Rally of Hope unites 350 community members across Florida

Civic gathering aimed to encourage voter participation
FORT MYERS, Fla. (Sept. 2, 2026)- Floridians for Democracy (FFD), in partnership with Mount Olive African Methodist Episcopal (A.M.E.) Church, hosted the Rally of Hope on Aug. 29 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the church, with a virtual livestream also available. The gathering’s purpose was to create unity among Florida residents, inspire hope and encourage voter commitment.
The event purposefully landed one day after the 63rd anniversary of the March on Washington, partially led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., where more than 250,000 people gathered in the nation’s capital to march for jobs and freedom.
Local and state leaders gave speeches on the importance of voting and civic engagement. Speakers included U.S. Representative Maxwell Frost (video message), Florida Representative RaShon Young, Rabbi Nicole Luna of Temple Beth El in Fort Myers, Lucy Garcia, local Hispanic and Haitian community advocate and Genesis Robinson, executive director of Equal Ground.
“We are so grateful for each and every person who showed up for the Rally of Hope,” said Jim Nathan, co-founder of FFD. “It was incredibly inspiring to see people from all different walks of life come together to stand up for democracy.”
In addition to inspirational speeches, the event featured musical and theatrical performances. Earl Sparrow, a social activist, actor, and musician, led attendees in song throughout the event. Chicago-based jazz artist Victor Garcia and a live jazz ensemble provided additional musical entertainment.
“Hear Our Voices,” directed by Sonya McCarter, shared excerpts from speeches given by civil rights leaders and activists, including Daisy Bates, Rabbi Joachim Prinz, Jesse Jackson and Dr. Martin Luther King III.
FFD and sister organization Floridians For Democracy Institute hosts monthly programming to encourage civic engagement and awareness in an effort to strengthen democracy. For more information, or to sign up for its newsletter visit floridiansfordemocracy.org.
About Floridians for Democracy
Floridians for Democracy is a statewide, nonprofit 501(c)(4) advocacy organization dedicated to protecting democratic values, expanding civic engagement, and empowering Floridians through education, collaboration and advocacy. By connecting individuals, community organizations, and grassroots leaders, Floridians for Democracy works to strengthen civic participation, defend constitutional rights and encourage informed public engagement. For more information visit floridiansfordemocracy.org follow it on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram or call 941-681-0793.
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