Episode 244: Black Voters Matter in the South
In an enlightening conversation on Sunday Civics, L. Joy brings Cliff Albright, co-founder and Executive Director of Black Voters Matter Fund, to the front of the class to explore the depths of Black civic engagement and the pivotal role it plays in shaping democracy, particularly in the South. Through their spirited dialogue, they delve into the history, challenges, and triumphs of mobilizing Black voters, underscoring the significance of understanding and leveraging political power within Black communities.
The dialogue between L. Joy and Cliff ventures into forward-looking discussions about the future of Black political power, particularly in the South. The conversation centers around the strategic significance of the South due to its high concentration of Black populations and the untapped electoral power that, if mobilized, could drastically alter the political landscape.
Albright shares an optimistic vision of Black communities gaining control over statewide governance through coalition-building and strategic partnerships with Latinx, Indigenous groups, and other allies. This is tied to an acknowledgement of the historical underinvestment in Black women, highlighting the need to balance the engagement with both Black men and women without forsaking the progress made or the unique challenges each group faces.
A crucial part of the discussion focuses on the diverse political ideologies within the Black community and the intricacies of engaging with these varying perspectives to build cohesive political power. By listening and affirming the experiences of individuals, regardless of their position on the electoral participation spectrum, Albright illustrates a nuanced approach to organizing — one that places the emphasis on people's hopes and aspirations rather than candidates or parties.
By fostering dialogue, building coalitions, and investing in grassroots movements, we can move closer to realizing a vision of the South — and indeed, the nation — where Black political power is not just acknowledged but celebrated for its pivotal role in the ongoing quest for justice and equity.
Cliff Albright's message is a compelling call to action, advocating for continuous engagement beyond election cycles as a means to cultivate and sustain Black voting power. Through the work of Black Voters Matter Fund, he underscores the necessity of independent political power and funding to support grassroots initiatives that resonate with community needs and aspirations.
Take Civic Action
Cliff Albright gave us a great lesson on building political power by truly meeting people where they are and deepening our relationships.
Check out: Black Voters Matter Fund
Check out: BVM Capacity Building Institute
See if Black Voters Matter is operating on the ground in your state. Join them or see how to bring them to your area.
Identify additional organizations that are working on civic engagement and capacity building in your area to lend your time, talent, and treasure.
Cliff Albright
Cliff Albright is a political economist, speaker, and activist. As the Co-founder and Executive Director of Black Voters Matter and Black Voters Matter Capacity Building Institute, Cliff discusses the importance of building power through voting and economic development. He has a deep understanding of how Black politics and Black economics are linked, and views these two strategies as complementary, rather than opposing forces.