First Black Policy Day Eastern Panhandle Experience Celebrates Community Leaders and Inspires Future Advocates

Charles Town, WV — The Boots on the Ground Youth Leadership Academy, led by Teresa Holmes, hosted the first Black Policy Day Eastern Panhandle Experience, an event that honored outstanding community leaders while empowering attendees with tools for civic engagement, resilience, and advocacy.

A highlight of the program was the presentation of the Heart of the Community Award to:
Shalonda Winston, Jennifer Haynes, Tiffany Redman, Arthena Roper, Layne Diehl, Charlotte Norris, Donna Newman, Tamia Hardy, and Barry Holmes.
Additional honorees, Tanya D. Frazier and Michelle Barnes-Russell, were recognized in their absence. Each recipient shared brief but powerful stories of perseverance, leadership, and service. Barry Holmes was honored for his major contributions to the lives of children in the community.

The event also featured impactful guest speakers:

• Katonya Hart (Partnership for Furthering Art and Education) encouraged resilience and active participation in legislative processes.
  
• Dr. Shanequa Smith (Black Voter Impact Initiative) highlighted the importance of understanding how Legislature works and staying informed.
  
• Crystal Good, founder of Black by God, spoke on preserving history and creating safe spaces for Black voices.
  
• Bishop Justin Brown delivered an inspirational message on unity, perseverance, and community connection.
  
• Kenny Matthews (WV Family of Convicted People) shared his extensive knowledge of Legislature, bills, and policies, explaining how he uses this knowledge to educate and empower others.
  
• Aicha Sy, a student at George Washington University and surprise honoree, engaged participants with thought-provoking activities designed to deepen understanding of civic processes and legislative systems.
  
• Rose Winland and Eli Baumwell from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) provided an overview of civil rights resources.
  

Adding a youth perspective, Middle School student Tiffany Ferguson reflected on her recent trip to Black Policy Day 2025 in Charleston, WV. She also spoke about the CROWN Act, emphasizing the importance of ending discrimination based on natural hair and cultural hairstyles.

The Eastern Panhandle Experience served as both a recognition of community leaders and an opportunity to strengthen civic awareness, resilience, and unity across generations.

Renee L. Ferguson

Phinishing Touches. LLC