8.2 Black women in electoral politics
9 min read•august 21, 2024
Black women's involvement in electoral politics has been a journey of resilience and progress. From the abolition movement to modern-day campaigns, they've fought for representation and equality, overcoming intersectional discrimination and voter suppression tactics.
Their impact on American democracy is profound. Black women have expanded the voter base, diversified political discourse, and shaped policy agendas. Their intersectional perspective has led to more inclusive solutions, addressing issues of race, gender, class, and LGBTQ+ rights.
Origins of political involvement
- Black women's political engagement in America traces back to the abolition movement and has evolved significantly over time
- Their involvement has been crucial in shaping civil rights, women's rights, and social justice initiatives
- Despite facing numerous obstacles, Black women have consistently fought for representation and equality in the political sphere
Reconstruction era participation
Top images from around the web for Reconstruction era participation
File:Harriet Tubman.jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Sojourner Truth CDV.jpg View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Sojourner Truth 01.jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Harriet Tubman.jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Sojourner Truth CDV.jpg View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Reconstruction era participation
File:Harriet Tubman.jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Sojourner Truth CDV.jpg View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Sojourner Truth 01.jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Harriet Tubman.jpg - Wikimedia Commons View original
Is this image relevant?
File:Sojourner Truth CDV.jpg View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
- Emancipation and 15th Amendment enabled Black men to vote and hold office
- Black women actively supported Black male candidates and advocated for women's suffrage
- Formed mutual aid societies and community organizations to address social issues
- Notable figures like Sojourner Truth and Harriet Tubman spoke out for Black women's rights
Early 20th century activism
- (NACW) founded in 1896 to promote civil rights and women's suffrage
- Black women participated in both the women's suffrage and civil rights movements
- led anti-lynching campaigns and fought for voting rights
- advocated for racial equality and women's rights on national and international stages
Civil rights movement impact
- Black women played crucial roles as organizers, strategists, and leaders in the
- co-founded the in 1964
- helped establish the
- Passage of the of 1965 removed many barriers to Black political participation
- Increased political awareness and engagement among Black women during this period
Barriers to political engagement
- Historical and systemic obstacles have hindered Black women's full participation in American politics
- These barriers stem from deeply rooted racial and gender biases in society and political institutions
- Overcoming these challenges has required persistent effort and innovative strategies from Black women activists and leaders
Intersectional discrimination
- Black women face unique challenges due to the combination of racial and gender discrimination
- Stereotypes and biases often lead to underestimation of Black women's leadership abilities
- Limited access to political networks and mentorship opportunities
- Economic disparities affect ability to engage in political activities or run for office
- Lack of media representation and visibility in political discourse
Voter suppression tactics
- Historical methods included literacy tests, , and grandfather clauses
- Contemporary tactics involve strict , polling place closures, and voter roll purges
- Gerrymandering often dilutes the voting power of Black communities
- Felon disenfranchisement laws disproportionately affect Black voters
- Misinformation campaigns target Black voters to discourage turnout
Lack of representation
- Underrepresentation in elected offices at all levels of government
- Limited presence in party leadership and decision-making roles
- Scarcity of Black women as political commentators and analysts in media
- Absence of Black women's perspectives in policy-making processes
- Challenges in securing campaign funding and support from political establishments
Pioneering Black women politicians
- Black women have made significant strides in entering electoral politics despite numerous obstacles
- Their achievements have paved the way for increased representation and diversity in American government
- These trailblazers have often championed issues affecting marginalized communities and pushed for progressive policies
First elected officials
- saw first Black women elected to local offices
- Susie King Taylor served on the school board in Liberty County, Georgia in 1870
- Fannie Jackson Coppin became the first Black woman superintendent of a school district in 1869
- Mary Ann Shadd Cary ran for office in Washington D.C. in 1874, though unsuccessful
Congressional trailblazers
- became the first Black woman elected to Congress in 1968
- Barbara Jordan, elected in 1972, was the first Black woman from the South in Congress
- Carol Moseley Braun became the first Black woman elected to the U.S. Senate in 1992
- , elected to the Senate in 2016, became the first Black and South Asian woman Vice President in 2021
State and local leaders
- became the first Black woman state senator in New York in 1964
- was the first Black woman elected to the California State Assembly in 1966
- became Mississippi's first Black woman mayor in 1976
- made history as Chicago's first Black woman and openly gay mayor in 2019
Voting patterns and preferences
- Black women have emerged as a crucial voting bloc in American elections
- Their voting patterns often reflect a commitment to social justice, civil rights, and economic equality
