Local Columbia citizens spoke on a panel at the Columbia Country Club on Friday. Those sitting on the panel spoke about the state of the Democratic Party from African-Americans' perspectives.
Speaking in front of the Muleskinners, a local group that seeks to preserve the Democratic social network in Boone County, some panelists opened the discussion by talking about their journey to their current political beliefs. Though some mentioned they do not officially identify as a Republican or Democrat, they said they do feel more empathy toward minorities from the Democrats.
Vice President of Publicity for the Muleskinners Scott Cristal mentioned how several individuals within the African-American community were frustrated with both parties.
“Both parties were never seen or heard from when it wasn’t election time and that got to be kind of frustrating and aggravating to people,” he said. “They felt that the vote was important but after that, any of the main issues or anything like that may not be addressed.”
Panelists also discussed how the board feels minorities are being represented. One panelist, Khesha Duncan, said she wants to see action when it comes to getting minorities represented at any table where decisions are being made.
“Someone in that room has to speak up,” Duncan said. “As Steve Callaway was saying and say it’s clear to me that we’re absent some representation here and what are we willing to do to get that representation to the table.”
The panel was a special event for the Muleskinners, who meet once a week on Fridays at noon.