In August 2024, DPI partners completed a second national survey to understand diverse values and political identities among Black people in America. We partnered with Sojourn Strategies and HIT Strategies and through this research identified five values clusters within the Black electorate: Legacy Civil Rights, Secular Progressives, NextGen Traditionalists, Rightfully Cynical, and Race-Neutral Conservatives. A key finding was that 40% of Black people surveyed had a relatively low sense of the power of their own vote and a low likelihood to vote, though they also had a strong sense of racial solidarity. 

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In conjunction with the national survey, Sojourn Strategies and HIT Strategies also partnered with groups in Michigan, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Florida to conduct state-specific values research. This included in-state surveys and listening circles to explore the motivations and barriers influencing Black political engagement. This report provides a synthesis of cross-state and national research that documents the stories of Black voters, the DPI state partners involved, and key findings to maximize cross-learning amongst the state partners. Notably, this research finds that Black voters who believe their vote matters are more likely to participate in elections, and that disillusioned people are open to influence through the right messengers and message frames. The report identifies recommendations for organizations that organize and engage the Black electorate.

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