How Today's Conservative Leaders Can Forge the Alliances with Black Americans in This Next Round
Greetings Beloved,
Over the years, since launching my conservative activism in 2016, I've come across numerous Conservatives who believe the GOP has no obligation or responsibility to evangelize conservative politics in Black communities.
Several people from the base argue Black Americans need to come to the Party and show interest in it, despite both political agencies working to appeal to other demographics.
Such nonsense is one of the reasons I withdrew from helping the base for a while, because I realized it is not ready for whatever "Blexit" it claimed to champion.
As with anything that must be sold, effective evangelism or persuasive communication strategies are necessary to win over any voting bloc. For example,
But Republicans will not evangelize to Black Americans. Yet, they insist Black Americans are "slaves on a plantation" for voting Democrat. A legitimate criticism is, "If you're not present in Black areas, how else are Black Americans supposed to vote for you?" But I suppose such logic is too deep for the GOP nationwide.
Since bringing my activism to Twitter in 2019, I'm proud to say I've seen more Conservative Candidates apply the lessons I (and other conscious influencers) have delivered. They recognized how the GOP's ridiculous marketing tactics have not work, and many have made adjustments themselves as they seek political offices in the local areas.
It's hard to scream at the general base when things are changing; and I can only expect more to follow in their footsteps as we seek to ensure conservatism remains the dominant ideology in America.
For this reason, I'd like to share what I call "The Fifteen 20 Rise Formula for Effective Outreach." After engaging in research and studying the political landscape via social media, it's clear that with a new approach to Black outreach, the conservative base will be prepared to welcome a new breed of Conscious Black Conservatives, who have the power to reach Black voters.
1. Know History...Black American History
Let's begin with the basics.
To understand current politics, Conservatives must know history.
To understand Black politics, Conservatives must know Black history.
Again, this is only if the base is ready to accept a flood of Conscious Black Conservatives, who believe strongly in conservative values and will elect politicians who serve our best interests.
Black history is not separate from American history. In fact, Black history serves as a pillar in American history. No other ethnic group in this country has endured systemic oppression as Black Americans; and to this day, Black Americans continue to confront policies that stifle their constitutional rights (i.e. "stop and frisk").
When Conservatives spew from their platforms the idea that racism is non-existent, or that Black people should ignore their history, they reinforce the notion that Conservatives hate Black people. I don't care if you happen to be that one Conservative who "isn't racist." Your Party and your platform push the narrative that Black people (their history, their struggle) do not matter to you.
The Conservative base makes light of current events and racial oppression, which happens at the hands of Progressive leaders; and it tells Black people, "Racism really isn't a problem." Couple such rhetoric with Republicans' unwillingness to be present in Black communities, and you see why Black people feel completely abandoned in the political fight.
What we see currently happening is the direct result of history moving forward. And until you're brave enough to study what took place centuries ago, you can never expect to reach more Black voters with authentic conservatism.
2. Understand the Voting Bloc Shift
Now we come to the more specific issues; and this point goes back to the first one: knowing Black history.
Many Conservatives have asked me, "Felecia, why do Black voters continue voting for Democrats who have harmed them?" And my response is simple: "Have you studied the shift in the voting bloc?" Nine times out of ten, Conservatives reply, "No."
Within the conservative camp, there is the pervasive narrative that the political parties never switched. The camp calls it a myth; and in a previous lesson within The Fifteen 20 Rise, I argued that no ideological shift happened; but clearly, the voting bloc did and for good reason.
A person need only study the historical context surrounding:
As I shared before, Black Americans are issue-based voters; and if a Party refuses to address their political issues, Black voters will not vote for that party.
In recent decades, Democrats have marketed themselves as the party of the people. They are the party that will fight for the rights of the underclass. They have strategically positioned themselves to be political voices against the all-white Republican Party that pushed Black voters out during the 1900s.
To understand the current Black voting bloc, you need to see how Republicans were equally complicit in alienating Black voters; and when you put in context the current GOP's low-IQ marketing tactics, it's no wonder Black Americans want nothing to do with conservative politics.
3. Know Issues Pertinent to Black Voters
Let's tackle the other area: knowing your constituents and what they want.
