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Pastors see black men cautious about talking about abortion policy

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Phoenix pastor the Rev. Warren H. Stewart Sr. has had countless discussions this election season with other black men about the economy, criminal justice, immigration and other issues dominating the political scene of their key swing state of Arizona. But never abortion.

“They’re about justice. They’re about Donald Trump potentially reversing all the gains of the civil rights movement. They’re not about abortion,” Stewart said.

That’s in stark contrast to what was said throughout the campaign, when President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris courted voters who supported abortion rights, while Trump and his surrogates courted voters who opposed abortion.

While black men have traditionally supported Democrats, one dominant narrative is that they will not be enthusiastic about Biden, the party’s presumptive nominee. They make up nearly 7% of the electorate, in line with a Pew Research Center evaluation, and this yr, a number of thousand votes in Arizona, Pennsylvania and other swing states could determine the race.

Democratic U.S. Rep. James Clyburn of South Carolina stays concerned that Trump’s hypermasculine campaign style is driving black male voters who feel underrepresented in mainstream politics away from the Democratic Party. Clyburn is attempting to counter that trend.

President Joe Biden (R) and Pastor Dr. J. Louis Felton pray during a church service at Mt. Airy Church of God in Christ, Sunday, July 7, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

After his dismal debate performance fueled concerns about his age, Biden, 81, has also been attempting to shore up his loyal base, appearing recently on the Mount Airy Church of God in Christ in Philadelphia and elsewhere across the state to dispel lingering questions and rumors.

“I have never been more optimistic about the future of America, quite frankly, if we stick together,” Biden said, addressing the gang in a brief speech that mentioned Harris but didn’t mention abortion rights.

Among black clergy, few are higher placed to evaluate Biden’s character and suitability than Bishop Reginald T. Jackson.

Jackson, 70, the 132nd bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, was a key organizer of Biden’s first U.S. Senate campaign in 1972. He first saw the candidate’s shortcomings up close as a student at Delaware State University.

“All this stuttering? It’s nothing new,” Jackson said from his home in Atlanta.

Jackson said Biden’s recent mishaps throughout the debate and subsequent news conferences shouldn’t deter him from boasting about his support for historically black colleges and his administration’s support for minority-owned small businesses.

“It’s almost as if the president’s accomplishments are treated as some kind of state secret,” Jackson said.

When it involves abortion, Jackson believes the federal government shouldn’t interfere in a choice that’s best left to the girl and her doctor, and says he’s pleased with the way in which the Biden campaign is handling the problem.

For the past half-century, abortion has remained a contentious issue in black Protestant churches, fraught with questions of sexuality and gender that their Christian community has historically grappled with.

In interviews, black church leaders have acknowledged that the church has not all the time been adept at talking about human sexuality, a trait they share with their mainline Protestant counterparts. In “Moral Combat: How Sex Divided American Christians and Fractured American Politics,” creator R. Marie Griffith, a professor of humanities at Washington University in St. Louis, argues that caution about discussing sex — and opposing their deeply held views on women’s sexuality specifically — lies at the foundation of lots of essentially the most divisive political issues.

One black pastor, Democratic U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock of Georgia, senior pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, has been outspoken about his support for abortion access, especially during his 2022 re-election campaign.

But Warren Stewart, who leads First Institutional Baptist Church in Phoenix, wishes Biden and Harris hadn’t talked a lot about abortion, whilst he dismissed the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe as a “political gift.” He believes abortion must be legal only in cases where the lifetime of the person giving birth is in peril.

Others disagree. Pastor Leslie D. Callahan, the primary woman to pastor a church in Philadelphia historical St. Paul Baptist Church said all men, no matter race, must determine what bodily functions they would really like the federal government to regulate. Black women have highest maternal mortality rate within the USA, in line with 2022 CDC Report.

“If you didn’t have bodily autonomy, what freedom would you have?” she asked.

She stressed that Biden, who supports protecting access to abortion, is just not being called upon to resign from the presidency, only to resign from the campaign.

