If you want more proof on why we need to invest more in local organizing and traditionally ‘red’ states, look no further than my home state of Mississippi…
The white supermajority in the Republican-led Mississippi House just voted to create a separate, unelected, state-appointed court system and expanded police force in America’s Blackest city – Jackson. Yes, Jackson, the same population still in the throes of a preventable crisis that left its residents without access to safe drinking water, is facing another politically and racially motivated attack on their basic rights.
Now, Jackson is 83% Black, yet the state House voted to give two white, Republican leaders sole discretion over judicial appointments in the city, with no public say. Republicans defend this unconstitutional power grab as a public safety measure, but it’s impossible not to see Jim Crow in this attempted apartheid.
Right now, we need your help to shine a light on what is happening in Jackson. I’m sharing some articles here where you can learn more – be sure to share them with your networks:
This bill denies Jackson residents the right to elect their own judges and district attorneys – in other words, leaving them voiceless in a criminal legal system that already steals Black lives. It’s racist, plain and simple.
You can understand the fury and frustration I feel alongside my fellow Mississippians. Decades of investment from conservatives won them this terrifying power and they’ll do anything to protect it. This reality in my home state led me to work with Groundwork – I believe that serious, long-term investment in local organizing is our best (and maybe only) chance to take our state back.
They are afraid of our collective organizing power. That’s our cue to use it.
The truth is that here in Mississippi we’re used to these fights. We’re used to voter suppression tactics that make jaws drop in other states. We’re also used to being left to fight back on our own. That’s what makes me proud to be a part of Groundwork and grateful for all of you. You keep showing up with us on the frontlines. We’ll make sure to keep you updated.
On behalf of Mississippi, thank you for your time and attention on this.
Charles
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Charles Taylor (he/him)
Southern Organizing Advisor
Groundwork Project
P.S. If you want to read more about the history of a white state legislature’s attempt to take over America’s Blackest city, here’s a great article to walk you through it.
