Listen to David Luna and Tamieka Atkins discuss the work of ProGeorgia and how they are increasing voter engagement and turnout for this midterm election across Georgia.

For this episode of Radio EVA, Tamieka Atkins, the Executive Director of ProGeorgia, joined EVA Executive Director David Luna to discuss how ProGeorgia develops infrastructure, executes joint strategies and employs new tools and technology to assure a government that is more responsive to the needs of the constituencies.

Tamieka shared how ProGeorgia coordinates the efforts of its 36 member organizations in both voter engagement and issue organizing while helping each achieve economies of scale.

With the midterm elections quickly approaching, Tamieka discussed the goal of expanding the electorate, noting that democracy doesn’t work if everyone’s voice isn’t heard. Despite various policy priorities, all 36 partner organizations agree that in order to build long-term sustainable power for the shared community of Georgia, organizations should focus on voter registration, encouraging communities to vote, and holding elected officials accountable in order to collectively build viable, ongoing power for the underrepresented communities of Georgia.

Tamieka noted past elections, where people have walked away from the polls because they were on a “pending” registration list, booths were not functioning properly, and absentee ballots were not being accepted. She explained how ProGeorgia has been keeping a close eye on these and other instances where individuals are being turned away at the polling stations to ensure all potential voters have the fair chance to vote in November.

Tamieka voiced that the more engaged and socially responsible voters are, the more likely they will hold politicians accountable for what they promised during their campaign. She hopes that the efforts of ProGeorgia will result in a more equitable Georgia, where everyone can be heard.

To listen to the full discussion, use the media player above or subscribe to the Radio EVA podcast via Apple Podcasts or Android.

To learn more about Tamieka Atkins and the work of ProGeorgia, visit progeorgia.org and follow them on Facebook.