Years ago, a GOP candidate successfully won his race by appealing directly to Black voters based on an issue Black women found important. According to South Florida Times,
"GOP candidate Ron DeSantis received 14 percent of the black vote and 18 percent of the black female vote. Included in the article was a Wall Street Journal column by William Mattox: 'Believe it or not, Republican Ron DeSantis owes his victory in the Florida gubernatorial election to about 100,000 African-American women who unexpectedly chose him over the black Democrat candidate, Andrew Gillum … in an election decided by fewer than 40,000 votes, these 100,000 black women proved decisive.' Mattox stated that two words explain DeSantis’ surprising support from black women: “school choice.” (Source)
You see that, Beloved?
School choice was the issue pertinent to Black female voters; and I guarantee DeSantis did not come to that community, calling those women "slaves on a plantation." His efforts nearly aligned with #TheFifteen20 vision, because he addressed an issue of importance to this bloc.
(Now, imagine if the entire GOP did the same thing!)
When Conservatives present viable solutions to the people, the people respond favorably. As I shared in previous lessons, the idea is to create solutions with the people based on conservative principles. It is not to play identity politics alongside the Left. It's to treat Black voters as American citizens, who desire just as much equal protection under the law as any White Conservative.
4. Listen to Black Voters and What They Desire
Listening is a skill best learned in action.
Yet, it's also something most people refuse to do, especially among the conservative camp.
For years now, I've allowed Black voters to express their desires on my platform. I've cultivated Twitter Class so Conservatives could engage in healthy discussions that bridge the gap between their politics and Black voters.
And it wasn't until the end of 2019 when Conservatives finally understood that Black voters do not want "free stuff" (another talking point coming from the low-IQers in the base).
Listening to Black voters -- without adding your two cents to the discussion every time -- is a crucial element of effective outreach. Clearly, when DeSantis spoke with Black women in his area, he understood what they wanted: school choice.
So, what did he do? He ran on that conservative principle and garnered substantial support, which secured his victory.
I hope you see the pattern here, Beloved.
5. Develop Solutions with the People Based on Conservative Principles
Beloved, do not enter any Black political arena preaching anything except solutions.
Furthermore, do not approach the political discourse with the mindset that you know what's best for the people.
Again, when dealing with effective evangelism, your role is:
If you're a conservative candidate, you're not there to rule over the people.
No, you are a SERVANT to the people.
Therefore, you assume a lowly position among them.
You work for them.
They do not work for you.
And as you present yourself to be their representative, they will adamantly support you when you approach them from this standpoint.
6. Be Radical in Your Republicanism, Not More Liberal in Your Trumpism
Between 2016 and 2019, I observed as the conservative camp became more liberal in their philosophy rather than standing on our founding principles. I watched as we pushed for bigger government from our platform, all in the name of "standing with Trump."
And it disgusted me.
Attracting Black voters to conservative politics does not mean becoming like the opposing side.
Attracting more voters means you become more radical in your Republicanism and the need to maintain the republic.
Attracting more voters means you are willing to fight for the rights of American citizens, who have a long-standing history of political, economic, and social oppression in this country.
Attracting more voters means you're willing to stand with people who have vastly different cultures and experiences in this country; it means taking off the colorblind glasses and recognizing reality for what it is.
You must become as the former Radical Republicans, who demanded the government protect the rights of all Americans, regardless of race or ethnicity. If you can do this, we will see more Black Americans (Conscious Black Conservatives, more specifically) aligning with conservative politics each election cycle.
7. Use Effective Communication Strategies for Outreach
Remember the last time you went to the store, and the manager called you a name? Remember how anxious you were to conduct business there, because you simply enjoyed being insulted?
No, that didn't work for you?
Neither does calling Black Americans "slaves on a political plantation" prove to be an effective method for reaching them.
It's simple, really.
If you want people to receive you and your message, you must be willing to present yourself in an attractive manner.
Your words have power.
And when you waste energy regurgitating talking points from conservative influencers (who do not speak to Black people, by the way!), you position yourself as the racist you hate to be called.
8. Message Effectively Via Online Social Media Movements
Quite often, Conservatives in my audience tell me they struggle with communicating with Black voters, because they don't want to be perceived as racist. Of course, the logical response is to simply not say racist things like "Black Americans are slaves."
