather permits. It’s a lot of work but it pays off. If people want to volunteer, they can join our team.”
Also instrumental in planning and executing the event was Alex Mitchell, a student at the University of Nebraska-Omaha.
“It’s great to see the next generation leading the way,” said Preston Love, Jr. Love has dedicated his life to engaging generations in the political process and now focuses on helping youth to understand the significance and importance of their role.
The event was presented by the Voter Registration, Education, and Mobilization (VREM) collaborative. VREM is made up of a number of organizations including UNO’s Black Excellence, the League of Women Voters, NAACP, Black Votes Matter, North Omaha Neighborhood Alliance, Heartland Workers Center, the Omaha Pan-Hellenic Council, Civic Nebraska and others centered on civic engagement.
Watch the full event here.
If you would like to stay connect and receive information, please email us at voterem@gmail.com
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Events
Magic Johnson inspires and invests in Omaha at Rebuilding the Village Conference

Over 1,100, including 400 youth participate in 3 day national Empowerment Network conference in Omaha, Nebraska.
By Willie Barney
It’s hard to believe it has already been a week. Thank you, Omaha and national friends. The Empowerment Network team and our partners went all in for the 16th Annual Rebuilding the Village Conference. Omaha responded. 23 cities from across the country responded.
When I was in prayer after last year’s event, the words “Run It Back” came into my spirit! Bring Magic back and build on the experience.
GOD has blessed in amazing ways. We stepped out in faith and followed what we believed He was telling us to do.
Some wondered. Would people come back? Would the community support it? Could it be bigger and better?
Over 1,100 participated, including 400+ youth and the experience was even more magical!
Magic took things even higher than last year providing even more wisdom, full ride scholarships, internships in Los Angeles and business opportunities with his companies. Plus, he unexpectedly raised $90,000 to support the Network!
The six national keynote speakers were phenomenal, and the sessions were well attended. Made for a difficult decision about which breakout to attend. The feedback has been off the charts.
Representatives from over 20 cities attended including partners from Kansas City, Tulsa, New Orleans, Columbus GA, Denver, Little Rock, Atlanta, Chicago, Davenport/QC, Sacramento, Washington DC and other communities.
20 major sponsors invested. Dozens of volunteers supported it.
50+ local and national speakers shared their wisdom and insights to help build safe and thriving communities.
We had over 400 youth engaged in the event. They joined us for panels, main stage sessions and the Step-Up Omaha Interns and Youth 360 also had their own summit within the conference in partnership with J Shannon, David and Next.
The federal government including USDA, Dept of Justice and Health and Human Services all had key leaders in attendance.
The 4 tours (Black owned trolley and bus companies), three covering North Omaha and one citywide were well received.
30+ Black businesses benefitted directly. We supported Black restaurants and organizations.
The Village at 24th and Lake reception was well attended and featured music, food, shopping and visits to the museums and new businesses.
Businesses throughout the whole city experienced economic benefit including hotels, airlines, transportation, shopping, food, and entertainment.
We cannot thank you all enough.
Thank you, Magic. Thank you to the Empowerment Network team.
Thank you to the board.
Thank you, speakers, panelists, sponsors, and volunteers.
Thank you to our national guests. Thank you, Omaha, for being amazing hosts.
Thank you to my wife, son and daughter who helped in so many ways and have sacrificed greatly over the years. Love you and appreciate you!
Let’s Win Together Omaha! Let’s win together national partners. Let’s build safe and thriving communities in every zip code.
NEWS
Celebrate North Omaha! Native Omaha Days returns July 24 to July 31

Celebrating 47 years of memories, culture and community spirit in North Omaha!
The Native Omaha Days Organizing Committee, Native Omahans Club, Omaha Economic Development Corporation, Empowerment Network, and community partners present…The 24th Biennial Celebration.
The Native Omahan Club has once again joined forces with the Omaha Economic Development Corporation, Empowerment Network and dozens of community partners engaged in the Native Omaha Days Organizing Committee to develop and present their 24th Biennial Celebration. Attracting thousands, the Native Omaha Days Festival will once again help to accelerate the positive momentum in the community. The events have a major economic impact and now has expanded to venues city-wide.
