There’s an undeniable sense of urgency and excitement surrounding this year’s Democratic National Convention, which starts today in Chicago. Much of the buzz has stemmed from social media, and the Democratic Party has taken notice: Over 200 online content creators have been issued credentials and will be given unprecedented access to the convention for the first time in the DNC’s history.
The creators are part of the Democrats’ plan to reach Gen Z adults, who are estimated to add nearly 9 million more voters in their age bracket since the 2020 election. Online influencers—content creators who have gained a large, loyal and trusting audience—will connect with party surrogates and discussion panels. Party organizers hope that giving the influencers the space and opportunity to document their experiences with their followers will encourage them to cast a blue ballot in November.
The influencers selected to attend represent a wide variety of today’s most popular platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, X and TikTok. With over 60% of Gen Z adults in the United States primarily using TikTok to search for news and information, online platforms now have equal political power to traditional TV and news publications.
Here are some of the Black content creators to keep an eye on when the convention kicks off today through August 22.
Shermann Dilla Thomas
@6figga_dilla Chicago been on some playa stuff for a long time apparently 🤷🏾♂️😂😂. #chicago #chicagohistory ♬ original sound – Chicago Mahogany
As a Chicago native and historian, Thomas is no stranger to politics. The union advocate dedicates his platform to educating his audience on the unique history of the city, its sports scene and the rich Black culture that emerged from its neighborhoods. Thomas, who also owns Chicago Mahogany Tours, is an integral part of making sure that those who grew up outside the city understand and uplift the marginalized communities that built the city into what it is today.
Elizabeth Booker Houston
This DC-based comedian and lawyer brings her unique brand of comedy to American politics. Instagram users may have come across clips of Houston’s stand-up performances or her videos in her car passenger seat breaking down the latest news from Capitol Hill. Later this year, fans will be able to catch Houston on her Together We Might tour and join a community town hall about moving America forward in the right direction.
Malynda Hale
@malyndahaleofficial Let know what questions you have! #dnc #fyp #foryourpage #demconvention #democrats #chicago ♬ original sound – Malynda Hale
This Los Angeles-based singer and activist has used her voice to champion Black Americans across the nation, starting with her Black Voices Heard project on Instagram. The entrepreneur and entertainer has also been active in promoting progressive Christianity, advocating for LGBTQ rights, speaking out against antisemitism and fighting for women’s rights. Recently, Hale has been vocal about what is at stake in the upcoming election and has used her platform to speak at Christians for Kamala discussion panels.
Kenneth Walden
Facts not fiction on what a Kamala Harris presidency would mean for the black community
♬ original sound – 2RawTooReal
Walden’s fans know the online satirist has been in Harris’ corner from the beginning. Tapping into the power of comedy and memes to get his audience interested in politics, the content creator is also a voting advocate for making your voice heard not only in presidential elections but for local and state-wide representatives as well. Walden has also spoken out on the politics of Black conservatives, celebrity culture and the increasing importance of fact-checking everything on social media and the political stage.
Quentin R. Jiles
As a therapist, Jiles knows the importance of having honest conversations with his audience. While advocating for Black mental health awareness on platforms like NBC, the political commentator has also used his platform to empower young Black voters to make their voices heard. Later this year, Jiles will be hosting the Talk BACK Tour, which he launched to directly engage with his audience and spread social and political awareness among minority communities.
Dr. Zackory Kirk
@zactivist #georgiavoters #votersuppression #georgiapolitics #breakingnews #whmpartner #briankemp ♬ original sound – The Zactivist
As an educator, Dr. Kirk has showcased his passion for helping underserved communities using his talents both on and off the camera. In addition to publishing his first children’s book in 2016, the blogger is active on TikTok and in his Zack Pack Book Club, where he initiates difficult conversations with thought-provoking reads. His political activism and education on social media are accompanied by his work with ActBlue with the goal of giving greater representation to LGBTQ voters and furthering voting rights in minority communities.
Brian Baez
Here’s a great way to be involved in this election!!!
Baez has been outspoken about his support for Harris since day one. With his “politics is pop culture” tagline, viewers know that the media personality is always ready to break down head-scratching moments that have taken place on the political stage. Along with helping his audience stay up to date with the breakneck speed of American politics, Baez empowers his viewers to stay engaged in the election, advocating for Gen Z to become community voting ambassadors.
