Marginalized communities, long ignored and sidelined by the system, are under siege. The sudden withdrawal of President Joe Biden from the presidential race just weeks before the crucial election sends shockwaves through our nation. Biden’s administration has been a lifeline for the Black community, bringing hope and tangible progress in an era rife with systemic injustices. His policies have touched every corner of our lives—from our schools and businesses to our neighborhoods and beyond. Now, with his departure, we stand at a critical juncture, questioning who will rise to champion our cause and ensure the strides we’ve made are not only preserved but propelled forward. This is not merely a political shift; it’s a call to arms for our recognition, respect, and rightful place in America’s narrative. The torch of justice and equality has been passed, and the fight must continue with renewed vigor and unwavering resolve.
“Selecting then Senator Kamala Harris as the first Black Woman Vice President, Appointing the Hon. Ketanji Brown Jackson as the first Black Woman Supreme Court Justice, investing $16B in HBCU’s, eliminating hundreds of millions of dollars in student loan debt, establishing a federal office of gun violence prevention, protecting the environment, expanding voting rights and women’s rights were accomplishments listed under the Biden Harris Administration,” shared Kamilia K. Landrum, Executive Director of the Detroit branch NAACP. “All of these areas (and more) are significant to members of the Black community, and we’ve raised our voices loud and clear to tell this Administration that our demands deserve action. President Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris because he is unable to give 100% to the campaign. He will devote his time to completing his term with the priorities he has already outlined. It’s our duty as an organization to ensure that while Vice President Kamala Harris seeks election to the highest and most powerful position in the world, that she is not halted because of sexism and racism, or any efforts that would seek to disenfranchise voters.”
This moment in history calls us to reflect on the profound implications for the Black community, a community that has long grappled with systemic inequities and marginalization. Biden’s administration has been a beacon of hope, marked by significant achievements that directly benefit the Black community. From the largest investment in Black communities in decades to efforts to reconnect neighborhoods divided by infrastructure and expanding the Affordable Care Act, Biden’s policies have been transformative. His support during the historic UAW strike was a testament to his commitment to labor rights and economic justice, further solidifying his bond with the working-class Black community.
Biden’s economic policies have been particularly impactful. His administration has led to historically low unemployment rates among Black Americans and created new opportunities for Black-owned businesses. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has lowered energy costs, created good-paying jobs, and advanced environmental justice, addressing the disproportionate impact of climate change on communities of color. His initiatives in criminal justice reform, including reducing mandatory minimum sentences and promoting second chance hiring, have provided a framework for dismantling the systemic barriers that have long plagued Black Americans.
One must ponder what lies ahead for the Black community. The true impact of politics is rooted in policies, which can either elevate or marginalize our community—and too often, it’s the latter. The pressing question remains: how will Biden’s departure affect the Black community? The next candidate must continue on the path of progress and equity. The imperative is clear: maintain the momentum and keep the light shining bright in the Black community.
In the realm of education, Angelique Peterson-Mayberry, President of the Detroit Public Schools Community District School Board and Board of Director for Detroit Public Schools Foundation, articulates the urgency of continuity. “Unity throughout communities is the nucleus of any organized and intentional movement, and having a candidate who recognizes and prioritizes those voices that arise from those spaces, is essential for fostering genuine progress. With public education being the great equalizer, it’s imperative that our nation’s leader prioritizes public education investments and has a track record of allocating resources toward equitable funding that levels playing fields and creates tangible pipelines for our students to succeed in an ever-changing world. In Detroit specially, our educational system has seen its share of dark days, but in recent years, we have managed to strategically and effectively begin to show successes stemming from increased funding resources, strategic alliances, a tactical working plan, and key leaders who are committed to transformative measures that propel academic achievement and educational well-being.”
The economic landscape, too, is at a crossroads. Arian Simone, CEO and Founding Partner of the Fearless Fund, underscores the critical need for leadership that champions the aspirations of marginalized communities. “In this critical juncture of our nation’s history, we need leadership that not only empathizes but activates the aspirations of marginalized communities. Vice President Kamala Harris has been a relentless champion for these communities, especially through her unwavering support of small businesses, which make up more than half of our economy.”