- Understanding these trends is essential for political campaigns and policy-makers
Party affiliations over time
- Shift from Republican to Democratic Party began during the New Deal era
- Civil Rights movement solidified Black women's support for the Democratic Party
- Consistently high levels of Democratic Party affiliation since the 1960s
- Limited but growing support for third parties and independent candidates
- Republican Party struggles to attract significant numbers of Black women voters
Key issues and priorities
- Civil rights and racial justice remain top priorities
- Economic issues (job creation, fair wages, affordable housing)
- Healthcare access and affordability
- Education reform and funding
- Criminal justice reform and police accountability
- Reproductive rights and women's health issues
Voter turnout trends
- Black women have had the highest voter turnout rate among all racial and gender subgroups in recent elections
- Turnout increased significantly in the 2008 and 2012 elections with Barack Obama's candidacy
- Continued high turnout in 2016 and 2020 elections despite voter suppression efforts
- efforts have been crucial in maintaining high turnout
- Variations in turnout based on age, education level, and geographic location
Campaign strategies and challenges
- Black women candidates face unique obstacles in running for office
- Innovative strategies have been developed to overcome these challenges
- Success often relies on building diverse coalitions and leveraging community support
Fundraising disparities
- Black women candidates typically raise less money than their white or male counterparts
- Limited access to high-dollar donors and political action committees
- Reliance on small-dollar donations and grassroots fundraising efforts
- Challenges in securing early financial support to establish campaign viability
- Innovative use of social media and digital platforms for fundraising
Media representation
- Underrepresentation and misrepresentation in mainstream media coverage
- Stereotyping and biased framing of Black women candidates
- Limited access to national media platforms and high-profile interviews
- Challenges in controlling narrative and public image
- Successful use of alternative media outlets and social media to reach voters directly
Grassroots organizing efforts
- Emphasis on community engagement and door-to-door campaigning
- Collaboration with local organizations and faith-based institutions
- and get-out-the-vote initiatives
- Development of volunteer networks and campaign ambassadors
- Use of personal storytelling and relatable messaging to connect with voters
Policy advocacy and legislation
- Black women politicians have been at the forefront of progressive policy-making
- Their advocacy often addresses intersectional issues affecting marginalized communities
- Legislative efforts have focused on expanding civil rights, social justice, and economic opportunities
Civil rights initiatives
- Continued push for voting rights protection and expansion
- Advocacy for criminal justice reform and police accountability
- Support for affirmative action and equal opportunity programs
- Legislation addressing racial disparities in healthcare, education, and housing
- Efforts to combat hate crimes and racial discrimination
Women's rights advocacy
- Championing equal pay legislation and workplace protections
- Advocacy for reproductive rights and access to women's healthcare services
- Support for policies addressing domestic violence and sexual harassment
- Promotion of women's leadership and representation in various sectors
- Efforts to expand family leave policies and childcare support
Social justice legislation
- Introduction of bills addressing poverty and income inequality
- Advocacy for affordable housing and community development initiatives
- Support for environmental justice and climate change mitigation efforts
- Legislation promoting LGBTQ+ rights and protections
- Efforts to reform immigration policies and protect immigrant communities
Contemporary political landscape
- Black women have made significant gains in political representation in recent years
- Their influence on policy-making and political discourse continues to grow
- Challenges remain in achieving proportional representation and overcoming systemic barriers
Current elected officials
- Record number of Black women serving in the 117th Congress (2021-2023)
- Increasing representation in state legislatures and executive offices
- Notable figures include Vice President Kamala Harris and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley
- Growing presence in mayoral offices ( in Atlanta, in San Francisco)
- Black women leading major cities' police departments ( in Philadelphia)
Representation in government
- Appointment of Black women to key cabinet positions and federal judgeships
- Increased visibility in party leadership roles and campaign management
- Growing influence in shaping party platforms and policy priorities
- Challenges in achieving representation in higher executive offices (governors, Senate)
- Continued underrepresentation relative to population demographics
Future prospects and challenges
- Rising generation of young Black women entering politics and activism
- Ongoing efforts to build political pipelines and mentorship programs
- Persistent barriers in fundraising and establishment support
- Need for continued voter engagement and protection of voting rights
- Balancing act between representing Black communities and broader constituencies
Impact on American democracy
- Black women's political engagement has significantly shaped the course of American democracy
- Their participation has led to more inclusive policies and a broader understanding of citizenship
- Continued involvement is crucial for addressing systemic inequalities and strengthening democratic institutions
Expanding voter base
- Mobilization efforts have increased political participation among marginalized groups
- Advocacy for voting rights has benefited multiple communities
