Voters showed us how important healthcare is to them. Moving backward to when the value of one’s life was measured by the depth of her/his bank account is unacceptable. Although no Federal office-holder was elected, the balance in several state legislatures was tipped in favor of Medicaid expansion. A Maine referendum overwhelmingly affirmed Medicaid expansion for its citizens.
As a woman, I’m pleased that women received recognition for 2017 election success. My greatest disappointment is the apparent lack of appreciation of the Black and Latino vote, especially women! Although media sources noted that over 80 percent of Black voters voted for Democratic candidates and Black women voted at our usual and reliable 90 percent+, I’m still waiting to hear more leaders issue a special, yet simple, Thank You to Black people, especially Black women, and Latinas.
When women of color vote, we know how to vote. We honor the sacrifices of our ancestors when we vote, but we’re past being overlooked because we vote for our HERSTORY and self-interest. Leaders must ask how different this election would’ve been without us. Rather than attempting to reclaim voters who reject the message of fairness and equity for all, my Party should focus on initiatives that get more of us out to vote – more resources for Black and Latino GOTV advertising.
Congratulations Black people, especially Black women. I’m proud of the Black women who voted, those who ran for office, those who won against great odds, as well as the Black women who taught us one vote does make a difference like my Mom did. Happy 95TH birthday today Mother! We’ll keep on keeping on. Maybe the Party that enjoys our loyalty will someday appreciate the victories we provide for God’s people.
(Dr. E. Faye Williams is president of the National Congress of Black Women. www.nationalcongressbw.org. 202/678-6788.)
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