Only 11 percent of Boston’s registered voters went to the polls for the recent preliminary election. And only 9.97 percent of Ward 12 voters, a predominantly black district, deigned to show up. Apparently the community did not get the memo requiring inveterate participation in order to develop political power.
A powerful bloc never allows others to believe the people have lost interest or have gone elsewhere. Political operatives should always be concerned about the legitimate interests of African Americans. A light turnout could generate negative attitudes. Just think of what the impact would be if the Ward 12 vote had been 75 percent of registered voters rather than just short of 10 percent.
Success in America often depends upon effective strategy. Is it too much to expect people to vote in every election if only to flaunt the potential political power of the black vote? You never win by demonstrating your weakness!!
