In Mississippi, Black women make up 19% of the state population but only 8% of the state legislature.
Explore the data in your state. #NoDemocracyWithoutBlackWomen https://link.stateinnovation.org/NDWBW
The percentage of Black women in [STATE] is XX%
The percentage of Black women in the [STATE] legislature is XX%
A fair and equitable society will only be possible once Black women have seats at 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 table. #NoDemocracyWithoutBlackWomen https://link.stateinnovation.org/NDWBW
"As one of two Black women in our legislature, I face threats from people filled with racial hatred, I face erasure from my colleagues, and I face institutional racism." — @atticascott4ky https://link.stateinnovation.org/NDWBW
"Black women helped fuel change up and down the ballot during the 2020 Election; just imagine the transformational power ‘Black Girl Magic’ can have in city councils and state legislatures."
—@RepBeatty
#NoDemocracyWithoutBlackWomen https://link.stateinnovation.org/NDWBW
In the midst of a pandemic and economic recession that are having devastating consequences on Black women, the need for Black women to have decision-making power in the solutions to these crises has never been more apparent.
#NoDemocracyWithoutBlackWomen https://link.stateinnovation.org/NDWBW
There remain 8 states without a single Black woman in their legislature, despite the Black population in each state ranging from 2-6%: Vermont, South Dakota, Hawaii, Arizona, Idaho, Nebraska, Montana, and North Dakota.
This is not what democracy looks like. Black women representation matters if we want real change.
#NoDemocracyWithoutBlackWomen https://link.stateinnovation.org/NDWBW
It is crucial to have Black women serve in leadership positions within state legislatures. When we do, the potential is limitless.
Check out this Ms. Magazine article on why Black women need to have a seat in the legislature!
Our democracy needs to reflect the people that are keeping it alive!
Read 19th News to learn more about why Black women are still underrepresented in America’s statehouses.
As Black women continue to be at the epicenter of preserving democracy, where is their representation in state legislatures across the country?
Learn more about The Dual Consciousness of Democracy in The BGGuide and support Black voices in government.
Underrepresentation creates barriers where there should be a steady flow of ideas and policy from communities to the capitol.
Lasting progressive change must begin with removing the barriers of entry for Black women.
#NoDemocracyWithoutBlackWomen https://link.stateinnovation.org/NDWBW
Black women legislators need to be recognized for their leadership and their policy priorities should be given the attention they deserve.
#NoDemocracyWithoutBlackWomen https://link.stateinnovation.org/NDWBW