- Engagement of young voters and first-time voters in the political process
- Emphasis on local elections and down-ballot races
- Increased awareness of the importance of civic engagement beyond voting
Diversifying political discourse
- Introduction of intersectional perspectives in policy debates
- Highlighting issues affecting marginalized communities
- Challenging traditional political narratives and assumptions
- Promoting inclusive language and representation in political communications
- Bringing attention to overlooked policy areas (maternal health, environmental justice)
Shaping policy agendas
- Influence on Democratic Party platform and priorities
- Advocacy for progressive policies on healthcare, education, and economic justice
- Pushing for comprehensive criminal justice reform
- Promoting international human rights and diplomacy
- Emphasis on community-centered approaches to policy-making
Intersectionality in politics
- Black women's political experiences demonstrate the importance of intersectional analysis
- Recognition of how multiple identities and systems of oppression interact in political contexts
- Intersectional approach leads to more comprehensive and inclusive policy solutions
Race and gender dynamics
- Navigating both racial and gender stereotypes in political campaigns
- Addressing issues that disproportionately affect women of color
- Challenging sexism within racial justice movements
- Confronting racism within feminist movements
- Developing leadership styles that balance assertiveness with avoiding stereotypes
Class and socioeconomic factors
- Impact of economic disparities on political participation and representation
- Addressing issues of poverty, wage inequality, and wealth gaps
- Advocating for policies that benefit working-class and low-income communities
- Challenges in balancing grassroots support with establishment backing
- Efforts to make political engagement more accessible across class lines
LGBTQ+ representation
- Increasing visibility of Black LGBTQ+ women in politics
- Addressing unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people of color
- Advocacy for comprehensive non-discrimination protections
- Promoting inclusivity within both LGBTQ+ and racial justice movements
- Balancing multiple identities in public life and political messaging
Political organizations and networks
- Black women have created and led numerous organizations to advance their political interests
- These networks provide crucial support, resources, and training for aspiring political leaders
- Collaboration between organizations has amplified Black women's voices in the political arena
Black women's political groups
- Higher Heights for America focuses on electing Black women to office
- Black Women's Roundtable advocates for policies affecting Black women and girls
- National Coalition on Black Civic Participation promotes civic engagement
- Black Girls Vote encourages political participation among young Black women
- She the People elevates the political power of women of color
Mentorship and leadership programs
- Congressional Black Caucus Foundation internship and fellowship programs
- New Leaders Council trains progressive political entrepreneurs
- Vote Run Lead provides training for women running for office
- Black Women's Leadership Collective offers professional development and networking
- EMILY's List runs programs specifically for women of color in politics
Coalition building efforts
- Collaborations between Black women's organizations and other civil rights groups
- Partnerships with labor unions and workers' rights organizations
- Alliances with environmental justice and climate action groups
- Engagement with faith-based institutions and community organizations
- Cross-cultural coalitions with other women of color in politics
Key Terms to Review (33)
19th amendment: The 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified in 1920, granted women the right to vote, marking a significant victory in the long struggle for women's suffrage. This amendment not only symbolized the culmination of decades of activism and advocacy but also highlighted the ongoing fight for equality and representation among various groups, including Black women, in electoral politics. Its passage represented both progress and the beginning of new challenges in the pursuit of true democracy.
Black women's political action committee: A black women's political action committee is an organized group focused on advocating for the political interests and rights of Black women, aiming to empower them within the electoral process. These committees often work to increase voter registration, support Black female candidates, and address issues such as racial and gender discrimination in politics. By mobilizing resources and providing education, these committees strive to create a more inclusive political landscape that represents the voices of Black women.
Civil Rights Movement: The Civil Rights Movement was a pivotal struggle during the 1950s and 1960s aimed at ending racial discrimination and securing equal rights for African Americans in the United States. This movement not only focused on legal rights but also encompassed social, economic, and political aspects, influencing various forms of resistance and activism.
Constance Baker Motley: Constance Baker Motley was a prominent civil rights attorney and the first African American woman to serve as a federal judge in the United States. Her groundbreaking work in the legal field, particularly her involvement in major civil rights cases, made significant strides toward racial equality and influenced the political landscape for Black women.
Danielle Outlaw: Danielle Outlaw is a prominent figure in the realm of law enforcement and public service, known for her role as the Chief of Police in Philadelphia. Her leadership has brought significant attention to issues of community policing and the importance of representation in law enforcement, especially as a Black woman in a predominantly male-dominated field.
