Check out our March Wrap Up!

Here's what we were up to in March [Black Voters Matter logo]( Friend, Welcome to our March Wrap-Up!  This month, we celebrated National Reading Month and Women’s History Month by honoring the impactful voices of Black women authors who have shaped literature and social progress. From the captivating storytelling of Octavia Butler to the bold truths shared by bell hooks, these writers have entertained and enlightened generations.  But there has been a troubling rise in censorship targeting books that challenge the norm. Works by authors of color, LGBTQ+ authors, and women are increasingly under attack, highlighting the urgent need to defend the freedom to read.  In this newsletter, we'll share highlights from March, including community news and national events. We'll also update you on our efforts in various states, where every action makes a difference.   Black Voters Matter's Impact Core State Spotlight Join us in celebrating our recent accomplishments, including our impactful Super Tuesday organizing across Alabama, North Carolina, Florida, and Texas, where we championed the #WeFightBack movement, ensuring every voice is heard through voter education, community events, and even free food initiatives. Your support and dedication are the driving force behind these efforts, making it possible for us to engage and empower Black voters.  But our commitment doesn't stop there. As we navigate this critical election year, our team remains steadfast in our dedication to Black voter engagement year-round. From the vibrant communities of Louisiana to the heart of Georgia, and everywhere in between, we're spreading awareness and encouraging participation through various initiatives and collaborations with local partners. Together, we're not just making a difference during election seasons; we're laying the foundation for lasting change and representation. Your continued support is vital as we work towards a future where every Black voice is not only heard but actively represented.  To continue our vital work, we rely on the generosity of supporters like you. Your donation, no matter the size, helps us sustain our efforts and expand our reach. Join us in our mission for representation and justice by contributing today. [DONATE](   BVM Update In early March, Black Voters Matter returned to Alabama to commemorate the 59th anniversary of Bloody Sunday amid mounting efforts to roll back voting and civil rights nationwide. Through our 'We Fight Back' campaign, BVM partnered with grassroots organizations, activists, and youth to mobilize Black voters against these threats.  Black communities continue to lead movements for social justice, emphasizing the importance of passing critical voting rights legislation like the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act. Alongside events at the Selma Jubilee, BVM conducted issue-based canvassing on vital topics including medicaid expansion, gun violence, storm recovery, housing, and utility bills, we're grateful to local and national partners and dedicated Take the Field students for their support.   EMPOWERMENT HUB Step into our Empowerment Hub, where knowledge meets action!  Dive into educational gems aligned with our mission, stay updated on the heartbeat of Black communities with national news, celebrate special moments, grab useful resources, and feel the power in our calls to action. It's not just info; it's our shared journey towards justice. Let's learn, grow, and make waves together!   Women’s History Month & National Reading Month During Women’s History Month and National Reading Month, explore impactful narratives of Black women authors shaping literature and social discourse, offering insights into combating bias and discrimination.  Here are three US Black women authors advocating for their elimination: - bell hooks: Renowned for intersectional feminist perspectives, bell hooks extensively addresses race, gender, and class oppression, emphasizing the need to dismantle systems of oppression. Notable works include "Ain't I a Woman?", "Feminism is for Everybody," and "Teaching to Transgress." - Audre Lorde: A prominent poet, essayist, and civil rights activist, Lorde focused on race, gender, sexuality, and social justice, advocating for marginalized communities' empowerment and confronting biases and discrimination. Notable works include "Sister Outsider," "The Cancer Journals," and "Zami." - Toni Morrison: Morrison's work focuses on the African American experience and history, addressing bias, discrimination, and the struggle for equality. Through novels like "Beloved," "The Bluest Eye," and "Song of Solomon," she highlights systemic racism's impact and the importance of confronting oppressive structures.   International Women's Day This International Women's Day, we celebrate the remarkable leadership of Black women. At Black Voters Matter, we recognize their pivotal role in driving social change and empowering communities. Investing in their talent and commitment is essential for a more just and equitable future. Join us in honoring Black women and their vital contributions to our collective progress.   World Water Day March 22nd was World Water Day where we spotlighted a critical issue: access to clean water for Black communities in America. While water is a fundamental human right, many Black communities across the nation face systemic barriers to clean and safe water. From polluted water sources to aging infrastructure, these challenges disproportionately impact Black neighborhoods, contributing to health disparities and environmental injustices. Let's unite to champion equitable access to clean water for all, tackling systemic disparities and paving the way for a healthier, fairer future.   Celebrate Global Volunteer Month in April with Black Voters Matter!  Join us in recognizing our dedicated volunteers and their pivotal role in advancing civic engagement and empowerment in Black communities. Ready to make a difference? Attend our volunteer orientation to learn more about our mission and how you can get involved.  Mark your calendars for April 9th and 23rd at 5pm ET. Let's build power together! [SIGN UP NOW](   This summer, nearly 21 million kids are missing out on extra food help because some GOP states turned down federal money. Despite this, resources like the USDA Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder and Food and Nutrition Service State programs are stepping up to help.  The USDA Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder helps families find places where children can get meals during the summer. This ensures that no child has to go hungry when school's out. You can use this tool to locate meal distribution sites near you.  Additionally, the Food and Nutrition Service State resources offer specific programs and help for families in each state. This can be really useful if you need extra support. Even though some states aren't participating in a new program to help families, we believe that every child should have access to good food. These resources can help bridge the gap for families who might be struggling.  Check out the links below to learn more: [USDA SUMMER MEALS FOR KIDS]( [FOOD AND NUTRITION SERVICE STATE RESOURCES](   National News Impacting Black Communities Stay informed about what's happening in Black communities nationwide! We're here to keep you updated on both the challenges and victories affecting us, whether they make the top headlines or not. Dive into articles covering critical issues and learn about the efforts of our partners and organization as we fight for our communities. - [Racial Justice Should Include Survivors of Sexual Violence]( - [The Fight to Protect One of America’s Last Historic Black Communities]( - [Rural America Has an Eviction Crisis, Too]( - [Black Voters Matter Responds to President Biden's State of the Union]( - [Black Voters Matter Responds to Secretary Fudge's HUD Resignation]( SUPPORT BLACK VOTERS MATTER TODAY! At Black Voters Matter, our mission is vast and vital. We advocate for Voting Rights, Environmental Justice, Medicaid Expansion, and so much more. Your support fuels our ability to continue this important work.  Join us in making a difference. Your donation ensures that we can keep fighting for justice, equality, and empowerment in communities across the nation. Together, we can create lasting change. Donate now and be a part of our movement! [DONATE](   JOIN THE MOVEMENT [Support voter engagement and capacity-building through our 501c3]( [Support voter mobilization and political advocacy through our 501c4]( [Facebook]( [Instagram]( [Threads]( [TikTok]( [X (Twitter)]( [YouTube]( [Black Voters Matter logo]( Black Voters Matter Fund is dedicated to expanding Black voter engagement and increasing progressive power through movement-building and engagement. Working with grassroots organizations, specifically in key states in the South, BVMF seeks to increase voter registration and turnout, advocate for policies to expand voting rights/access, and help develop infrastructure where little or none exists to support a power-building movement that keeps Black voters and their issues at the forefront of our election process. For more information, please visit our [website](. Sent via [ActionNetwork.org](. To update your email address, change your name or address, or to stop receiving emails from Black Voters Matter Fund, please [click here](.