In the aftermath of the presidential election, the analysis has begun in earnest. For supporters of progressive causes, this is a difficult time. Whether you’re feeling traumatized or energized, the inevitable question will emerge: “What now?’
A lot of smart, talented founders — those who have been in the game for years and some bright, energized up-and-comers — focused their efforts on voters of color, young voters, voters in urban areas, etc. As they piloted and scaled interesting ideas (early-morning voting parties, homecoming voter celebrations at historically black colleges and universities, concert sweepstakes), leading indicators showed impressive outputs. Predictions showed tens of thousands of votes would be moved in these areas, as many of these programs were beginning to gain traction.
As the executive director of a Black voter turnout organization, my team and I lived this reality. We championed a number of programs over the last two years, but our signature initiative was integrating with Black cultural events, like festivals and concerts, to meet young, Black........