Alvin Barnes Jackson Mississippi

"Alvin Barnes of Jackson, Mississippi"

I go by Alvin Barnes of Jackson, Mississippi — because where I’m from matters. My work, my voice, and my vision are all shaped by the people, history, and spirit of the place I call home. From community organizing to personal reflection, everything I share is grounded in that identity.

At a young age, Alvin Barnes of Jackson, Mississippi, displayed a keen interest in politics and government. Encouraged by his mother, during his senior year of high school, Alvin sought membership in the Young Democrats of Mississippi. Shortly after joining, he was tasked with organizing and chartering a Young Democrats chapter in Hinds County, which he accomplished in March 2017, becoming its first vice president.

Impressed by his work in Hinds County, Alvin was selected by Organizing for Action, President Barack Obama's political action organization, to reestablish a Mississippi chapter. In June 2017, Alvin became the first organizing manager and state leader for OFA Mississippi. During his tenure, Alvin organized various marches and protests, including those for healthcare and equal justice.

Alvin's exceptional work didn't go unnoticed. In January 2018, the Young Democrats of Mississippi appointed him as Field Director for the entire state. While attending Tougaloo College from 2017-2019, Alvin's off-campus achievements garnered recognition on campus. In April 2018, he was elected the President of the Tougaloo Chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

During his presidency, Alvin led the largest get-out-the-vote effort the campus had seen in years. The Tougaloo Votes campaign witnessed a remarkable increase in voter turnout during the 2018 midterm elections. Alvin also oversaw the installation of the inaugural Derrick Johnson Freedom Fund Awards Gala, which became the chapter's most successful fundraising event. Under his leadership, the chapter received the Juanita Jackson Most Active Chapter Award from the state chapter of the NAACP.

In March 2019, Alvin was chosen to lead one of the largest youth-organized marches in Mississippi's history in response to the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida. His involvement in the community extends beyond these achievements. Alvin is an active member of various community and national organizations.

"Alvin Barnes Jackson, Mississippi"