SAN ANTONIO – (Sept. 22, 2026) – Veterans must vote to make their voices heard in the political arena and millions of active-duty servicemembers, veterans and family members have made sacrifices to protect the American way of life.

To assist in ensuring the community stays abreast of the voting process, the Project BIG Vote Civic Academy, a non-political event, was held at Fred Brock American Legion Post 828 hosted by Blacks in Government, San Antonio Chapter (BIG SA) in partnership with River City Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction.

BIG SA aims to advocate for equal opportunity, eliminate racial discrimination and empower public servants across all levels of government. The academy’s theme was "EDUCATE, EMPOWER & ENGAGE the Community to Vote."

The objectives of the academy included:
• Understand how local, state and federal government works
• Learn about voting rights, elections, registration and ballot access
• Become informed about public issues and the officials who make decisions
• Develop skills for civic participation, community advocacy and leadership
• Increase voter registration and turnout through partnerships with community organizations

“As veterans, we understand the importance of the freedoms we took an oath to defend. We also recognize that our responsibility to serve does not end when we take off our military uniforms,” said Post 828 Commander Amanda Parham during opening remarks. “Here at Post 828, on San Antonio’s historic eastside, we take pride in being more than just a gathering place for veterans. We strive to be a place where our community comes together, meaningful conversations take place and partnerships are formed to make positive differences.”