Hillyer College Associate Professor of Political Science Bilal Sekou was recently honored by Common Cause Connecticut for his dedication and leadership in promoting democracy and social justice. Executive Director of Common Cause Connecticut Cheri Quickmire presented the award to Sekou at a Welcome Reception for Common Cause President Virginia Kase Solomón held in UHart’s 1877 Club.
Over the years, Sekou has spoken about issues related to election reforms at numerous public events. He has testified on legislation, participated in press conferences with several Connecticut governors and the former secretary of state, has written and co-authored op-ed pieces, and has participated in many media interviews on behalf of Common Cause Connecticut.
Election reforms accomplished during Sekou’s involvement with Common Cause include in-person early voting, same-day voter registration, and a centralized voter registration system. Additional reforms include the protection of the public financing of elections program called Citizen’s Election Program (CEP), increased funding for the proper training of election staff and resources for voter registrars, the Connecticut Voting Rights Act, restoration of voting rights for persons on parole, and ending prison-based gerrymandering.
In addition to serving as a member of Common Cause in Connecticut since 2009, he served as the organization’s board chair from 2014–23. Sekou was also a member of the Common Cause national governing board, serving as chair of the Racial Equity Committee, vice-chair for the state’s committee, board representative for the staff-led Racial Equity Advisory Committee, a member of the Strategic Planning Committee, and a member of the executive committee.
Common Cause is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization dedicated to upholding the core values of American democracy. The organization works to create open, honest, and accountable government that serves the public interest and promotes equal rights, opportunity, and representation for all; and empowers all people to make their voices heard in the political process.