The Power of the Value Vote: A Reflection on Political Engagement Among People of Color #BeThe1st

In Toledo, where I grew up, the rallying cry of a local sports team advancing to the state tournament was a beacon of collective pride and unity. It was more than a game; it was a community coming together, celebrating shared achievements and fostering a united spirit. This sense of community vitality stands in stark contrast to the divisive debates surrounding our nation’s economic recovery today. At the heart of these debates is the question: how does America reclaim its role on the global stage and maintain its favored nation status, especially in the face of adversity?

As we contemplate the path forward, it’s clear that it requires dedication, difficult decisions, and, yes, a measure of hard work. However, some voices dissent, critiquing measures like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act as divisive. Yet, from my earliest memories in Toledo to my formative years, one truth has always held: we must support each other to foster community spirit, as my father would often say, with a ball in play for emphasis, “You have to help a friend to be a friend.”

Decades later, this philosophy came to life in Memphis, Tennessee, at the Marquita Bradshaw Democracy Sneaker Ball. The event was a vibrant testament to the collective efforts of diverse communities—Whites, Latinos, African Americans, Asians, and Native Americans—all united to support the historic candidacy of the first Person of Color to the U.S. Senate from Tennessee. Walking from the Lorraine Hotel to Beale Street, the air was electric with unity, reminiscent of the spirited gatherings during Freedom Summer, yet with a modern twist.

This unity is not confined to one location or event. Reflecting on a campaign in the 90s in Colorado, I remember mobilizing with partners to overturn a regressive ballot initiative. We were initially behind, yet through an inclusive and vigorous public education campaign, we secured a decisive victory. This effort drew on the strategic inclusiveness of the New Freedom Summer volunteers—youthful, passionate, and diverse, their work drew national attention and galvanized support.

Years later, revisiting Denver’s historic Five Points community, I spoke with residents whose spirits were as robust as those of any visiting politicians. They saw every economic advancement as a collective victory, a sentiment backed by Denver’s rich progressive history—from the Buffalo soldiers to early Hispanic settlers, to the activists fighting for women’s rights.

As Colorado’s electorate has evolved, so has its political landscape. The 2010 Census unveiled a transformation, significantly influenced by an increase in People of Color’s voter participation. This shift was evident when, during a wave year for the Tea Party, Colorado’s diverse electorate helped turn the tide towards progressive candidates.

Today, the 2020 Census says Denver’s population includes over 130,000 key voters of color, a testament to the tireless efforts of progressive leaders who continue to invest in these communities. Their optimism fosters opportunities for these leaders to showcase their talents and contributions, affirming my father’s wisdom: supporting a diverse team of leaders paves the way for collective success.

As we strive for higher voter registration rates and increased civic participation among People of Color, and as we push for fair enforcement of civil rights laws, we bolster the very foundations of our democracy. Progressive leaders understand that a victory for one is indeed a victory for all of America. This is how we move forward, this is how we bring freedom summer to democracy. #BeThe1st

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Kirk Clay leads Capitol View Advisors with a vision rooted deeply in our shared values, channeling our collective creativity and strategic insight to bridge communities with the essential information and resources they need to elevate and achieve their dreams.