Yolanda Raine, Vice President of Marketing and Communications
Congressional Black Caucus Foundation
In the spirit of Black History Month and against the backdrop of a pivotal election year, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) proudly unveils “Voices of Change”, a month-long campaign designed to illuminate and honor the profound narratives of Black leaders, activists, and change makers who have indelibly shaped the landscape of activism and championed voting rights throughout history. “Voices of Change” seeks to inspire, educate, and engage audiences, fostering a deeper understanding of the rich legacy of Black leaders while encouraging conversations on the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.
At the heart of the “Voices of Change” campaign lies a celebration of resilience, vision, and unwavering commitment to activism and voting rights. By amplifying the powerful narratives of Black leaders and activists, the CBCF aims to showcase their monumental contributions to shaping history and inspiring a collective journey towards a more inclusive and empowered future.
Throughout the month of February, we will highlight the likes of:
- Shirley Chisholm was a trailblazer for African American women in politics. She was the first Black woman to run for President of the United States as a Democrat in 1972. Chisholm was also the first African American Congresswoman, serving seven consecutive terms representing the 12th district of New York from 1969-1983. She also co-founded the National Congress of Black Women in 1984 and was the author of two memoirs.
- Fannie Lou Hamer was an American civil rights, voting rights, and women’s rights activist. She was the co-founder and vice-chair of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, which she represented at the 1964 Democratic National Convention. She also founded the Freedom Farm Collective and co-founded the National Women’s Political Caucus.
- Former Congressman John Lewis a towering figure in the movement for equal voting rights, dedicating his life to the cause of justice and equality. As a key leader in the civil rights movement, Lewis played a pivotal role in organizing the historic March on Selma, where he courageously led marchers across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, facing violent opposition. His relentless advocacy and commitment to securing voting rights for all Americans left an indelible mark on the nation, earning him the moniker “the conscience of the Congress.
- Congressman Marc Veasey has been a steadfast advocate for equal voting rights, working tirelessly to eliminate barriers that disproportionately affect marginalized communities. As a champion of fair and accessible elections, he has actively supported legislation aimed at safeguarding the voting rights of all citizens, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and equal representation in the democratic process. Congressman Veasey’s commitment to ensuring a level playing field in the realm of voting rights underscores his dedication to advancing a more just and equitable democracy.
“Voices of Change” is not just a campaign; it’s a movement that honors the past, embraces the present, and shapes the future. It’s also a call to action. In the present day, advocating for Black voting rights is crucial to upholding the principles of democracy and fostering an inclusive society. By actively engaging in this advocacy, YOU can contribute to dismantling systemic barriers that persistently affect Black communities, ensuring that every citizen has an equal opportunity to participate in the democratic process. By amplifying the narratives of Black leaders, fostering conversations, and encouraging civic engagement, you can join in CBCF’s campaign to serve as a catalyst for positive change.
As we celebrate Black History Month, let us collectively contribute to the symphony of change and ignite our voices for a more just and equal society. Join us in the movement, use #VoicesOfChange on social media, and be a part of this transformative journey!