Check out our February Wrap Up!

Here's what we were up to in February [Black Voters Matter logo]( Friend, Welcome to our February Wrap-Up!  Last month, we celebrated #BlackHistoryMonth by honoring the incredible impact of Black individuals in the arts—a powerful force for activism and social change. From jazz melodies to spoken word poetry, Black artists have used their creativity to challenge stereotypes, demand justice, and amplify Black voices.  In this newsletter, we'll share highlights from February, including the latest news affecting our communities, national events, and more. We'll also keep you informed about our presence in various states, where every action makes a significant impact. Join us in celebrating Black excellence and building a more inclusive future.  Plus, get involved by volunteering with us! Sign up for our texting program to mobilize voters from home, regardless of upcoming elections in your state. Let's make a difference together! [SIGN UP FOR TEXTING TUESDAY](   Black Voters Matter's Impact CORE STATE SPOTLIGHT February was a month filled with impactful initiatives across multiple core states for Black Voters Matter!  In Michigan, our dedicated partner, the Detroit/Downriver A. Philip Randolph Institute Chapter, took to the streets and phones, urging citizens to exercise their right to vote leading up to the Presidential Election. Your vote shapes your future, and their efforts ensured that voices were heard loud and clear at Laborers Local 1191.  Meanwhile, in Texas, our team worked tirelessly to engage communities and honor local heroes. From hosting pop-up events at early voting sites in Houston to marching alongside residents to the polls in East Texas, we were committed to spreading awareness about the importance of voting. Our collaboration with organizations like HESP 6315 underscored our dedication to grassroots mobilization and community empowerment.  In Florida, Marie Rattigan, our Big Bend Regional Organizer, represented Black Voters Matter at the 30th anniversary of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated Days at the Capital in Tallahassee. Leading a workshop focused on voter turnout among ages 18-29, Marie highlighted our Take the Field campaign's efforts to engage students on crucial issues such as racism, mental health, and voter suppression.   BVM UPDATE In January, Black Voters Matter (BVM) kicked off the year with a powerful three-day South Carolina Convening, marking the launch of our "We Fight Back" Campaign. With South Carolina's pivotal role in the Democratic primary, this event emphasized the importance of Black voters in shaping the 2024 elections.  Throughout the Convening, we engaged in Gen Z trainings, political discussions, community canvassing, and a vital voting rights town hall. Key takeaways centered on advancing the Black agenda, amplifying the voices of young voters, and confronting systemic barriers to electoral participation.  As we stand against voter suppression tactics, our campaign is a rallying cry for empowerment, unity, and action within the Black community. Together, we're ensuring that Black voices resonate loudly in the 2024 elections and beyond.  Don't forget to watch our "We Fight Back 2024" playlist on YouTube to catch a recap of our inspiring convening! Stay tuned for more updates on our ongoing initiatives and milestones! ["We Fight Back" Playlist](   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!   Black History Month This Black History Month, we've been basking in the beauty of the arts! From soul-stirring music to visual wonders telling tales of triumph, it's all about celebrating the incredible diversity and impact of Black artists.  Dive into their creativity with us! - Discover Jacob Lawrence's Great Migration Series, telling the story of African Americans moving from the South to the North. His art brings history to life in a powerful way. - Discover the incredible art of Glenn Ligon, where he explores race, LGBTQIA+ identity, and artistic expression. His work sparks important conversations about who we are and the world we live in. - Explore the impactful art of Elizabeth Catlett, whose sculptures and prints vividly capture the challenges and victories of the Civil Rights movement. Through her work, Catlett's legacy continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.   World Day of Social Justice On the global stage of social justice, Black Voters Matter stands firm in its commitment to empowering marginalized Black communities. Learn about our core beliefs, emphasizing year-round civic engagement and recognizing the pivotal role of Black women in our mission. Justice, equity, and empowerment for all are at the forefront of our advocacy.   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. - [Florida Supreme Court rejects changes to congressional maps for 2024 election]( - [Black Voters Matter goes to Alabama for 59th Bloody Sunday AnniversaryÂ]( - [Freddie Gray’s Life Ignited a Movement for Black Food Sovereignty]( - [Man convicted in federal hate crime trial for killing Black transgender woman]( - [Health Care Workers Are Speaking Up About the Racism in Facilities NationwideÂ]( SUPPORT BLACK VOTERS MATTER TODAY! Join us in supporting Black Voters Matter today! Your donation fuels 365 days of impactful programming and advocacy for our communities. Together, we're not just history—we're present and the future. Join the fight, because WE FIGHT BACK! [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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