Black Voter Engagement: Lessons from Texas

By Jonathon Lewis

As a longtime advocate for Black voter engagement, I've seen firsthand the transformative power of political participation in our communities. From my first presidential election in 2008 to the U.S. Senate, congressional, and local mayoral races, voting is not just a right - it is a tool for shaping the future. The upcoming 2024 presidential election represents a pivotal moment for Black Americans. As we approach this election, the issues that affect Black lives - racial justice, healthcare access, economic inequality, and educational opportunity - are at the forefront of black Texans' minds. The challenge now is ensuring that the voices of Black voters are not only heard but understood, respected, and represented in the corridors of power.

The history of Black voter engagement is marked by a legacy of struggle. From the civil rights marches of the 1960s to today's fights against voter suppression, Black Americans have long understood that the ballot box is one of the few levers of power available in a system often stacked against us. Yet, despite these challenges, Black voters have repeatedly shown resilience.

POV: Motivating Voters in Texas

In my work with the NAACP, particularly here in Texas, I've had the privilege of organizing voter engagement efforts in Black communities that face unique challenges.

Whether it's setting up virtual phone banks, text banking, partnering with other local organizations, or conducting VAN (Voter Activation Network) trainings for local NAACP units, each step has taught me how vital grassroots efforts are in energizing Black voters.

Voter engagement is not just about getting people to the polls - it's about educating them on the issues that will directly impact their lives and showing them how their vote can be the catalyst for change. At times, it means addressing deep-rooted cynicism. Years of disenfranchisement, gerrymandering, and systemic racism have left some in our communities disillusioned, convinced that their vote won't make a difference. But every engagement strategy, whether it's knocking on doors or texting reminders on Election Day, is part of rebuilding that trust in democracy.

The 2024 election is poised to be one of the most consequential elections in modern history for Black Americans in Texas and across the country. The backlash against gains made in civil rights and social justice is palpable. Voting rights are being attacked through state- level legislation and the protections that once ensured a fair democratic process are being eroded. The Supreme Court's decision to roll back affirmative action has also sent a chilling reminder of how fragile progress can be.

This election isn't just about who will occupy the White House - it's about securing a future where Black Americans can thrive without fear of their rights being systematically stripped away. It's about electing leaders who will advocate for justice, equality, and opportunity for all.

As we move toward early voting and Election Day here in Texas, the work of Black voter engagement must continue to intensify. We must remind each other of our collective power at the polls, honor the legacy of those who fought for our rights, and stand firm in our demand for a democracy that works for everyone. The stakes could not be higher. This election may well determine whether the progress made over the past century is preserved or whether we face another period of regression. Now, more than ever, the Black vote must be mobilized and uplifted - because our future depends on it.

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Jonathon Lewis is the Texas State Civic Engagement Director for the NAACP.