Friend, happy Black History Month!

Each week of Black History Month, we’ll be profiling Black women in politics who inspire us to keep fighting for progressive change – in our communities and nationwide!

Today, we’re celebrating Representative Lauren Underwood of Illinois.

In 2018, Lauren Underwood defeated a four-term Republican incumbent to flip her district from red to blue – and when she was sworn in, Underwood became the youngest Black woman ever to serve in Congress.

Underwood has made a name for herself as one of Congress’s strongest advocates for Black women and mothers. Alongside Rep. Alma Adams, Rep. Underwood co-founded the Black Maternal Health Caucus to address inequities in the healthcare system and save Black mothers’ lives. Underwood also authored the Healthcare Affordability Act of 2021, which was included in President Biden’s American Rescue Plan.

Before her election to Congress, Underwood served her community as a registered nurse and public health expert. She was appointed by President Obama to serve as a Senior Advisor at the US Department of Health and Human Services, where she helped communities prevent, prepare for, and respond to public health emergencies.

In just two terms, Underwood has successfully passed ten pieces of legislation – and we can’t wait to see what Congresswoman Underwood accomplishes over the next two years!

Friend, remember: Progressive champions like Lauren Underwood were elected thanks to the tireless activism and organizing by grassroots supporters like you!

There are important local elections happening this year in your area – so please click here to confirm your voter registration or register to vote now!

Check back next week to read our profile on another Black woman in politics.

Thank you for celebrating Black History Month with us!

Team MARCH ON

Paid for by MARCH ON