“If he’s fit to govern, I don’t see why he’s not fit to run,” Callahan said. “If you’re going to examine Biden, examine his presidency and his policies. If you’re going to examine fitness, there has to be a consistent and equal examination of the fitness of his opponent.”

A row of voting machines with American flags and the words "Vote" written on them
(Adobe Stock Images)

As Trump tries to court black voters, about 7 in 10 black adults still have an overall unfavorable view of him, in line with an AP evaluation of two consecutive polls conducted in June by the AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research. But that number has fallen by 20 percentage points for the reason that start of 2021.

While Trump campaign officials have said black men could also be more receptive to his message, black men and girls feel similarly about him.

Black men’s view of Biden isn’t overwhelmingly positive either. An evaluation of the poll found that about half of black men have a somewhat or very positive view of Biden — in comparison with about 7 in 10 black women — and about 4 in 10 black men view the president negatively.

Pastor Otis Moss Jr., retired pastor of Olivet Institutional Baptist Church in Cleveland, certainly one of the biggest and most distinguished black churches in Ohio, is anxious about Trump’s position, saying the previous president is anxious about protecting life before birth but not after.

“The human rights of women, of women, should not be violated by someone else’s political ideology,” Moss said.

Vice President Harris, a member of Third Baptist Church in San Francisco, addressed her religious beliefs during her March visit to a Planned Parenthood clinic in Minnesota, the primary by a sitting president or vp.

“You don’t have to abandon your faith or deeply held beliefs to agree that the government shouldn’t tell women what to do with their bodies,” Harris said.

“She will consult her priest, pastor, rabbi, imam if she wants to. But does the government have the right to tell her what she can and cannot do with her body?”

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Individual pastoral care is more appropriate than government policy to assist women and families make difficult and complex medical decisions, including abortion, Callahan said. Many times, she said, persons are deciding between two difficult alternatives—neither is perfect.

“The last thing that needs to be considered in your decision is whether you can find a doctor who is willing to take any risks to help you achieve physical, mental and emotional health,” she said.

This election season, Planned Parenthood’s advocacy and political organizations are working to interact, educate and mobilize black men, in addition to other demographic groups. Lead organizer Jamesa Bailey, director of black campaigns at Planned Parenthood Action Fund, said their internal data suggests that after they learn about the stakes within the presidential election on abortion, they’re 3 times more prone to educate one other voter — and so they usually tend to plan to vote.

Combining the problem of protected and legal access to abortion — African Americans are greater than twice as prone to die during childbirth, and it has been well documented that tests says states with essentially the most restrictive abortion barriers have the best maternal mortality rates for black women — Black America’s Maternal Health Crisis has proven to be “very strong,” Bailey said, adding that could be why she has seen a “significant increase” in support from clergy and faith groups across the country.

By introducing themselves as religious leaders of their communities in nearly two dozen states, she said, they sought to make a daring latest statement as a community through their presence: that their faith in God doesn’t conflict with their belief in a girl’s right to decide on.

This article was originally published on : thegrio.com
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Politics and Current

Barack and Michelle Obama understand Kamala Harris’ loss to Trump

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Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, theGrio.com

Former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama broke their silence Wednesday night after their friend Kamala Harris was defeated by Donald Trump within the 2024 presidential election.

“Clearly, this is not the outcome we had hoped for, given our deep disagreements with the Republican ticket on many issues,” Obama said in a joint statement. statement with wife Michelle Obama.

The powerful political couple, who campaigned vigorously against Trump in the ultimate weeks of the election cycle, added: “But living in a democracy is about recognizing that not every point of view will always prevail and being willing to accept a peaceful solution.” transfer of power.”

In an act of courtesy, America’s first Black president and first lady congratulated President-elect Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance, just because the Obamas welcomed Donald Trump and Melania Trump to the White House when he was elected in 2016.

Despite the Democrats’ defeat, the Obamas said they “could not be more proud” of Vice President Harris and his running mate, Gov. Tim Walz, whom they called “two extraordinary servants” to “run an extraordinary campaign.”

