It’s no secret that voter suppression is a real issue in the United States. In fact, it’s been going on for centuries. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize just how widespread this problem is. In this blog post, we will discuss the reality of voter suppression and why African American voting is at an all-time low. We will also outline some of the steps that need to be taken to make voting more accessible for everyone!
Why African Americans Don’t Vote
The Importance of Voting
Voting is a fundamental right that all citizens should exercise. Voting is important because it allows everyone to have a say in how their government is run. It is also a way to ensure that all voices are heard and that everyone has an equal say in the democratic process.
Voting allows people to hold their government accountable for its actions and when the government is run being run in unfavorable ways, the ability to vote can change that. Leaders who are elected by the people are more likely to represent the people’s interests and be more responsive to their needs.
Presidential Campaigns vs. State-Level Campaigns
It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of presidential campaigns. The media coverage is constant and it’s hard to avoid seeing the campaign ads, no matter how much you might want to. However, it’s important to remember that state level campaigns are just as important as presidential campaigns, if not more so. The president may set the tone for the country, but it’s the state legislators who pass laws that directly affect your life. That’s why it’s so important to pay attention to state level campaigns and make sure you exercise your right to vote. After all, your vote is your voice and it should be heard loud and clear.
4 of The Most Common Reasons African Americans Don’t Vote
No. 1: They do not believe voting will change anything.
African Americans have a long history of being denied the right to vote. Even after the 15th amendment was passed, Jim Crow laws and other forms of voter suppression kept many black Americans from the polls. As a result, many African Americans today feel that their vote won’t make a difference. However, this is simply not true. Every vote is important, and every election has the potential to bring about change. In recent years, we’ve seen unprecedented changes in our country, and it’s all thanks to the power of the vote. African Americans have the power to shape the future of our country, but only if we exercise our right to vote. So let’s make our voices heard and show the world that we’re not going to be silenced anymore.
No. 2: They do not know how politics work.
It’s no secret that African Americans have long been underrepresented in the world of politics. In part, this is due to the fact that many African Americans are unaware of how politics work and how they can directly impact their lives. The public school system does very little to teach about politics, leaving many African Americans feeling intimidated and powerless. As a result, many African Americans choose to surrender their vote simply because they are unsure of the process and the impact it will make. However, it is important to remember that your vote and your voice matter. African Americans have the power to make their voices heard. By being informed and engaged in the political process, African Americans can ensure that their needs are being met and that their interests are represented.
No. 3: They lack the interest.
It’s no secret that African American voter turnout has been historically low. In the 2016 presidential election, only 59.6% of eligible black voters cast a ballot, compared to 65.3% of eligible white voters. There are a variety of reasons why this might be the case, but one thing is clear: in order to create lasting change, African Americans need to start voting again.
There are some who believe that voting is simply not worth the effort, that it won’t make a difference in the long run. But if everyone takes this attitude, then nothing will ever change. African Americans have always had to fight for their rights, and voting is one of the most important tools we have. It’s time to take back our power and make our voices heard. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but it starts with each and every one of us doing our part. If we want to see a different future for ourselves and our children, we need to start by showing up on Election Day.
No. 4: Voting is not equally accessible.
When it comes to voting, African Americans have historically been disenfranchised. From literacy tests and poll taxes to intimidation and violence, there have always been barriers preventing blacks from exercising their right to vote. Even today, there are still many impediments to voting for African Americans. One of the most significant is lack of access. Many blacks live in communities with limited or no public transportation, making it difficult to get to the polls on Election Day. Others may not have a valid ID or may not be able to take time off from work or school to vote. And then there are those who are homeless or disabled, which can make voting an impossibility. The fact is, for many African Americans, voting is simply not an option. And that’s a shame because every vote is important.
When you take into consideration the level of impact voting suppression has on the African American people, it should implore those of us who can vote to exercise our right all the more. Voting on the national and state level have lasting effect on the way we live our lives. So I encourage all African American people to take back their power and make their voices heard. Together, we can create a bright future for ourselves and for our children. So I have to ask– why do you vote?
Catch the recording of this above!