Event organizers are preparing for the biggest and best celebration to date, featuring traditional events: Gospel Fest at Morning Star Baptist Church; Stroll Down Memory Lane in the Village at 24thand Lake; Native Omaha Days Homecoming Parade along North 30thStreet; Native Omaha Day Event, Omaha Day Classic Golf Tournament; Sunday Worship Services; Blue Monday and more!
In addition to the long-standing traditional events, this year’s full week of activities will again include: trolley tours, golf outings, jazz and gospel music, class and family reunions, Culture Fest with children’s activities and something for all ages and more! The parade, always a crowd favorite, is planned for Saturday morning between 10 am and noon from 30th and Lake to 30th and Sprague.
Attractions added in 2021 are back including the Village Festival Square at the Bryant Resource Center at 24th & Burdette with food trucks and small business vendors for locals and visitors to shop and explore unique crafts.
New this year…Excellent exhibits and an African American Book Signing will be featured at the Great Plains History Museum. The Culxr House will present Divisible Documentary – film that explores the impacts of redlining in Omaha; specifically in Near North Side. All activities and updates will be posted at nativeomahadays.org
The Food Vendor Informational Meeting hosted by the Native Omaha Days Organizing Committee will be held again this year. The event will be held on Saturday, June 10, 2023 from 10 am to 11 am at American National Bank, 3147 Ames Avenue. It will serve the purpose of having food vendors learn the requirements and guidelines to obtain a food permit. Representatives from the Douglas County Health Department will be on hand to share information. Go to nativeomahadays.org for update information on date and location.
“We are excited to see the community partnering again to make this a tremendous community event,” said Michael Maroney, President and CEO of Omaha Economic Development Corporation. “We are working with the Native Omaha Days Organizing Committee, Omaha Police Department and dozens of other organizations to make this a safe, fun and enjoyable experience for the entire community. We’re also looking forward to showcasing more of the projects that have come to fruition since the last Native Omaha Days celebration.”
The organizers are calling on the whole community to play a role in making the Native Omaha Days celebration a major success.
For more information and a complete schedule of activities, please go to www.nativeomahadays.org.
Click here to register for the Parade
Click here to Advertise in the Native Omaha Days Guide
Click here to Become a Volunteer
Initial List of Events (Full list will be available at nativeomahadays.org
Monday, July 24
GREAT PLAINS BLACK HISTORY MUSEUM
Great Plains Black History Museum invites you to attend their African American Author’s Book Signing, Help support our local authors and Museum by stopping by.
Where: 2221 North 24 Street
Time: 12:00-3:00 p.m.
Contact: Eric Ewing @ (402) 932-7077
Gpblackhistorymuseum.org
Tuesday, July 25
GREAT PLAINS BLACK HISTORY MUSEUM
Great Plains Black History Museum invites you to attend their African American Author’s Book Signing, Help support our local authors and Museum by stopping by.
Where: 2221 North 24 Street
Time: 12:00-3:00 p.m.
Contact: Eric Ewing @ (402) 932-7077
Gpblackhistorymuseum.org
Wednesday, July 26
FESTIVAL SQUARE (Food & Retail Merchants)
GospelFest at Morning Star
6:00 pm
Thursday, July 27
FESTIVAL SQUARE (Food & Retail Merchants)
DIVISIBLE DOCUMENTARY
Presents a screening of Divisible, an educational documentary film that explores the impacts of redlining in Omaha, specifically the Near North Side.
Where: Culxr house
3014 North 24 Street
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Contact: Lizzy Barrett
(607) 220-8927
Website: DivisibleDoc.com
NATIVE OMAHA CLUB
Social Mixer
TECH HIGH DANCE
Classes of 1975, 1976 and on. School dance featuring Ed Archibald
Where: Highlander
2120 North 30 Street
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Cost: $15
Contact: Darlene Brown @ (402) 880-3929
Friday, July 28, 2023
Omaha Days Golf Classic
FESTIVAL SQUARE (Food & Retail Merchants)
Stroll Down Memory Lane
24th and Lake
Presented by: OEDC and Empowerment Network
6:00 to 9:00 PM
Saturday, July 29, 2022
Native Omaha Days Parade
10:00 AM
North 30th from Lake to Sprague
Native Omaha Days
Day Party
Native Omahan Club
North 30th from Lake to Sprague
FESTIVAL SQUARE (Food & Retail Merchants)
_____________________________________________
Native Omaha Days Festival
Presented by: The Native Omaha Days Festival is presented by the Native Omaha Days Organizing Committee, Native Omahan Club, Omaha Economic Development Corporation and Empowerment Network.
