In the evolving political landscape of the 21st century, the Black vote has emerged as a decisive force that transcends national boundaries. As major elections approach in the United States in November 2024, and with significant European elections on the horizon, Black voters are proving their ability to influence outcomes and shape policy. Historically disenfranchised, Black communities today play a critical role in driving political change, often tipping the balance in closely contested elections.
From Exclusion to Empowerment
In the United States, the struggle for Black voting rights dates back to the post-Civil War era. Although the 15th Amendment, passed in 1870, was intended to grant Black men the right to vote, discriminatory practices like literacy tests and poll taxes severely restricted their participation. During the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, activists fought hard to dismantle these barriers, culminating in the passage of the Voting Rights Act in 1965, which empowered African Americans to fully engage in the democratic process.
In Europe, the story is different but no less significant. Post-war migration from Africa and the Caribbean in the mid-20th century led to the growth of Black communities in the UK, France, and the Netherlands. Though often sidelined politically, these communities began asserting their electoral influence in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Voting rights in most European nations are granted based on residency rather than citizenship, and as Black populations grew and became more politically organised, their influence also increased.
The Influence of Black Voters in U.S. Elections
In the U.S., Black voters have long been a key constituency for the Democratic Party, significantly impacting several major elections. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, African Americans made up 12.4% of the total population in 2020, with 62% of eligible Black voters turning out for the 2020 presidential election—a notable increase from previous years.
One of the most striking demonstrations of Black electoral power came in the 2008 and 2012 elections, where overwhelming support from Black voters helped secure Barack Obama’s victories. In 2008, 95% of Black voters backed Obama, and in 2012, this figure remained high at 93%. Their turnout was crucial in swing states like Ohio, Florida, and Virginia, where Black voters played a decisive role.
Similarly, Black voters were instrumental in Joe Biden’s 2020 victory, particularly in Georgia. Stacey Abrams’ grassroots efforts led to a dramatic increase in Black voter turnout, flipping the traditionally Republican state to the Democrats. In Georgia, Black voters made up 33% of the electorate, with 88% of them voting for Biden, according to the Pew Research Center.
As Dr Bernard Fraga, an expert on race and voting at Emory University, observes, “The Black vote has historically been decisive in turning elections, particularly in key swing states. The organisational power within Black communities has redefined how political campaigns engage voters.”
Black Voters in Europe: A Rising Political Force
Although smaller in proportion than in the U.S., Black populations in Europe are increasingly asserting their political power. In the UK, Black people make up around 3.3% of the population, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). While turnout among Black voters was lower than the national average in the 2019 general election, 64% of them supported the Labour Party. Discontent with the Conservative Party’s handling of immigration and social policies has galvanised Black communities, making them a critical voting bloc in future elections.
In France, where the Black population largely comprises migrants from West Africa and the Caribbean, Black voters are also becoming more influential. While detailed statistics are limited, Black communities, particularly in suburban areas around Paris, played a significant role in the 2017 presidential election. In response to the far-right National Front’s anti-immigrant rhetoric, many Black voters rallied behind Emmanuel Macron, helping secure his victory.
The Netherlands has also seen growing political engagement from its Afro-Dutch population, primarily of Surinamese and Caribbean descent. The rise of BIJ1, a political party founded by Black activist Sylvana Simons, highlights this trend. BIJ1 focuses on racial justice, police reform, and economic inequality, resonating strongly with Afro-Dutch voters.
According to Dr Kehinde Andrews, a professor of Black Studies at Birmingham City University, “Black communities in Europe are no longer content to be marginalised politically. We are witnessing a new wave of political consciousness, where Black voters are not just participants but key influencers in elections.”
Data-Driven Impact: Quantifying the Black Vote
In both the U.S. and Europe, the political power of Black voters can be quantified in terms of turnout, party alignment, and policy influence. In the U.S., data from the Pew Research Center shows that Black voters have consistently supported the Democratic Party, with over 80% backing Democratic candidates in nearly every presidential election since 1964. Their mobilisation, particularly in swing states, has been critical in recent election cycles.
In Europe, while direct data on Black voter turnout is less comprehensive, trends indicate growing political influence. In the UK, research by the Runnymede Trust shows that Black voters have historically aligned with left-leaning parties due to concerns over immigration, social justice, and economic inequality. Similar patterns are observed in France and the Netherlands, where Black voters have pushed back against far-right movements, making their support vital for centrist and left-wing candidates.
The Future Shaped by the Black Vote
As we progress further into the 21st century, the Black vote will continue to be a powerful force in both American and European politics. Historically disenfranchised communities are now leading political change, using their votes to influence policy and leadership. With increasing mobilisation efforts, particularly in the U.S. and UK, Black voters are poised to remain a decisive factor in elections for years to come.
As Dr Bernard Fraga rightly notes, “The future of democracy, both in the U.S. and Europe, will be shaped in part by the political agency of Black voters. They are no longer a silent minority but a loud, decisive voice in the halls of power.”
