Leaders Igniting Transformation

Once again, youth voters showed up to make their voices heard in what many called the most consequential election this year: Wisconsin’s Supreme Court race. This was a critical election for our state; the Supreme Court will preside over cases related to elections and voting rights, abortion rights, fair mapping and more — issues that are top of mind for our state’s young people. The fall of Roe meant the revival of a draconian abortion ban from 1849 here in Wisconsin. Wisconsinites are being forced to abide by a law that was passed 16 years before slavery was abolished nationwide and more than 7 decades before the right to vote was extended to women. Given the results of Tuesday's election, we’re hopeful the court will overturn this arcane law. Voting rights are also on the line. We have already seen this current court rule in favor of efforts that suppress our right to vote, banning the use of ballot drop boxes across the state. Limiting access to ballot drop boxes is more likely to impact young voters, especially if they are Black or Brown or have disabilities. Our hope is that the Supreme Court will strike down any further efforts to limit free and fair elections. Additionally, how voting districts are drawn determines how much public funds the state will distribute for community resources, such as hospitals, schools and other necessary services. The courts must protect election integrity by not allowing politicians or political operatives to redraw the map for their own political gain. Wisconsinites deserve a Supreme Court that will protect fair mapping, free and fair elections, and individuals’ right to have autonomy over their own bodies. We’re proud to say that Leaders Igniting Transformation members and young Black and Brown voters across the state came out to make their voices heard in this election. Young people have a voice in this fight and we will not be silenced. We will continue to build independent Black and Brown political power in our communities to show up in their democracy. We know from experience that creating sustained political power requires building a strong foundation of civically active young people. This election was decisive. Millions of dollars were poured into the race, making it the most expensive Supreme Court race in U.S. history. We showed up, set new turnout records and protected our right to decide the direction of our state. LIT will continue to mobilize and uplift the voices of Black and Brown youth in Wisconsin, keep showing up to vote, and consistently stand up for the issues we are passionate about. We will work across Wisconsin to ensure our communities understand that their voices deserve to be heard, and we will continue to advocate for an equitable future. Elections are a powerful ingredient in creating a strong democracy — not the whole recipe. Now we will focus on holding elected officials accountable for representing and advancing our interests. Join us!