By: Sherry Gay-Dagnogo, M.Ed.
As we approach the 2024 election, one thing is clear: the stakes could not be higher for Black America. Our future, our rights, and our voices are on the line. This election is about more than political power—it’s about protecting the hard-fought progress that has defined our journey in this country, and more importantly, pushing that progress forward.
In 2020, we made history when the first Black woman, the first woman of South Asian descent, ascended to the office of Vice President. It was a watershed moment that resonated deeply with Black women across this nation—women who, for generations, have been at the forefront of change, but too often behind the scenes. We celebrated that victory because it was a reflection of our resilience, our strength, and our potential.
But we know that victory didn’t come easily, and it won’t come easily again in 2024. This time, more is at stake. Our communities are grappling with threats to voting rights, the economy, criminal justice reform, and access to healthcare. And in this critical moment, it’s clear: if we want to win, it will be the Black vote—and particularly the Black woman’s vote—that will lead the way.
Take Michigan, for instance. In 2016, we lost the state by just 11,000 votes, a margin so narrow it should serve as a reminder that every vote counts. In 2024, Michigan is again a battleground. We can’t afford to let history repeat itself. This time, we must mobilize smarter, invest in the right communities, and empower those closest to the issues that matter to Black voters.
That means ensuring that every Black elected official—whether at the federal, state, or local level—is a part of this effort. From city councils to school boards to state legislatures, Black leaders hold incredible influence in their communities. It’s time for campaigns to fully recognize their value, provide them with the resources they need, and give them the platform to help deliver the vote.
Here are a few key areas where we must focus if we are serious about securing a victory:
1. Invest in Black Vendors and Subcontractors. We need to ensure that campaign dollars are flowing into Black communities—not just in terms of messaging, but through the economic infrastructure that supports our communities. Using Black vendors and subcontractors, particularly in key states like Michigan, can have a lasting impact beyond Election Day.
2. Ensure Authentic Messaging. The messaging for Black voters must come from the right people, with the right understanding of our unique experiences. It’s not just about ads; it’s about connecting on a deeper level. We must prioritize Black-owned marketing firms and trusted community voices to carry forward messages that resonate, not just during campaign season but year-round.
3. Deploy Paid Canvassers and Local Organizers. Grassroots organizing will be key to our success. We need to get paid canvassers on the ground, particularly in communities where turnout has historically been low. But these efforts must be led by local organizers who know the neighborhoods, understand the issues, and can build lasting relationships that inspire action.
Beyond just getting out the vote, we must also think long-term about economic and community empowerment. Block clubs, community centers, and other local organizations should be tapped for outreach and support. These are trusted spaces where we can have conversations about what’s at stake in this election and beyond.
We also need to highlight the ongoing work around community violence intervention and criminal justice reform, initiatives that have had a profound impact on Black communities. Here in Detroit, Project Clean Slate has helped over 10,000 individuals expunge their records and reclaim their lives. This kind of real, tangible progress is something we should be celebrating—and campaigning on.
We cannot afford to let 2024 be a repeat of 2016. The lessons we learned then must guide our strategy now: We cannot rely on old models or outdated assumptions. We must take control of the narrative and the resources to ensure that our communities are engaged, empowered, and ready to turn out in record numbers.
This election is not just about electing candidates—it’s about securing the future we want for ourselves and for the next generation. Black women, once again, are leading the charge, and it is up to all of us to ensure that our voices are amplified and our needs are addressed.
The road to victory is clear. Let’s walk it together.
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