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PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Collective Action for Education, in proud partnership with the. Davis-Tennon Foundation, hosted over 125 Rhode Islanders at a powerful and inspiring voter registration drive Tuesday, September 16, at the Roger Williams Park Casino in Providence.
The event drew strong community and political support, with 10 elected officials in attendance, including Governor Dan McKee. Their
presence underscored the significance of this campaign and the shared commitment to defending and strengthening public education in Rhode Island.
“Support from the Davis-Tennon Foundation underscores the importance of this moment for Rhode Island,” said Victor Capellan, founder and CEO of Collective Action for Education. “We’re thrilled to collaborate on a campaign that works to empower every eligible Rhode Islander to register and vote, giving them the tools to shape the future of public education.”
This event marked the official launch of a 12-month voter registration and civic engagement campaign designed to uplift and defend public education across Rhode Island.
Hosted in celebration of National Voter Registration Day, this gathering was more than an event— it’s a rallying call for Rhode Island’s public education community to show up, stand together, and recommit to the work ahead as we prepare to make our voices heard at the ballot box in 2026.
The campaign was proudly supported by the Davis-Tennon Foundation, which was founded by Academy Award-winning actress Viola Davis and her husband Julius Tennon. The Foundation is dedicated to removing barriers and building opportunity for families in Rhode Island, with a focus on empowering women, preventing domestic violence, expanding student opportunities beyond the classroom, and supporting housing stability. By partnering with local organizations, the Foundation works to strengthen communities and provide critical resources—values that deeply align with the mission of this campaign.
“This partnership reflects our belief that democracy and education go hand in hand,” said Angelo Garcia, Chairperson of the Davis-Tennon Foundation. “By supporting this campaign, the Davis-Tennon Foundation is helping ensure that families, students, and educators have a voice in shaping the future of Rhode Island’s schools.”
The Collective encouraged leaders, educators, families, students, and supporters from across the public education spectrum to attend and bring their broader school communities. High school students age 16 and older were especially encouraged to join, as they can pre-register to vote in Rhode Island.
Collective Action for Education is an organization dedicated to building community power to transform Rhode Island’s education system. Founded in 2024, the organization’s work includes raising awareness, mobilizing voters, advocating for strong education policies, and supporting leaders committed to ensuring that Rhode Island’s schools serve all children more effectively. Learn more at collectiveactionri.org.
Founded in 2024 by Viola Davis and Julius Tennon, the Davis-Tennon Foundation connects individuals and families with the resources they need to thrive. Rooted in Central Falls, Rhode Island, the Foundation invests in initiatives that empower women, prevent domestic violence, expand student opportunities, and support housing stability. Through strategic partnerships and grantmaking, the Foundation seeks to build stronger, more equitable communities. Learn more at www.davis-tennonfoundation.org.
Contact:
Danielle Barron
401-323-6068
[email protected]
