AMPLIFYING BLACK PERSPECTIVES EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Center for Policy Analysis and Research (CPAR) launched an original data collection project at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 53rd Annual Legislative Conference (ALC). We surveyed attendees about their top concerns heading into the 2024 election. Amplifying Black Perspectives is a report that shines a light on the underreported perspectives of Black Americans.
Key Findings The report identifies key issues and shared concerns for Black Americans that can help shape legislation on important topics. We found that Black Americans cared most about education and criminal justice, which were not focal points in many national campaigns. We also found that immigration and global affairs – prominent issues during the 2024 election cycle - were the lowest priorities for Black Americans. Over 85% of Black Americans surveyed were concerned about the spread of political misinformation and disinformation. Members of Congress can pass legislation that increases transparency and accuracy in campaign ads and other political media by targeting deliberately deceptive speech and the use of artificial intelligence and deepfakes. Southern respondents were highly concerned about state-level voter suppression laws that made it more difficult for them to vote. Members can champion voting rights legislation like the John Lewis Voting Rights Act to increase federal protections that affirm the right to vote for all Americans. Over 90% of Black Americans surveyed indicated that reproductive rights were a key issue for them. Black women are three times more likely to die from complications surrounding pregnancy and childbirth than white women. Members can continue to advocate for policies that support the full range of reproductive care for Black families. Three out of four respondents said climate change was a key issue for them. Millennials and Gen Z respondents were more enthusiastic about the issue than older respondents. Members can use their platforms to educate Black Americans about the impacts of climate change, connect with younger voters, and draft legislation to build climate resiliency in Black communities.