“We will always be grateful to the employees and volunteers who poured their hearts and souls into electing public officials they truly believed in,” they continued.

Democratic presidential candidate U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris campaigns with former President Barack Obama at James R. Hallford Stadium on October 24, 2024 in Clarkston, Georgia. (Photo: Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

The Obamas were extremely vocal throughout the campaign in support of Harris and Walz. The historically politically reserved pair have been particularly critical of Trump’s character, warning voters about his embrace of racist ideologies, penchant for authoritarianism and economic policies that can profit him and his wealthy allies.

However, voters overwhelmingly selected Donald Trump because the forty seventh president of the United States. Not only has Trump surpassed the 270 electoral votes needed to win the White House, but he may additionally win the favored vote after a full count of all votes nationwide.

Former President Obama sought to provide global context for Harris’ loss, acknowledging the results of the 2020 pandemic that included “price increases” and “rapid changes” that left residents feeling as in the event that they were “treading water” economically “no matter how hard they work.”

“These conditions make it difficult for Democratic officials around the world, and last night showed that America is not immune,” Obama said.

According to A report from Vox: “2024 was the biggest election year in world history; More people voted this year than ever before. “Across the world, voters have told the party in power – regardless of its ideology or history – that it is time for change.”

The Obamas said: “The good news is that these problems can be solved.” But they added that solving them would come down to Americans listening to one another and upholding “the fundamental constitutional principles and democratic norms that have made this country great.”

“In a country as large and diverse as ours, we will not always be able to see everything. However, progress requires us to show good faith – even to people with whom we deeply disagree,” they explained. “That’s how we’ve come this far, and that’s how we will continue to build a country that is fairer, more equal and more free.”

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This article was originally published on : thegrio.com
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Karine Jean-Pierre catches the eye of a Fox reporter who tests her with numerous questions after Donald Trump’s victory

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Karine Jean-Pierre Pops Off on Fox Reporter Who Tests Her with Loaded Questions After Donald Trump’s Victory

Two days after Donald Trump’s resounding election victory, White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre’s body language spoke for just about all Democrats. She looks like she’d slightly attend a full-day insurance seminar with no bathroom breaks than one other day of answering reporters’ questions.

But it’s her job, and in two months it can be another person’s job (assuming the Trump administration allows the press to enter the White House). Until then, Jean-Pierre’s cheerful and nice demeanor will likely be put to the test.

She became visibly emotional Thursday in an interview with Fox News reporter Jacqui Heinrich after a seemingly benign query asked at her each day news conference about the Biden administration’s pre-election rhetoric.

Karine Jean-Pierre catches the eye of a Fox reporter who tests her with numerous questions after Donald Trump's victory
Left: Fox News reporter Jacqui Heinrich; Right: White House Press Secretary Karine Jean Pierre (Photos: Fox News screenshot, Getty Images)

“This administration has given millions of Americans the message that when they wake up the day after the election, if Trump wins and takes away their rights, democracy will fall apart. And the president said today: “Everything will be fine.” Heinrich he asked“So how do we even it out?”

From there, things got touchy.

“I can fix it. “I will explain this in a way that I hope makes sense because I have answered this question many times,” he replied Jean-Pierre.

In interview for PBS two weeks before the election, President Joe Biden was putting pressure on the Republican Party candidate, just as Heinrich summarized. Biden said world leaders fear a second term for Trump, sharply criticized his close relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin and joked that his predecessor (and now successor) “believes in a free press like I consider I can climb Mt. Everest.”

Jean-Pierre said the comments were made before the election. This is a different reality.

“The American people have made their decision,” the press secretary continued. “The elections were held two days ago. Was! This was a free and fair election and we respect the electoral process. We do. And the Americans have spoken.”

“So the president’s job is to make sure that we respect that,” she concluded. “The president’s job is to ensure the peaceful transfer of power. This is what Americans deserve. …It’s not complicated. It’s really, really that simple.”

