Black women political activism/ Trump reelection impact/ Kamala Harris loss/ Black Lives Matter post-2024/ AP VoteCast Black women/ ATLANTA/ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Following Donald Trump’s reelection, many Black women are rethinking their role as the backbone of U.S. political organizing. While 92% supported Kamala Harris, concerns about the country’s direction and mental health have led to calls for prioritizing self-care over relentless advocacy. Historically pivotal in social movements, Black women now debate whether to scale back their efforts as Trump prepares to return to office.
Black Women and Post-Election Politics: Quick Looks
- Election Aftermath: Black women supported Harris overwhelmingly but are disheartened by Trump’s reelection.
- Shifting Focus: Many are emphasizing rest, mental health, and selective engagement in activism.
- Historic Role: Black women have long led pivotal movements, from suffrage to Black Lives Matter.
- Concerns Persist: Economic issues, democracy, and racism remain top priorities for Black female voters.
- Future Advocacy: Some warn that stepping back could leave vulnerable communities without support.
Trump’s Win Sparks a Shift in Political Engagement Among Black Women
Deep Look
Black women, historically the backbone of social and political movements, are rethinking their role after Donald Trump’s return to the presidency. While their overwhelming support for Kamala Harris in the 2024 election was clear, many feel disillusioned by the outcome and are questioning their dedication to a country that often neglects their concerns.
Disillusionment and Self-Preservation
Teja Smith, a Los Angeles-based advocate, encapsulated the sentiment:
“It’s like the people have spoken, and this is what America looks like. … There’s not too much more fighting you’re going to be able to do without losing your sanity.”
This perspective reflects a broader shift among Black women, who are increasingly focusing on self-care and mental health rather than taking on the burdens of organizing and advocating for systemic change.
The Data Speaks
AP VoteCast revealed the unique concerns of Black women in the 2024 election:
- Democracy at Risk: 6 in 10 Black women identified democracy’s future as their top voting issue, more than any other demographic group.
- Concerns About Trump: Over 70% were “very concerned” about Trump leading the U.S. toward authoritarianism.
- Priorities: One-third cited the economy as the country’s most pressing issue, followed by racism and abortion rights.
Despite these concerns, Trump’s growing support among young men of color and white women helped secure his victory.
A History of Leadership
Black women have been central to transformative social movements:
- Suffrage: Advocated for women’s voting rights despite systemic barriers under Jim Crow laws.
- Civil Rights: Organized and marched during pivotal moments like Selma’s Edmund Pettus Bridge protests.
- Black Lives Matter: Led the fight against police violence and systemic racism in the modern era.
However, this legacy has come at a cost, often leaving Black women overburdened and underappreciated.
LaTosha Brown, co-founder of Black Voters Matter, said:
“I have no goals to be a martyr for a nation that cares nothing about me.”
The Debate Over Stepping Back
The idea of Black women stepping back has sparked debate:
- For Self-Preservation: Advocates argue that prioritizing rest and mental health is necessary after decades of exhausting labor.
- Against Withdrawal: Critics warn that retreating from activism could leave marginalized communities without vital support.
Nicole Lewis, a therapist specializing in Black women’s stress, acknowledged the potential fallout but also saw it as an opportunity:
“It could impact things negatively … but I also think it’s going to give other groups an opportunity to step up.”
Economic Realities Shape Choices
Atlanta mother Tenita Taylor said:
“I’m a mother of five kids. … The things that (Democrats) do either affect the rich or the poor.”
This sentiment highlights the intersection of economic survival and political loyalty, especially as inflation and high costs weigh on families.
The Path Forward
Black women are not abandoning activism entirely but are rethinking their strategies. Olivia Gordon, a lawyer in New York, emphasized the importance of staying engaged:
“If millions of Black women take a step back, it absolutely leaves holes for other Black women.”
LaTosha Brown, however, sees the current moment as a reckoning for others:
“This ain’t our reckoning. I don’t feel no guilt.”
Outlook
As Trump’s administration begins, Black women are at a crossroads. While they have historically been the North Star of social justice movements, many are prioritizing self-preservation over the relentless demands of advocacy. The coming years will test whether others rise to fill the void or if Black women, once again, feel compelled to lead the charge.
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