Former President Donald Trump’s running mate Sen. J. D. Vance speaking with attendees at The People’s Convention at Huntington Place in Detroit, Michigan (Photo Credit: Gage Skidmore, Flickr).
By Dr. James S. Bridgeforth, M.Ed.
In a year plagued by unprecedented division and conflict, it is disheartening to witness presidential and vice-presidential candidates exploiting our nation’s fractures rather than seeking to heal them.
Since 2016, America has endured a gauntlet of challenges: the horrifying anti-Semitic march in Charlottesville, the tragic death of George Floyd, the devastating COVID-19 pandemic, the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade and the high-profile conviction of a former president.
Whether you lean left or right, these past eight years have been undeniably turbulent. What we need now, more than ever, is a leader who will unite us, not further tear us apart.
Yet, amid this turmoil, we see vice-presidential hopeful J.D. Vance championing a proposal that would further fracture our society—a plan to grant more voting power to parents while relegating “childless” Americans to second-class status. This proposal is not just problematic; it’s a blatant affront to our democratic ideals and a regression that undermines the progress we’ve made toward equality.
Historically, automatic voting rights have been a privilege reserved for white men. Now, under Vance’s vision, women—especially African American women—might face even further disenfranchisement. This is a deeply troubling notion, particularly when considering the already daunting disparities African American women face.
According to the American Public Health Association, Black women endure a maternal mortality rate nearly four times higher than that of white women. The CDC underscores that Black women are twice as likely to experience stillbirths compared to their white and Asian American counterparts.
In Vance’s America, women could be penalized merely for being unable to have children or for choosing not to have them. This is not merely a political issue; it’s a deeply personal one that affects lives in profound ways. Women, particularly Black women, should not have their right to vote compromised due to their personal choices. They should not be punished or marginalized for choosing to remain childfree, especially when their decisions are often shaped by health complications and systemic inequities.
It is 2024, and the notion that women should be relegated to traditional roles or have their contributions diminished based on their reproductive choices is both outdated and offensive.
Women—especially Black women—are leaders in every sector of society, from corporations to academia to political activism. To force them into subservient roles or to strip them of their voting rights is not only unconstitutional but also counterproductive to our progress as a nation.
As a Black man who has witnessed the sacrifices and strength of Black women firsthand, I cannot stand idly by while their rights are threatened. The contributions of Black women are foundational to the success and strength of our communities. Their voices are crucial in shaping our nation’s future, and their votes will ultimately decide the outcome of the 2024 election.
In a time when Black women are often unfairly targeted and undervalued, we must stand up for their rights and recognize their invaluable contributions. Their ability to lead, to vote, and to shape our society must be preserved and celebrated, not diminished by discriminatory policies.
It is imperative for our leaders to prioritize unity over division.
The need for a leader who can bridge the gaps in our society has never been greater. Instead of creating new divides, we need those in power to bring us together, to foster healing and to work towards a common future.
The essence of democracy lies in the inclusion of all voices, regardless of their personal choices or circumstances. We cannot allow policies that threaten to disenfranchise any group of citizens based on their reproductive decisions.
Every American, whether they are parents or not, should have an equal voice in our democracy. The health of our nation depends on the recognition of this fundamental principle.
Our leaders must rise to the occasion, not by promoting divisive policies but by embracing and valuing the diversity of experiences and perspectives that all Americans bring to the table. This is the path to true unity and progress. We must reject efforts that aim to pit one group against another and instead champion policies that uplift and include everyone.
The future of our nation is at stake.
Leaders who seek to create new barriers or reinforce old inequalities are not serving the best interests of our country. The path forward lies in acknowledging the inherent value of every citizen’s voice and ensuring that every individual has an equal opportunity to contribute to the democratic process.
As we approach the 2024 election, it is crucial to reflect on the kind of leadership we want for our country. We must demand leaders who are committed to healing our nation’s wounds, not exacerbating them.
This is a pivotal moment for America, and now more than ever, we must unite with unwavering resolve and declare, we are moving forward, and we will not turn back!
About the Author
Dr. James S. Bridgeforth is a passionate advocate for justice and equality whose academic journey reflects a profound commitment to these ideals. With a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Catawba College, Dr. Bridgeforth began his quest to understand and address systemic inequalities. He furthered his expertise with a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration from The University of Massachusetts-Amherst, followed by a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration and Institutional Research from The University of Southern Mississippi.
Beyond his impressive academic credentials, Dr. Bridgeforth is deeply involved in organizations dedicated to empowerment and community service, including Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and 100 Black Men of America. His columns provide insightful commentary on equal opportunity, social justice, economic equity, and higher education, driven by a sincere desire to amplify voices and champion the causes of those often marginalized.
Through his writing, Dr. Bridgeforth brings a blend of scholarly rigor and heartfelt advocacy, aiming to inspire change and foster a more just society for all.
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