Shades of the Ballot: Unveiling the Voices of Women of Color

By Martin H. Troupe, Sr.

In the bustling heart of the digital world, a virtual roundtable convened, gathering minds and voices dedicated to understanding the pulse of the electorate. Hosted by Ethnic Medi Services, a beacon of diverse perspectives and inclusive discourse, the question at hand resonated through the digital ether: “How Will Women of Color Vote in November?”

Led by the latest Intersections of Our Lives Poll, released on May 9, 2024, the discussion sought to unravel the intricacies of the priorities and perspectives of women of color voters in this critical election year. AAPI, Black, and Latina/x women, formidable forces within the democratic fabric, had spoken through the survey, articulating their hopes, concerns, and aspirations for the upcoming election.

Sung Yeon Choimorrow, Regina Davis Moss, and Lupe M. Rodriguez, towering figures within their communities, lent their wisdom and insight to the conversation. Alongside them, the seasoned expertise of Celinda Lake and Roshni Nedungadi provided a multifaceted lens through which to interpret the poll’s revelations.

As the discussion unfolded, the findings of the survey painted a vivid picture of the priorities shaping the electoral landscape for women of color:

Voting emerged as an undeniable cornerstone of empowerment, with a resounding majority expressing its importance in driving the change they wished to see in the country.

Rising costs and economic concerns loomed large, encapsulating a myriad of issues vital to the well-being of women of color, from access to affordable healthcare and fair housing to closing the persistent pay gap.

Central to their concerns was the fervent support for full bodily autonomy and access to abortion care, echoing a collective desire for reproductive rights and gender equity.

Moreover, the poll underscored a profound yearning for racial equity and justice, with an overwhelming majority of women of color demanding tangible actions to address systemic racism and advance policies that have long been overdue.

Conducted by Lake Research Partners and HIT Strategies, the poll elucidated a crucial truth: women of color are not only high-potential voters but are driven by the impact of policies on their lives, a hunger for meaningful change, and a steadfast commitment to their values.

As the roundtable drew to a close, the discourse transcended mere analysis, transforming into a clarion call for action. Across the digital expanse, a unified message reverberated: policymakers and candidates must heed the voices of women of color, center their experiences, and champion policies that reflect their aspirations.

The November election loomed large—a pivotal moment where the voices and votes of women of color would resonate, shaping the trajectory of the nation and heralding a future where equity, justice, and empowerment reign supreme.

As the virtual room dispersed, the echoes of the discussion lingered, infusing the digital ether with the collective resolve of those committed to amplifying the voices of the marginalized and forging a path toward a more inclusive and equitable democracy.

For more information on the survey, visit the 2024 Intersections Poll