On July 21, 2024, President Biden endorsed Kamala Harris, positioning her as the first Black woman with the potential to lead the nation and forever changing the landscape of US politics. This endorsement was a recognition of the relentless efforts of Black women across the United States, who have long served as the unseen architects of change, to transform communities and reshape the nation’s future for generations.
Last week, a formidable lineup of Black women took to the stage at rallies across key battleground states to deliver impassioned speeches about what Kamala Harris’s presidency would mean for the nation. Influential figures like Michelle Obama, Stacey Abrams, Beyonce, and Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley fired up the crowds with their compelling narratives of accountability and change. Local leaders, from community organizers to small business owners, also joined the effort, sharing personal stories of resilience and hope that resonated deeply with the diverse audiences. Together, they spoke to the critical stakes of this election, pointing to Harris as a symbol of progress and empowerment for all Americans.
Black women consistently demonstrate unparalleled resilience and commitment to civic engagement, often resulting in significant voter turnout. In the 2020 election, for instance, Black women became the highest participating demographic: USA Today reported that 90% of Black women voters participated in the 2020 election. This turnout underscores their pivotal role in electing Joe Biden but also points to the power they have to shape policies that resonate with their communities’ needs.
Historically, Black women have pioneered change, leading grassroots movements and advocating for justice and equality. Leaders like Fannie Lou Hamer and Ella Baker paved the way for today’s trailblazers. This legacy endures with countless unsung visionaries who work behind the scenes to create lasting impacts and whose personal stories reveal a deep connection to their roots.
Consider Karen Pittman and her team at Knowledge to Power Catalyst, who are dedicated to creating equitable learning ecosystems for our children. This small team amplifies ideas, advises initiatives, and aligns partners to “increase the rate at which leaders transform Knowledge into Power to change the odds that all children and youth will thrive.”
Consider the numerous groups of Black women who created support networks for single mothers in their communities, empowering these mothers to secure stable employment and achieve financial independence by offering childcare, mentorship, and resources. The Institute for Women’s Policy Research emphasizes that such networks are crucial in improving economic security, noting a 22% increase in success rates in completing school and finding work among participants.
Consider how women’s advocacy for affordable housing, inspired by their own experiences with homelessness, resulted in policy changes that addressed the housing crisis. The National Low Income Housing Coalition credits the activism of women’s groups with creating new affordable housing units and programs, providing a safe and stable environment for families to thrive.
The success these and many other Black women leaders have found is a powerful testament to their resilience and dedication, especially because Black women face profound challenges in doing this essential community work. From the “superwoman syndrome,” where Black women feel compelled to balance multiple roles flawlessly, to systemic biases and media portrayals, Black women frequently confront stereotypes and misrepresentations that leave them emotionally and physically exhausted.
Despite these challenges, Black women persist in asserting their rightful place in leadership roles—the emotional impact of their work cannot be overstated, and the joy of seeing a community thrive and fulfilling a purpose often outweighs the challenges—and their expertise, honed by lived experiences and an intrinsic understanding of community needs, has proven invaluable in policymaking. Policies influenced by Black women’s advocacy have improved educational funding, healthcare access, and economic empowerment initiatives—crucial steps toward equality.
In this election cycle, Black women are tirelessly working to bring about change. More than voters, we are vital leaders and visionaries shaping the political landscape. Our work lays the foundation for a more equitable and inclusive future where every voice is heard and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
We must do more than acknowledge their leadership to support Black women fully. We must support Black women changemakers and collectively ensure their contributions lead to enduring societal transformation. We begin by committing to recognizing, empowering, and uplifting the voices of Black women, ensuring their impact continues to shape our world for the better.