Despite an unsavory Election Day outcome, I remain hopeful because I witnessed my mom and aunties extend themselves in new ways to protect democracy.
My mom surprised me most with her advocacy this cycle.
For one, she excitedly called me from Uganda on Thursday, October 24, 2024 to exclaim, “I just dropped off my absentee ballot at the American Embassy!” I’ve never heard my mom this excited about an election. This aligns with Black women’s early excitement and critical support raising $1.5 million in three hours following the announcement that Kamala Harris would be the Democratic nominee. And on Sunday, November 3, Win with Black Women did it again on a final Zoom before Election Day, and raised more than $3M! (It was amazing to witness!)
Additionally, my mom recently joined Instagram to better engage with me and my siblings and U.S. politics. However, if you know her, you know that she’s NOT tech savvy.
So, when I first saw a suspicious IG handle pop up with no images and HER name, I had to investigate. After a quick WhatsApp call, she confirmed it was her, so it was off to the races. Now, it’s not uncommon for me to receive a cheeky political meme at an ungodly hour or cute emojis like this:
after I told her I early voted too.
Change can be good.
My Auntie Flo in Minneapolis, MN has always been politically active. When I spoke with her last week, she had spent yet another busy weekend canvassing with Africans in the Diaspora for Harris-Walz to urge people to go to the polls. She told me the systems and strategies her group has in place when they canvass different neighborhoods to ensure everyone’s safety.
I hung up the phone and just smiled.
Other ways they’ve engaged this election cycle include:
Women of color for Harris Brunch 2024 MN Victory Sunday Sept 29 — Held by Representative Ilhan Omar and Lauren Underwood. This was to discuss the status of what we need to do and how to support the DFL Victory 2024 and all those who are running locally right up to Harris win.
DFL Victory 2024 – Reproductive Freedom Bus Tour, featuring Mrs. Gwen Waltz, Senator Amy Klobuchar, and many others. Held in Minnetonka, Minnesota on Friday, October 10, 2024. Discussed women’s freedom to choose what they do with their bodies and what needs to happen to achieve this across the nation.
We Go High and Faith in MN – African American Women —This was to discuss and ensure that Black women excel through our election efforts and our future. Held on October 12, 2024 in Woodbury, Minnesota.
My Auntie Namutebi in New Jersey has also always been active, and honestly, she should have her own show. She goes toe to toe with the best of the hosts and pundits, and will speak her mind until further notice. It was never a question if she’d vote. In fact, I received a text on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 that she completed early voting.
At the end of the day, three votes are three votes.
My mom and aunties’ efforts weren’t for naught. And neither were yours.
I remain encouraged that people who are unhappy with the results will continue to advocate and work toward change because that’s the only way it’s going to come.
Stay focused!
🚀**NEW** Pod Alert!🎙️✨Radical Acts Uncut launched on October 30!🚀
I’ve always been fascinated by how what seems like a setback can often become someone’s superpower. That’s why I’m thrilled to announce Radical Acts Uncut 🎙, a podcast that dives deep into the moments when entrepreneurs, experts, and creatives faced life’s unexpected tests—and found the faith and inner strength to rise above.
Hosted by me, Jacqueline Lara, Radical Acts Uncut uncovers the moves and mindset shifts that transform challenges into opportunities. These conversations are about resolve, bravery, and finding beauty in the mess. And the best part? Listeners are invited to share their own radical acts through the Radical Report! Radical Acts Uncut is produced by Glow Stream TV.
Subscribe on Apple, Spotify or wherever you stream your audio. Episodes drop on Wednesdays at 11 am ET. Follow on Instagram @RadicalActsUncut for behind-the-scenes content.
**Speaker Highlight** Last month, I spoke to American
Marketing Association members about crisis communications. It was fun to share tactical tips and a few case studies about helping organizations and principals navigate through storms. Given the times, you might want to bookmark my guide on creating a rapid response playbook for your organization.
I also enjoy speaking about building your brand through storytelling and how to find creative inspiration consistently, among other topics. Please reach out to inquire or book me for future speaking opportunities.
Before I go, here are some resources to keep you encouraged:
