On Sunday, I took a bold stance and became the first Presidential candidate in 50 years to advocate that we change the order of states that begin our Democratic nominating process.

While there has been blowback among some party faithful in Iowa and New Hampshire, folks across the country have rallied behind this simple truth--black women have empowered our Democratic victories and their voices deserve to be heard right from the beginning.

I understand for many folks in both states this is a tradition that they hold very dear, and I have learned first hand that they take their role in vetting candidates seriously. But "this is how it's always been done" isn't ever a good reason to keep doing it. The current system does not give enough of a voice to people of color and it is long past time that we as Democrats practice what we preach and fix it.
>> secure.actblue.com/donate/julian-em?refcode=20191112_em_fr_b4_castro_all_internal&recurring=auto&amount=5&amounts=25,50,100,250

To be clear, this isn't about which candidates voters in these states may choose, or have chosen in the past. This is about who gets to do the choosing.

Some of my opponents have dismissed this suggestion. I'm not surprised. If I am the only candidate who is willing to highlight this disparity and advocate for change, so be it.

The Democratic nominating process needs to reflect America. We can't say that black women are the backbone of our party, then support starting our nominating process in two states with such a low representation of black folks in them.

We can't say that we are the party that will fight against voter suppression and structural racism in our political system and then turn around and effectively exclude black and brown voices from the first portion of our nominating process.

During my ten months on the campaign trail, I visited Iowa and New Hampshire numerous times, and I met many wonderful people who take their duties as voters in the first in the nation contests very seriously. I appreciate how hard they work to make the best, most informed decision possible.

However, with so many in the establishment against me - I need your support more than ever. If you believe that my voice is important in this democratic process, please consider making a contribution of just $15 right now to help me keep up the fight. >> secure.actblue.com/donate/julian-em?refcode=20191112_em_fr_b4_castro_all_internal&recurring=auto&amount=5&amounts=25,50,100,250


With gratitude,
Julián----

This email was sent to [email protected].

To unsubscribe, go to:
[link removed]