Taqwaa Saleem It's been a while since I had the zest to write after graduate school graduation. I've spent a great amount of time observing and increasing my circumspect awareness.

This summer has reminded me of countless realities of being Black in America. Racism isn't dead. Education remains our ticket to freedom. Service to all mankind is paramount.

And, the power in our black voices is more resounding than ever. Being Black in America is being vocal.

I've never been one who was short on words ... Wasn't raised to embrace a hushed voice. Writing my thesis for my Master's program over the last year reaffirmed my truth that there is personality and perspective in my words.

I have to constantly embrace my voice. Two years ago this nation was all fired up supporting candidates like now President Barack Obama during their campaigns for office.

We were shouting as loud as we could for people to vote and vote with reason. We were proud of our voices because we saw potential for change and prosperity as a result of our speaking.

Part of being Black in America in 2008 was about being vocal. Where did that go? Did we lose our voices? Did we think the voices were no longer needed after that particular election. Not so! We need our voices more now than ever. Being Black in America is about remembering our voices and knowing when to speak. Major campaigns are currently running in our state of Georgia. Huge positions are open that will decide of education reform, state taxes, and countless other hot-button issues. We need to remain active in politics.

We must make our presence known. The people deserve and must exercise the right to be part of who becomes our Governor, Attorney General, U.S. Representatives in Congress. How can we evaluate the persons who win the seats if we are not active in the election process?

The time to speak is now. The time to vote is now. The time to invigorate and re-energize our voices is and always will be now. Being Black in America is being aware of the importance of the now!