AAPF Hosts Election Roundtables Highlighting November 5th Stakes

As the 2024 election season heats up, the African American Policy Forum is stepping in to address vital issues impacting our communities this election cycle. With the Race-Forward Messaging Project at its helm, AAPF aims to redefine how voters, especially those in communities of color, engage with the electoral process.

In a series of insightful roundtable discussions, featuring influential voices like Kirsten West Savali from Urban One’s iOne Digital, Dr. Kaye Wise Whitehead from WEAA, and Tim Wise, a Senior Fellow at AAPF, the organization is set to delve into the stakes of the upcoming election on November 5th. The focus of the Race-Forward Messaging Project is not on swaying undecided white voters; rather, it emphasizes energizing “racial justice voters” who prioritize equity and justice.

As Jesse Jackson famously observed, organizing a minority can lead to a political majority. This initiative seeks to empower those voters committed to racial justice, harnessing their collective strength to influence the electoral landscape. Although Black eligible voters constitute only 14% of the national electorate, they hold a significant sway in critical battleground states such as Georgia and North Carolina. AAPF’s objective is to forge a new political majority by fostering a multiracial democracy through united efforts.

Recent findings from the Race-Forward Messaging Project highlight the potential of targeted messaging to galvanize Black voters. An impressive 17% of Black registered voters reported increased motivation to cast their ballots after being exposed to race-forward narratives. This boost is particularly noteworthy among younger demographics, including Gen Z, Black men aged 18-49, and Black women over 50. Given the tight margins in key states and the introduction of voter suppression laws aimed at diminishing Black turnout, mobilizing these voters is crucial.

Engaging voters through direct conversations about racial justice, civil rights, and the ongoing fight for democracy can effectively counteract attempts to diminish their electoral power. As November 5th approaches, it is essential to rally those who deeply care about these issues, ensuring that their voices resonate at the polls. Staying vigilant against threats like Project 2025 will be vital, and the focus remains on mobilizing a passionate electorate ready to advocate for their rights and interests.