Double Jeopardy: Double jeopardy is a legal concept that protects individuals from being tried for the same crime more than once after they have been acquitted or convicted. This principle is important in understanding how systemic discrimination and intersecting identities can lead to compounded oppression and marginalization, particularly for Black women who face multiple layers of discrimination in society.
Ella Baker: Ella Baker was a prominent civil rights activist and leader, known for her grassroots organizing and advocacy for racial and social justice, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s. Her work emphasized the importance of collective action and community empowerment, which connected her to various movements advocating for political participation, voting rights, and the liberation of Black women.
Fannie Lou Hamer: Fannie Lou Hamer was a civil rights activist and a leader in the struggle for voting rights and racial equality for African Americans, known for her powerful speeches and grassroots organizing. Her work not only brought attention to the injustices faced by Black Americans in the South but also highlighted the intersectionality of race, gender, and class within the civil rights movement.
Grassroots mobilization: Grassroots mobilization refers to the process of engaging and organizing ordinary people at the community level to advocate for social, political, or economic change. This type of mobilization is often characterized by bottom-up efforts, where individuals come together to voice their concerns and push for reforms, typically without relying on established political elites or institutions. In the context of electoral politics, grassroots mobilization becomes a powerful tool for Black women to influence decision-making and promote issues that matter to their communities.
Ida B. Wells-Barnett: Ida B. Wells-Barnett was a prominent African American journalist, educator, and civil rights activist known for her courageous work against lynching in the United States. She played a significant role in advocating for political participation among Black Americans, addressing segregation, and founding organizations that aimed to uplift Black women and their communities, all while striving for women's suffrage.
Intersectionality: Intersectionality is a framework for understanding how various forms of social identities—such as race, gender, class, and sexuality—intersect and create overlapping systems of discrimination or disadvantage. This concept is crucial for analyzing the unique experiences of individuals who belong to multiple marginalized groups, highlighting how societal structures impact them differently compared to those who may only experience one form of oppression.
Jim Crow Laws: Jim Crow laws were state and local statutes enacted in the Southern United States from the late 19th century until the mid-20th century, enforcing racial segregation and disenfranchising Black Americans. These laws institutionalized a system of oppression that stemmed from post-Reconstruction efforts to maintain white supremacy and control over African Americans, impacting various aspects of life including education, public facilities, and economic opportunities.
Kamala Harris: Kamala Harris is the first woman, first African American woman, and first Asian American woman to serve as Vice President of the United States, having taken office on January 20, 2021. Her groundbreaking role in American politics highlights the increasing representation of Black women in positions of power and reflects the evolving landscape of electoral politics and leadership.
Keisha Lance Bottoms: Keisha Lance Bottoms is an American politician and attorney who served as the 60th mayor of Atlanta, Georgia, from 2018 to 2022. As a prominent figure in contemporary black women political leadership, she represents the growing influence of black women in electoral politics, breaking barriers and advocating for policies that uplift marginalized communities.
London Breed: London Breed is an American politician who serves as the mayor of San Francisco, California. She is notable for being the first African American woman to hold this position, which highlights her significance in the landscape of modern electoral politics and the representation of Black women in leadership roles.
Lori Lightfoot: Lori Lightfoot is an American politician and attorney who became the first Black woman and openly gay person to serve as the Mayor of Chicago, taking office in May 2019. Her election marked a significant moment in electoral politics, reflecting the increasing visibility and influence of Black women in leadership roles within major cities across the United States.
Mary Church Terrell: Mary Church Terrell was a prominent African American educator, activist, and suffragist, known for her pioneering efforts in advocating for civil rights and women's rights in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She played a crucial role in addressing racial violence, segregation, and discrimination while also emphasizing the importance of political participation for Black women.
Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party: The Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party (MFDP) was a political party formed in 1964 as a response to the exclusion of Black voters from the Mississippi Democratic Party. It aimed to challenge racial discrimination in the political process and sought to represent the interests of African Americans in the state, particularly during the Civil Rights Movement. The MFDP played a pivotal role in highlighting the struggle for voting rights and increasing Black political participation, which connected deeply with grassroots organizing and community activism.
National Association of Colored Women: The National Association of Colored Women (NACW) was established in 1896 as a federation of various black women's clubs across the United States, aimed at improving social conditions and advocating for civil rights. This organization played a vital role in promoting activism among black women, addressing issues such as education, health, and suffrage while fostering a sense of community and collective identity.
