Check out our April Wrap Up!

Here's what we were up to in April [Black Voters Matter logo]( Friend, Welcome to our April Recap Newsletter!   This month, we're celebrating Earth Month, a time when people around the world unite to protect our planet and address environmental issues. It's a reminder that while we work to safeguard the environment, we must also confront the reality that not everyone is affected equally.  Communities of color, including Black communities, often bear the brunt of pollution and environmental damage. So, as we advocate for a healthier planet, it's crucial to ensure fairness and equality for all.  This newsletter will highlight April's events, news, and our efforts across different states, where every action matters. We made sure this Earth Month was a time not only for environmental protection but also for fighting for justice.   Black Voters Matter's Impact THE BIG PAYBACK TOUR Our TSU Takeover Tour was a huge success in shining a light on the $2.1 billion underfunding issue at Tennessee State University. We traveled to UT Knoxville, UT Chattanooga, TSU, and U of Memphis, talking to students and communities to raise awareness about this pressing problem.  As we kicked off the TSU Takeover with the Big Payback: TSU 2.1 Billion Campaign tour, we saw incredible support from students, alumni, and community members. We're all coming together to demand fairness and transparency at TSU.  HBCUs like TSU are struggling because they don't have enough funding or resources. We won't stay silent about it. By talking about the $17 billion owed to HBCUs and pushing lawmakers to take action, we're standing up for our schools and the students who depend on them.  Take action now! Sign the petition and demand funding for TSU. Let's ensure our voices are heard and our schools receive the support they deserve. [Sign the Petition](   THE BLOCK IS HOT 3.0 TOUR We've just wrapped up the first leg of our Block is Hot Tour! Teaming up with Kendall Rae's Green Heart and other coalition partners, we hit the road to bring environmental justice to communities across Georgia.  Our tour featured Kendall Rae, the youngest certified farmer in GA at just 8 years old, leading sustainability training at each stop. From FVSU to Atlanta, we tackled pressing issues like energy burden, water pollution, and utility justice, empowering local communities every step of the way.  The Block Is Hot Environmental Justice Tour is not just about spreading awareness; it's about taking action and creating real change in marginalized, predominantly Black communities. By addressing environmental issues head-on and providing tools for sustainable living, we're increasing power and resilience in the communities that need it most.   'SICK & TIRED' COMMUNITY POP-UP TOUR In April, we relaunched our [Sick and Tired campaign]( with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, spotlighting the 10 states that have rejected Medicaid expansion, affecting over two million Americans. Our tour focused on Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee, where access to Medicaid remains limited.  Research shows expanding Medicaid could decrease uninsured rates for Black adults by 40% and for young people aged 19 to 24 by 30%. Despite this, leaders have resisted expansion, exacerbating healthcare disparities.  During our tour, we dived into the harsh realities of racial health inequities, especially impacting Black communities. Despite the hurdles our communities face, there was a beautiful display of resilience. We came together for meaningful discussions, got a sneak peek of 'In Dues Season,' and joyously celebrated health and wellness at an uplifting community fair.   'WE FIGHT BACK' IN PENNSLYVANIA We held a Get out the Vote tour across Pennsylvania, where we hit the road to educate voters about the April 23rd Primary Election. This year, it's crucial that we fight back and ensure our voices are heard. Black voters, the backbone of our democracy, have always championed freedom, justice, and equality.  Throughout Southeastern, Central, and Western PA, we hosted a series of events aimed at empowering our communities and highlighting the importance of political engagement. From resource festivals to community pop-ups, we worked alongside local partners to amplify our message and mobilize voters.  As we move forward, we're committed to putting forth a Black agenda that addresses the issues affecting our communities most. Our votes are powerful, and they can be decisive, even when we're not the majority.   BVM UPDATE This month, we hosted two impactful live discussions to address pressing issues and empower our community.  First, our policy team led "WTF: Higher Education Under Siege," delving into the alarming rise of DEI bans and the infiltration of white supremacy in higher education. We explored how these bans disproportionately impact marginalized communities on campus, perpetuating systemic inequalities.  Second, our volunteer team held "Volunteering = Black Power" in honor of Global Volunteer Month. We discussed how volunteering is a powerful form of activism, highlighting its role in effecting change and spreading love in our communities. By joining our mission, individuals can gain the tools and support needed to make a difference.  Missed the discussions? Watch the recordings to learn more and get inspired to take action. [Watch WTF Discussion]( [Watch Volunteering = Black Power](   EMPOWERMENT HUB Welcome to our Empowerment Hub, your gateway to knowledge and action!  Here, you'll uncover educational treasures that resonate with our mission. Stay in tune with the pulse of Black communities through national news updates, celebrate significant milestones, and access valuable resources.  It's more than just information; it's our collective journey toward justice. Let's embark on this journey together, learn, grow, and create ripples of change!   Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month In April, during Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we highlighted the importance of supporting survivors and ensuring their right to vote safely.  The Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) plays a crucial role by protecting survivors' addresses, both from abusers and during voting. In a groundbreaking partnership, me too. International and Black Voters Matter have joined forces to address sexual violence and voter suppression, recognizing the intersectionality of these issues.  We're spreading awareness about ACP and voting rights in communities. Join us in building a safer, more equitable society for all survivors. [LEARN MORE](   Earth Day Earth Day serves as a vital reminder of the environmental injustices disproportionately burdening Black communities across the nation. This day prompts us to advocate for equitable policies addressing these challenges. By raising awareness and fostering change, we strive for a future where everyone, regardless of race, enjoys clean air, water, and land. We used Earth Day to amplify marginalized voices and advance environmental justice for all.   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. - [Supreme Court’s Blow to Right to Protest Is Another Attack on Black Political Power]( - [23 States Ask EPA to Halt Civil Rights Rules Regulating Pollution]( - [Lawmaker proposes bill banning DEI in medical schools, risking progress on Black maternal health]( - [Why food deserts are prevalent in Black communities and what we can do to help]( - [Southern groups mobilize to empower voters, democracy]( SUPPORT BLACK VOTERS MATTER TODAY! In April, Black Voters Matter continued its mission of fighting for justice and equality. As we navigate through this crucial year, your support enables us to stay actively engaged in the fight.  Every donation helps us sustain our efforts and amplify our impact. Join us in building a future where every voice is heard and every community thrives. Donate to Black Voters Matter today. [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](. 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