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Operation Black Vote (OBV) has launched a powerful and timely 'Vote For Your Life' voter registration and turnout campaign aimed at Black and Asian communities across the UK. This initiative, part of a joint project with Black Equity Organisation (BEO), seeks to address the critical issues of systemic racism and political underrepresentation as the nation heads into a snap General Election on July 4th, 2024.
Campaign Details
The campaign, funded by the Joseph Rowntree Reform Trust, is a comprehensive effort to mobilise Black and Asian voters and includes:
- Social Media and Publicity Blitz: A series of impactful social media adverts highlighting the realities and impacts of systemic racism on Black and Asian communities.
- Local Hustings: Events in Manchester, Birmingham, Nottingham, and London to engage communities directly and discuss key issues.
- Focus on Representation: Addressing the potential decrease in diversity within Parliament and the challenges faced by Black and Asian candidates in the rushed selection process.
- Voter ID Awareness: Ensure communities are fully aware of voter ID requirements
Key Concerns
David Weaver, Chair of OBV, stated:
"With 1 in 4 African Asians not registered to vote, we are facing a significant democratic deficit that threatens to silence our communities. This campaign is not just about voting; it's about ensuring our voices are heard and our rights are protected. The reality of systemic racism, as seen in the treatment of Black women and Asian MPs underscores the urgent need for our communities to engage in the political process."
"The rise in race hate crimes, workplace discrimination, and systemic racism in policing and criminal justice, combined with reckless comments from some politicians and media, pose a serious threat to our hard-won rights and freedoms. It's critical that we stand together to fight against this tide of hate and division."
Challenges Ahead
The unprecedented number of MPs standing down, coupled with boundary changes and the rushed nature of this snap election, could result in fewer Black and Asian MPs in Parliament for the first time since 1997. OBV's campaign seeks to highlight these concerns and ensure that Black and Asian candidates are given a fair chance in the selection process.
David Weaver continued:
"Political parties must not overlook the need for diversity in their rush to select candidates. We challenge all parties to reflect on their commitment to inclusivity and ensure that Black and Asian voices are represented. Alarmingly, we believe there is not a single Black male under 30 in an elected position in any political party. This glaring lack of representation must be addressed immediately."
"In addition, voter ID requirements appear to echo the voter suppression measures we’ve seen adopted in the U.S. OBV working through the National Voter Registration Alliance intends to get the message out and ensure people are signposted to where they can get voter ID and register to vote.”
"Registering to vote is a powerful act of resistance against those who wish to divide us," Weaver concluded. "It’s time to stand up, be counted, and ensure that our voices shape the future of this country."
Call to Action
OBV is calling on all Black and Asian individuals to register to vote by the 18th of June 2024. This is not just about exercising a democratic right; it's about defending our communities from those who seek to undermine our place in British society.
OBV have built a comprehensive toolkit that was created to support our community leaders and activists. Together, we can create lasting change and ensure the democratic future of our country.
In addition, OBV will be mounting an extensive national social media advertising targeted campaign that can be accessed here.
Upcoming Events
- Local Hustings:
- Manchester: [Date TBD]
- Birmingham: [Date TBD]
- Nottingham: [Date TBD]
- London: [Date TBD]
- National Online Voter Registration Seminar: [Date TBD]
Media Contact
For further information or to arrange interviews, please contact David Weaver, Chair on 07983 592988 or Fopé Ajanaku on fope.ajanaku@obv.org.uk.
About Operation Black Vote (OBV)
Operation Black Vote (OBV) is a pioneering organisation dedicated to ensuring greater racial justice and equality throughout the UK. We work with individuals and communities to increase political participation and promote positive change.
