Since what has come to be known as “The Switch” took place—Vice President Kamala Harris replacing President Joe Biden atop the Democratic ticket to vie for the presidency—one of the most anticipated post-Democratic National Convention events will take place on Sept. 10: the debate between Harris and former president Donald Trump.
It seems only fitting that this event will take place at Houston’s iconic Ensemble Theatre (3535 Main Street, Houston, 77002) beginning at 6:30 p.m. For, many who will be in attendance view this November’s Presidential Election as a contest of historic proportions, between freedom and democracy versus an anti-Black and anti-democratic reality.
That said, the event was originally slated to be held on the campus of Texas Southern University, led by Dr. Michael O. Adams, a political science professor at TSU and the founder of the university’s Executive MBA program.
Why the switch in locations?
According to TSU’s Vice President of Governmental Affairs and Civic Engagement, James White, scheduling conflicts are the culprit.
“Dr. Adams was the convener, the organizer of the event, but he has commitments in D.C. with the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC),” said White.
“The event started out as an extension of his class; a teaching moment for him. But like a lot of us who have roles with and meetings in D.C. with the CBC, so does Dr. Adams.”
TSU was set to be a gracious host to what promises to be one of the political events of the year.
According to Sonceria “Sonny” Messiah Jiles, CEO of the Defender Network, one of the event’s media sponsors thanks to a grant from American Press Institute Civic Discourse and Community Voices, it still will be.
“This is one of the most consequential presidential elections in our lifetime for multiple reasons,” said Messiah Jiles. “Not only can history be made if Kamala wins, becoming the first woman and first Black and AIPOC woman to serve as America’s Commander-in-Chief, but a serious message will be sent the world over, regardless of who wins, about where the U.S. is headed socially and politically.
“The Defender prides itself on always being front-and-center for our community during moments like this. So, serving as a sponsor of the Great Debate, for me, was a no-brainer.”
The “Pre-Show Vibe” that will precede the actual debate includes voter registration, focus group interviews, prizes, giveaways, music, food and fun.
KTSU 90.9 FM and KTSU’s “The Vibe” are the event’s other media sponsors. Event partners include Black Women of Greater Houston-PAC, Houston National Pan-Hellenic Council, NAACP Houston Branch and YWCA Houston.
Attendees are encouraged to wear their organizational or school colors. Seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Great Debate Watch Party is a non-partisan event designed to educate, inspire and mobilize people to vote. No candidates will be allowed to give partisan political speeches. No bags, backpacks or large purses will be allowed in the event.
