A new tour led by prominent Democratic figures aims to mobilize Black communities across the country, emphasizing local engagement as a means of effecting change.
“This isn’t just about leadership in Washington, D.C.,” a Democratic leader stated during the tour’s kickoff in Atlanta, referencing the grassroots power of the people in saving the country.
The tour, which features stops in cities significant to the Black experience, began in Atlanta, known as the cradle of the civil rights movement, a fitting backdrop for a renewed call to civic engagement.
Angela Rye, an organizer of the tour and former executive director and general counsel to the Congressional Black Caucus, reflected on Atlanta’s history.
“Atlanta was one of the cities that was voted on, and it was only right to show deference to everything that has happened here that we start here,” she commented.
Highlighting the legacy of civil rights leader John Lewis, who once held the seat of current Democratic leader Nikema Williams, Williams urged attendees to embrace activism.
“I serve in the seat that was once held by the late John Lewis, so it is imperative that we all understand our obligation to get into good trouble,” Williams remarked, emphasizing the need for continued struggle and activism.
The aim of the tour goes beyond politics, seeking to help Black communities heal after a spirited effort to elect the first Black woman to the presidency in the upcoming 2024 election.
According to the Associated Press, over 80% of Black voters supported Kamala Harris in the last election—significantly higher than the support from white and Latino voters.
However, following Donald Trump’s victory, many in the community expressed feelings of betrayal and disillusionment.
Political commentator Joy-Ann Reid noted, “This feeling of abandonment by our allies has caused this incredible fall off in Black civic engagement and feeling of empowerment in 2024,” during her remarks in Atlanta.
Each stop on the tour includes community service, civic engagement workshops, and rallies to remind Black voters of their power and importance in the electoral process.
Reid emphasized the necessity for ongoing engagement, stating, “Black America has always been the conscience of this country, and we cannot let that conscience fall silent.”
Cliff Albright, executive director of Black Voters Matter Fund, echoed the sentiments of urgency for change.
“We deserve rest,” he said, “But all the while, we are strategizing. We are planning. We are training. That’s what this is all about.”
Decatur resident Deana Ervin, who participated in the rally, expressed her disbelief over the 2024 presidential election results and frustration towards the Trump administration.
“Things at the federal level are run by billionaires and oligarchs who don’t care about us,” she expressed, advocating for change at the local level.
Looking ahead to next year’s midterms, Ervin is passionate about mobilizing her community.
“I want to be first in line,” she said, expressing determination to drive her neighbors to the polls if necessary.
The organizers have chosen each city for its historical and political significance, with additional stops planned in locations including Durham, North Carolina; Birmingham, Alabama; Newark, New Jersey; and Los Angeles.
In closing the event, Williams reminded everyone, “Our struggle is a struggle of a lifetime, and we have to keep giving the power back to the people. This is our civil rights movement.”
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