About First and Fifteenth
Foundation
My name is Joel Pulliam. I created First & Fifteenth in 2020 after inquiries from those in my community wanting to know more about civics. The name was derived from the First Amendment (the right to free speech) and Fifteenth Amendment (the right to vote). Starting out as just a podcast, it evolved into a nonprofit where the main goal became to both educate and advocate for those who have been overlooked (even by those within our movement). I want to amplify the civic voices of Black voters and other marginalized groups, who too often have been pushed aside by society. Civics is best when the information is both digestible and relatable. I believe in the end if we are armed with the needed political tools and guided by truth and love, there is nothing our people cannot realize.
Hearing the Unheard
Too many Americans are left out of the political process and even our movements for justice are not inclusive enough. The rift between those in power and everyday citizens is still too great. We not only want to amplify voices, but we seek to give marginalized citizens the tools necessary to make their own "good trouble". We want to create a society where all people, regardless of their identity, are treated with respect and dignity. To do this, we work to empower marginalized groups through education and engagement. Listening is the first step to empowerment.
“The movement for racial justice and equality must be inclusive. Both the doctor and the dishwasher, the teacher and the student, the middle class and the poor must be equally heard. We must reach the places and people that have yet to be activated. Only then will we reach our full potential as a community."
.png)