Hey John, it's Summer!
I'll be honest, I’m sorry I’m sending yet another email your way. I can almost hear the sigh as yet another notification pops up from my team and I. But a week into Black History Month and only 76 days until my next election, there are a few important things I need you to know and your support today means the world to me!
Your support today gives us the ability to continue to break barriers, challenge the status quo, and ensure that the halls of Congress echo with the voices of those who have been underrepresented for far too long.
Shattering Concrete Ceilings: I'm honored to be the first Black woman to ever represent Pennsylvania in Congress. But the truth is, although this is something to celebrate in my state, it's sobering to realize that in 29 other states, not a single Black woman has ever had this opportunity. We're working not just for Pennsylvania, but to inspire change across the entire country!
The Funding Disparity: It's tough to talk numbers, but here's the reality – Black women candidates typically raise **only a third** of what our white counterparts bring in. This isn't just an obstacle — it's a significant roadblock. This means we have less money for advertising, talking to voters, and everything else it takes to actually win a campaign. And that’s before you factor in the millions of dollars our Republican-funded opponents spend on attacking us with racist smears and baseless lies.
Representation in the House: Out of 435 seats, only 28 are held by Black women. That's not just a number; it's a reflection of the voices and perspectives that are missing from our national conversation. This disparity underscores the urgent need to support Black candidates like myself, who are committed to bringing diverse viewpoints and lived experiences to the forefront of policy-making.
We're only 76 days away from the election and it will be here before we know it! Now is the time we must mobilize, organize, and ensure that every voice is heard. The road ahead is tough, and the stakes couldn't be higher. But I believe in us, in our collective power to bring about real change.
I’m going to wrap this up by saying I’m sorry again! I'm sorry for the constant emails and the repeated asks. But this fight—the one for equality, representation, and justice—is too important to stay silent about. We're in this together, and every little bit of support brings us closer to a more inclusive and equitable world.
Thank you for everything. Truly. It means the world to me.
In solidarity and with heartfelt gratitude,
Summer Lee