But I understand why other Conservatives are apprehensive.
The solution to this dilemma is simple: listen to the influencers who deliver teachings via social media that help you craft new messaging.
In The Fifteen 20 Rise, you learn about 3 online movements that are reaching Black voters most effectively: the Conscious Black Conservative Movement, Hotep Nation, and ADOS. Not a single one uses Establishment Talking Points on their platforms; and they have successfully garnered enough attention to get Black Americans to consider other options besides voting Democrat.
When in doubt, observe how these influential voices interact with the people. Notice how we incorporate history and empowerment. See how we embed conservatism in the discourse. Then observe how Black audiences respond positively to the message.
9. Financially Support the Online Political Movements that Effectively Reach Black Voters
I can't emphasize this point enough, because too often, Conservatives give their resources to the most popular platforms that produce zero results.
When you observe movements that reach their target audience, support their work financially. When they launch events or sell books or host podcasts, give to their works because that is the only way the movements will last.
10. Ensure Your Principles Align with Your Practices and Politics
Finally, when it comes to conservative politics and Black outreach, voters are looking to see how you align your principles with your actions.
Do you really believe Black Americans deserve equal rights under the law? Or do you stand with your conservative punditry class, who support racist policies like "stop and frisk"?
Do you believe in your colorblind phenomenon, or do you often see color when it comes to crime statistics and corporal punishment?
Your principles, Beloved, must mean everything to you if you expect voters to support your politics.
Let's Wrap This Up
The only way to change the political trajectory of conservatism is to do things a different way.
Conservatism is slowly minimizing its impact in the culture; and the voting bloc that seeks to preserve authentic conservatism is Black Americans.
Therefore, the solution to spreading the ideology most effectively is to successfully target citizens who have the numbers and political clout to revolutionize the political landscape.
My challenge to you is, will you be bold enough to reach them effectively?
Over the years, since launching my conservative activism in 2016, I've come across numerous Conservatives who believe the GOP has no obligation or responsibility to evangelize conservative politics in Black communities.
Several people from the base argue Black Americans need to come to the Party and show interest in it, despite both political agencies working to appeal to other demographics.
Such nonsense is one of the reasons I withdrew from helping the base for a while, because I realized it is not ready for whatever "Blexit" it claimed to champion.
As with anything that must be sold, effective evangelism or persuasive communication strategies are necessary to win over any voting bloc. For example,
- Republicans evangelize to white Christian Conservatives.
- Republicans evangelize to white farmers.
- Republicans evangelize to Latino communities.
But Republicans will not evangelize to Black Americans. Yet, they insist Black Americans are "slaves on a plantation" for voting Democrat. A legitimate criticism is, "If you're not present in Black areas, how else are Black Americans supposed to vote for you?" But I suppose such logic is too deep for the GOP nationwide.
Since bringing my activism to Twitter in 2019, I'm proud to say I've seen more Conservative Candidates apply the lessons I (and other conscious influencers) have delivered. They recognized how the GOP's ridiculous marketing tactics have not work, and many have made adjustments themselves as they seek political offices in the local areas.
It's hard to scream at the general base when things are changing; and I can only expect more to follow in their footsteps as we seek to ensure conservatism remains the dominant ideology in America.
For this reason, I'd like to share what I call "The Fifteen 20 Rise Formula for Effective Outreach." After engaging in research and studying the political landscape via social media, it's clear that with a new approach to Black outreach, the conservative base will be prepared to welcome a new breed of Conscious Black Conservatives, who have the power to reach Black voters.
1. Know History...Black American History
Let's begin with the basics.
To understand current politics, Conservatives must know history.
To understand Black politics, Conservatives must know Black history.
Again, this is only if the base is ready to accept a flood of Conscious Black Conservatives, who believe strongly in conservative values and will elect politicians who serve our best interests.
Black history is not separate from American history. In fact, Black history serves as a pillar in American history. No other ethnic group in this country has endured systemic oppression as Black Americans; and to this day, Black Americans continue to confront policies that stifle their constitutional rights (i.e. "stop and frisk").
