John,

In 1972, Black leaders including Rev. Jesse Jackson organized the National Black Political Convention in Gary, Indiana with the goal of highlighting racial disparities and injustices that were not being addressed in the political mainstream. Another was held in 2012 on its 40th Anniversary again in Gary.

Based on the events of this year: the disproportionately negative effects of COVID-19 on Black Americans both physically and financially, the many incidences of police brutality against Black men and women, and the significant impact of systemic racism in healthcare, housing, education, and the criminal justice system, there is an immediate need to develop specific policies to correct these injustices.

Tonight, our partners at the Movement for Black Lives are hosting a new, virtual convention for 2020: The Black National Convention: Building Power and Policy in Defense of Black Lives. It is important for multi-racial, multi-generational progressive organizations to meet this moment and demand real change for Black Americans. DFA is honored to partner with the Movement for Black Lives on this convention, as we have been fighting for racial and social justice since our founding in 2004.

This convention is a multi-hour broadcast filled with celebration and education with the ultimate goal of ratifying a Black political agenda for an election in which Black voters will play a pivotal role.

Tune in to the live broadcast of the 2020 Black National Convention at 7pm ET / 4pm PT. If you click here now, you can register for a reminder to tune in later tonight >>

We know that in order to win in 2020, we must build a broad and inclusive coalition, and organize around our shared progressive values.

Tonight’s convention is an opportunity to do just that, while celebrating a vision for Black lives and a Black political agenda.

We hope you will join DFA members across the country in tuning in tonight. You can register for the event here >>

While this event is focused on celebrating Black joy and building Black power, as in previous conventions, allies of all races are welcome and encouraged to participate.

Thank you for joining us tonight,

— Yvette

Yvette Simpson, CEO
Democracy for America