YOUR VOTE | YOUR VOICE

We Can Make a Difference

TOGETHER!

WHY REGISTER TO VOTE?

The act of voting is one of the most powerful tools in a democratic society. For Black Americans, voting holds profound significance, given the long history of systemic racial discrimination and voter suppression. Engaging our community ensures that democracy is more inclusive, and representative.

We have faced barriers to voting throughout U.S. history, from poll taxes to literacy tests during the Jim Crow era. The 1965 Voting Rights Act was a pivotal achievement of the Civil Rights Movement, aimed at eliminating racial discrimination in voting. While great progress has been made, we must continue our commitment to staying engaged in our democracy, or hard fought rights can be lost.

TURNOUT

In the 2012 U.S. presidential election, Black voter turnout surpassed white turnout for the first time, with 66.6% of eligible Black voters casting ballots compared to 64.1% of white voters.

YOUNG VOTERS

According to data from the 2018 midterms, the turnout rate among young Black voters (aged 18-29) increased significantly from 2014, showcasing the younger generation's engagement.

SWING STATES

Black voters have played pivotal roles in determining election outcomes For example, in the 2020 U.S. presidential election, a surge in Black voter turnout in cities like Detroit, Philadelphia, and Atlanta was key to flipping these states.

Elections matter

In recent years, there has been a notable rise in Black reps at various levels of government. Increased Black voter engagement has been vital in electing more Black mayors, district attorneys, governors, and members of Congress.

YOUR VOTE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

A robust Black voter turnout ensures the election of representatives who prioritize and understand our needs. By voting, we can influence policy decisions on education, criminal justice, health care, and economic opportunities. Voting affects policies on various issues that disproportionately impact our Black communities, such as police reform, access to affordable healthcare, affordable housing, educational equity, and economic opportunities. An engaged Black electorate can direct the policy discourse towards racial equity and justice.

Historically and currently, there have been efforts to suppress our votes through tactics like voter ID laws, gerrymandering, and polling place closures. An active and informed Black voter base can challenge and counteract these attempts.