International

Bahamians In South Florida Have A Lot at Stake In This Race

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – Shawn Jones is a proud son of The Bahamas, resident in the U.S. for 30 years, moving from Nassau as a teenager with Acklins roots.

Published

2 weeks ago

November 5, 2024

Kendeno Knowles

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – Shawn Jones is a proud son of The Bahamas, resident in the U.S. for 30 years, moving from Nassau as a teenager with Acklins roots.

Now a member of the Miramar Economic Advisory Board, this election feels personal to him.

Healthcare costs and immigration to racial injustice and incarceration rates, Jones says race is a defining factor – and drives his commitment to vote.

Jones recalls the tensions when returning to the U.S. after visiting The Bahamas, a sense of needing to brace – to adapt.

His experience echoes that of many black Americans – who feel the weight of racial bias and systemic challenges.

“Me coming back or visiting The Bahamas, I’ve been pulled over once or twice, nothing major, but still, once or twice with a police officer, I didn’t have that anxiety,” Jones said.

“So, you know, coming to, you know coming back to the United States, it’s almost like you put yourself in a different mindset to say okay, I can adapt, I can adjust but I must follow certain guidelines, regardless of me being American, I’m a black American.”

And Jones isn’t alone. Many share similar experiences, which shape their views on this election.

Another critical issue? Voter suppression.

In response, the “Souls to the Polls” led by religious leaders nationwide, helps congregations get to the ballot box.

One of those leaders is Pastor Matthew Allen of the Kingdom Minded Fellowship Center in Broward County.

“We hear folks say I’m not getting involved because Jesus gon fix it,” he said. ” And when his government. Well where you gon be when his government come? We are talking about right here right now. We need to really teach our people, get them to see and understand your voice is valuable, your vote is valuable.”

Pastor Allen, whose roots stretch back to Nassau and Inagua says the black community has a lot at stake.

It’s not just about voting, more than it is about making informed choices.

No matter the outcome for Allen and Jones this moment to choose honors the legacy trailblazers who helped to build South Florida.