African American Women in Politics Virginia Leadership Institute Webinar July 15, 2009

Agenda Introduction Perspectives from African American Elected Officials: Why run for office? What are the challenges? How can we make a difference in our districts and communities? What steps should future candidates take now? Questions & Answers

Please mute your phone until Q&A. Thank you.

Introduction: Our Speakers Tina Hone, Fairfax County School Board Alicia Hughes, Alexandria City Council LaBravia Jenkins, Commonwealth’s Attorney of Fredericksburg

Why run for office? To bring important issues to the public To effect change in your community You have expertise in an area and can contribute effectively to the position.

What are the challenges? Fundraising Gathering volunteers New issues during the campaign Politics within the party Dealing with the media Personal sacrifices

Ways to make a difference as an elected official Prioritize your issues of importance. Examples: Hughes: engaging young adults to improve the status of children and to address other issues of interest to the community where we can collaborate to make a difference Jenkins: providing assistance to the City in enforcing "quality of life" offenses and, in this harsh economic period, enforcing our tax laws. In addition, I am tasked with ensuring that my employees remain satisfied in their positions in the wake of City pay cuts, and the prospect of no cost of living increases this year.

Advice for future candidates Get involved in your local party. Continue to stay connected to organizations like Virginia Leadership Institute and others that offer candidate training, support, and networking opportunities. Read articles and books about your community so that you will know the key issues.

Questions and Answers Feel free to ask questions related to today’s topics. Please wait to ask follow-up questions after others have had an opportunity to ask their questions. If your questions is directed toward a specific speaker, please let her know.

Thank you! We appreciate your participation in our first VLI Webinar. If you are not currently a VLI member, please considering joining! More information is available at