Simone continued, “Marginalized communities that the system has already forgotten are now under attack. The Fearless Fund was sued solely because our mission was to address women of color’s inability to access capital. Claudine Gay was pressured to resign as the first Black woman to lead Harvard University by attacking her credentials. What awaits her will take these attacks to an entirely new level. This is a decisive moment for us to unite and champion the empowerment of Black women in power. It is time to recognize that our strength and success do not diminish others – there is enough room for all of us to win.”
Biden’s departure from the race underscores the importance of having a successor who not only understands but embodies the spirit of the community. The momentum built over the last few years cannot be allowed to falter. From economic empowerment to educational equity, the path forward must be paved with the same relentless dedication that Biden demonstrated.
Johnnie Turnage co-founder of Black Tech Saturdays, reflecting on the impact for Black tech and entrepreneurship, says, “This opens a door for new hope and a renewed vision for the country. This is an opportunity to address the critical questions of access to capital and resources that are essential for Black entrepreneurs to grow and sustain their ventures. As an entrepreneur, I believe this moment allows us to dream bigger, innovate further, and build a future where economic empowerment and equity are attainable for all. We have a chance to cast a new dream for our nation.”
Charity Dean, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Michigan Black Business Alliance, emphasizes, “In America, we like to think of we’re voting for one person, but what we’re doing is voting for a team, right? It’s a team of people that will either make our lives better or they make our lives worse. The team of people that all bought into Project 2025 or a team of people that reject it wholeheartedly. And so that’s what we’re voting for. And I think with, Biden stepping down, he’s putting a team above himself, which is huge and, frankly, admirable. But we cannot act like VP Harris has not been a part of that team. She’s been a part of the team that’s done tremendous work specifically for black people, but for black businesses over the last three years. I think we have an amazing opportunity. I think we get, one day to be in shock and, just decide how we feel about it. But by Monday morning, we need to all get to work. We have an amazing opportunity. There were so many people complaining about the choices. Well, now we’ve got fresh choices. I think this is a great opportunity for black women to be able to have the first black woman president.”
Senator Sarah Anthony echoes this sentiment, stating, “Throughout his entire career, Joe Biden has always put this country first. He has led our country through its darkest times and I honor his service. Vice President Harris is the most qualified candidate to step forward and lead this nation. The Black vote has long been taken for granted by both political parties and now is our best chance to bring forward the issues that matter most to our community. Economic opportunity and prosperity, stronger educational outcomes for our children, and a fair and equitable criminal justice system are on the minds of so many Black Michiganders. Once again, Black women are being asked to save this country. I am hopeful that Kamala Harris can bring our issues to the forefront of this election and be a President for ALL Americans. I’m proud of my sorority sister and look forward to casting my vote for her at the DNC and in November.”
Congresswoman Brenda Lawrence firmly believes, “I am very proud of the legacy of Joe Biden. For me, there is no reason to celebrate him stepping down, but there is reason to celebrate the fact that we have someone ready and able and willing to step up and to run for the president of the United States of America and that’s our vice president, Harris. I am so excited about it. It is turning a page in history for America. I endorsed her when she was running for vice president. I saw her strength. I saw her potential and I saw her passion for this country and now it’s only greater and so I’m looking forward to working with her and fighting for this country and fighting for the votes to enable her to be the president of the United States and I am on the record. I endorse her.”
The story doesn’t end here. For Black Americans, the political landscape is more than a game of power; it’s a battle for recognition, respect, and rightful place in the fabric of this nation. As we look towards the future, the focus must remain on sustaining the momentum and pushing forward. This moment is pivotal, and the need for a leader who will carry the torch of justice and equality is more pressing than ever.
In this time of uncertainty, one truth remains clear: the Black community will continue to rise, to fight, and to demand the recognition and respect it deserves. The next chapter in this political journey must be written with the same determination and hope that has carried us this far. The torch has been passed, and the work continues.
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