Fannie Lou Hamer

Fannie Lou Hamer, born on October 6, 1917, in Montgomery County, Mississippi, emerged as a fearless advocate for civil rights and voting rights during the mid-20th century. Born into a sharecropping family, Fannie Lou Hamer experienced the harsh realities of racial discrimination and economic injustice from an early age. Her life took a pivotal turn in 1962 when she attended a voter registration meeting, a decision that sparked her activism. Within a year, she became a field secretary for the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee.

During the 1964 Democratic National Convention, Hamer, along with the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, challenged the discriminatory practices of the state's all-White delegation. Her testimony detailing the brutalities she endured for attempting to register to vote left a lasting impact on the nation, highlighting the urgency of the civil rights struggle. 

However, her activism extended beyond voting rights. She co-founded the Freedom Farm Cooperative, aimed at providing economic opportunities for Black Americans; despite facing physical attacks and systemic oppression, Hamer's resilience remained unshaken. 

Her legacy is etched in the Voting Rights Act of 1965, a landmark achievement in the fight against racial discrimination in voting. Fannie Lou Hamer passed away on March 14, 1977, but her impact as a courageous civil rights leader and advocate for justice endures.

Fawntelle (Fawn) White

Fawntelle (Fawn) White, a dedicated advocate and community leader, navigates the joys of an empty nest with her two daughters, aged 24 and 27, currently living out of state. A proud graduate of California State University Long Beach, Fawn has channeled her passion for service into a fulfilling career, working as a Social Worker for the elderly and disabled population within LA County.

Her commitment to social justice and community empowerment extends beyond her professional role. Fawn holds the esteemed position of President of the NAACP-Antelope Valley Branch, where she tirelessly works to uphold the rights and freedoms of her community. Her leadership skills and dedication to economic empowerment are further exemplified in her role as President of the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce for the Lancaster/Palmdale area, driving initiatives that support local black-owned businesses and foster economic growth.

In addition to her notable leadership positions, Fawn is the Director of Fawns Village, a mentoring program dedicated to supporting foster youth and young individuals in need. Her work with Fawns Village is a testament to her unwavering dedication to providing guidance, support, and opportunities to the most vulnerable in her community.

As a member of the Black Girls Social Club LA (BGSC), Fawn also invests in building networks and fostering connections among black women across Los Angeles, creating spaces for empowerment, growth, and support.

Fawn's life and work are guided by a profound passion for advocacy and a commitment to being a voice for the voiceless. Through her diverse roles and contributions, she not only enriches the lives of those she directly serves but also inspires a broader movement towards equality, justice, and community solidarity.

Taino Jeremiah Moreno

Meet Taino Jeremiah Moreno, a 17-year-old senior at Highland High School with a profound vision for his future and a deep-seated passion for political activism. Taino stands out as a beacon of hope and change for his generation, aspiring to carve a path in the field of politics. His journey has been shaped by his active involvement in community service and advocacy, particularly through his work with the Black Student Union, where he has been a vocal advocate for the needs and rights of his peers.

Taino's political awakening was catalyzed not just by his involvement in community organizations but also by a pivotal experience in his junior year history class. Unable to enroll in AP US History, Taino took the regular course, allowing him the space to truly absorb and engage with the material. This class, coupled with the encouragement of a supportive teacher known as Johnny, ignited Taino's interest in the workings of the US political system and led him to seek out hands-on political experiences.

His dedication and hard work have already borne fruit, with Taino becoming the first in his school district to be elected Southern Regional and State President of the United Black Student Unions of California. Additionally, his leadership and commitment were showcased as he clinched First Place in the Second Annual Black 365 Knowledge Bowl in 2023, a testament to his dedication and hard work.

Looking ahead, Taino is determined to gain practical experience in political campaigns, aiming to work on a campaign at either the local or congressional level. He believes that such hands-on experience is crucial for understanding the intricacies of the political process, networking, and building connections that will support his future endeavors.

Taino Moreno's story is one of inspiration, determination, and the unwavering belief that to see change, one must be the change. As he prepares to take his next steps, his journey from a high school activist to a future political leader is just beginning, promising to leave a lasting impact on his community and beyond.