Paramount’s Post

A compelling vision for revitalizing the Democratic party... "But in the long run, what can distinguish Democrats is that we could actually lay out a vision for a civic reforestation project—a vision for how civic life could be repopulated, for how social and institutional trust (and trustworthiness) could be rebuilt, and for how our nation’s cities, workplaces, and institutions could be better organized to invite more Americans to cocreate them (and, in turn, be better served by them)."

Three months ago, I packed up my belongings, left New York, and drove to Georgia. This wasn’t just a move; it was a call to action. Like most young people, being on the frontlines was nothing new—it’s where I thrive. Taking on the role of GA Campus Organizing Director at Harris for President was my way of holding the line for democracy, defending a future where our rights and freedoms are secure. When Kamala Harris stepped into the race, history shifted. I saw it in my little sister’s eyes and in the excitement of Black girls across the country who for the first time, saw themselves reflected in the possibility of the presidency. It was a moment that reminded us that our work matters, and brought back a sense of hope. But despite everything we accomplished on the campaign trail, and leaving it all on the field— we now face a reality of another Trump administration. His incoming administration, and their Project 2025 agenda is set to tear down civil rights, roll back protections for marginalized communities, and undo our gains in women’s rights, healthcare, and gun violence prevention. This agenda doesn’t just threaten our communities—it’s an all-out assault on our generation’s future and everything we’ve built. So what do we do now? As young people who have always been on the frontlines, we organize, we mobilize, we resist. Now is our time to lean into our networks, raise our voices, and build even stronger coalitions. This is a fight that will demand every ounce of our energy, strategy, and resolve. We must continue to hold the line, to safeguard what we’ve created, and to stand as an unwavering force against any attempt to drag us backward. This work is deeply personal and absolutely essential. The stakes have never been higher, but our collective commitment to justice and democracy must and will be stronger than any opposition. To my peers: keep organizing, keep protecting your communities, and keep your fucking foot on the gas, no matter how steep the road ahead may be. We can’t backdown. We’ve got to protect our future, because if not us, then who? There aren’t any saviors en route.

In surveying thousands of young people ages 13 to 25 and interviewing dozens more, most believe that voting is a fundamental civic responsibility, even in the moments where it feels like one vote makes little difference. Our newest report, Cultivating Care: How & Why Young People Participate in Civic Life, explores young people’s civic lives in the context of care—how they seek and gain knowledge, detangle complex identities from narrow labels, and engage in dialogue and action in ways that feel safe and productive. See some of our latest findings on young people and voting: https://buff.ly/3YLHWhO

Ready to have your voice heard? Join 100 Black Men for an amazing event, Real Men Vote: Does My Vote Matter? This town hall is all about YOU and why your vote counts. Don’t miss out on this powerful discussion – let's unite and make our voices heard! You must register to attend, so sign up here: https://lnkd.in/gXcxJD_u See you there! #RealMenVote #YourVoteMatters #Townhall #GetInvolved #phoenixaz #BlackHRSociety #HumanResources #HRProfessionals #blackprofessionals

We created our Voting for Black Futures Toolkit to help you drive immediate, impactful action this election. Aligned with our Eight Essential Outcomes for Black Child Development, the toolkit offers comprehensive strategies for voter education, registration, identification and mobilization. We encourage you to explore this resource and share it with your community to inspire action. Together, we can create meaningful change and foster thriving Black futures. Visit our Voting for Black Futures Toolkit to learn more about election voting for this year and beyond: https://bit.ly/3YlEXv7

Created with our village in mind we focused the voting toolkit state profiles on places where we have affiliates. If you don’t see your state this is a sign you need to contact us about starting one and/or becoming a member of NBCDI! However, the toolkit is helpful for anyone seeking general knowledge to create a voting plan. Download below ⬇️ #voting #votingplan #collectiveliberation #justice

