October 6th marked the birthday of Fannie Lou Hamer, a civil rights legend whose legacy in voter mobilization continues to inspire generations. As one of the most pivotal figures in the fight for voting rights, Hamer courageously advocated for Black Americans to have their voices heard in the democratic process. Her famous declaration, "I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired," during the 1964 Democratic National Convention remains a rallying cry for justice and equality. Hamer's tireless work, including founding the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, set the stage for today’s Black women who drive voter engagement and reshape the political landscape.

Today, Black women like Stacey Abrams, LaTosha Brown, and Michelle Obama continue Hamer's legacy, each making significant strides in the fight for voter mobilization.

Stacey Abrams, the former Georgia gubernatorial candidate, has been a powerhouse in voter mobilization. After her narrow defeat in the 2018 Georgia governor's race, Abrams founded Fair Fight Action, a voting rights organization dedicated to combating voter suppression nationwide. Her efforts were widely credited with helping flip Georgia in the 2020 presidential election and securing two U.S. Senate seats in the state, a remarkable achievement that changed the balance of power in Washington.

Despite her groundbreaking work, Abrams faced another challenge in 2022 when she ran for governor again but was defeated by incumbent Governor Brian Kemp. While the loss disappointed her supporters, Abrams remains undeterred, continuing her commitment to fight voter suppression and build voter engagement infrastructure, especially in underserved communities. Her resilience highlights the ongoing struggle to create a more inclusive and equitable electoral process. Even in defeat, Abrams' influence has reshaped the political landscape, proving that the fight for voting rights is a long-term commitment, and Black women are at the forefront of that battle.

LaTosha Brown, co-founder of Black Voters Matter, takes a grassroots approach to empowering Black communities. She believes that change starts at the local level and works to provide Black voters with the resources and information they need to turn out for elections. Brown’s organization has been instrumental in expanding voter engagement, particularly in rural and Southern communities. Her efforts ensure that voters who have historically been disenfranchised are not forgotten. Brown's activism shows the importance of grassroots movements in challenging systemic barriers to voting.

Former First Lady Michelle Obama launched When We All Vote in 2018 to close the race and age gap in voting and to increase civic engagement. Obama’s initiative has successfully motivated young people and marginalized communities to exercise their right to vote. Her passion for voter education, registration, and turnout is part of her broader goal to make democracy accessible to everyone, especially for those who feel disconnected from the political process.

One of the most impactful collectives in recent years is Win With Black Women, a coalition founded by Jotaka Eaddy—business executive, social impact strategist, and investor. It began as a Zoom call in August 2020 with 90 Black women. The power of that first gathering, aimed at mobilizing Black women voters, sparked a movement that has since brought together over 44,000 Black women to raise awareness and funds for political causes.

In July 2024, this group held a historic Zoom call with 44,000 Black women, raising $1.5 million for Vice President Kamala Harris in just three hours. The movement, powered by the hashtag #WinWithBlackWomen, underscores Black women's political clout and financial power when they unite for a cause. It demonstrates that Black women not only shape elections with their votes but are also significant contributors to campaign fundraising and advocacy efforts.

Fannie Lou Hamer's legacy lives on through these modern-day leaders' unwavering efforts. Black women have long been the backbone of voter mobilization efforts, often working behind the scenes to organize, educate, and mobilize voters. From the grassroots movements led by LaTosha Brown to the strategic campaigning of Stacey Abrams and the national voter initiatives of Michelle Obama, Black women are driving the conversation about voting rights in America.

Their influence has transcended local elections and now plays a pivotal role on the national stage. As they continue to organize and inspire, Black women ensure that the democratic process works for everyone. 

Clay Cane is a SiriusXM radio host and the author of the New York Times bestseller The Grift: The Downward Spiral of Black Republicans From the Party of Lincoln to the Cult of Trump.