National Council of Negro Women: The National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) is an organization founded in 1935 that aimed to unify the efforts of various Black women's groups and promote their rights and welfare. This organization plays a crucial role in advocating for social justice, economic empowerment, and political participation for African American women.
Poll taxes: Poll taxes were fees required as a prerequisite for voting, primarily used in the United States as a means to restrict access to the electoral process, especially for African Americans and poor white citizens. They were part of a larger system of voter suppression that included literacy tests and other discriminatory practices. The elimination of poll taxes was crucial in advancing voting rights for marginalized groups, particularly with significant legislation addressing these injustices.
Reconstruction Era: The Reconstruction Era was the period following the Civil War from 1865 to 1877, aimed at rebuilding the United States and integrating formerly enslaved people into society. This era was marked by significant political, social, and economic changes as the nation grappled with the aftermath of slavery, with various policies and amendments designed to secure rights for African Americans and reshape Southern society.
Shelby County v. Holder: Shelby County v. Holder is a landmark Supreme Court case from 2013 that invalidated key provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, specifically targeting the formula used to determine which jurisdictions were required to seek federal approval before making changes to their voting laws. This decision significantly weakened federal oversight of state voting laws, raising concerns about voter suppression and discrimination, especially among historically marginalized communities.
Shirley Chisholm: Shirley Chisholm was an influential American politician, educator, and author who made history as the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress in 1968. Her work as a trailblazer in politics not only showcased her commitment to social justice and education but also highlighted the critical intersections of race and gender in American political life.
Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC): The Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) was a key civil rights organization formed in 1960 that played a major role in the American civil rights movement, focusing on nonviolent protest and grassroots organizing. This committee emerged from student-led initiatives and aimed to engage young people in the struggle for racial equality, particularly through direct action strategies like sit-ins and freedom rides. Its influence also extended to empowering Black women and encouraging their participation in electoral politics.
The purpose of power by alicia garza: The purpose of power, as articulated by Alicia Garza, refers to the understanding that power is not simply about dominance or control, but rather about enabling communities and creating change that benefits the collective. This perspective emphasizes the importance of mobilizing marginalized voices and leveraging power to advocate for social justice and equity.
Unita Blackwell: Unita Blackwell was a prominent civil rights activist and politician known for her tireless work advocating for the rights of African Americans, particularly in the realm of voting and political representation. She was the first African American woman to be elected mayor in Mississippi, serving in the town of Mayersville, and her leadership highlighted the struggles faced by Black women in electoral politics during the civil rights movement.
Voter id laws: Voter ID laws are regulations requiring individuals to present specific forms of identification before they can vote. These laws have been enacted in several states across the U.S. and often aim to prevent voter fraud, though critics argue they disproportionately affect marginalized groups, including Black women, by creating barriers to accessing the polls.
Voter registration drives: Voter registration drives are organized efforts aimed at increasing the number of eligible voters who are registered to participate in elections. These drives often target specific communities, especially marginalized groups, to ensure they have the opportunity to exercise their right to vote, and they play a significant role in shaping electoral politics and fostering civic engagement.
Voting Rights Act: The Voting Rights Act, enacted in 1965, is landmark legislation aimed at eliminating racial discrimination in voting. It sought to enforce the voting rights guaranteed by the 14th and 15th Amendments to the Constitution, addressing systemic barriers that prevented Black citizens and other minorities from exercising their right to vote, especially in the South. This act was a crucial component of the civil rights movement, enabling increased political participation and representation for marginalized communities.
Voting Rights Advancement Act: The Voting Rights Advancement Act is a legislative proposal aimed at strengthening and protecting voting rights in the United States, particularly in response to discriminatory practices that affect minority groups. This act seeks to restore and enhance provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that were weakened by Supreme Court decisions, ensuring greater access to the electoral process for all citizens, especially Black women and other marginalized groups.
Women’s suffrage movement: The women’s suffrage movement was a social and political campaign aimed at securing the right to vote for women in the United States and other countries. This movement played a critical role in advocating for gender equality, fighting against societal norms that restricted women's rights, and ultimately led to significant legislative changes, including the Voting Rights Act and increased representation of Black women in electoral politics.
Yvonne Brathwaite Burke: Yvonne Brathwaite Burke is a significant figure in American politics, known for being the first Black woman elected to the California State Assembly and later serving in the U.S. House of Representatives. Her work has made her a trailblazer in electoral politics, as she focused on issues affecting women and minority communities, paving the way for future generations of Black women in political roles.