When Conservatives spew from their platforms the idea that racism is non-existent, or that Black people should ignore their history, they reinforce the notion that Conservatives hate Black people. I don't care if you happen to be that one Conservative who "isn't racist." Your Party and your platform push the narrative that Black people (their history, their struggle) do not matter to you.
The Conservative base makes light of current events and racial oppression, which happens at the hands of Progressive leaders; and it tells Black people, "Racism really isn't a problem." Couple such rhetoric with Republicans' unwillingness to be present in Black communities, and you see why Black people feel completely abandoned in the political fight.
What we see currently happening is the direct result of history moving forward. And until you're brave enough to study what took place centuries ago, you can never expect to reach more Black voters with authentic conservatism.
2. Understand the Voting Bloc Shift
Now we come to the more specific issues; and this point goes back to the first one: knowing Black history.
Many Conservatives have asked me, "Felecia, why do Black voters continue voting for Democrats who have harmed them?" And my response is simple: "Have you studied the shift in the voting bloc?" Nine times out of ten, Conservatives reply, "No."
Within the conservative camp, there is the pervasive narrative that the political parties never switched. The camp calls it a myth; and in a previous lesson within The Fifteen 20 Rise, I argued that no ideological shift happened; but clearly, the voting bloc did and for good reason.
A person need only study the historical context surrounding:
- The rise in Progressivism among Black Americans
- The Lily White Movement among the Republican Party
- The Civil Rights Era of the 1960s (and how Democratic leaders supported some initiatives)
As I shared before, Black Americans are issue-based voters; and if a Party refuses to address their political issues, Black voters will not vote for that party.
In recent decades, Democrats have marketed themselves as the party of the people. They are the party that will fight for the rights of the underclass. They have strategically positioned themselves to be political voices against the all-white Republican Party that pushed Black voters out during the 1900s.
To understand the current Black voting bloc, you need to see how Republicans were equally complicit in alienating Black voters; and when you put in context the current GOP's low-IQ marketing tactics, it's no wonder Black Americans want nothing to do with conservative politics.
3. Know Issues Pertinent to Black Voters
Let's tackle the other area: knowing your constituents and what they want.
Years ago, a GOP candidate successfully won his race by appealing directly to Black voters based on an issue Black women found important. According to South Florida Times,
"GOP candidate Ron DeSantis received 14 percent of the black vote and 18 percent of the black female vote. Included in the article was a Wall Street Journal column by William Mattox: 'Believe it or not, Republican Ron DeSantis owes his victory in the Florida gubernatorial election to about 100,000 African-American women who unexpectedly chose him over the black Democrat candidate, Andrew Gillum … in an election decided by fewer than 40,000 votes, these 100,000 black women proved decisive.' Mattox stated that two words explain DeSantis’ surprising support from black women: “school choice.” (Source)
You see that, Beloved?
School choice was the issue pertinent to Black female voters; and I guarantee DeSantis did not come to that community, calling those women "slaves on a plantation." His efforts nearly aligned with #TheFifteen20 vision, because he addressed an issue of importance to this bloc.
(Now, imagine if the entire GOP did the same thing!)
When Conservatives present viable solutions to the people, the people respond favorably. As I shared in previous lessons, the idea is to create solutions with the people based on conservative principles. It is not to play identity politics alongside the Left. It's to treat Black voters as American citizens, who desire just as much equal protection under the law as any White Conservative.
4. Listen to Black Voters and What They Desire
Listening is a skill best learned in action.
Yet, it's also something most people refuse to do, especially among the conservative camp.
For years now, I've allowed Black voters to express their desires on my platform. I've cultivated Twitter Class so Conservatives could engage in healthy discussions that bridge the gap between their politics and Black voters.
And it wasn't until the end of 2019 when Conservatives finally understood that Black voters do not want "free stuff" (another talking point coming from the low-IQers in the base).
Listening to Black voters -- without adding your two cents to the discussion every time -- is a crucial element of effective outreach. Clearly, when DeSantis spoke with Black women in his area, he understood what they wanted: school choice.
So, what did he do? He ran on that conservative principle and garnered substantial support, which secured his victory.
I hope you see the pattern here, Beloved.
5. Develop Solutions with the People Based on Conservative Principles
Beloved, do not enter any Black political arena preaching anything except solutions.
Furthermore, do not approach the political discourse with the mindset that you know what's best for the people.
Again, when dealing with effective evangelism, your role is:
- to be present;
- to understand your constituents;
- to listen to their grievances;
- to have solution-focused ideas based on conservative principles;
- and to create solutions with the people so they exercise self-governance.
If you're a conservative candidate, you're not there to rule over the people.
No, you are a SERVANT to the people.
Therefore, you assume a lowly position among them.
You work for them.
They do not work for you.
And as you present yourself to be their representative, they will adamantly support you when you approach them from this standpoint.
6. Be Radical in Your Republicanism, Not More Liberal in Your Trumpism
Between 2016 and 2019, I observed as the conservative camp became more liberal in their philosophy rather than standing on our founding principles. I watched as we pushed for bigger government from our platform, all in the name of "standing with Trump."
And it disgusted me.
Attracting Black voters to conservative politics does not mean becoming like the opposing side.
Attracting more voters means you become more radical in your Republicanism and the need to maintain the republic.
Attracting more voters means you are willing to fight for the rights of American citizens, who have a long-standing history of political, economic, and social oppression in this country.
Attracting more voters means you're willing to stand with people who have vastly different cultures and experiences in this country; it means taking off the colorblind glasses and recognizing reality for what it is.
You must become as the former Radical Republicans, who demanded the government protect the rights of all Americans, regardless of race or ethnicity. If you can do this, we will see more Black Americans (Conscious Black Conservatives, more specifically) aligning with conservative politics each election cycle.
7. Use Effective Communication Strategies for Outreach
Remember the last time you went to the store, and the manager called you a name? Remember how anxious you were to conduct business there, because you simply enjoyed being insulted?
No, that didn't work for you?
Neither does calling Black Americans "slaves on a political plantation" prove to be an effective method for reaching them.
It's simple, really.
If you want people to receive you and your message, you must be willing to present yourself in an attractive manner.
Your words have power.
And when you waste energy regurgitating talking points from conservative influencers (who do not speak to Black people, by the way!), you position yourself as the racist you hate to be called.
8. Message Effectively Via Online Social Media Movements
Quite often, Conservatives in my audience tell me they struggle with communicating with Black voters, because they don't want to be perceived as racist. Of course, the logical response is to simply not say racist things like "Black Americans are slaves."
But I understand why other Conservatives are apprehensive.
The solution to this dilemma is simple: listen to the influencers who deliver teachings via social media that help you craft new messaging.
In The Fifteen 20 Rise, you learn about 3 online movements that are reaching Black voters most effectively: the Conscious Black Conservative Movement, Hotep Nation, and ADOS. Not a single one uses Establishment Talking Points on their platforms; and they have successfully garnered enough attention to get Black Americans to consider other options besides voting Democrat.
When in doubt, observe how these influential voices interact with the people. Notice how we incorporate history and empowerment. See how we embed conservatism in the discourse. Then observe how Black audiences respond positively to the message.
9. Financially Support the Online Political Movements that Effectively Reach Black Voters
I can't emphasize this point enough, because too often, Conservatives give their resources to the most popular platforms that produce zero results.
When you observe movements that reach their target audience, support their work financially. When they launch events or sell books or host podcasts, give to their works because that is the only way the movements will last.
10. Ensure Your Principles Align with Your Practices and Politics
Finally, when it comes to conservative politics and Black outreach, voters are looking to see how you align your principles with your actions.
Do you really believe Black Americans deserve equal rights under the law? Or do you stand with your conservative punditry class, who support racist policies like "stop and frisk"?
Do you believe in your colorblind phenomenon, or do you often see color when it comes to crime statistics and corporal punishment?
Your principles, Beloved, must mean everything to you if you expect voters to support your politics.
Let's Wrap This Up
The only way to change the political trajectory of conservatism is to do things a different way.
Conservatism is slowly minimizing its impact in the culture; and the voting bloc that seeks to preserve authentic conservatism is Black Americans.
Therefore, the solution to spreading the ideology most effectively is to successfully target citizens who have the numbers and political clout to revolutionize the political landscape.
My challenge to you is, will you be bold enough to reach them effectively?
