By Hazel Scott
Dr. Linda J. M. Holloway, associate professor in Alabama State University’s College
of Education and Department of Instructional Support, served as a distinguished guest
panelist at the NAACP of Alabama’s state conference, titled “The Shelby Summit of
2024: Pursuing the Promise.”
The Shelby Summit, which was held at the University of Montevallo, was described in
an NAACP press release as “…a vital platform for addressing the aftermath of the landmark
SCOTUS Shelby v. Holder decision. This pivotal ruling gutted Section II of the Voting
Rights Act of 1965, shaking the foundation of voting rights protection in our nation.”
ASU’s Holloway, a counselor/educator and award-winning children’s book author, was
invited to participate in the two-day event, expecting on the topic, “Having an Open
and Honest Dialogue about Mental Health and Voting.”
“I’m impressed to see a plethora of organizations willing to have an open and honest
dialogue concerning mental health, particularly in the Black community where there
is such a stigma associated with mental illness. To address the community about mental health
warms my heart,” Holloway said. “I felt my points were very well received and resonated
with the audience.”
Holloway noted that she hopes that more organizations take the time to step boldly out
of their comfort zones and address issues concerning Mental Health.
“I look forward to continuing to engage the community to discuss mental health and
wellness. It is even more important to ensure you are disseminating accurate information
concerning where people can seek the appropriate assistance they might need,” Holloway
added.