
Episode #19
Gerrymandering, Digital IDs & Education: Breaking Down AL Politics with State Rep. Ontario Tillman
Welcome back to The Advocate's Chair! On this episode, host Neonta Williams (Black Alabamians for Education) travels to her hometown of Gadsden, Alabama, for a powerful conversation with State Representative Ontario Tillman (District 56).Filmed live in front of an amazing audience at This is It Number One Barbecue, Fish, and More, we dive deep into the most pressing issues impacting Alabamians today. Rep. Tillman breaks down the recent special sessions, the difference between redistricting and gerrymandering, and what the latest federal court rulings mean for the power of the Black vote in Alabama.Plus, we cover: Recent Legislative Wins: Rep. Tillman details the three major bills he recently passed, including adding invisible disability markers (like autism and epilepsy) to driver's licenses, court continuances for active-duty military, and bringing digital driver's licenses to Apple/Android wallets in Alabama! Education Reform: Why we need to revamp teacher pay, bring civics back to the classroom, and prepare our students for AI and trade careers. The Data Center Debate: The truth about the environmental and economic impact of big tech data centers coming to local communities, and Rep. Tillman's push to build them on "brownfields" rather than tearing up "greenfields." Elections: Why sitting out of local and state elections is not an option.Government impacts your economics, your education, and your everyday life. Tune in to get informed, get empowered, and get ready to vote! A huge thank you to Mr. Wayne Roe and This is It Number One Barbecue, Fish, and More for hosting us! Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to The Advocate's Chair on YouTube and follow us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify!

