Politics has been the year’s headline-grabber (and headline-changer), if you’ve been paying attention at all in 2024. Beyond the elections, debates, and soundbites, however, the world has been occupied with everything from worker strikes to AI advancements to the unrelenting Haitian catastrophe.
Hold on tight, for this is a compilation of the tales that will be influencing the nation in 2024.
2024 presidential election
Former Republican President Donald Trump staged a spectacular comeback to the White House in a surprise electoral twist, defeating Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris in a fiercely contested contest. Even though the political circus was in full gear, diversity in government made tremendous progress in 2024 (though it’s unfortunate that we’re still making firsts). When two Black women were elected to the Senate at the same time for the first time, they broke down barriers and changed the political landscape in the United States. Regardless of the outcome of the election, their hard-won and profoundly significant achievements show that Black women are not only at the forefront of the movement for change but are also demanding seats at the table. The four years ahead? It’s going to be a ride, so hold on tight.
Yes, Project 2025 remains a threat.
The launch of Project 2025 was the most eye-popping of the nation’s many dramatic events, conflicts, and headline-grabbing moments during the 2024 presidential election. With an emphasis on limiting federal power and undoing many of the accomplishments of past administrations, this initiative, led by former President Donald Trump and his supporters, pledged to transform the country’s governance and policies. The plan for Project 2025 alarmed Black Americans, especially since it could undermine important safeguards for health care access, criminal justice reform, and voting rights. It is still unclear if Project 2025 will truly result in positive change or if it will just be another chapter of déjà vu for Black Americans negotiating the difficult path to equality.
Black women relax
Black women are enjoying a much-needed break following the chaotic 2024 election. Although many have long served as the foundation for lobbying, political mobilization, and voter participation, this year they are opting to take a moment to think. The relentless work of advocating for policies that benefit not just Black Americans but the nation as a whole has taken a toll. It’s a time for self-care, a short break before preparing for the next phase of the fight for equity and justice. To be clear, though, this is not capitulation. It s simply an intermission in a game that Black women have been playing at the highest level for decades. Rest now change-makers, because the work isn t done yet.
Debate over immigration policies
In 2024, the Biden administration introduced significant new measures aimed at granting citizenship to hundreds of thousands of immigrants without legal status. This move was particularly impactful for Black immigrants, whose voices have often been overlooked in the broader conversation on immigration. With these policies, the hope is to balance security concerns with humanitarian needs, all while ensuring that Black immigrants many of whom contribute significantly to America s economy and culture are not left in the margins. It s a step in the right direction, but as always, the debate around immigration reform remains as heated as a summer sidewalk in Brooklyn.
Abortion rights take center stage
After the seismic shock of Roe v. Wade s overturning, 2024 saw a political rebound with several states putting abortion rights front and center through ballot measures. In a decisive turn, seven of the 10 states that sought to protect reproductive freedoms were successful, with new constitutional amendments overriding existing bans. Black women, who have historically been at the forefront of the fight for reproductive justice, played a key role in organizing, advocating and voting for these measures. While the fight is far from over, these victories are a clear message: Black women will not back down when it comes to protecting their rights.
They re eating the dogs
In Springfield, Ohio, 2024 brought an ugly chapter for the Haitian community as tensions escalated, and Haitians found themselves under fire both literally and figuratively. A surge of hate crimes, fueled by xenophobic rhetoric and fueled by broader fears around immigration, led to a disturbing spike in violence against Haitians, a community already reeling from the turmoil in their home country. Black Americans, particularly those with Haitian roots, have been standing in solidarity with their fellow compatriots, raising their voices against both the violence and the broader scapegoating of immigrants. Despite the challenges, this new chapter in Springfield also highlighted the strength and resilience of Black Americans as they continue to advocate for justice, protection and respect in the face of rising anti-immigrant sentiment.
Haiti s crisis ongoing
Haiti s crisis continues to worsen in 2024, as the country faces escalating gang violence, a fractured political system and a humanitarian nightmare. The United Nations reported more than 2,500 people killed or injured in the first quarter of the year, with much of the violence disproportionately affecting the country s poorest and most vulnerable. Haitians, including the diaspora in the U.S., are calling for global intervention and support. For Black Americans, the ongoing plight of Haiti is a stark reminder of the longstanding impact of colonialism, exploitation, and political instability issues that continue to affect Black people worldwide. The international community is under pressure to act, but the clock is ticking, and Haiti s pain is far from over.
Attacks on DEI initiatives
Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs faced significant headwinds in 2024, with companies such as WalMart rolling back their initiatives or outright abandoning them in the face of legal and political pressure. This wasn t just a corporate trend these shifts have real-world implications for Black Americans, who have long fought for equitable representation and opportunities. DEI, once seen as a tool for leveling the playing field, has become a flashpoint for political debate. Some argue it s a necessary step for inclusion, while others see it as too much, too fast. For Black professionals and workers, the fight to maintain DEI isn t just about policies it s about making sure their voices continue to be heard. In addition to WalMart, Molson Coors, John Deere, Lowes, Ford Motor Company, Harley-Davidson, Brown-Forman (the maker of Jack Daniel s whiskey) Tractor Supply Company, and Toyota rolled back DEI policies. With a new far right administration, expect to see this list grow exponentially in 2025.
Artificial intelligence developments grow
Artificial Intelligence made huge strides in 2024, with tech giants like Meta announcing massive investments into AI infrastructure. While this might sound like sci-fi, it s having real implications for workers, Black Americans included. As AI becomes more embedded in everything from health care to customer service, the debate about its impact on employment, privacy and society at large grows louder. While AI promises convenience and efficiency, it also poses risks to job security particularly in sectors where Black Americans are highly represented. As AI continues to evolve, the Black community must have a seat at the table when it comes to ethical considerations and equitable access to these technologies.
Middle East conflicts arise
The Middle East remained a volatile region in 2024, with continued conflict between Israel and Gaza, and rising tensions involving Iran. While a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah brought temporary relief, the overall situation remains precarious, with the threat of a broader regional conflict always looming. Many Black people who support Palestinian rights say they see the Palestinian cause in the context of the African American experience, as the displacement, oppression and deprivation of a minority group. The international community s response or lack thereof will have lasting impacts on global stability, and for Black Americans, the stakes are high in the fight for peace and justice on all fronts.
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