By: Alexsis Rodgers, Political Director at Black to the Future Action Fund
Since Trump took office last month, he’s issued dozens of executive orders aimed at making an America that protects his own interests, including his billionaire friends, and leaving Black people behind. His administration’s strategies are designed to wreak havoc by pushing out federal workers who believe in democracy and undermining core government programs.
During these times, it’s important to remember that executive orders are temporary and limited. Many of Trump’s executive orders are facing significant legal challenges, and some have already been temporarily blocked. While Trump’s executive orders do not repeal existing laws that protect our civil rights, they are dangerous and threaten our democracy by putting the will of corporate power players above the people.
Here are some ways his Executive Orders could impact Black people:
- Putting independent watchdog agencies like the Federal Trade Commission under Trump’s control could weaken consumer protections and allow big businesses to take advantage of Black people.
- Threatening to punish any employers who use diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility practices could limit job opportunities for Black people or make some workplaces unsafe.
- Ending federal funding for schools and health care providers who recognize the dignity of transgender youth could put Black transgender youths’ health at risk and makes all of us less safe.
- Ordering the Attorney General to pursue the death penalty and support states in preserving capital punishment could lead to more incarcerated Black people being killed by the government.
- Expanding the power of Immigration and Customs Enforcement to deport undocumented immigrants and block new asylum seekers could separate families who have mixed immigration statuses and could leave migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela in dangerous situations.
In addition, Trump’s administration also forced leaders of the National Archives to resign and replaced them with his allies. The National Archives plays an important role in telling our history by maintaining government records. Black people have never been able to rely on the government to tell a complete and accurate account of our history. Now more than ever, Black communities need the resources and support to preserve and tell our own stories.
We cannot allow Trump’s administration to dictate our future—we must take action to shape it. Now is the time for Black people to come together and organize for our future where Black people have what all people deserve–dignity, safety, and power. I hope you will take one small action today to show you’re with us in the fight for Black political power.
- Endorse the Black Economic Agenda to show your support for policies that will improve economic opportunities for Black communities.
- Donate to Black to the Future Action Fund’s work to build Black political power.
- Join Black to the Future Action Fund’s volunteer network to get plugged into organizing campaigns that matter to our communities.