Charting a Path Forward After the 2024 Elections
By Bonnie V. Winston, Color Of Change staff
There’s no denying that the 2024 election season proved challenging, yet it underscored the resilience and impact of Color Of Change and its members.
That’s the bottom line assessment by Jamarr Brown, who led Color Of Change PAC’s work during the election, and who now is taking on leading COC’s day-to-day campaign operations.
He pointed out that despite the difficult national election, COC achieved significant success in its mission to build Black political power. More than 1,000 volunteers “became active participants in democracy,” Brown said. For many, it was their first time engaging beyond signing a petition or contacting their elected representative.
The grassroots mobilization of voting and turning out voters made the COC community a force for change. Five progressive prosecutors now will lead district attorney offices in key states, and two Black women going to the U.S. Senate from Delaware and Maryland are historic achievements, Brown said.
“But this isn’t just about winning elections,” he emphasized. “It’s about empowering our members to see themselves as leaders in their communities, and using that collective energy to not just resist extremist policies, but to leverage more local wins to build a more equitable future. By engaging, our members became part of the democratic process in a tangible and meaningful way.”
Acknowledging the emotional toll of the election, COC prioritized creating spaces for members to process their feelings and find community. Just days after the election, COC hosted a virtual Post-Election Town Hall on Nov. 7, where nearly 250 members gathered to reflect on the results, celebrate wins and discuss the road ahead.
“It was about more than just strategy,” said Corina Petty, COC’s campaign organizing director. “It was a space to mourn, connect and draw strength from each other. We know the work ahead will be tough, but together, we are stronger.”
The event emphasized the importance of self-care and offered a Mental Health Checklist to help members manage the stress and anxiety of the moment.
A COC National Squad Call followed on Nov. 14, further empowering members by providing actionable steps and a vision for future organizing.
Brown called on members to prioritize community building as a foundation for collective power.
“Organize your people,” he urged. “Be there for one another. Share resources and support each other through tough times. This kind of solidarity will not only help us survive, but will position us to thrive when the next opportunity for change arises.”
Brown acknowledged the challenges ahead, from combating the white supremacist policies outlined in Project 2025 to addressing the systemic inequities likely to be exacerbated by another Trump presidency. Yet he remains optimistic about COC’s ability to make an impact.
“No matter who’s in office, we are the answer for our communities,” Brown affirmed. “We carry the legacy of those who fought before us, and we have the power to protect our communities from cruelty and oppression and to shape a brighter future. The fight continues.”