I am Taylor Rakestraw, Contestant Number 9 in The Miss Omega Psi Phi Scholarship Pageant. I am a first-year Journalism and Political Science double major on the pre-law track at the University of Georgia. As an aspiring political journalist, I am passionate about giving people political agency and power through honest reporting.

Motivated by the social action initiative of the Beta Zeta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, I am proud to support Assault on Illiteracy, which promotes literacy among young people through online reading tutorials and hands-on involvement in local elementary schools. I believe literacy is the first step toward political empowerment.

My connection to this cause is deeply rooted in my belief that voting is one of the most powerful tools for societal advancement—and it all begins with the ability to read and understand the world around us.

As a journalist, my mission is to educate communities about the political climate in a way that is accessible and truthful. This aligns closely with Assault on Illiteracy’s core belief that education is the foundation of future success. Sharing these values gives me a personal connection to their work and fuels my passion for helping expand their reach.

Through this fundraiser, I hope to provide the resources needed to broaden the communities this initiative serves across Georgia. I believe even a single visit to a school can spark a love of reading, lay the groundwork for lifelong learning, and inspire children to dream big. By supporting Assault on Illiteracy, I aim to contribute to a cycle of empowerment—where education is accessible, valued, and used as a tool for change.

Please consider donating to Assault on Illiteracy to support literacy among young people and advance the agency of our future voting population. Our power is in between the lines.