#WeFightBack #BlackVotersMatter Pennsylvania, we are in these streets! At the heart of our movement is meeting people where they are. This means more than just showing up in Black communities at election time. It's about embedding ourselves in the daily lives of our communities, listening to their concerns and building trust through consistent presence. Help us continue our work: http://bit.ly/supportbvm The solutions will come from within these communities. By amplifying local voices, Black Voters Matter empowers community leaders to take action. This fosters collective action and power building. Meeting people where they are recognizes the power and worth of Black communities. It tears down barriers that have suppressed the Black vote. It's a blueprint for a truly representative democracy. #WeFightBack #BlackVotersMatter

🗣️ Calling all leaders and changemakers in Oakland! 🗳️ Did you know that District Attorneys, Judges, School Boards, and Housing Officials are all elected positions that directly shape the future of our neighborhoods? From justice to education to affordable housing, these decision-makers impact our lives every day. But here’s the thing—you have the power to influence these decisions with your vote. We will be attending the Building Opportunities for Self-Sufficiency (BOSS) “Hey Black Man: Tap In—Get Out and Vote” on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at The WERC in Oakland. This event will bring together Black men and community leaders to discuss how we can use our votes to create real, lasting change. The break down: ✔️ Key roles local elected officials play in our community ✔️ What’s on the ballot—judges, school boards, housing, and more ✔️ Actionable steps to get registered, informed, and ready to vote This isn’t just about politics—it’s about taking control of our future. 🗓️ Event Details: Date: Wednesday, October 2, 2024 Time: Doors open at 4:30 PM | Event 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Location: The WERC, 6955 Foothill Blvd. #275, Oakland, CA 🔗 RSVP Here: bit.ly/heyblackman Your vote is powerful. Let’s come together, show up, and make sure our voices are heard. When we vote, we win! #CommunityEmpowerment #GetOutAndVote #BlackMenLead #OaklandVotes #VoterEducation #ImpactTheVote

ICYMI - During a recent live discussion on October 3, hosted by Dr. David Marion of the Omega Network for Action, political strategist Terrance Woodbury shared insights from over 14,000 interviews with Black voters. He emphasized the importance of mobilizing not just legacy civil rights voters but also younger segments, particularly the aspirational activists among educated millennials, to enhance voter turnout. Woodbury introduced the concept of "vote power," highlighting that 30% of the Black electorate remains undecided or disengaged—an essential group in swing states like Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Georgia. He also noted that 20% of Black millennial men are considering voting for Donald Trump, pointing to a need for campaigns to address their frustrations and concerns with tangible solutions. Acknowledging the historical context of political violence against Black Americans is vital in connecting with voters' fears and aspirations. With Kamala Harris consolidating support among Black voters, especially Gen Z and women under 50, the potential for increased Democratic engagement is evident. However, understanding and addressing the complexities of Black voter demographics will be essential for success in the upcoming election. As Dr. Marion urged, "Get out and vote. Let’s go win November 5!" Engaging the Black electorate with authenticity will be key to shaping America's future.

We end our “Changes for Addy” display with a “Looking Back.” We hope you enjoy! More Addy content coming soon! ___ Looking Back: Changes in Society for African Americans after the Civil War By: Leah Jenkins, Assistant Researcher The end of the Civil War in 1865 marked the beginning of Reconstruction. The Federal Government introduced several constitutional amendments that extended rights to African Americans. The 13th Amendment (1865) outlawed slavery, the 14th Amendment (1868) extended citizenship to all born within the United States, and the 15th (1870) protected the voting rights of citizens regardless of race. The protections offered by the three amendments allowed African Americans to vote, acquire land and seek their employment. Despite federal protectionist laws, states reversed many accomplishments through state and local law. Introduced in 1877, Jim Crow law codified racial segregation. Intimidation, convoluted language, and segregation successfully barred African Americans from voting, assimilating into white spaces and legitimized racism. All “White spaces” appeared, and public works like water fountains, swimming pools, restaurants, schools and neighborhoods were segregated. “Separate but equal” was utilized in an attempt to justify segregation, but utilities supplied for African Americans were often inadequate and faulty. Survival under Jim Crow was different than enslavement. Those who challenged or were suspected of challenging Jim Crow were often met with physical violence or jail time. For nearly a century, Jim Crow dictated and dominated American society. Learn more today: https://lnkd.in/eZGMjTqy