Young Voters Welcome Carrying of Torch, Acknowledge Work To Be Done

August 6, 2025

Young Black voters, despite being new to the electoral process, recognize the significance of their participation amid increasing threats to voting rights. In interviews with Black News & Views, these voters expressed concerns about issues including food deserts, homelessness, and rising racism in America. While youth turnout among Black voters slightly decreased in the 2024 election compared to 2020, many feel a responsibility to continue their ancestors' legacy of civic engagement.

Who is affected

Young Black voters, particularly college students
Black women voters (who had 40% turnout in 2024)
Black men voters (who had 34% turnout in 2024)
Students at universities affected by voting restrictions (University of North Carolina, out-of-state students in Ohio)
Residents in communities with food deserts and housing insecurity
Black Americans concerned about racism and representation

What action is being taken

Organizations like Black Voters Matter are mobilizing Black communities to build political power
Black Girls Vote is encouraging Black women to vote while discussing policy implications
Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle is advocating for young voters in Baltimore
Young voters are educating themselves about candidates and the voting process
Some young voters are helping register others to vote
Voting advocacy groups are conducting outreach and education to demonstrate the impact of voting

Why it matters

The country is approaching the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act while facing efforts to roll back voting rights
Young Black voters represent the next generation to "step into the real world" and need representation
Black women are a loyal and influential voting bloc (92% voted for Harris in 2024)
Voting helps communities address material needs and display collective power
Past mobilization efforts have produced significant electoral outcomes (2017 Alabama Senate race, 2020 presidential election, Georgia Senate runoffs)
The current political climate includes anti-DEI and anti-Black history sentiments that many young Black voters feel they must oppose

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint