OPINION: Why young Black voters should care about local elections

By Tymer Reynolds

JA Student Writer

In 2024, I cast my vote for the first time. It was a moment of pride, empowerment, and a realization of my role in shaping the future. I stood in line, ID in hand, ready to make my voice heard. That single action sparked something in me. I wanted more than just to vote; I wanted to see real change in my community.

Many young Black voters, like myself, may feel their voices are too small to make a difference. But every election, especially at the local level, plays a vital role in shaping the future of our communities. Local elections determine leadership and policies affecting our daily lives from the schools we attend to the quality of our roads, water systems, and economic opportunities.

Local elections, often referred to as municipal elections, determine leadership positions such as mayor, city council members, school board representatives, and other local officials. These elections influence how resources are allocated, which projects get funding, and how laws and policies are enforced. 

Right now, Jackson, Mississippi, is gearing up for its next municipal election. Residents will vote on issues like school funding, economic development, and solutions to the ongoing water crisis. These are not abstract concerns; they are everyday realities impacting families, businesses, and the overall quality of life in Jackson.

Despite the importance of local elections, voter turnout, especially among young people, remains low. Many young voters believe their vote won’t make a difference. However, history has shown elections can be decided by just a handful of votes. When young Black voters show up at the polls, they have the power to influence policies directly affecting their futures.

Dillon Palmer, a freshman at Hinds Community College, expressed the significance of voting, saying, “Voting makes a difference, and it gives people a chance to share their views and opinions on things happening around them.” His words highlight the core truth: elections are not just about choosing leaders; they’re about ensuring that our voices and concerns are heard.

Jayla Davis, a senior at Jackson State University, emphasized the role of youth in shaping change: “The youth should take voting seriously. Times are changing, and different things are impacting us every day.” Young people are inheriting a world shaped by decisions made today, making their engagement in the voting process crucial.

 One major challenge is the lack of education in the voting process. Many young people, especially first-time voters, may not know where to begin. Palmer admitted, “With me being a freshman in college, I wish I was more educated about the entire voting process.”

Fortunately, organizations like Mississippi Votes are dedicated to bridging this gap. Mississippi Votes is a youth-led organization empowering young people through voter education and advocacy. They offer programs like:

• Democracy in Action Fellowship – A 10-month program where high school students become voting ambassadors, engaging their peers in civic participation.

• One Girl, One Vote Fellowship – A program designed to empower young women in civic leadership and voting rights.

• Robert G. Clark Fellowship – Aimed at college students, this program focuses on community engagement and voting rights advocacy.

These programs not only educate young voters but also provide opportunities for them to be leaders in their communities.

Jada Barnes from Mississippi Votes stressed the importance of self-education, saying, “Think about everything that you have now, and someone wants to take that away from you. You could have all these things back if you voted.” Her words serve as a reminder that the rights and resources we enjoy today were fought for by past generations and maintaining them requires active participation in the democratic process.

For young Black voters, local elections hold particular significance. Decisions made at the city and county levels affect critical issues such as:

• Education – School board elections determine funding, curriculum choices, and policies impacting Black students. Investing in equitable education starts at the ballot box.

• Criminal Justice and Policing – Local officials oversee police departments, court systems, and criminal justice policies. Voting for leaders supporting fair policing and judicial reform is essential in the fight against systemic racism.

• Economic Development – Local policies determine job creation, small business support, and economic investment in communities of color. A thriving Black economy depends on electing officials prioritizing inclusive growth.

These issues are too important to ignore. By voting in local elections, young Black voters can shape policies fostering equality, opportunity, and justice.

The future of our communities is in our hands. Young Black voters have the ability to drive meaningful change, but that power is only realized when we show up. Whether it’s advocating for better schools, safer neighborhoods, or economic opportunities, the first step is casting a ballot. State Representative Justis Gibbs put it best: “Either vote and be a part of the change or be on the sidelines.”

The choice is ours. Will we stand by and let others decide our future, or will we take an active role in shaping it? The time to act is now. Let’s educate ourselves, encourage our peers, and make our voices heard starting with the next local election.