Heinrich’s further actions irritated the press secretary.

“What is the message to people who are afraid, given the content of (Trump’s) message?” – Heinrich asked before being interrupted by Jean-Pierre.

“Well, now you’re just twisting everything, and it’s really unfair,” she said, clearly upset. “Jackie, it is not fair because I’m standing here attempting to be respectful of what happened the last two nights, two nights ago. Showing respect. “I stand here and say we respect the decision made by the American people.”

“I stand here and say the president will put the American people first,” she continued. “I’m standing here talking about how the president will be sure they get what they deserve, which is a peaceful transition of power. I don’t love my words being twisted. I mean, I’m being very clear, very, very clear about what the president and the vp need to do. We need to be sure we deliver products for Americans. They deserve, they deserve, a peaceful transfer of power. And that is what you will see.”

And that is it for Thursday’s White House press release.

This article was originally published on : atlantablackstar.com
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8 voter suppression tactics to watch out for on Election Day [site:name]

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Mario Tama/Getty Images

Today is Election Day 2024, and candidates all over the place – from president to congress, and on the state and native levels – are making their final push to get your vote.

Unfortunately, voter suppression tactics could also be among the many strategies used to influence the end result. As a reminder, voter suppression includes any motion that makes it difficult or discourages people from voting.

As you head to the polls today, check out these 8 common voter suppression tactics that can help make sure you and others in your community can exercise their right to vote freely and fairly.

1. Discouragement within the face of long lines

No matter when or where you vote, there’s all the time a risk of encountering a line that is simply too long. Pay special attention to individuals who suggest you “leave and come back later” when lines are shorter, and even try to discourage you from voting altogether. Be sure to plan your visit to the polling place when you’ve some free time in order not to be distracted by potentially long lines.

2. Strict identification requirements

If you might be a registered voter, generally a government-issued ID card might be enough to vote. In some cases, chances are you’ll be required to show your voter registration card, but should you notice that other voters are receiving different instructions than you or anyone in your group, don’t hesitate to ask questions for clarification.

3. Unofficial “Observers” survey

While polling places in lots of states have been a comparatively hassle-free environment previously, the changing nature of this election 12 months may lead to people trying to query you or do other things to deliberately annoy you until you allow or are asked to leave. Remember to remain consistent and never give in to anyone who tries to stop you from doing what you got here to do, which is vote.

4. Last minute changes to the voting site

Try to check where your polling station is often. In some states, there’s a high likelihood that there might be changes to your voting location, and if this happens, chances are you’ll not be notified upfront.

5. Inconsistent information in regards to the opening hours of the polling station

Polling stations will open at 6:00 a.m. and shut at 9:00 p.m. on election day. Hours of operation vary by state, so make sure to check ahead of time what the hours are in your state. On the day you intend to vote, check again before you go to be sure there have been no changes that can cause you to lose your ability to vote.

6. Review of defamatory campaign ads

Read up on the candidates and where they stand on the problems that matter most to you, so you do not get easily swayed by an influx of negative campaign ads that can undoubtedly come across as a last-ditch effort to get your vote by painting the opposite candidate in a foul light. Know your candidate’s history, but additionally keep in mind that the motion plans he has outlined for the current and future will prove most vital if he’s elected president.

7. Random voter purges

If you might be faraway from the ballot for questioning, reassignment, and even being prevented from voting by an election official, stay calm and ask questions to find out what is going on fairly than leaving without voting. It’s also helpful to familiarize yourself together with your voting rights upfront, or to bring someone with you who’s at the very least minimally informed in regards to the basics.

8. Blatant bullying

Whether it’s subtle comments from other voters, offended words from protesters, or an irate election official having a foul day, don’t let anyone intimidate you to the purpose of abstaining from voting by not doing all the things you’ll be able to all the things possible to be sure your vote is counted.

The undeniable fact that these tactics are used on their very own should let you know how beneficial and powerful your voice is. Otherwise why would they struggle to suppress it, right?

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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