The Very Latest

  • Link Roundup - May 20, 2012

    By Mark Crain on

    Last Friday, Reverend Al Sharpton and other civil rights leaders, released an open letter affirming their agreement with President Obama's assertion that same sex couples should be allowed to marry. Citing Dr. King’s statement that "injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere," the leaders urged that differing opinions not hinder the joint work toward common goals of fair housing, equitable education, affordable health care, and eradication of poverty.

    In honor of National Women's Health Week, First Lady Michelle Obama invited women to take charge of their health, and make the best investment they could ever make in themselves by exercising and getting regular check-ups. Citing her own health journey, the First Lady wrote: "I want to be as healthy at 75 as I am now—so I keep on setting, and pushing myself toward new goals."

  • GottaVote.org

    By Melanie Garunay on

    Today we’re launching GottaVote.org, a new site with all the information you need to vote this November. How to register, important deadlines, and a checklist of what you need before you head to the polls—it’s all there in a simple format specific to your state.

    This election could come down to just a handful of votes, and one of them could be yours. Check out the site, and make sure to share it with everyone you know.

  • Friday facts: GottaVote!

    By Mark Crain on

    In 2008, young African Americans turned out in huge numbers. According to data compiled by the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning & Engagement, 58% of 18-29 year old African Americans voted in 2008—more than any other youth demographic since 1972. Since then however, state legislatures across the country have made it more difficult and cumbersome to vote; a fact that will disproportionately affect African Americans, both young and old. Obama 2012 has launched a new voter information project called GottaVote.org to help keep voters informed about voting in their state. Visit GottaVote.org today and be sure to share it with everyone you know.

The President's Accomplishments for African Americans

Better Health for African Americans

Health care is a cornerstone of economic security, but too many African American families have gone without insurance. In fact, 20% of African Americans do not have health insurance. But in 2014, the Affordable Care Act will make sure that everyone has access to affordable coverage. It will expand the Medicaid program in every state and help families buy insurance with tax credits that can save a typical family 60% on their premiums.

As many as 7 million African Americans are expected to gain coverage because of the Affordable Care Act, and when the law is fully implemented 95% of Americans will have health insurance.

Download this fact sheet to learn more about the Affordable Care Act and its impact on African Americans' health.

The Obama Administration’s Accomplishments for the African American Community

President Obama is focused on creating jobs and restoring economic security for African Americans and all Americans. He understands that too many African Americans have been hurt by a decade of declining wages and unemployment and he’s fought for policies that give everyone a fair shot and the opportunity to succeed.

That’s why he’s pushing for job training and education reforms, ending health disparities and cracking down on credit card and mortgage abuses by the biggest banks. He knows that the American people live up to their responsibilities each and every day and it’s time that their leaders in Washington live up to theirs.

Download this fact sheet to learn more about the Obama administration's accomplishments for the African-American community.

Early Childhood Education

Four years ago, Barack Obama promised to invest in early childhood education. As President, he signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act which enabled Head Start and Early Head Start programs to serve an additional 61,000 children and their families.

Protecting Consumers

Through Wall Street Reform, President Obama created the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. The agency defends consumers from unfair and abusive financial practices and makes sure that credit card companies and mortgage and payday lenders follow the rules. The President appointed Richard Cordray as director of the CFPB to serve as a watchdog with one job: to look out for the best interests of American consumers.

Extending Unemployment Insurance

Four years ago, Barack Obama promised to extend employment insurance. As President, he signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and Emergency Unemployment Compensation Act--temporarily suspending taxation on unemployment compensation, helping unemployed Americans by extending their eligibility, and keeping millions of workers from losing their benefits.