The Native Omaha Days Organization Committee and community partners include: Omaha Star Newspaper, EverGreen Capital Management, 24th and Lake Businesses, American National Bank, Omaha Police Department, Bryant Resource Center, Vickie Young, YouTurn, Freedomtainment, North End Teleservices, Revive! Omaha Magazine, Great Plains Black History Museum, Leo Louis II, NONA, Ital Vital, nocredevelopmentgroup, Long School Neighborhood Association, North Omaha Business Improvement District, MAYS and the North Omaha Village Revitalization Plan.
NEWS
Paul Bryant returns to Omaha to keynote at Conference featuring Magic Johnson

Paul Bryant will be one of the national keynote presenters during the Empowerment Network’s 16th Annual Rebuilding the Village Conference in Omaha, Nebraska on Friday, June 9th. The conference features Earvin Magic Johnson as the luncheon keynote, six national speakers including Bryant and representatives from 20+ regional and national cities.
Bryant is the Vice President of External Affairs for the H.J. Russell & Company, the largest African American owned business in the state of Georgia and the 14th largest Black business in America. He plays a significant, public-facing role extending the Russell brand into communities they work, build, and invest.
Bryant will return to Omaha to share national best practices in a keynote entitled: The Herman J. Russell Story…Building Community through the Intersection of Public Policy, Partnership and Scaling of Black Businesses in Atlanta. He will then lead a breakout session to walk through the key principles required to scale Black businesses in today’s environment.
Paul Bryant is an Omaha native. He is a recognized innovator and leader who has invested greatly in creating the next generation of talented young men and women. In Omaha, he held key leadership positions in both the corporate sector and non-profit arena.
In the corporate sector, Bryant launched major initiatives in the banking and research industries. He encouraged Gallup to field important polls regarding Black and urban communities.
He started the groundbreaking Wesley House Leadership Academy where he focused his attention on the development of young Black men well before other national programs started to launch their efforts. Bryant was also one of the founders of the Striving for Succes: Black Male Summit in partnership with the Empowerment Network, Urban League and 100 Black Men of Omaha.
Bryant has lectured at Morehouse College, Creighton University, and the University of Nebraska-Omaha. He is a Pulitzer Prize nominated author of 3 books and his leadership influence extends to more than ½ million students through an international network of over 1,500 schools. He relocated to Atlanta, Georgia where he and his wife have both excelled in new positions.
No stranger to leadership, Paul previously served as the CEO of three nonprofit agencies: The United Minority Contractors Association; Urban League of Nebraska; and, United Methodist Community Centers, Inc.
His corporate career also includes a Senior Vice President post with The Gallup Organization; and Officer Positions with Wells Fargo and the First National Bank of Omaha.
Paul earned two master’s degrees from the University of Nebraska and attended Creighton University school of law.
Paul is the recipient of numerous awards:
- The 2017 Mentor of the Year – 100 Black Men of Atlanta
- The City of Omaha’s Martin Luther King “Living the Dream” award.
- The University of Nebraska’s Alumnus Achievement award.
- The Teacher of the year for the Creighton University “Upward Bound program”
- Named “Facilitator of the Year” by INROADS Inc.
- Named “Achiever to watch in the Millennium Success Guide”
- Named a Black Achiever by the YMCA
- One of the Ten “Outstanding Young Omahans by the Junior Chamber of Commerce
Paul is also a member of the prestigious Benson High School Hall of Fame, along with another noted Omahan, investor Warren Buffet.
Paul and wife Robin have been married for over 30 years and have 3 children. He is an unapologetic believer in God and says his most cherished accomplishment was having his family recognized as the Community Service Family of the year, by the Heartland Family Service.