Popular Democracy In Action

As the dust settles, there is much to celebrate and many reasons to be hopeful.

While we saw the enduring, corrosive force of white supremacy and voter suppression, we also saw that people of all colors, faiths, ages and backgrounds came together in record numbers to deliver a sharp rebuke to Trumpism and to fight for a vision of our democracy where everyone has the freedom to thrive.

Perhaps the greatest victory was the turnout of our communities and allies. The transformational organizing from CPD affiliates like ACCE in California and TOP in Texas energized old and new voters alike to make their voices heard. A huge wave of empowered Black, Brown, women, young voters and their allies heading to the polls, inspired by the possibility of real change.

CPD affiliates also made a critical impact through various ballot initiatives, demonstrating that local engagement is key to enacting policies that will support our communities:

•	Organize Florida and New Florida Majority Action Fund, with a coalition of partners, restored voting rights for 1.5 million people with past felony charges. This is the largest expansion in voting access since the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
•	Good Jobs Now helped to pass eight voting measures to the Michigan Constitution, including automatic voter registration, same-day voter registration, and no-excuse absentee voting.
•	CASA worked to pass same-day voter registration in Maryland.
•	Step Up Louisiana passed an amendment to require the unanimous agreement of jurors, rather than just 10 of 12 jurors, to convict people charged with felonies. This amendment finally eliminates Jim Crow era laws in Louisiana’s constitution.
•	Arkansas Community Organization increased the minimum wage from $8.50 an hour to $9.25.
•	And PCUN turned out voters to uphold Oregon’s status as a sanctuary state, defeating attacks on immigrant communities.

Tuesday marked a turning point.

It's clear, now, that a united and diverse movement with women and people of color in the lead, can beat the forces of greed and hate.

In the face of a system that's too often rigged against working families and communities of color, in the face of constant attacks on our communities, the CPD Network is committed to organizing like never before to build the leadership and policies that truly represent the promise of our democracy.

There is serious work ahead. But we know we are stronger together. Join us!