Get Connected: Tavis Smiley

Article By Tom Kupferer, Assistant Director of OCP
And Hollie Chessman, Associate Director for OCP

On Saturday, March 7, Tavis Smiley, well-known author and commentator, addressed an audience of over 300 people in Nunemaker Hall. Loyola University New Orleans was chosen as a featured stop on his 10-city book tour for Accountable: Making America as Good as its Promise, the third book in his best-selling Covenant series.

Accountable focuses on the need to hold politicians—and ourselves—responsible for the crucial issues we face today. Mr. Smiley led a discussion that challenged audience members to question local politicians, be more involved in their community, and to become responsible Americans as we move forward with a new president.

While emphasizing the importance of the need for ordinary citizens to pay attention to issues like health care, education, the economy, the environment and justice, Smiley also encouraged listeners to hold President Obama accountable, as well. He reminded people that accountability was the path that would guarantee the success of the presidency and the nation.

Audience members remained actively engaged and responded positively throughout the entire talk; outbursts of “Amen!” and “You know that’s true!” could be heard throughout Nunemaker Hall. Spontaneous applause punctuated Smiley’s points as he emphasized the necessity of setting standards and practical steps for leaders and citizens. He concluded his speech with an opportunity for attendees to have their books signed.

Accountable is co-authored by Stephanie Robinson, who is a recognized expert in democracy, social policy, family and electoral politics. In addition to writing and his work as a political commentator, Smiley is a prominent intellectual, activist, and entrepreneur. He founded the ground-breaking and historic State of the Black Union symposium, which gathers influential leaders and thinkers during Black History Month to discuss the State of the Black Union. He has authored several best-selling books, including The Covenant and The Covenant in Action.