The George R. Brown Convention Center turned into a sea of pink and green during the 68th Annual International Conference of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. During the weeklong convention, members of the sorority gathered to discuss their role in the upcoming midterm elections at the Take Action Now Forum: Establishing the Alpha Kappa Alpha Social Justice Agenda.

Panelists including Senator Kamala D. Harris (D-CA), Congresswoman Alma S. Adams (D-NC), Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), Congresswoman Terri Sewell (D-AL) and Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (D-FL) led the members in a stirring discussion about where their political power lies. Their vote gives elected officials power and this why the ladies must take action now to change the political voice of America.

Congresswoman Jackson Lee welcomed members to the 18th Congressional District. “I am committed to overhauling the criminal justice system in this nation,” said Congresswoman Jackson Lee. “You will be the mighty force in education, in healthcare, and in protecting our children. You will make a difference.”

The audience applauded as Senator Harris encouraged the ladies to resist the current administration. “I know who we are as a sorority, but I think we have a lot of questions to ask about who we are as a country right now,” said Senator Harris.

Congresswoman Adams encouraged AKAs to not just go to the polls but to bring at least five people with them. “We have to bring the vote to the polls.”

Congresswoman Sewell energized the crowd mentioning the possibility of electing an African American woman as U.S. President. “Adopt a black woman candidate and help her. A woman’s place is in the home, the Senate, and the Oval Office!” said Congress-woman Sewell.