MEMPHIS — The Tri-State Defender is hosting a TSD in the Community Forum focused on government and policy on Wednesday, June 3, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The forum will be held at Southbrook Town Center, located at 1254 East Shelby Drive.
Admission to the forum is free, but attendees are encouraged to register. The audience will have an opportunity to hear from and ask questions of local government and policy leaders and professionals.
Panelists include Dr. Darrick Dee Harris, president of Political Systems & Solutions; Tennessee House Minority Leader Representative Karen Camper; Mike Carpenter, Principal of Carpenter Civic Strategies; and Shelby County Commission Chairwoman Shante Avant. Lori Spicer Robertson, community leader and founder of the Wundher women’s empowerment collective, will serve as moderator.
"These forums are designed to get to the crux of what’s happening in our community," said Stephanie R. Jones, Tri-State Defender editor. "We want people to understand what’s happening and learn what they can do to make sure their voice is heard," said Deidre Malone, TSD vice president. "Our Black votes matter and knowledge is power," she added.
The forum is scheduled a few months before primary elections in August. It is part of the TSD in the Community forum series, which began in March 2025. Previous forums have addressed women in leadership, healthcare access and trust, education, public safety, and entrepreneurship in Memphis.
"We’ve been so pleased with the turnout to date," said Calvin Anderson, TSD president. "We hope everyone comes out this time to learn, engage and see how their presence makes a difference in Memphis and beyond," he added.